Using your card in Brazil: The complete guide

If you're planning to travel to Brazil, you might wonder if you have to carry Brazilian reais (BRL), or if you can use your debit card while sightseeing and shopping abroad. Holidays should be relaxing, not stressful — and preparing in advance will help you avoid any unpleasant surprises in Brazil.Read on to find out if you can use your debit card while in Brazil, which ATMs are available to tourists, if you risk being charged extra fees, and much more.
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Can I use my debit card in Brazil?

Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, using a debit card in foreign countries like Brazil can come in handy‌ — not only for convenience but also as an extra measure in case you run out of Brazilian reais. Generally speaking, many establishments in Brazil accept debit cards, especially cards affiliated with major international payment networks like Visa or Mastercard.

Are debit cards widely accepted in Brazil?

Debit cards have become increasingly popular and widely accepted in Brazil, especially in urban areas and tourist destinations. Many establishments, including restaurants, hotels, and retail stores, have card payment terminals that accept debit cards from major international networks like Visa and Mastercard.While major cities and tourist areas in Brazil typically accept debit cards, some smaller shops, local vendors, or remote locations may only accept cash. Carrying some Brazilian reais for these situations is always a good idea.  Pix, an instant payment method developed by the Central Bank of Brazil, is increasingly popular too—but only available between Brazilian accounts.
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Tips for using your debit card in Brazil

Follow our tips for a smooth and secure experience when using your debit card in Brazil:
  1. Before traveling to Brazil, notify your bank about your travel plans. This prevents your card from being flagged for suspicious activity, and you can access your funds without any fuss.
  2. Always carry some Brazilian reais for small purchases, street vendors, or establishments that only accept cash.
  3. When using your debit card or ATMs in Brazil, always opt to be charged in Brazilian reais to avoid higher exchange fees. The exchange rate offered by your bank will usually be a better deal than the rate at the ATM or card terminal, so it’s smart to pay in local currency.
  4. Keep your debit card secure, and always cover the keypad when entering your PIN.
  5. Use ATMs in well-lit and secure areas, such as banks or shopping malls. Withdraw larger amounts less frequently, and try to choose ATMs with lower withdrawal fees.
  6. Always check your transaction receipts and monitor your account activity regularly. Report any unauthorized transactions to your bank immediately.

Using ATMs in Brazil

Most ATMs in Brazil are equipped to accept international debit cards. These ATMs typically display logos of international card networks like Visa and Mastercard. When inserting your card, the ATM usually prompts you to choose your preferred language and transaction type. The withdrawal limits at Brazilian ATMs vary between R$800 or R$1,000 Brazilian reais per day.Several banks in Brazil are known for being more accommodating to international cardholders, including Santander, Bradesco, Banco do Brasil, and Banco 24 Horas — but note that Brazilian ATMs only work with PIN-based debit cards. Also, because of card cloning and other scams, you're safer using ATMs within bank branches or lobbies, or in shopping malls.
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Say goodbye to exchange rate markups

N26 never marks up foregin exchange rates. This means we pass along the real exchange rates provided by Mastercard to you—no hidden fees or confusing small print to ruin your holiday.
Foreign transaction fees to look out
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Paying with your N26 card when traveling

N26 doesn’t hide fees or add a foreign exchange rate. We also don’t tack on extra charges for rare currencies or for paying on the weekend. Spend abroad and benefit from Mastercard's real exchange rate.

Withdrawing money abroad is free with N26 You. Anywhere.

N26 You gives you free withdrawals in currencies around the globe, saving you up to 7% on fees. That means N26 You pays for itself in just a few trips.

FAQs

  • Which debit card networks are accepted in Brazil?
  • Is it safe to use your debit card in Brazil?
  • Can I use my debit card to withdraw cash in Brazil?
  • Are there any fees for using my debit card in Brazil?
  • Is it safe to use ATMs in Brazil?
  • What should I do if my debit card is lost or stolen in Brazil?

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