Mozambique, with its unspoiled beaches, rich culture, and stunning wildlife, is an emerging destination in southern Africa. Whether you’re diving in the turquoise waters of Tofo, exploring the colonial charm of Ilha de Moçambique, or enjoying Maputo’s vibrant food scene, understanding how to access cash is crucial. While cards are accepted in major hotels and businesses, cash is still the primary payment method in many areas. This guide provides key details on cash and ATMs in Mozambique, including withdrawal fees, transaction limits, exchange rates, and card acceptance, ensuring a smooth and stress-free trip.
Where to find ATMs in Mozambique?
Urban Areas: In major cities like Maputo, Beira, and Nampula, ATMs are available, especially in city centers, shopping districts, and near bank branches. Banks such as Banco Internacional de Moçambique (Millennium BIM), Standard Bank, and Barclays Bank Mozambique operate ATM networks throughout these cities.
Tourist Spots: Popular destinations like Tofo Beach, Bazaruto Archipelago, and Ilha de Moçambique have ATMs in nearby towns. However, within some tourist sites, ATM access may be limited, so it’s advisable to carry sufficient cash.
Rural Areas: In smaller towns and remote regions, ATM availability can be scarce. It’s recommended to withdraw cash in larger cities before venturing into these areas.
Best ATMs to use in Mozambique for foreigners
The best ATMs for foreigners to use in Mozambique are those owned by popular banks such as:
- BCI
- FNB Bank
- Moza Banco
- Ecobank
- Nedbank
- Absa Bank
There are other banks with ATMs that also accept international debit and credit cards.
There are no known Global ATM Alliance member banks or All Points network banks in Mozambique.
Don’t accept conversion at ATMs and withdraw only in local currency
In Mozambique, some ATMs may ask – Accept OR Decline Conversion (also known as With or Without Conversion, or, Charge in MZN).
- If you ‘Accept’ – ATM converts your money at ATM’s set exchange rate. Now if you ‘Accept’, you pay an extra % fee to the ATM for currency conversion.
- If you Decline, the ATM will convert at exchange rate of the bank/card logo (Visa, Master, etc.).
So, to avoid extra fees, select ‘Decline/Without’ Conversion or ‘Charge in MZN’.
Can I use a foreign debit or credit card at an ATM in Mozambique?
Yes, majority of the foreign debit and credit cards are widely accepted at ATMs in Mozambique.
ATM operations
Opening hours: Most ATMs operate 24/7.
ATM identification: You can find ATMs by signage of word ATM’ or ‘Caixa Automatico’.
Language options: ATMs typically offer Portuguese and English languages.
What currencies can I withdraw from ATMs in Mozambique?
ATMs in Mozambique mainly dispense cash in Mozambican Metical (MZN).
ATM withdrawal limits in Mozambique
ATMs in Mozambique have a maximum withdrawal limit per transaction of MZN 3,000 to MZN 5,000, with most common withdrawal limit being MZN 5,000 per transaction (Mozambican Metical, MZN or MT). One bank allows withdrawal up to MZN 10,000 per transaction, depending on availability of cash at the ATM at the time of withdrawal.
ATM Fees in Mozambique
There are many fee-free ATMs in Mozambique. Many Bank ATMs in Mozambique do not charge any ATM Access Fees per transaction to foreign card holders. There are some other banks that charge between MZN 130 to MZN 200 per transaction (Mozambican Metical). So there are many fee-free ATMs you can use in Mozambique as a foreign cardholder!
Apart from ATM Access Fees, there can be other potential charges to withdraw cash in Mozambique. These are:
1. ATM’s Currency Conversion Fees (Accept or Decline Conversion)
2. Your Bank’s foreign transaction fee.
How to avoid high fees when withdrawing cash in Mozambique
Use the lower fee ATMs in the country.
Use the ATM Fee Saver app to find fee-free or low-fee ATMs.
Opt for “Decline Conversion” or “Without Conversion” during ATM transactions.
Consider getting fee-free cards from your home country.
Ways to find fee-free ATMs in Mozambique?
Discover fee-free and low-fee ATMs here on the ATM Fee Saver mobile app for iOS and Android. This app provides ATM PINs and details of leading bank ATMs such as ATM fees and withdrawal limits for foreign cardholders at ATMs in Mozambique. Moreover, its simple fee calculator helps you determine exact withdrawal charges. You can also find cash tips and tricks on the app for 160+ countries including Mozambique.
Safety at ATMs
Mozambique has reported instances of ATM-related crimes, including card skimming and theft. Travelers are advised to exercise caution when using ATMs, particularly in urban centers. It’s recommended to use ATMs located inside bank branches or reputable establishments, as they are generally more secure. Be vigilant for any unusual devices attached to ATMs, which could indicate skimming attempts. Additionally, avoid using ATMs at night or in isolated areas.
FAQs
What to do if an ATM takes your card?
If an ATM here takes your card, contact the bank (if you used an ATM inside a bank branch), they may retreive your card if you have proof of identity. You can also contact the bank’s helpline but they usually retreive and resend new cards only for their own customers. If so, you’ll need to contact your own bank and ask them to deliver a new card at home or abroad.
Fee-free ATMs and possible to withdraw cash free of cost at ATMs here
Yes, its possible. There are many fee-free ATMs in Mozambique. Many Bank ATMs do not charge any ATM Access Fees per transaction to foreign card holders. There are some other banks that charge between MT 130 to MT 200 per transaction (Mozambican metical).
Foreign cards from US, UK, India, China, Europe, Australia accepted?
Absolutely yes! You can usually use cards from the US, UK, Europe, Australia, and other countries here.
Bitcoin ATMs
As of now, there are no known Bitcoin ATMs operating in Mozambique.
Foreign bank ATMs’ presence in Mozambique
Bank of America: No, there are no Bank of America ATMs here.
Citibank: No, Citibank does not operate ATMs here.
Barclays: No, Barclays does not have ATMs here.
HSBC: No, HSBC does not operate ATMs here.
Standard Chartered: No, Standard Chartered does not have ATMs here.
