Planning an international trip? Knowing how much cash you can withdraw abroad is essential. While your bank sets a daily withdrawal cap, foreign ATMs often have their own machine limits, meaning you’re restricted by whichever limit is lower. This guide explains how international ATM limits work, common withdrawal caps around the world, and how to access more money safely while traveling.
How International ATM Withdrawal Limits Work
Most travelers are limited by two rules: your bank’s daily withdrawal limit and the foreign ATM’s per-transaction cap. Even if your bank allows $1,000 daily, many overseas ATMs only dispense $100–$300 per withdrawal. Because of this, accessing larger amounts of cash often requires multiple transactions.
For domestic comparisons, review our full overview of U.S. bank ATM withdrawal limits.
Typical International Withdrawal Limits
- U.S. banks abroad: Most debit cards retain the same daily limit overseas (commonly $300–$1,000).
- Foreign ATMs: Many international machines restrict single withdrawals to $100–$300.
- Premium accounts: High-tier cards may allow $2,000+ per day, but machine limits still apply.
- Networks: Visa, Mastercard, Cirrus, and Maestro ATMs may each enforce different maximums.
Factors That Can Reduce Your ATM Limits Overseas
- Currency conversion: Your limit is converted to local currency, which can fluctuate by exchange rate.
- Fraud controls: Banks may temporarily lower your limit if they detect unusual international activity.
- Local laws: Some countries legally cap ATM withdrawals to prevent money laundering.
- Machine limitations: Smaller banks and rural ATMs often have very restrictive per-transaction caps.
How to Access More Cash While Traveling Abroad
- Request a limit increase before your trip: Many banks will temporarily raise your daily cap. Learn more in our guide on increasing your ATM withdrawal limit.
- Use multiple debit cards: Bringing more than one card spreads access across multiple accounts.
- Make consecutive withdrawals: If a machine only allows $200, repeat the transaction if allowed by your bank.
- Withdraw at major banks: ATMs inside large branches or airports generally allow higher maximums.
- Consider in-branch withdrawals: Some foreign banks permit larger withdrawals at the teller window with your passport.
International ATM Fees to Expect
Even if you can access higher cash amounts overseas, fees can add up quickly. Travelers may encounter:
- Foreign ATM operator fees: Added by the bank that owns the machine.
- International transaction fees: Typically 1–3% of the total withdrawal amount.
- Out-of-network surcharges: Charged when using a non-partner ATM abroad.
To keep travel costs low, explore our guide on avoiding international ATM fees.
FAQs
Do international ATMs have lower withdrawal limits?
Yes. Many overseas ATMs limit withdrawals to $100–$300 per transaction, even if your bank allows far more.
Does my U.S. daily limit apply abroad?
Usually, your U.S. daily limit stays the same, but the ATM’s lower per-transaction limit still applies.
Can I raise my international limit?
Yes — most banks allow temporary limit increases if requested before travel.
Are there country-specific ATM restrictions?
Some countries legally cap ATM withdrawals to control cash flow. Check with your bank or local travel forums before your trip.
Related Guides
Understanding international ATM limits helps you avoid declined withdrawals, reduce travel fees, and access the cash you need with confidence while abroad.
