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ATM/Debit and Credit Cards in Spain
Understand how to use your ATM/Debit or Credit Card...
In most cases the ATM card is also a debit card; two separate cards are not required.
ATMs provide the standard facility of being able to withdraw cash. Most will allow the account holder to view the balance and movements, and make transfers. In some cases they provide more diverse facilities such as being able to top up a mobile phone balance and buy tickets to the cinema and sporting events.
Almost all provide the option of selecting the language in which to use the service, including English.
Note: There is often an extra charge to use an ATM that is not part of the ATM network of the bank where the account is held.
The vast majority of establishments in Spain accept debit cards for payment of goods or services. Most of them will not accept cheques which are not guaranteed. Some form of identification (passport, driving licence) is required when using a card for making a payment.
When using a debit card either to withdraw cash from an ATM or to pay for goods in a shop, the system will check if there are sufficient funds in the account or whether there is a pre-agreed overdraft in place. If either of these are in place, the withdrawal/payment request will not be accepted, regardless of the amount for which it is in excess.
Lost or Stolen Cards
A lost or stolen cash card must be reported to the bank as soon as possible, or phone the appropriate number:
- Red 6000 - Tel: 915 965 335
- Servired - Tel: 902 192 100 or 915 192 100
- Telebanco 4B - Tel: 902 144 400 or 913 192 100
- To complain about service from a Spanish bank (in accordance with the regulations set out by the Bank of Spain - Banco de España): Click here (in English)
Credit Cards
The use of credit cards instead of cash for undertaking transactions is steadily increasing in the Spanish retail market, and they are accepted in the majority of establishments.
Most banks also offer credit cards which can either be applied for during the current account opening process, or can be opened independently, (for example via a different credit card provider). However, a credit card applied for via an independent provider, will still require a current account from which the monthly payments are made. Some independent providers will only offer credit cards to Spanish residents.
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