ATMs in Greece: Credit cards and fees
If you love food, wine and beaches, Greece is probably on your list of spots to visit. While debit and credit cards are widely accepted in Greece, especially...
Taking cash in or out of Greece? Read this.
Planning a trip to Greece? This European Union member state is a popular destination for tourism and expats alike, and no wonder. The country’s history, stunning scenery and food and wine would be appealing to just about any traveler.
Regardless of how much time you plan to spend in Greece, the reality is that the reality is still that there are restrictions on how much cash you can take in or out without making a customs declaration. Read on to learn what you need to know about carrying cash when you arrive at the Greek border.
How much cash can you bring into Greece? What are the limits?
There are no limits to how much cash you can bring into Greece, but if it’s €10,000 or more (or the equivalent in a foreign currency), you’re required to declare it at customs.
What are the penalties if you bring in too much cash to Greece?
As stated above, there’s not really such thing as too much cash — Greece doesn’t have a rule saying there’s a limit to how much you can bring in or out, as long as you declare it appropriately. If you bring in more than €10,000 and you don’t declare it to customs, you risk having it seized by customs or being fined.
What qualifies as cash anyway?
In the EU, cash is more than just coins and notes. It also includes traveller’s cheques, cheques, promissory notes and money orders. Gold, precious metals, precious stones, antique coins or currency that's no longer in circulation isn't considered cash.
Countries/Regions from which a declaration isn't needed if you’re travelling to Greece
Travellers from all countries are required to declare cash when entering Greece, if the amount is €10,000 or more.
Countries from where declaration is needed if you’re travelling to Greece
Travellers from all countries are required to declare cash when entering Greece, if the amount is €10,000 or more.
Declaring cash at your arrival
Most of the EU uses the same EU Currency Declaration Form; however, you must fill out the form in the official national language of the country you're entering or leaving. Forms are available in a number of world languages to be used as references. Greek forms aren't available online, but English forms can be viewed here, so you have an idea of what to expect. Greek EU Currency Declaration Forms may be given out on planes or cruise ships as you enter Greece. If not, they can be picked up and filled out at customs.
How much cash can you take out of Greece?
Greece doesn’t have any rules about how much cash you can take out of the country, though you’ll still have to make a customs declaration if you’re carrying more than €10,000 (or the foreign currency equivalent) in cash. However, the country you’re going to may have its own rules about how much cash you can bring in. Make sure to do your research depending on the country you’re headed to.
Exchanging currency in cash is very costly
Exchanging currency in cash is generally not the cheapest way to obtain euros, especially since the euro is currently stronger than most other world currencies. If you exchange cash at an exchange service, even if it advertises no fees, it’s probably marking up what’s already an unfavorable exchange rate. It’s generally cheaper to use your debit card to withdraw cash as you need it at a local ATM, where you may be charged an ATM fee, but will typically get a better exchange rate. Always keep in mind, whether you’re taking cash into Greece or withdrawing it from an ATM, it’s not safe to carry large amounts of cash on your person, especially when you’re visiting a foreign country.
Travelling frequently? Want to save money? Give Wise a try
Wise allows you to send money internationally at the actual exchange rate, or the rate you see when you Google it. It’s fast, easy and secure.
Wise also offers borderless multi currency accounts, which allow users to send, receive and manage money in multiple global currencies all at once. Beginning in 2018, borderless account holders will have access to consumer debit cards, making accessing your money in foreign countries even easier than before.
Hopefully these tips tell you everything you need to know about taking cash into and out of Greece. Enjoy your stay!
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