Over the years, analyzing the behavior of tourists, expatriates, and even Brazilians traveling between cities, the Brasil ATM team has identified a recurring pattern: using an ATM in Brazil seems simple, but it raises real questions in practice.
It is not just about inserting the card and withdrawing cash. It involves operating hours, security, banking limits, differences between ATMs, hidden fees, machine language options, and the increasingly common use of 24h ATMs spread across malls, airports, and urban areas.
This guide was created to answer, directly and thoroughly, how to use an ATM in Brazil, helping you avoid common mistakes and operate with more peace of mind, whether you are a resident, tourist, or foreign visitor.
How to use an ATM in Brazil: quick answer
Using an ATM in Brazil involves:
- Choosing safe and busy locations
- Preferring Banco 24h machines
- Checking fees before confirming
- Respecting daily withdrawal limits
- Avoiding night withdrawals in isolated places
Below is the complete guide with practical details, comparisons, and a step-by-step approach.
What is an ATM in Brazil and how does it work
An ATM, also known as an Automated Teller Machine, is the equipment used for:
- Cash withdrawals
- Balance inquiries
- Bill payments
- Transfers
- Mobile phone top-ups
In Brazil, ATMs may belong to:
- Specific banks (Banco do Brasil, Itaú, Bradesco, Caixa)
- The shared Banco 24h network
The main difference lies in availability, fees, and acceptance of international cards.
Banco 24h: the most used by tourists and travelers
Banco 24h is the largest independent ATM network in the country.
Where to find Banco 24h ATMs
- Shopping malls
- Airports
- Bus terminals
- Supermarkets
- Gas stations
- Central areas of large cities
Why Banco 24h is so widely used
- Operates 24 hours a day
- Accepts cards from multiple banks
- Simpler interface
- Present throughout the entire country
ATM 24h: the most practical option to withdraw money at any time in Brazil
The 24h ATM is the most widely used solution for those who need to withdraw money outside traditional banking hours. Present in malls, airports, bus terminals, supermarkets, and central areas, it allows quick access to cash at any time of day or night.
This network operates in an integrated manner, serving customers from various Brazilian banks and international cards, which makes the 24h ATM especially relevant for travelers, tourists, and people constantly on the move.
Why the 24h ATM is widely used in Brazil
- Continuous operation, 24 hours a day
- Broad distribution in urban and tourist areas
- Intuitive and standardized interface
- Acceptance of cards from multiple banks
- Safe option when used in busy locations
When used with attention to limits and timing, the 24h ATM becomes an efficient and reliable alternative for accessing cash in Brazil, including in emergency situations.
How to use an ATM in Brazil: complete step-by-step
Step 1 — Choose the right location
Give preference to:
- Shopping malls
- Banks during business hours
- Airports
- Busy supermarkets
Avoid:
- Deserted streets
- Outdoor ATMs at night
- Poorly lit locations
Step 2 — Insert the card correctly
- Magnetic stripe or chip, as indicated
- Pay attention to the keypad and screen
- Cover the keypad when entering your PIN
Step 3 — Choose the language
Most ATMs offer:
- Portuguese
- English
- Spanish (in tourist areas)
This greatly facilitates use for foreigners.
Step 4 — Select the operation
The most common options are:
- Withdrawal
- Balance inquiry
- Payments
Choose withdrawal, if that is your intention.
Step 5 — Check amounts and fees
Before confirming:
- Check the requested amount
- Read whether there is a fee
- Confirm only if you agree
Step 6 — Take the money and the card
- Withdraw the cash immediately
- Store the card
- Take the receipt, if necessary
ATM withdrawal limits in Brazil
Limits vary according to:
- Card issuing bank
- Type of account
- Time of withdrawal
- ATM location
Average limits applied
| Type of withdrawal | Approximate amount |
| Daytime withdrawal | R$ 1,000 to R$ 3,000 |
| Nighttime withdrawal | R$ 300 to R$ 1,000 |
| International card | Defined by the issuing bank |
Operating hours: what changes in practice
Bank ATMs
They operate 24h, but:
- Night limits are lower
- Some operations are unavailable at night
24h ATMs
- Continuous operation
- Nighttime security limits
- Ideal for emergencies
Is it safe to use an ATM in Brazil?
Yes, as long as certain precautions are followed.
Good security practices
- Never accept help from strangers
- Avoid distractions
- Check for unusual devices on the machine
- Do not share your PIN
- Prefer monitored locations
Most common scams
- Fake assistance
- Card switching
- Tampered machines (rare, but possible)
How foreigners should use ATMs in Brazil
Foreigners can use ATMs in Brazil without difficulty.
What to watch for
- Accepted international cards (Visa, Mastercard)
- Fees from the Brazilian bank plus the issuing bank
- International withdrawal limits
Practical tip
Always check with your bank before traveling:
- Whether your card is enabled for international use
- What fees apply
Fees and charges: what is rarely explained clearly
Using an ATM in Brazil may involve:
- Local bank fee
- Issuing bank fee
- Currency conversion (for foreigners)
Average values
| Type of fee | Approximate amount |
| Banco 24h | R$ 6 to R$ 15 per withdrawal |
| International card | Variable |
| Currency conversion | Depends on the bank |
ATM vs card payment: what is more worthwhile
Brazil is highly digitalized.
When to use cash
- Small businesses
- Street markets
- Informal transportation
- Tips
When to use a card
- Restaurants
- Hotels
- Uber and apps
- Larger purchases
In many cases, card or Pix is more advantageous than withdrawing cash.
Official data on cash usage in Brazil
According to the Central Bank of Brazil:
- Cash usage has been declining
- Pix and cards dominate urban transactions
- There is still strong circulation of physical cash in smaller cities
This explains why ATMs remain relevant.
Common mistakes when using an ATM in Brazil
- Withdrawing large amounts at night
- Using ATMs in isolated locations
- Not checking fees
- Entering the PIN without protecting the keypad
- Accepting help from strangers
Avoiding these mistakes drastically reduces risks.
How to use an ATM in Brazil more calmly
Practical summary:
- Prefer 24h ATMs in safe locations
- Withdraw during the day whenever possible
- Use smaller amounts
- Combine cash + card + Pix
- Plan before you need to withdraw
Conclusion — Using an ATM in Brazil is simple when well understood
Understanding how to use an ATM in Brazil goes far beyond knowing where to withdraw money. It involves planning, reading the context, paying attention to security, and consciously choosing between cash, cards, and digital methods.
When these variables are considered, the ATM stops being a point of stress and becomes just another support tool in your routine or trip.
Save this guide, share it with anyone traveling or moving to Brazil, and keep following Brasil ATM for safer, more practical, and smarter financial decisions in the country.
Where to withdraw cash at ATM24h machines in Brazil
To make the most of your trip around Brazil, carry some cash. It ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience. In some locations, cash is essential for food, transportation, attraction entrances, and more.
See the table below with some ATM24h locations in the regions mentioned in this article:
| Where | Location |
| Guarulhos Airport – São Paulo | See all locations |
| Congonhas Airport – São Paulo | See all locations |
| Curitiba Airport | See all locations |
| Brasília Airport | See all locations |
| Florianópolis Airport | See all locations |
Get to know Brasil ATM
At Brasil ATM, we see Brazil as a country full of unique beauty and a fascinating culture. Our portal, supported by the global ATM24h brand, reflects our passion for Brazil. We aim to inspire tourists to explore its wonders safely and with confidence.
We provide accurate, up-to-date, and inspiring information in three languages, so you can plan your trip with confidence. We offer complete resources for travelers, including travel guides, detailed itineraries, and planning tips.
Our goal is to help create lasting memories. We showcase Brazil’s natural and cultural highlights, from famous destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo to hidden gems such as Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha. We are here to help you make the most of your journey.
Read more about Brazil:
- Brazil on a budget: how to plan a trip spending less (without losing the experience)
- Best Restaurants in Brazil – Gastronomic Experiences You Can’t Miss
- Best hostels in Brazil: 9 you can’t miss
- Best resorts in Brazil – 12 must-see options for mistake-free vacations
Frequently asked questions
Yes, as long as you use ATMs in busy locations, avoid night withdrawals in isolated areas, and never accept help from strangers. Paying attention to your surroundings significantly reduces risks. For more practical financial safety tips, keep following Brasil ATM.
Yes. Most ATMs, especially those in the Banco 24h network, accept international cards from Visa and Mastercard, with variable fees. At Brasil ATM, you will find updated guides to use financial services in Brazil without surprises.
Bank ATMs usually offer more services, but the 24h ATM provides continuous operation, wide distribution, and greater convenience for quick withdrawals. Find out where to withdraw more easily in different cities with Brasil ATM.
Limits vary depending on the bank, time, and type of card. In general, daytime withdrawals allow higher amounts than nighttime ones, for security reasons. Check Brasil ATM content to plan your withdrawals more intelligently.
