What is the best credit card to use in Brazil? Compare IOF rates and save up to R$ 200

Choosing the best credit card to use in Brazil is one of the most important decisions for anyone visiting the country. After all, fees, local acceptance and security can directly affect your travel experience.

Brazil is an increasingly popular tourist destination, with vibrant cities, famous beaches, preserved nature, and warm hospitality. But understanding which card works best here is not always simple.

With that in mind, Brasil ATM gathered practical information, up-to-date data and recommendations based on real experiences from visitors. This guide helps you travel with more autonomy, financial control and peace of mind.

Quick summary:

• Top pick: Wise is considered the best card for tourists in Brazil in 2025, offering real exchange rates, an efficient app, and competitive IOF.
• Updated IOF: The current rate is 3.5% on all foreign currency operations.
• Acceptance: AmEx, Mastercard, and Visa are the most widely accepted brands in Brazil.
• Local tip: Always carry some cash for markets, small shops and local fairs.

In this article, you’ll find:

• Comparison – Best credit cards to use in Brazil
• Step-by-step – How to request a Wise card for Brazil
• Conclusion – Choose the right card and travel with peace of mind
• Where to withdraw money from ATM24h machines in Brazil
• Frequently asked questions

Comparison – Best international credit cards to use in Brazil

If you’re a tourist looking for the best credit card for travelers in Brazil, it’s important to consider IOF rates, local acceptance, and exchange costs.

Card	IOF	Exchange spread	App in English	ATM Withdrawal	Brasil ATM Score
Wise (formerly TransferWise)	3.5%*	0%	Yes	Yes (flat fee)	⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
N26	3.5%	0–2%	Yes	Yes (with fee)	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Revolut	3.5%	0–2%	No	Limited	⭐⭐⭐
Nomad	3.5%*	~2%	Yes	Yes	⭐⭐⭐⭐
Credit card from your country	varies	up to 5%	Depends	Yes, costly	⭐⭐

*Previously, Wise and Nomad operated with USD accounts and offered a reduced IOF of 1.1%. However, since May 23, 2025, the rate was raised to 3.5%, equal to traditional credit and debit cards.

How to choose the best credit card to use in Brazil?

Before showing the options, it’s important to understand the key criteria:

1. Exchange rate policy: Most apply the daily rate + margin.
2. IOF (Financial Operations Tax): Brazil applies 3.5% on international credit card purchases.
3. Issuer fees: Traditional banks often charge extra spreads.
4. Merchant acceptance: Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted.
5. App support: Important for managing blocks, statements, and exchange rates.
6. Cash withdrawal availability: ATMs are essential in some areas.

🧠 Tip: Reliable app support is crucial — check our content on Apps for foreigners in Brazil for more travel tools.

Is Wise the best credit card to use in Brazil?

In practice, yes. The Wise card is one of the most recommended for visitors to Brazil because it:

• Converts currency using the real exchange rate (no hidden margins)
• Charges 3.5% IOF for transfers to BRL balance
• Offers multilingual support via app
• Is accepted almost everywhere with Mastercard
• Allows withdrawals from ATM24h machines with flat fees

Its acceptance is wide — from restaurants and stores to rideshare apps and hotels. The app also shows real-time exchange rates and offers virtual cards, increasing safety and convenience for travelers.

What is the IOF rate for using a card in Brazil in 2025?

The IOF (Tax on Financial Operations) is a federal tax applied to financial transactions in Brazil, including international credit, debit, and prepaid card purchases.

Until May 2025, the most common rate was 4.38% for credit purchases and 1.1% for transfers to multicurrency accounts.

However, as of May 23, 2025, Brazil unified these rates to 3.5% across almost all foreign currency operations, including:

• International credit card purchases
• Prepaid cards like Wise, Nomad, N26 and Revolut
• Transfers to multicurrency digital accounts
• ATM withdrawals in Brazil using foreign cards

According to the Ministry of Finance, this measure is part of Brazil’s commitment to the OECD to align with international tax practices. However, while the rate has not yet been eliminated, the tax continues to affect the final cost of purchases made by foreign tourists in the country.

For those visiting Brazil, understanding how the IOF works is essential to plan expenses more clearly, compare card options, and avoid surprises on the bill.

Are credit cards accepted throughout Brazil?

Yes — international cards with brands like AmEx, Visa, and Mastercard are broadly accepted in:

• Hotels, inns and resorts
• Restaurants and bars
• Rideshare apps like Uber and 99
• Shops and shopping malls
• Supermarkets and pharmacies
• Booking platforms like Airbnb and Booking

However, it’s smart to carry cash for small markets, fairs and rural towns, especially outside major cities.

How to withdraw money in Brazil using an international card?

We recommend using the ATM24h network, available nationwide. Here’s how:

1. Find a terminal that supports Mastercard or Visa
2. Insert your card and choose the language
3. Select the amount in Brazilian Reais (R$)
4. Confirm the fee and complete the withdrawal

📌 Tip: Withdraw during the day, in public or secure areas like shopping centers or airports.

Step-by-step: How to request a Wise card for Brazil

1. Visit wise.com and create your account
2. Verify your identity with a passport or valid document
3. Open a balance in BRL or USD
4. Request the physical card (international shipping available)
5. Activate it and load the balance with your preferred currency
6. Done! Use it in Brazil with one of the best rates available.

Practical tips for using credit cards safely in Brazil

• Use contactless technology whenever available
• Enable two-factor authentication on the app
• Never share your PIN or use suspicious card readers
• Keep receipts for higher-value purchases
• Use virtual cards for online or app-based transactions

Comparison – Save up to R$ 200 using Wise vs traditional cards

Based on our analysis, using Wise instead of a traditional credit card can save you over R$ 200 during a 10-day trip to Brazil.

This considers typical travel expenses like food, transport, and lodging, factoring in exchange rates, IOF, and additional fees. Choosing the right card can make a significant difference in your travel budget.

When should you avoid using a credit card in Brazil?

Avoid card usage in situations like:

• Cash discounts (some vendors offer 10% off)
• Small parking lots, vans, or taxis without card readers
• Places without Wi-Fi or with weak signal
• Questionable merchants or malfunctioning machines

Conclusion – Choose the right card and travel smart in Brazil

Using a credit card in Brazil can be safe, convenient, and cost-effective — as long as you choose the right one. After testing several options, we found Wise offers the best balance of cost, usability, and support.

Avoid unexpected IOF charges or poor rates. Plan ahead, bring a solid card, and enjoy everything Brazil has to offer.

Want to keep planning with confidence? Check out our Brazil travel insurance guide for extra peace of mind.

Where to withdraw cash from ATM24h in Brazil

Cash is essential in many parts of Brazil — for food, transportation, attraction tickets and more. Here are some locations with ATM24h access:

Location	Airport
Guarulhos (São Paulo)	See all locations
Congonhas (São Paulo)	See all locations
Curitiba Airport	See all locations
Brasília Airport	See all locations
Florianópolis Airport	See all locations

Discover Brasil ATM

At Brasil ATM, we see Brazil as a place full of unique beauty and a fascinating culture. Our platform, supported by the global ATM24h brand, reflects our love for the country. We aim to inspire travelers to explore its wonders safely and with reliable information.

We provide accurate, up-to-date, and inspiring content in three languages. That way, you have everything you need to plan your trip with confidence. We offer everything travelers need — including travel guides, detailed itineraries, and planning tips.

We want to help you create lasting memories. Let us show you Brazil’s natural and cultural beauty. Explore famous destinations like Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, and uncover hidden gems like Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha. We’re here to help you make the most of your journey.

Liked this article? Read more about Brazil:

• Apps for foreigners in Brazil – The 11 essentials
• Tipping in Brazil – How does it work? A complete guide for travelers
• eSIM Brazil – How it works, where to buy, and the best options for your trip
• Do you need travel insurance to visit Brazil?

Frequently asked questions