Arriving in Brazil with access to Brazilian reais makes the first moments of the trip easier. Transportation, food, small purchases and other expenses may come up before travelers even leave the terminal. That is why knowing how currency exchange works at São Paulo airport helps you start your trip with better planning.
In Brasil ATM‘s experience producing information for tourists traveling around the country, we have noticed that the question is not only where to exchange dollars, euros or other currencies. Many travelers also want to know where to withdraw Brazilian reais at the airport, which cards can be used and which option makes the most sense to avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
São Paulo has three airports that account for much of this passenger flow: Guarulhos International Airport (GRU), Congonhas Airport (CGH) and Viracopos International Airport (VCP), located in Campinas.
In this guide, Brasil ATM explains the main options for obtaining Brazilian reais at these airports, shows where to find ATM24h machines and brings together the precautions that help travelers compare currency exchange, withdrawals and other payment methods.
How can you exchange money at São Paulo airport?
Yes. You can exchange money at São Paulo’s main airports through currency exchange offices and other specialized services. However, many travelers prefer to withdraw Brazilian reais directly from ATM24h machines using an international card, avoiding carrying large amounts of cash during the trip.
Anyone searching for exchange at São Paulo airport should keep in mind that there are three important airports in the state: Guarulhos, Congonhas and Viracopos. The availability and location of services vary among them.
The main ways to obtain Brazilian reais upon arrival are:
- exchange foreign currency at a currency exchange office;
- buy Brazilian reais before the trip;
- use an international card for payments;
- withdraw Brazilian reais from a compatible ATM;
- combine a card with a smaller amount of cash.
The Central Bank explains that foreign exchange is the operation of exchanging one country’s currency for another. It also establishes that regular foreign-currency purchase and sale transactions must be carried out by institutions authorized to operate in the foreign exchange market or by their correspondents.
For travelers, this means it is not enough to choose the first exchange rate available. It is important to check the institution, compare the amount actually received and understand the fees involved.
The Central Bank itself clarifies that exchange rates are not set by the monetary authority. They are freely negotiated between authorized institutions and their customers and may even vary according to the method used to deliver the currency.
Brasil ATM works precisely to make this planning easier and provide clear information for tourists who need access to Brazilian currency during their trip. The brand’s content strategy prioritizes reliable information, safety, clarity and specialized knowledge to help Brazilian and international tourists explore the country.
Is it better to exchange money or withdraw cash at the airport?
It depends on your card, the fees charged and how you intend to use the money during your trip. For many tourists, withdrawing Brazilian reais directly from ATM24h machines can be a practical option right after landing.
There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this comparison.
A currency exchange office lets you hand over foreign cash and receive Brazilian reais. A withdrawal, on the other hand, lets you use a compatible international card to obtain Brazilian currency directly from an ATM.
The choice should take into account the total cost of the transaction, not only the advertised exchange rate.
| Option | Main advantage | What to check |
| Currency exchange office | Direct exchange of physical currency | Exchange rate, fees and final amount received |
| ATM24h machine | Access to Brazilian reais using a compatible card | Card fees, issuing bank and transaction |
| International card | Reduces the need for physical cash | Conversion, fees and acceptance |
| Brazilian reais purchased before the trip | Cash available immediately | Exchange rate offered in the country of origin |
The best strategy may even be to combine different payment methods.
When is it worth exchanging money?
Exchanging money at São Paulo airport can be convenient when travelers are already carrying dollars, euros or another foreign currency and want to obtain Brazilian reais before continuing their journey.
Exchanging cash may also make sense for those who do not intend to use a card for international withdrawals or prefer to organize part of their budget in physical cash in advance.
At Guarulhos, for example, the airport’s official website reports foreign exchange services in the international terminals. Banco Safra has locations in Terminal 2 and Terminal 3, including departure, arrival and baggage claim areas.
Before exchanging money, try to:
- check the exchange rate offered;
- ask about additional fees;
- calculate how many Brazilian reais you will actually receive;
- compare it with other available options;
- confirm that the transaction is carried out by an authorized institution.
The Central Bank provides a search tool for institutions authorized to operate in the foreign exchange market, a useful reference for anyone who wants to verify the provider before completing a transaction.
When is it worth withdrawing cash?
A withdrawal can be especially practical for tourists arriving in Brazil with an international debit card or a card linked to a global account.
Instead of carrying a large amount of Brazilian reais or foreign currency throughout the trip, travelers can obtain cash as needed.
This option also has an important logistical advantage: ATM24h machines are available in strategic areas of Guarulhos, Congonhas and Viracopos airports.
This allows travelers to land, collect their luggage and obtain an initial amount of Brazilian reais before heading to the hotel or another destination.
Even so, it is important to check the card rules, international withdrawal limits and applicable fees in advance.
Where can you exchange money at São Paulo airports?
The state’s main airports offer options for travelers who need to obtain Brazilian reais, although the availability of currency exchange offices, ATMs and other services varies by terminal.
Understanding this difference is important because the three airports have distinct profiles.
Guarulhos International Airport is São Paulo’s main international airport and handles a large flow of passengers arriving from abroad. The airport itself reports the presence of currency exchange offices in terminals that operate international flights.
Congonhas Airport is located in the city of São Paulo and is especially relevant for domestic flights. Travelers arriving at the terminal who need cash can find ATM24h machines in different areas.
Viracopos International Airport, in Campinas, serves domestic and international flights and also has ATM24h machines at strategic points.
For those arriving in Brazil without Brazilian reais, there are therefore two main options: find an authorized service to exchange foreign currency, when available, or use a compatible international card to make a withdrawal.
Where can you withdraw cash at Guarulhos International Airport?
Guarulhos International Airport has several ATM24h machines distributed across the terminals, departure areas, arrival areas, check-in and baggage claim.
This is particularly useful for international tourists, since GRU receives a large volume of international flights and is often many visitors’ first point of contact with Brazil.
The machines are distributed across different points of the airport complex:
| Area | Location |
| Terminal 1 | Two ATM24h machines |
| Terminal 2 | Domestic departures, international arrivals, check-in and baggage claim |
| Terminal 3 | Departures, international arrivals, check-in, mezzanine and baggage claim |
| Connector between Terminals 2 and 3 | Near Anvisa |
The distribution is especially convenient for anyone looking for where to withdraw cash at Guarulhos Airport, as there are machines close to areas used before and after flights.
For international passengers, locations near arrivals and baggage claim can make it easier to access the first Brazilian reais of the trip.
Therefore, it is not necessarily necessary to leave the airport complex to look for an ATM.
Travelers who also want to exchange cash can find foreign exchange options at GRU. The airport’s official website reports, for example, Banco Safra locations in Terminals 2 and 3 and indicates 24-hour service for the listed service. Because hours, establishments and service points may change, it is worth confirming availability on the day of travel.
Where can you withdraw cash at Congonhas Airport?
Travelers landing at Congonhas can also find ATM24h machines in different areas of the terminal, making it possible to obtain Brazilian reais before heading to other parts of São Paulo.
The airport is located on Avenida Washington Luís, in the southern area of the city, and mainly receives passengers on domestic flights.
ATM24h machines can be found in the following areas:
| Location | Address |
| Departures | Avenida Washington Luís, s/nº |
| Arrivals | Avenida Washington Luís, s/nº |
| Public area | Avenida Washington Luís, s/nº |
For travelers arriving at Congonhas from another Brazilian city, this availability makes it easier to withdraw cash before using transportation, having a meal or heading to the hotel.
It can also be useful for international tourists who entered the country through another airport and are making a domestic connection.
Because Congonhas is within the city of São Paulo, passengers will still have access to banks, financial services and other ATMs after leaving the airport. Even so, being able to withdraw cash inside the terminal avoids a separate trip just to obtain physical cash.
Where can you withdraw cash at Viracopos International Airport?
Viracopos International Airport, in Campinas, also has ATM24h machines distributed in strategic areas of the terminal.
Viracopos is located at km 66 of Rodovia Santos Dumont and is an important gateway to Campinas, the interior of São Paulo state and also for passengers who later continue to the state capital.
The indicated locations include:
| Location | Address |
| Common area | Rodovia Santos Dumont, km 66 |
| Domestic departures – Pier C Corridor | Rodovia Santos Dumont, km 66 |
| Domestic departures – Pier C | Rodovia Santos Dumont, km 66 |
Anyone looking for an ATM at Viracopos Airport can therefore access an ATM24h machine both in a common area and at locations related to domestic departures.
For tourists landing in Campinas who will still travel by road to São Paulo or another city in the state, withdrawing a small amount of Brazilian reais at the airport can help organize initial expenses.
Which international cards work at ATM24h machines?
Many international cards can be used to make withdrawals at ATM24h machines, provided that the card and its network are compatible and enabled for use abroad.
This may include:
- international debit cards;
- cards linked to global accounts;
- cards belonging to compatible international networks;
- other cards enabled by the issuer for withdrawals abroad.
Having an international card, however, does not automatically mean that every withdrawal will be authorized.
Before traveling to Brazil, we recommend checking with the issuing institution:
- whether the card is enabled for international use;
- whether withdrawals in Brazil are allowed;
- what the daily limit is;
- what fees may be charged;
- how the currency conversion will be made;
- whether there is any travel security procedure.
This check reduces the risk of discovering only at the airport that the card has some restriction.
It is also advisable to travel with more than one payment method. Even if the card is the main option, having an alternative helps in cases of blocking, loss, insufficient limits or temporary unavailability.
How much does it cost to withdraw cash at São Paulo airport?
The cost of the transaction depends on the fees charged by the issuing bank, the card used, the conditions presented in the transaction and current tax legislation.
For this reason, it is not correct to say that withdrawing cash will always be cheaper — or more expensive — than exchanging physical currency.
Costs may involve different components:
| Cost | Who determines it |
| Issuing bank fee | Traveler’s bank or institution |
| IOF, when applicable | Current Brazilian legislation |
| Transaction fees | According to the card and transaction |
| Currency conversion | According to the conditions applicable to the transaction |
Before confirming the withdrawal, carefully read the information displayed on the machine’s screen.
In addition, check with the bank or institution responsible for your card before the trip. This is particularly important for cards issued outside Brazil, as specific fees for international withdrawals may apply.
The same reasoning applies to currency exchange offices. The exchange rate seen online does not necessarily correspond to the rate that will be applied to a cash transaction.
According to the Central Bank, exchange rates are freely agreed between authorized institutions and their customers and may vary according to the characteristics of the transaction.
Therefore, always compare the final result: how much money will leave your account or be handed over in foreign currency and how many Brazilian reais will be available after the transaction.
How can you withdraw Brazilian reais at São Paulo airport?
To withdraw Brazilian reais at the airport, locate an ATM24h machine, insert or tap your card when this function is available, and follow the instructions displayed by the machine.
The process may vary depending on the card and terminal, but the logic is simple:
- Locate an ATM24h machine in Guarulhos, Congonhas or Viracopos.
- Check whether your card is compatible with the service.
- Select the withdrawal option shown on the screen.
- Enter the desired amount, respecting the applicable limits.
- Review the transaction information before confirming.
- Complete the withdrawal and take the cash.
- Put away your card and Brazilian reais before leaving the machine.
Avoid counting large amounts of cash in busy areas. Organize the Brazilian reais discreetly and put away your card, wallet and documents before continuing through the terminal.
Is it safe to withdraw cash at the airport?
Yes, airports are controlled and busy environments, but the same precautions used at any ATM should be maintained during a withdrawal.
Before inserting the card, look at the machine and the surrounding area.
Do not use the machine if you find loose parts, strange objects in the card slot or any apparently unusual alteration.
During the transaction:
- cover the keypad when entering your PIN;
- do not accept help from strangers;
- do not share passwords or codes;
- keep luggage and personal belongings close;
- check the information displayed on the screen;
- put the cash away before leaving;
- do not leave receipts containing financial information exposed.
Also be suspicious of anyone who says you need to hand over your card, provide your PIN or perform a second transaction to “release” the first withdrawal.
Tips to save money when obtaining Brazilian reais upon arrival
Planning how to obtain Brazilian reais before departure allows you to compare costs and avoid making a financial decision in a hurry after a long flight.
A few simple measures can help:
- Compare currency exchange and withdrawals: analyze how much you would receive with each option.
- Check your card fees: especially for international withdrawals.
- Do not consider only the advertised exchange rate: compare the amount actually received.
- Avoid exchanging large amounts without researching: especially when you will have other opportunities to obtain Brazilian reais.
- Have more than one payment method: combine a card and cash.
- Consider withdrawing only what you need for the first few days: this reduces the amount of cash you carry.
- Check limits before traveling: the issuing bank may set its own withdrawal limits.
- Use authorized institutions for foreign exchange transactions: the Central Bank maintains information about authorized institutions.
- Do the calculations in the same currency: this makes it easier to compare the effective cost of each option.
It is also worth remembering that electronic payments are widely accepted in São Paulo. Therefore, many visitors do not need to carry their entire travel budget in cash.
A smaller amount of Brazilian reais can serve as a complement for specific situations, while cards cover other expenses.
Is it worth exchanging money at São Paulo airport?
Yes, obtaining Brazilian reais at the airport can be convenient for anyone who wants to start the trip with cash. However, the best option between a currency exchange office and a withdrawal depends on the fees, the card and each traveler’s needs.
São Paulo’s main airports offer alternatives for travelers who need access to Brazilian currency.
At Guarulhos, in addition to the foreign exchange services available in the international terminals, there are several ATM24h machines distributed across departure, arrival, check-in and baggage claim areas.
At Congonhas, travelers can find ATM24h machines in departure, arrival and public circulation areas. At Viracopos, machines are also available at strategic points in the terminal.
For travelers arriving from abroad, the possibility of withdrawing Brazilian reais directly with a compatible international card can avoid the need to carry large amounts of cash throughout the trip.
Those who prefer to exchange foreign cash should compare exchange rates and check the transaction conditions. The Central Bank confirms that rates are freely negotiated, which is why values may vary from one institution to another.
The most important thing is to plan before departure: check with your bank, understand your card fees, compare the alternatives and keep more than one payment method available.
This way, whether you arrive through Guarulhos, Congonhas or Viracopos, you can start your trip with access to the Brazilian reais you need to enjoy São Paulo more conveniently.
Keep exploring São Paulo on Brasil ATM and discover everything you need to travel around the state with greater convenience and safety.
Where to withdraw cash from 24-hour ATMs in Brazil
To make the most of your experience in São Paulo, it is best to carry cash. This helps ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. In some places, cash is essential for food, transportation, attraction tickets and more.
See the table below with some 24-hour ATM machines in the areas mentioned in this article:
| Where | Location |
| Shopping Top Center | See all locations here |
| Tivoli Mofarrej | See all locations here |
| Grand Hyatt São Paulo | See all locations here |
| Rosewood São Paulo | See all locations here |
| Renaissance São Paulo Hotel | See all locations here |
Discover Brasil ATM (A Todo Momento)
At Brasil ATM, we see Brazil as a place full of unique beauty and fascinating culture. Our portal, supported by the global ATM24h brand, reflects our love for Brazil. Our goal is to inspire tourists to explore its wonders safely and with reliable information.
We provide accurate, up-to-date and inspiring information in three languages. With us, you will have everything you need to plan your trip with confidence. We offer travel guides, detailed itineraries and useful planning tips.
We want to create memories that last. We will show you Brazil’s natural and cultural beauty. Explore famous destinations such as Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo, and discover hidden gems such as Lençóis Maranhenses and Fernando de Noronha. We are here to help you make the most of your trip.
Read more about São Paulo:
- Sheraton São Paulo WTC Hotel Review – What it’s like to stay there
- Review Grand Hyatt São Paulo – What it’s like to stay at the hotel
- Review Tivoli Mofarrej – what it’s like to stay at the hotel
- Review Renaissance São Paulo Hotel: what it’s like to stay at the hotel
Frequently asked questions about exchange at São Paulo airport
Yes. Guarulhos has foreign exchange services in the terminals that operate international flights. The official GRU Airport website lists locations in different areas of Terminals 2 and 3.
In addition, the airport has several ATM24h machines, allowing travelers with compatible international cards to withdraw Brazilian reais directly.
Yes. There are ATM24h machines in the arrival, departure and public areas of Congonhas Airport.
This makes it possible to obtain Brazilian reais before leaving the terminal and heading to other areas of the city.
Yes. Viracopos has ATM24h machines at different points in the terminal, including the common area and domestic departure areas.
The airport is located at km 66 of Rodovia Santos Dumont, in Campinas.
It depends on the fees, the card, the exchange rate offered and the amount needed. Compare the total cost of both transactions before choosing.
A withdrawal can be convenient for those who already have a compatible international card, while a currency exchange office can serve travelers carrying foreign cash.
Compatible international cards enabled for use abroad can be used for withdrawals, according to the conditions of the issuing institution and the transaction.
Before the trip, check with the bank or global account provider to verify compatibility, limits and any applicable fees.
