Use your EC card abroad - you have to be aware of that
If you want to withdraw money with your EC card and make cashless payments, this also works abroad. We will show you what you have to consider when using the EC card abroad.
Pay abroad: Check the EC card
- First take your EC card on hand and check the existing logos. The symbols V-Pay and Maestro are relevant for use abroad.
- With Maestro you can withdraw cash from ATMs worldwide. V-Pay is largely limited to the EU and some other countries.
- Whether V-Pay or Maestro, fees are often incurred abroad. Before you travel, find out whether and with which foreign banks your bank is cooperating.
Use EC card abroad: V-Pay or Maestro
- EC cards with the Maestro logo can be read and copied by criminals using the magnetic stripe. With V-Pay a PIN is always required, so that a higher security is guaranteed.
- Even though Maestro can be helpful abroad, German banks use this standard less and less. Within Europe, an EC card with the V-Pay logo is sufficient.
- Outside of the EU, a credit card is also recommended for protection. So that there is no stress on vacation, you should save the number from the emergency call beforehand.
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