12 Jun 2025
If you're a Pakistani living in Spain, withdrawing money from an ATM might seem like a simple task. But there’s more to it than just entering your PIN. ATM scams, hidden charges, foreign transaction fees, and even machine errors can turn your quick stop into a costly mistake. Here’s a guide with 7 important things every Pakistani expat in Spain should do before withdrawing money from an ATM. These steps can save your money and keep your bank details safe.
Always inspect the ATM before using it. Look for anything unusual:
Scammers often install fake card readers or tiny cameras to steal your card info and PIN. If the ATM looks suspicious, walk away. Use machines located inside banks or trusted stores instead of isolated ones on the street.
Many international ATMs in Spain charge:
Before withdrawing, check with your home bank in Pakistan and your local Spanish bank (if you have one) about international withdrawal fees. Use ATMs from banks that partner with your Pakistani bank. They often offer fee-free or reduced-cost withdrawals.
When the ATM asks: “Would you like to be charged in your home currency (PKR) or in EUR?” Always choose EUR. Why? If you pick PKR, the ATM will use dynamic currency conversion (DCC). This means the ATM sets its own exchange rate, which is often worse than the market rate. Choosing EUR lets your bank do the conversion, usually at a fairer exchange rate.
This is about both safety and machine reliability. ATMs near banks during business hours are more secure and less likely to be tampered. Avoid using ATMs late at night, especially in quiet or poorly lit areas. Even in a safe country like Spain, theft or card scams can still happen. Most bank ATM robberies happen at night, particularly between 7 pm and midnight, even though this time period accounts for just 10% of daily transactions. In total, the hours from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m. see only 11% of all transactions but are responsible for 60% of ATM-related crimes.
Some ATMs are operated by independent providers (not linked to a bank), such as:
These machines may:
It’s better to use ATMs from reputable banks like:
Also, be cautious of ATMs in tourist-heavy areas, as they are more likely to carry hidden fees.
Sometimes, your card may not work. Or the ATM might keep it. Or you may reach your international withdrawal limit. That’s why it’s smart to have a backup plan, especially if you send money to Pakistan. Services like ACE Money Transfer offer a fast and secure way to:
Most Pakistani migrants in Spain are working hard to support their families. Every euro counts. Losing money to hidden ATM fees or falling victim to scams is something you can avoid with the right steps.
Whether you're withdrawing cash to pay bills, send money home, or cover your daily needs, being careful gives you peace of mind and more control over your finances.
Withdrawing cash should be simple, but smart steps make all the difference. Whether you’re working in Barcelona, Madrid, or Valencia, these tips help you avoid mistakes many expats make.
And remember, in order to send money to Pakistan from Spain, avoid using expensive bank transfers. Use trusted platforms like ACE Money Transfer that offer better rates and faster delivery. In today’s world, managing money isn’t just about saving, it’s about staying alert, informed, and in control.
Yes, most Pakistani bank cards with Visa or Mastercard logos work in Spain. But be ready for foreign withdrawal fees unless your bank offers international usage plans.
Generally yes, especially at banks. But always inspect the machine, cover your PIN, and avoid street ATMs.
Call your bank immediately. If the ATM is attached to a bank branch, go inside and ask for help. Keep your bank’s helpline number saved in your phone.
For small needs, ATM withdrawal may work. But for sending larger amounts to Pakistan, services like ACE Money Transfer usually offer better exchange rates and lower costs.
