Cash or Card – What Works

Modern EU country with Euro. Contactless works almost everywhere. But cash still needed: farmers market, tradespeople, village tavernas, first days before bank account.

ATMs

Bank of Cyprus and Hellenic Bank: most ATMs. German DKB/ING Visa: free withdrawals in EU. Sparkasse: often €5-10 fee. Max per transaction: €400-600. Use ATMs in bank branches or malls.

This was exactly our experience: Sparkasse: often €5-10 fee. Max per transaction: €400-600.

– Newcomer from Bremen, in Larnaca since 2023

Contactless Payment

Works almost everywhere. Apple Pay/Google Pay: work with Cypriot and most German cards. Limit: €50 without PIN. NOT accepted: farmers market, some village tavernas, tradespeople.

Transfers

Within Cyprus (SEPA): free, instant via banking app. Germany→Cyprus: SEPA €0-1, 1-2 days. Wise/Revolut for other currencies. Keep German account with standing order to Cypriot account.

ATMs and Cash in Cyprus

Topics: Cash or Card – What Works, ATMs, Contactless Payment

CMC Practical Tip

But cash still needed: farmers market, tradespeople, village tavernas, first days before bank account.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need cash?

Always carry €50-100. Farmers market, tradespeople, tips: cash only. Supermarkets/restaurants: card works. First days: bring €500-1,000.

Best card?

DKB/ING Visa: free in EU. Wise: excellent exchange rates. Sparkasse: often expensive abroad.

ATMs at airport?

Yes – BoC and Hellenic at Larnaca and Pafos airports.

How much cash can I bring?

Within EU: unlimited. Over €10,000: must declare at customs.

How CMC Supports You

At CMC Certus Management Consultants, we are here for you – not only for tax and legal questions, but also for all practical topics of everyday life in Cyprus. Our team in Larnaca and Pafos knows the local conditions first-hand.

As your local contact, we handle: company formation and management, tax advisory and Non-Dom applications, ongoing bookkeeping and tax returns, support with authorities, and referrals to estate agents, lawyers, doctors and tradespeople.

Further Reading