Finland Payment Methods & Currency Exchange Guide

Finland uses modern payment systems and has a high prevalence of cashless transactions. The official currency is the Euro (EUR). Most businesses accept electronic payments, and ATMs are widely available.

• Official Currency: Euro (EUR)
• Accepted Payment Methods: Cash, major credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard), and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay). Alipay is accepted in some tourist areas.
• Contactless Payments: Widely used; most terminals support contactless cards and mobile wallets.
• ATM Availability: Extensive network; international cards (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Cirrus) are generally accepted. Some ATMs may charge a fee (typically EUR 2–4 per withdrawal).
• Currency Exchange: Available at banks, airports, and exchange offices. Banks usually offer competitive rates. Exchange offices may charge a commission.
• Foreign Currency Restrictions: No restrictions on bringing in or taking out foreign currency, but amounts over EUR 10,000 (or equivalent) must be declared to Finnish Customs.
• Cash Import/Export Limits: Up to EUR 10,000 (approx. USD 10,800) can be brought in or out without declaration. Exceeding this requires a written declaration at customs.
• Transaction Fees: Foreign card transactions may incur a surcharge (typically 1–3%). Check with your card issuer for details.
• Common Issues: Some small vendors may accept cash only. Always carry a small amount of cash for rural areas or markets.
• Major Banks: Nordea, OP Financial Group, Danske Bank, S-Pankki.
• Regulations: Finnish Financial Supervisory Authority oversees payment systems. Traveler advisories are available from the Finnish Customs and Bank of Finland.