Montevideo - Post Report Question and Answers
Are credit cards widely accepted and safe to use locally? Are ATMs common and do you recommend using them? Are they safe to use?
Credit cards are widely used and there is a nice discount at restaurants and hotels for foreign credit cards. I haven't used an ATM, but never heard about any problems. - Aug 2022
Yes, credit cards widely accepted and using a foreign card often gets the VAT refunded. ATMs are somewhat common. Many vendors and landlords also request payment by Abitab whereby you pay at a branch and the funds are out in the vendors’ account. - Nov 2021
Everyone uses credit cards and you used to get a 22% IVA waiver for using a foreign credit card. There were hundreds of ATM robberies (blown up) at any time during the day so I definitely didn't use any in public. I got my cash from the embassy. Do not carry a lot of cash on your...robbery was being a big problem when I left post- for locals an expats a like. - Jul 2020
Credit cards were becoming more accepted during my time there; always a good idea to have some cash on hand just in case. ATMs are common and are safe to use. - Aug 2018
Credit cards are accepted by many restaurants, but cash is still widely used and many restaurants remain cash only. ATMs are widely available and safe to use. - Jun 2017
Credit cards are accepted, but there are many places, such as doctors' offices that still only accept cash (!?!?). Some places will offer you a discount for using a credit card; others will charge you more. ATMs are common and can be safe to use; like in all places, though, be cautious of your surroundings and be aware of scams. - Aug 2016
Visa seems to be the card of choice, followed by MasterCard. We have not had any problems using credit or debit cards. But, there is a 22% VAT added to everything. The card company may refunded that amount, our Visa card does. - Mar 2014
Visa and Mastercard are accepted at some establishments and are given a small discount at the better restaurants. - May 2013
I have never had any problems using credit cards or ATM cards. - Mar 2012
You can use them, but I'd be wary of visiting any ATM here given the high crime. - Jan 2009
