The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Mozambique, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
I had my Revolut Mastercard taken by a BCI ATM in Nampula on a Friday evening. When I went Monday, they told me the card had already been destroyed. I had to cancel it and switch to my Monzo backup. Mozambique is heavily cash-reliant outside the capital, so I was stuck until I changed some USD. Always use ATMs during working hours and bring at least two cards.
My Wise Visa was swallowed by a Millennium BIM ATM in Maputo. I went into the branch the next morning, and they returned it after verifying my passport. The staff were polite and efficient. A friend also got their Monzo card back from Standard Bank in Beira. If you stick to branch ATMs, recovery is usually possible in Mozambique as long as you act quickly.
In Mozambique, the main ATMs are operated by Millennium BIM, Standard Bank, and BCI. If your card is captured, go to the branch with your passport. Some banks, like Millennium BIM, may return it, but many destroy foreign cards quickly for security reasons. Always call the hotline shown on the ATM immediately. Mozambique is very cash-based, especially outside Maputo, so carry meticais and USD while you resolve it.
My card got eaten at a Millennium BIM ATM in Maputo near Baixa. The machine froze and didn’t release it. I went to the branch and they explained foreign cards aren’t returned. I canceled mine instantly. Mozambique is very cash-focused-always carry extra metical or USD for exchange.