Trying to avoid paying crazy ATM fees while traveling in Micronesia. Anyone found ATMs that are free for foreign cards? Would love specific banks or locations if possible.
Had to make several withdrawals in Kosrae and each time Bank of Guam limited me to $1,000 and took $5 off the top. That adds up if you’re here for diving and adventure trips. My advice? Get your largest allowed amount each time, avoid ATM visits on Sundays, and always double-check that the machine isn’t out of order before a long weekend.
You;ll get charged $5 at Bank of Guam’s ATMs in Micronesia and the withdrawal limit is fixed at $1,000 per day for foreign cards. Used mine at the Mangrove Bay area without issues but learned the hard way not to rely solely on cards-some smaller shops and taxis don’t take plastics, so get cash in hand as soon as you arrive.
If you’re landing in Chuuk or Yap soon, Bank of Guam is basically your only ATM option. My Revolut card was accepted without hassle, but you’ll get hit with a $5 US fee each time and can only pull up to $1,000 per transaction. When you’re in Weno, stick to the machines near the big supermarkets or hotels for better reliability. Always check your bank’s own international fees because they sometimes add another layer on top.
Used the Bank of Guam ATM on Pohnpei with my Wise debit card, and while it worked every time, there’s a fixed $5 fee per withdrawal no matter what. The daily withdrawal cap is $1,000, so budget accordingly if you’re staying a few weeks or hopping islands. Machines are well-located near downtown Kolonia and at the airport. Watch out for public holidays though, as cash runs out fast and refills aren’t always same day.