I was using an ATM near my hostel in Kosovo, & it took my card & never gave it back. No error message, just gone. Has anyone had this happen? Whats the fastest way to get it back? Any advice on who to call or what to do next?
I had my Revolut Mastercard taken by an NLB Banka ATM in Peja on a Friday evening. When I went to the branch on Monday, they told me the card had already been destroyed for security. I had no choice but to cancel it and rely on my Wise backup. Kosovo is still very cash-heavy, so being left short of money was stressful. Always withdraw during business hours and carry at least two cards and some euros as backup.
My Monzo Visa was swallowed by a Raiffeisen Bank ATM in Pristina. I went into the branch the next morning with my ID, and the staff returned it after verifying my details. They said this happens fairly often with international cards, especially if there are multiple withdrawal attempts. The process was smooth, and it only took about half an hour. If you use ATMs directly attached to branches in Pristina or Prizren, it’s usually easy to sort out.
In Kosovo, ATMs are mainly operated by ProCredit Bank, Raiffeisen Bank, and NLB Banka. If your card is captured, go to the nearest branch with your passport. ProCredit and NLB usually keep cards until the machine is serviced, but many banks destroy foreign cards if not collected quickly. Always call the hotline displayed on the ATM right away. While waiting, freeze or block your card through your bank app to stay safe in case the card cannot be returned.
Yes, this happened in Pristina, near Mother Teresa Square, at a Raiffeisen Bank ATM. The machine retained my card without explanation. The branch told me it would be destroyed. In Kosovo, banks rarely release foreign cards. Cancel it and switch to a backup. Stick to Raiffeisen, ProCredit, or NLB Bank ATMs inside branches. Carry euros in cash - it’s the official currency, and you’ll need it for taxis, cafés, and minibuses.