The ATM just swallowed my debit card and didnt return it. This was in Montenegro, close to where Im staying. Any idea if local banks can help? Help SOS how to get it back
Had a similar experience in Podgorica with an Erste Bank ATM outside a shopping center. The card disappeared and there was no way to get help on the spot. Called the number on the ATM and they gave me an email to report the incident. Unfortunately, the bank later said they couldn’t return international cards for security reasons, even if I showed up in person. Ended up calling my bank back home (Wells Fargo) and froze the card. Lesson learned - always travel with two cards, preferably from different issuers. But yes, if the ATM belongs to a bank with a nearby branch, go there immediately and ask. Some are helpful, others follow strict rules.
Same thing happened to me in Bar outside a Hipotekarna Bank ATM at night. Card was just gone. I called the number on the ATM immediately (there’s usually a Montenegrin bank hotline printed on the machine) and they told me to visit the local branch the next day. I brought my passport and told them what time it happened. They said they couldn’t give the card back due to their policy on foreign cards, but they confirmed it was secured and would be destroyed. I ended up cancelling the card and using my backup. So yes, go to the bank, but prepare for the possibility they won’t return it if it’s a foreign-issued card.
This happened to me at a CKB Bank ATM in Kotor Old Town last year. It ate my Revolut card and never spat it back out. I panicked at first but went into the branch next door the next morning with my passport and explained the situation. They were surprisingly helpful. The staff confirmed the ATM belonged to their bank, and after verifying my identity, they returned the card the same day. So yes if the ATM is attached to a bank branch, go there ASAP with your ID. If it’s a standalone machine, you’ll need to contact the bank's customer service directly.
Just last month I had my N26 card swallowed at an Addiko Bank ATM in Herceg Novi. I was lucky because the ATM was attached to a bank and still during working hours. The lady inside asked for ID and the exact time I used the ATM. They told me they retrieve stuck cards once a day and if it was still in there, I could collect it next morning. I got it back in 24 hours. Key thing is to move quickly and be polite. If it’s the weekend, you may need to wait until Monday.