Why do ATMs and shops in Venezuela just keep declining my wise card. It worked fine in other countries
Wise was basically useless in Venezuela. Tried at multiple ATMs in Maracaibo and Valencia and got declined every time. Even hotel POS terminals rejected the card. A local explained that due to sanctions, many banks can’t process transactions from digital banks. I ended up wiring money via Western Union and withdrawing cash locally. Bring physical USD or EUR if you’re visiting.
I actually had some success withdrawing cash at a Banesco ATM in Caracas, but only after setting my Wise balance to USD and using chip+PIN. Declined dynamic currency conversion on the ATM prompt. Didn’t work at shops though - they prefer cash or local cards. Wise is really hit or miss in Venezuela, so plan accordingly and bring cash.
In Merida, my Wise Visa was refused at every ATM I tried - including Banco Mercantil and Provincial Bank machines. Shops and restaurants didn’t accept it either. A local told me that the payment networks rarely authorize foreign cards here because of economic sanctions. I ended up exchanging USD cash at the airport and carrying that for most expenses.
I was in Caracas last month and couldn’t get my Wise Mastercard to work anywhere. Tried ATMs at Banco de Venezuela and Banesco, but every attempt was declined. Even tried paying at some bigger supermarkets in Las Mercedes, and it didn’t go through. Locals said the banking system is heavily restricted due to sanctions and connectivity issues, so many international fintech cards are blocked. I had to rely on cash USD the whole time.