Can I use the Revolut card in Zambia in 2024?
If you’re planning a trip to Zambia - or planning to move there to live, work or study - you’ve got an exciting time ahead. As the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) is the official currency in Zambia you’ll need to find convenient ways to spend in ZMW while you’re there.
This guide walks through how to use the Revolut card in Zambia for convenient and secure transactions, and offers some handy hints about making your money go further when you’re abroad.
Can I use the Revolut card in Zambia?
If you are a resident of the USA and have a Revolut card - or if you’re thinking of getting one - you’re probably wondering: can I use my Revolut card to pay for things in Zambia?
The answer is yes, you can use the Revolut card for everyday spending in Zambia. You can use the card to pay for things in Zambian Kwachas with competitive exchange rates and low transaction fees. This guide walks through how you’ll be able to use your Revolut card to help manage your travel spending.
How to order a Revolut card
Order your Revolut card in the USA by downloading the Revolut app. You’ll then be able to manage your money conveniently in the app too. Here’s what to do:
Select the Revolut account tier that’s the best for your needs and tap Sign up
Enter your personal and contact details following the prompts
Complete the verification step by snapping a photo of your ID and proof of address documents and uploading them
Confirm your shipping address, and your card will arrive in the mail
Can I get the Revolut card in Zambia?
Unfortunately, the Revolut card is not yet available for residents of Zambia. You may find that Wise is a better option for residents; check whether Wise is available below.
See alternatives to RevolutWhat happens if I move to Zambia?
Revolut does not offer cards in Zambia, so your card may stop working. You may still be able to use other services, such as money transfers.
An alternative to Revolut in Zambia: Wise
Visa/Mastercard debit card
Mid-market exchange rate
40+ currenciesSpend in ZMW when visiting Zambia ✅
Not available to residents of Zambia ❌
Earn healthy interest rates on USD, EUR and GBP balances 💸
Hold and exchange 40+ currencies in your account and spend with your Wise card in 150+ countries globally. You’ll get the mid-market rate to convert currencies wherever you are in the world, with low fees - and some free ATM withdrawals every month, too.
Will my ATM card work in Zambia?
While your ATM card will work in Zambia it’s useful to know that cash is still the preferred payment method for many merchants.
You’re unlikely to be able to use your card in smaller stores and restaurants, so carrying cash is essential.
Carrying a low cost ATM card when you’re in Zambia is still a smart idea, so you can take out cash when you do find an ATM. You may also be able to use your card in larger hotels or restaurants, particularly in tourist areas.
However, keeping some cash on you at all times, as well as your card or cards is a smart plan, so you’re prepared no matter what happens.
How can I avoid ATM fees in Zambia?
Don’t pay more than you need to when using an ATM. Here are some hints to avoid unexpected ATM fees in Zambia:
Get a low cost ATM card which offers some free or cheap international withdrawals
Always pay in the local currency when you withdraw - this avoids additional charges and poor exchange rates offered by an ATM
Check if there’s a fixed cost per transaction for your ATM card. This might mean that making fewer, larger withdrawals is cheaper
Watch the ATM screen for warnings of extra fees the ATM operator may add - if there are going to be extra charges you may want to find an alternative terminal
Tips for saving on your travel budget for Zambia
Make the most of your money so you can do more on your trip to Zambia. Here are some travel budget tips:
Pay for your luggage when you book your flight - this is cheaper than at the airport
Don’t exchange currency at the airport or your hotel, as this is often the most expensive place
Always pay in the local currency
Keep a few different payment methods on you at any time, just in case you need a backup plan
Get a travel card which has good exchange rates and low or no cost ATM withdrawals overseas
What is the best currency to take to Zambia?
The Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) is the official currency in Zambia.
You can exchange your USD before you leave the USA if you’d like - but bear in mind that you won’t be able to spend USD in Zambia. If you arrive with cash in your pocket you’ll need to exchange it locally, which may come with unexpected costs, and take time out of your trip unnecessarily.
A better plan for lots of people is to get a travel card for spending in ZMW while in Zambia, with low costs and secure transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Revolut card will be OK for your trip to Zambia. Use your Revolut card in Zambia to get low cost currency conversion and cash withdrawals, and to keep your budget down overall.
Unfortunately, the Revolut card is not yet available for residents of Zambia, so if you're planning on relocating you may need to consider alternatives.
Using the Revolut card when you’re spending overseas can mean you get a better exchange rate and lower overall costs. Explore your card’s features and fees carefully to make sure you can get the most of it when travelling abroad.
The delivery time for a travel card in the USA can vary a lot depending on the provider you pick. Get ready in advance so you’ve got your card in good time before your trip to Zambia.
The information in this article is correct as of 20/02/2024. We retrieved Wise's and Revolut's card coverage from the following sources: