The Postepay Evolution, the popular rechargeable prepaid card with an IBAN issued by Poste Italiane, is an extremely widespread payment tool in Italy. Its practicality, combined with the ability to receive and make wire transfers thanks to its associated IBAN, makes it a preferred choice for many Italians. But when crossing national borders, a crucial question naturally arises: does the Postepay Evolution work abroad? And if so, what are the costs associated with using it for payments and withdrawals?
Making the most of your Postepay Evolution while traveling abroad is essential to avoid unpleasant surprises and manage your finances wisely. Whether it’s for a vacation, a business trip, or a study period outside of Italy, knowing the terms of use, applicable fees, and operational limits of your card in advance can make a big difference. We will analyze in detail everything you need to know about using the Postepay Evolution abroad, providing up-to-date information and practical tips for a smooth experience.
Does Postepay Evolution Work Abroad? A Definitive Answer
The short and reassuring answer is: yes, Postepay Evolution works abroad. As a card that operates on the international Mastercard network, the Postepay Evolution is accepted virtually everywhere in the world where Mastercard network cards are accepted. This includes physical stores, restaurants, hotels, online services, and, of course, ATMs for cash withdrawals.
The Mastercard logo on your Postepay Evolution is the guarantee of its global usability. It is generally not necessary to perform any specific activation for use abroad; the card is enabled for international transactions by default. However, it is always good practice to check your Postepay app settings or the personal area on the Poste Italiane website for any geographical limitations or security options to customize before your departure.
The wide acceptance of the Mastercard network makes the Postepay Evolution a versatile tool for daily expenses while traveling. You can therefore use it to pay the bill at a restaurant in Paris, shop in a store in London, book an excursion online while in New York, or withdraw local currency from an ATM in Tokyo. It is important, however, to be aware that using it abroad involves specific costs, which we will analyze in the next chapter.
For a broader understanding of the card’s features, you might be interested in our complete guide to Postepay Evolution.
Detailed Costs for Using Postepay Evolution Abroad
Using the Postepay Evolution outside of Italy is convenient, but not always free. It is essential to know the fees for withdrawals and payments to plan your expenses effectively. Costs can vary significantly depending on whether you are in a Euro Area or non-Euro Area country, and on the type of transaction. Let’s clarify, based on generally available information (it is always advisable to check the most up-to-date conditions directly on the Poste Italiane website before leaving, as they may change).
Cash Withdrawal Fees
When you need local currency, withdrawing from an ATM is a common necessity. Here’s how the costs for Postepay Evolution are structured:
- Withdrawal at Postamat ATMs: This option is mainly relevant within Italian territory. You will not find Postamat ATMs abroad.
- Withdrawal at bank ATMs in the Eurozone: For withdrawals made in countries that use the Euro, Poste Italiane generally applies a fixed fee. As of May 2025, this fee is usually around €2.00 per transaction. This means that whether you withdraw €50 or €200, the fixed cost will be applied.
- Withdrawal at bank ATMs in non-Eurozone areas: If you withdraw cash in a country with a currency other than the Euro (e.g., Pounds in the UK, Dollars in the US, Yen in Japan, etc.), the fee is typically higher and consists of a fixed and a variable part. Usually, this is a fixed fee of €5.00 per transaction, plus a percentage fee on the withdrawn amount for currency conversion, which is around 1.10% of the withdrawal amount. For example, withdrawing the equivalent of €100 in local currency, you might pay €5 + €1.10 (1.10% of 100), for a total of €6.10 in fees.
It is important to note that some banks that own the ATMs abroad may apply their own additional fee (called a “surcharge”). This potential fee is independent of Poste Italiane and is usually displayed on the ATM screen before you confirm the transaction.
POS Payment Fees
Using the Postepay Evolution to pay directly for purchases and services via POS (Point of Sale) terminals is often more cost-effective than withdrawing cash.
- Payments in Euros (at physical and online merchants): If you make a payment in Euros, whether in Italy or another Euro Area country, there are no fees applied by Poste Italiane. The amount charged to your card will exactly match the cost of the good or service.
- Payments in a currency other than the Euro: When you pay in a currency other than the Euro, Poste Italiane applies a currency conversion fee. This is generally a percentage of the transaction amount, which, according to information available as of May 2025, is usually around 1.10% of the amount. For example, for a purchase equivalent to €100 in local currency, you will be charged about €1.10 as a conversion fee.
The exchange rate applied for foreign currency transactions is the one set by the Mastercard network, which may include a small spread.
Other Potential Costs
- Top-up costs from abroad: Topping up your Postepay Evolution while abroad may incur additional costs depending on the chosen method. If, for example, you top up online via the Poste Italiane website or the Postepay app using another card, the standard top-up fees will apply. Receiving a wire transfer to the Evolution’s IBAN from abroad could also have costs, especially for instant SEPA transfers or non-SEPA transfers.
- Applied exchange rate: As mentioned, the exchange rate is determined by the Mastercard network. It’s good to be aware that this rate may not be identical to the “official” interbank rates you find online, as card networks apply their own reference rates which may include a small markup.
For an overview of various card types and their networks, our complete guide to credit card networks may be useful.
Withdrawal and Payment Limits Abroad with Postepay Evolution
In addition to costs, it is crucial to know the operational limits of the Postepay Evolution when using it abroad. These limits are generally the same as those valid in Italy and are set for security reasons and to comply with anti-money laundering regulations.
The standard limits for the Postepay Evolution (which should always be verified on your card’s information sheet or through official Poste Italiane channels, as there may be customized profiles or updates) are usually:
- Daily ATM withdrawal limit: Generally €600 (or the equivalent in foreign currency). This limit may be lower if the foreign ATM has its own lower maximum for a single transaction.
- Monthly ATM withdrawal limit: Usually €2,500 (or the equivalent in foreign currency).
- Daily payment limit (POS and online): Typically €3,500 (or the equivalent in foreign currency).
- Monthly payment limit (POS and online): Usually €10,000 (or the equivalent in foreign currency).
- Maximum card balance (plafond): The Postepay Evolution has a maximum balance, which is the maximum amount it can hold, set at €30,000.
It is important to plan your expenses and withdrawals taking these limits into account, especially if you anticipate significant expenditures. You can check your specific limits and available balance via the Postepay app or by logging into your personal area on the Poste Italiane website. If you have doubts about the specific limits applied to your card, the article on Postepay limits could provide further clarification.
Useful Tips for Using Postepay Evolution Abroad Safely
Using the Postepay Evolution abroad is secure, thanks to the protection measures offered by the Mastercard network and Poste Italiane. However, taking a few precautions can help make the experience even more worry-free:
- Inform Poste Italiane of your trip (optional but recommended): Although no longer strictly mandatory as it once was for many cards, informing your bank or card issuer about your travel plans (destinations and dates) can help prevent precautionary blocks for suspicious activity. Some banks allow you to do this via their app. Check if the Postepay app offers this feature.
- Save useful numbers: Save on your phone and perhaps write down separately the numbers to block the card in case of theft or loss. The number provided by Poste Italiane to block Postepay from abroad is generally different from the one for calls from Italy. Check the correct number on the Poste Italiane website before you leave. For more details on how to act in these situations, consult our guide on how to block a credit card.
- Use the Postepay app: Download and set up the Postepay app on your smartphone. It allows you to monitor transactions in real-time, check your balance, view limits, and, in some cases, manage the card’s security settings, including the ability to temporarily block it.
- Enable SMS/Push notifications: If available, enable notifications for every transaction. This allows you to immediately notice any unauthorized use.
- Be careful at ATMs and POS terminals: Preferably use ATMs located inside banks or in well-lit, busy areas. Before inserting your card, check for any suspicious devices (skimmers) attached to the card slot or keypad. Cover your hand while entering your PIN.
- Don’t let your card out of your sight: When paying at a restaurant or in a store, do not allow the merchant to take the card out of your view.
- Keep your receipts: Keep track of your expenses and save receipts for payments and withdrawals, at least until you have verified them on your statement.
- Use 3D Secure for online purchases: For online purchases, Postepay Evolution supports the 3D Secure security system (Mastercard Identity Check). This usually requires additional authentication (e.g., a code via SMS, authorization via app) to confirm the transaction, increasing protection against fraud. To learn more, read our tips on Postepay security for online purchases.
- Consider a backup card: Especially for long trips or to remote destinations, it can be wise to carry a second payment card (from a different network, if possible) or an emergency sum of cash.
- Beware of public Wi-Fi: Avoid accessing your financial services or entering sensitive data when connected to unsecured public Wi-Fi networks. If necessary, use a VPN.
By following these simple tips, you can minimize risks and enjoy your trip with greater peace of mind. Prevention is always the best strategy when it comes to defending against phishing and online scams.
Is the Postepay Evolution’s IBAN Useful Abroad?
One of the distinctive features of the Postepay Evolution is the presence of an Italian IBAN, which makes it equivalent to a traditional bank account in many functionalities. But does this feature have practical relevance when you are abroad?
- Receiving Wire Transfers: The main utility of the IBAN abroad is the ability to receive SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) transfers if you are in a SEPA country, or international (non-SEPA) transfers if you are outside of it. This can be useful if you need to receive funds from home (family, friends, employer) while traveling. Incoming SEPA transfers are generally free or have low costs, while international transfers can have higher fees and longer processing times.
- Sending Wire Transfers: Similarly, you can use your Postepay Evolution to send SEPA or international transfers to other accounts, operating through the Postepay app or internet banking, just as you would from Italy. Again, be mindful of the costs, especially for non-SEPA transfers.
- Direct Debits (less common abroad): In theory, the IBAN could be used to set up recurring payments with foreign service providers, but this practice is less common and depends on the individual provider’s policies.
- Account Identification: In specific contexts, the IBAN serves to uniquely identify the “account” associated with your prepaid card.
Regarding direct payments in stores or ATM withdrawals abroad, the IBAN does not play an active role. These operations are based on the card number (PAN) and the payment network (Mastercard). The IBAN is primarily related to fund transfer operations. For a thorough understanding of the IBAN and its functionalities, you can consult our complete guide to the IBAN.
Alternatives to Postepay Evolution for Traveling
Although Postepay Evolution is a valid solution for many travelers, it is always useful to know the alternatives, especially if you travel frequently or for long periods, or if you are looking for particularly advantageous conditions for use abroad.
- Other Prepaid Cards with IBAN: There are numerous other prepaid cards with an IBAN offered by online banks and electronic money institutions that may offer competitive fees for use abroad, favorable exchange rates, or additional features (e.g., multi-currency accounts). Comparing offers is always a good idea.
- International Debit Cards: Many banks offer debit cards linked to current accounts that are optimized for use abroad, with packages that may include free or low-cost withdrawals worldwide.
- Credit Cards: A traditional credit card can offer advantages such as included travel insurance, loyalty programs, and greater flexibility for car rentals or hotel bookings (where a “real” credit card is often required for the security deposit). However, cash withdrawal fees with a credit card are usually very high.
- Fintech Services and Payment Apps: Companies like Revolut, Wise (formerly TransferWise), and N26 offer solutions specifically designed for travelers, with interbank exchange rates, reduced or no fees for foreign currency transactions, and management entirely via app.
The choice largely depends on your specific needs, destination, and length of travel. For a general overview of the Postepay card offerings and how to choose the most suitable one, the article Postepay: Which Card to Choose? A Guide to Differences and Advantages can offer interesting insights, as well as our analysis on how to use Postepay abroad, with a focus on costs, limits, and security for a broader comparison. Also, evaluating the difference between Postepay Standard and Postepay Evolution can help to better understand the basic product.
In Brief (TL;DR)
Postepay Evolution works abroad thanks to the Mastercard network, for both ATM withdrawals and POS payments.
Costs vary: Euro withdrawals have a fixed fee (approx. €2), non-Euro withdrawals have a higher fixed fee plus a percentage (approx. €5 + 1.10%), Euro POS payments are free, and non-Euro POS payments have a percentage fee (approx. 1.10%).
There are daily and monthly limits for withdrawals and payments, generally the same as in Italy. Check them before you leave.
Conclusions
The Postepay Evolution proves to be a flexible and widely accepted payment tool even when traveling abroad. Its membership in the Mastercard network opens the doors to millions of merchants and ATMs worldwide, making it a reliable travel companion for many Italians. However, fully understanding how it works outside national borders is crucial for informed use and to avoid unexpected costs that could impact your travel budget.
We have seen how usage costs are a primary factor to consider: while payments in Euros remain free, foreign currency transactions and cash withdrawals involve specific fees. In particular, withdrawals in currencies other than the Euro can be relatively expensive due to the combination of a fixed fee and a percentage of the amount. It is therefore strategically important to plan your cash needs, trying to minimize the number of withdrawals and, where possible, favoring direct POS payments, especially if made in Euros.
The withdrawal and payment limits, although generally sufficient for the needs of an average tourist, must be taken into account, especially if you anticipate significant expenses. The ability to monitor everything via the Postepay app is a definite advantage, offering control and transparency over your transactions.
Security is another fundamental aspect. The measures integrated into the card and offered by Mastercard, combined with prudent user behavior—such as protecting the PIN, being wary of suspicious ATMs, and promptly blocking the card when necessary—help to significantly reduce risks. The associated IBAN, although not directly involved in daily payments abroad, adds an important layer of functionality for receiving funds.
Ultimately, the Postepay Evolution can be a valid choice for traveling, but it is always advisable, especially for long stays or in geographical areas with very different currencies, to compare it with other payment solutions dedicated to use abroad that might offer more advantageous conditions on fees and exchange rates. Thorough preparation, which includes checking the updated conditions on the official Poste Italiane website before departure, is the best way to ensure a smooth and surprise-free financial experience away from home. Awareness is the key to traveling informed and protected.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, Postepay Evolution is generally already enabled for international use upon issuance. No specific activation is required. However, it is good practice to check the settings in the Postepay app for any self-imposed geographical restrictions.
For withdrawals in Euros at bank ATMs in Euro Area countries, Poste Italiane usually applies a fixed fee. As of May 2025, this is typically €2.00 per transaction.
For payments in a currency other than the Euro, such as the British Pound, a currency conversion fee is applied. As of May 2025, this is usually 1.10% of the transaction amount. The exchange rate applied is that of the Mastercard network.
Yes, the IBAN associated with Postepay Evolution allows you to receive SEPA transfers (if the salary comes from a SEPA Area country) and international (non-SEPA) transfers. Check for any potential fees for receiving international transfers.
You must block it immediately. Contact the card blocking number provided by Poste Italiane for calls from abroad (check the official website for the correct number before you leave). You can also try to block it via the Postepay app if you have internet access.
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