Bank of China Foreign Currency ATM Cash Withdrawal Currencies and Notes

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You can directly withdraw USD, JPY, EUR, and GBP at Bank of China foreign currency ATMs. Some ATMs also support CNY, AUD, NZD, CAD, SGD, and other currencies. Most machines do not require an appointment, allowing you to withdraw foreign currency at any time. However, some ATMs are located inside branches and are only open during specified service hours. The table below shows the withdrawal proportions and average amounts for different currencies:

You will notice that the demand for USD and JPY withdrawals is particularly high, reflecting the needs of Hong Kong residents for major foreign currency cash.

Key Points

• Bank of China foreign currency ATMs mainly support USD, JPY, EUR, and GBP, with some machines also offering CNY, AUD, and other currencies, catering to users with diverse foreign currency cash needs.
• You can choose to withdraw foreign currency from a Foreign Exchange Account to lock in exchange rates and reduce risks, or use an HKD account for instant conversion, flexibly addressing temporary needs, each method with its advantages.
• When withdrawing, note the single transaction and daily withdrawal limits, typically around 1,300 USD per transaction and 10,250 USD daily for major currencies, to avoid inconvenience from exceeding limits.
• Most Bank of China foreign currency ATMs offer cash withdrawals without fees, but using VISA or MasterCard networks incurs additional charges, so check related fees in advance.
• Before withdrawing, check the ATM’s currency availability and service hours, and choose a safe, well-lit location to ensure smooth withdrawals and protect personal fund security.

Available Currencies

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Major Foreign Currencies

You can withdraw four major foreign currencies at Bank of China foreign currency ATMs, including USD, JPY, EUR, and GBP. These currencies are in high demand in Hong Kong, especially suitable for those who frequently travel abroad or need foreign currency cash.

• USD: The most common international currency, accepted in most countries and regions. When withdrawing, the system automatically converts based on the daily cash exchange rate, making it convenient and fast.
• JPY: If you often travel or do business in Japan, JPY cash withdrawals are very convenient.
• EUR: Used in multiple European countries, suitable for those traveling to Europe.
• GBP: Used in the UK and some regions, suitable for those with UK study, travel, or business needs.

Tip: Cash availability varies by ATM location. Before withdrawing, it’s recommended to check the currency availability at nearby ATMs.

Other Currencies

In addition to major currencies, some Bank of China foreign currency ATMs also support CNY, AUD, NZD, CAD, SGD, and others. The availability of these currencies depends on the ATM location and cash inventory.

• CNY: Some Bank of China foreign currency ATMs allow direct CNY withdrawals. China has recently increased CNY market supply through policy tools like Medium-term Lending Facility (MLF) and Loan Prime Rate (LPR). China’s July trade surplus reached USD 101.26 billion, a 3.39% increase from the previous month, supporting CNY appreciation. When withdrawing CNY cash in Hong Kong, you usually enjoy relatively stable supply.
• AUD: Australia, as a major exporter of natural resources, maintains a trade surplus. While specific AUD supply data is unavailable, you can still withdraw AUD cash at some ATMs, suitable for those with Australian travel or study needs.
• NZD, CAD, SGD: These currencies are available at some locations, suitable for those with specific needs.

When choosing an ATM, you should note the currency labels on each machine. Some ATMs inside branches are only open during office hours, and cash availability varies by location and demand.

Note: ATM currency availability depends on cash inventory and location. During peak periods or holidays, it’s recommended to check the availability of your desired currency in advance to avoid inability to withdraw on-site.

Bank of China Foreign Currency ATM Withdrawal Methods

When using Bank of China foreign currency ATMs, you can choose two main withdrawal methods: directly withdrawing foreign currency cash from a Foreign Exchange Account or instantly converting from an HKD account. These methods each have unique features, allowing you to choose flexibly based on your needs.

Foreign Exchange Account Withdrawal

If you have opened a Foreign Exchange Account, withdrawals are more convenient. You only need to link your BOC card or credit card to the Foreign Exchange Account to withdraw foreign currency cash directly from the account. This method is suitable for those who frequently need foreign currency cash, such as for international travel, study, or business trips.

The advantage of Foreign Exchange Account withdrawals is that you can deposit foreign currency into the account in advance, locking in the exchange rate to reduce risks from rate fluctuations. During withdrawal, the system deducts directly from your account’s foreign currency balance without requiring instant conversion.

When withdrawing, you simply follow the ATM instructions to select “Foreign Exchange Account,” then choose the desired currency and amount. This method is especially suitable for those needing large amounts of foreign currency cash, as withdrawals are faster when the account has sufficient foreign currency.

Tip: When opening a Foreign Exchange Account, it’s recommended to enable online banking to easily check foreign currency balances and transaction records.

HKD Account Instant Conversion

If you don’t have a Foreign Exchange Account, you can use an HKD account for instant foreign currency conversion. You only need to link your BOC card or credit card to an HKD account, select “Instant Conversion” during withdrawal, and the system will automatically convert HKD to your desired foreign currency cash based on the daily cash exchange rate.

This method is flexible and convenient, suitable for those with temporary foreign currency cash needs. For example, if you decide to travel or shop abroad on short notice, you don’t need to prepare foreign currency in advance; you can simply operate at the ATM.

During withdrawal, the system displays the daily exchange rate and available withdrawal amount. You can select the currency and amount as prompted, and after confirmation, collect the cash.
However, instant conversion from an HKD account is subject to daily exchange rate fluctuations. Before converting, it’s recommended to check the daily cash exchange rate and choose an optimal time for withdrawal.

Note: When using Bank of China foreign currency ATMs, regardless of the method, you must use a BOC card or credit card with foreign currency withdrawal enabled and ensure sufficient funds in the account.

Foreign Currency Withdrawal Method Comparison

The table below compares the service features of foreign currency ATMs at major Hong Kong banks, helping you choose the most suitable withdrawal method:

You will find that Bank of China foreign currency ATMs support multiple major currencies and offer both Foreign Exchange Account withdrawals and instant conversion, providing high flexibility.

According to 2023 statistics, after pandemic restrictions lifted, JPY dominated foreign currency ATM withdrawals, accounting for 50% to 80%. If you frequently travel to Japan, withdrawing JPY cash via a Foreign Exchange Account or HKD instant conversion is particularly convenient.

Many banks’ foreign currency ATMs are located at branches, supermarkets, convenience stores, and other locations, making it easy to withdraw needed foreign currency anytime.

Reminder: When choosing a withdrawal method, consider your needs, exchange rate conditions, and account balance. For large foreign currency amounts, it’s recommended to deposit foreign currency into a Foreign Exchange Account in advance to reduce exchange rate risks from instant conversion.

Withdrawal Limits and Fees

Single Transaction and Daily Limits

When withdrawing at Bank of China foreign currency ATMs, you must note the single transaction and daily withdrawal limits. Limits vary by currency and card type.

Generally, major currencies like USD, JPY, EUR, and GBP have a single transaction limit of approximately USD 1,300 and a daily cumulative limit of about USD 10,250. If you use a credit card or different types of BOC cards, the bank sets different limits based on the card type.

You can refer to the table below for common currency withdrawal limits:

Before withdrawing, you should check the latest Bank of China announcements, as the bank may adjust limits based on actual conditions. If you need to withdraw large amounts of foreign currency, it’s recommended to make an appointment in advance or split withdrawals over multiple days.

Tip: Some ATMs inside branches may have additional restrictions; check the specific branch’s service details in advance.

Fee Details

When withdrawing cash at Bank of China foreign currency ATMs, some transactions may incur fees. Fees vary by withdrawal method, currency, and card type.

Announcements from multiple Hong Kong banks indicate that foreign currency withdrawals and overseas remittances typically have two fee calculation methods:

• Percentage-based fees, commonly around 0.05% (5 basis points), with a minimum fee of about USD 13 and a maximum of USD 104, some banks with no upper limit.
• Fixed amount fees, typically ranging from USD 26 to USD 78, with higher fees for non-bank customers.
• Telegraph fees (for overseas remittances) are generally USD 26 to USD 65, with some special regions up to USD 130.

When processing overseas remittances via online banking, fee standards are similar to counter services. The Consumer Council recommends comparing fees across banks to choose the most suitable service.

Note: Fees may change due to bank policy adjustments. Before withdrawing, check the latest announcements from Bank of China and other Hong Kong banks to understand all related fees and avoid unnecessary expenses.

Withdrawal Process and Notes

Withdrawal Steps

Withdrawing at a Bank of China foreign currency ATM is straightforward. First, insert your BOC card or credit card. Then, enter your PIN and select the “Foreign Currency Withdrawal” function. Next, choose the desired currency and amount. After confirming the details, the ATM will display the exchange rate and fees. Finally, follow the instructions to complete the transaction, collect the cash, and take the receipt.

Tip: Check the ATM’s cash availability before withdrawing to avoid a wasted trip.

Withdrawal Conditions

You must use a BOC card or credit card with foreign currency withdrawal enabled. The account must have sufficient funds and be linked to a Foreign Exchange Account or HKD account. Some ATMs only support specific currencies, so check the availability of your desired currency in advance.

Service Hours

Some Bank of China foreign currency ATMs are located inside branches and are only open during office hours. On weekends or holidays, these ATMs may not be available. ATMs at malls or transport hubs typically offer longer service hours. You should check the operating hours of each location and plan your withdrawal time accordingly.

Safety Tips

You should take extra precautions when withdrawing to ensure safety. It’s recommended to choose locations with high foot traffic and good lighting. If you encounter suspicious individuals or unusual situations, stop the transaction immediately and notify the bank.

According to news reports, Ethiopia Commercial Bank once experienced an ATM malfunction due to a system update error, leading to mass over-withdrawals, with losses estimated at about USD 1.2 billion. This highlights that ATM systems may occasionally face technical issues. After withdrawing, you should immediately check the cash and receipt, contacting the bank promptly if you notice any anomalies.

ATM Location Inquiry

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Major Branches

If you want to use Bank of China foreign currency ATMs in person, you can choose major branches equipped with foreign currency ATMs. These branches are mostly located in urban areas, commercial districts, or transport hubs, making them easily accessible. According to past statistics, some branches have high foreign currency ATM usage rates. For example, when CTBC Bank piloted foreign currency ATMs at five branches in Taipei, USD, JPY, and CNY cash withdrawal proportions were 50%, 37%, and 13%, respectively, with average withdrawal amounts of USD 500, JPY 80,000, and CNY 2,500. These figures reflect high demand for USD and JPY at major branches. When choosing a branch, you can prioritize these high-demand locations, as they typically have more abundant cash supplies.

Tip: During holidays or peak travel seasons, check cash availability at major branches in advance to avoid queuing or cash shortages.

Inquiry Methods

You can check the distribution and service hours of Bank of China foreign currency ATMs through various methods:

1. Visit the Bank of China official website, go to the “Branch and ATM Inquiry” page, select “Foreign Currency ATM” filter, and view ATM locations and supported currencies.
2. Download the Bank of China mobile app, use the map function to quickly find nearby foreign currency ATMs, and check each ATM’s service hours and supported currencies.
3. Call the Bank of China customer service hotline to inquire about foreign currency ATM availability at specific branches or locations.

When inquiring, pay special attention to whether your desired currency has cash available and the ATM’s operating hours. Some ATMs inside branches are only open during office hours, while those at malls or transport hubs may offer longer service hours.

Recommendation: Before heading out, check the availability of your desired currency and ATM service hours to save time and ensure smooth foreign currency cash withdrawals.

You can use Bank of China foreign currency ATMs to withdraw USD, JPY, EUR, and GBP with no fees. If you use VISA or MasterCard networks, each withdrawal incurs a USD 25 fee plus a 1% to 1.95% conversion fee. You should set withdrawal limits in advance and note ATM service hours. For large foreign currency amounts, consider booking in advance or using other channels. When withdrawing, prioritize safety to protect your funds.

Tip: Check the latest bank announcements and ATM locations to flexibly choose the most suitable withdrawal method.

FAQ

Which currencies can you withdraw at Bank of China foreign currency ATMs?

You can withdraw USD, JPY, EUR, and GBP. Some ATMs also support CNY, AUD, NZD, CAD, and SGD.

Are there fees for withdrawing?

Using a BOC card at Bank of China foreign currency ATMs typically incurs no fees. VISA or MasterCard network withdrawals cost USD 25 plus a 1% to 1.95% conversion fee.

How can you find nearby foreign currency ATMs?

You can check on the Bank of China website or mobile app. Select the “Foreign Currency ATM” filter to view locations, supported currencies, and service hours.

Are there withdrawal amount limits?

Withdrawals have single transaction and daily limits. For USD, the single transaction limit is about USD 1,300, and the daily limit is around USD 10,250. Limits vary by card type and currency; check bank announcements.

What to do if an ATM runs out of cash?

If cash is unavailable, try another ATM location. You can also check cash availability in advance or visit a branch counter.

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