The euro is the official currency of the Eurozone, a monetary union of 20 European Union (EU) member countries. For travelers and businesses alike, understanding which countries operate with the euro is essential. This article provides a clear overview of the countries that have adopted the euro, both within and outside the EU.
The Eurozone: 20 EU Countries at a Glance
Within the European Union, 20 countries have adopted the euro as their currency, forming what is commonly known as the Eurozone or euro area. These countries are:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
In these countries, you can confidently use euro banknotes and coins for all transactions. This seamless currency integration simplifies travel and trade across these nations.
Euro Beyond the Eurozone: Territories and Agreements
The reach of the euro extends beyond the 20 Eurozone countries. It’s also used in several overseas territories associated with EU member states. These include:
- The Azores and Madeira (Portugal)
- The Canary Islands, Ceuta and Melilla (Spain)
- French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Mayotte, Réunion, Saint Barthélemy, and Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France)
Furthermore, some non-EU countries have formal agreements to use the euro:
- Andorra
- Monaco
- San Marino
- Vatican City
These micro-states, located within Europe, have adopted the euro through agreements with the EU, further expanding the euro’s geographical footprint.
De Facto Euro Adoption
Interestingly, the euro is also used as a de facto currency in a few territories, meaning it’s used without a formal agreement with the EU. Notable examples include:
- Kosovo
- Montenegro
In these regions, while not officially adopted, the euro is widely accepted and used for most transactions, reflecting its stability and convenience.
Payments and Euro Transactions
When traveling within the Eurozone or conducting transactions in euro, it’s important to note the regulations regarding payments. Within the EU, payments made in euro, including card payments and electronic transfers, are subject to the same charges as domestic transactions. This ensures cost-effective financial operations across euro-using countries. These rules even extend to euro transactions between euro accounts in countries outside the Eurozone, promoting efficient international payments.
For further information about the euro, countries using it, and exchange rates, you can discover more about the euro and check the latest exchange rates provided by the European Central Bank.
If you require assistance or have questions regarding your EU rights, you can get advice on your EU rights / solve problems with a public body. You can also utilize the assistance service finder to locate the appropriate support services.
