The euro is the official currency of the Eurozone, a monetary union of 20 member states of the European Union. Understanding which countries use the euro for currency is essential for travelers, businesses, and anyone interested in European economics. This article provides a clear overview of the countries that have adopted the euro, both within and outside the EU.
Eurozone Countries: The Official Adopters
Currently, 20 EU member states have adopted the euro as their official currency. These countries form the Eurozone, where the euro is the sole legal tender. Here is a list of these countries:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
These countries have fully integrated the euro into their economies, with prices displayed in euros and everyday transactions conducted using euro banknotes and coins.
Overseas Territories within the Eurozone
The euro’s reach extends beyond the European mainland to include several overseas territories of Eurozone member states. These territories also officially use the euro:
- Azores (Portugal)
- Canary Islands (Spain)
- Ceuta (Spain)
- Melilla (Spain)
- French Guiana (France)
- Guadeloupe (France)
- Madeira (Portugal)
- Martinique (France)
- Mayotte (France)
- Réunion (France)
- Saint Barthélemy (France)
- Saint Pierre and Miquelon (France)
Non-EU Countries and Territories Using the Euro
Beyond the European Union, some countries and territories also utilize the euro, either through formal agreements or de facto adoption.
Officially Adopted by Agreement
Four microstates located within Europe have formal agreements with the EU allowing them to use the euro as their official currency:
- Andorra
- Monaco
- San Marino
- Vatican City
These agreements reflect the close economic and geographical ties these states have with the EU and the Eurozone.
De Facto Adoption
In addition to official agreements, the euro is used as a de facto currency in some territories, meaning it is used in practice even without a formal agreement. Two notable examples are:
- Kosovo
- Montenegro
In these territories, while not officially adopted, the euro is widely accepted and used for most transactions, providing monetary stability and ease of trade.
Euro for Payments: Cash and Card Transactions
Within the Eurozone and in countries where the euro is officially used, cash and card payments in euros are standard and widely accepted. Regulations ensure that cross-border euro payments within the EU are treated the same as domestic payments. This means that using your debit or credit card for euro transactions within these countries should not incur extra charges compared to local transactions. These rules also extend to euro transactions involving countries outside the Eurozone but within the EU.
EU Legislation
The usage and regulations surrounding the euro are underpinned by EU legislation designed to facilitate trade, ensure fair practices in financial transactions, and promote economic integration within the Eurozone and the wider European Union.
Need Support from Assistance Services?
For further assistance or clarification regarding your rights as a traveler or consumer within the Eurozone, you can access specialized EU assistance services. These services can provide guidance and support in navigating EU regulations and resolving any issues you may encounter. You can find relevant assistance through the EU’s service finder tools.
Last checked: 07/01/2025
