The euro is the official currency for a significant portion of Europe. Currently, 20 out of the 27 countries in the European Union have adopted the euro, forming what is known as the Eurozone. These nations have embraced the euro as their sole legal tender, facilitating seamless transactions and economic integration across borders.
The countries that officially use the euro are:
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Netherlands
- Portugal
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
Discover more about the euro, including its history and benefits within the European Union. You can also explore the latest exchange rates provided by the European Central Bank.
Beyond the EU member states, the euro’s reach extends to several territories and microstates. European territories like the Azores, Canary Islands, Ceuta and Melilla, French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Madeira, Martinique, Mayotte, Réunion, Saint Barthélemy, and Saint Pierre and Miquelon also utilize the euro, aligning their economies with the Eurozone.
Furthermore, several micro-nations have formally adopted the euro through agreements with the EU. Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, and Vatican City have all integrated the euro as their official national currency, simplifying monetary policy and trade relations.
Interestingly, the euro also functions as a de facto currency in some regions. For example, Kosovo and Montenegro, while not officially part of the Eurozone or EU, have unilaterally adopted the euro. This means the euro is used for most transactions, although it is not their legal tender in a formal sense.
When traveling within the Eurozone or conducting transactions involving euro accounts within the EU, it’s important to note the regulations regarding payments. For payments made in euro within the EU, transaction fees should be no higher than those for equivalent domestic electronic payments. This rule promotes cost-effective financial interactions across Eurozone countries. These regulations extend to euro transactions even in countries outside the Eurozone, ensuring consistent and fair practices for euro-based financial activities within the broader European economic area.
Get advice on your EU rights / Solve problems with a public body if you require assistance related to EU regulations or encounter any issues. You can also utilize the assistance service finder to locate the appropriate support services for your needs.
