Germany faces declining ATM numbers amid rising card payments

Germany is experiencing a continuous decline in cash infrastructure as digital payment methods become more prevalent. According to 2025 statistics from the Deutsche Bundesbank, card transactions by German payment service providers grew by 11 percent compared to the previous year, totaling approximately 14.5 billion transactions. Card payments now account for 43 percent of all non-bank payments.

In response to changing consumer habits and cost pressures within the banking sector, the number of ATMs operated by German payment service providers fell by 3 percent in 2025 to approximately 48,000 units. Similarly, the number of transfer terminals decreased by 3 percent, dropping from roughly 22,500 to 21,700. This reduction in physical cash access has become a subject of political debate, particularly regarding availability in rural areas.

While digital usage rises, cash remains a significant medium in Germany. However, travelers must adhere to strict customs regulations. When entering or leaving an EU member state via Germany, individuals are required to declare cash or equivalent assets, such as savings books, gold, or precious metals, if requested by customs. Failure to provide complete information regarding carried funds can result in administrative fines of up to one million euros.