If you live, work, or travel between countries, handling different currencies can be time-consuming and costly. Multi-currency accounts provide a simple solution, allowing you to hold, convert, and spend multiple currencies from a single account.
Providers like Wise make it easy to receive payments, convert money at the mid-market exchange rate, and use a debit card for spending and withdrawals worldwide. Read on to learn how multi-currency accounts work, what to consider when choosing one, and which options are available in Portugal.
Table of contents
- Quick overview: Best multi-currency accounts in Portugal
- What is a multi-currency account?
- Comparison of the best multi-currency accounts in Portugal
- Writer’s tip: how to choose the best multi-currency account?
- How to open a multi-currency account in Portugal
- Pros and cons of a multi-currency account in Portugal
- Multi-currency account fees
- What are multi-currency accounts used for?
- Are multi-currency accounts safe?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- Useful resources
Quick overview: Best multi-currency accounts in Portugal
If you’re looking to open a multi-currency account in Portugal, it’s important to be aware of the providers and account options available in the country. Below is an overview of the multi-currency accounts covered in this guide:
- Wise multi-currency account: Hold, convert, and spend in 40+ currencies, and get local account details in EUR and 8+ other currencies, whether you’re an individual or a business. Order a debit card to spend and withdraw cash wherever you go.
- Revolut multi-currency account: Available for individuals and businesses, you can choose a plan to hold, convert, and spend in 30+ currencies. Get local account details to receive EUR and GBP, and use a debit card worldwide.
- Monese multi-currency account: Choose from 4 plans to hold, convert, and spend EUR, GBP, and RON. Monese offers multi-currency accounts for individual customers only.
- OFX multi-currency account: Available for business customers, this account lets you hold, convert, and spend in 25+ currencies, and access local account details in 4 currencies.
What is a multi-currency account?
A multi-currency account is a single account that lets you hold, send, receive, and convert money in multiple currencies. Instead of opening separate accounts for each currency, you can manage all your balances in one place, often with access to local account details and a debit card for international spending.
How does a multi-currency account work?
A multi-currency account allows you to keep separate balances for each currency within the same account. You can receive payments in one currency, convert them to another when you need – or when exchange rates are more favourable -, and hold the funds until you’re ready to spend or transfer them.
For example, if you’re living in Portugal and get paid in GBP, you can receive the funds in your GBP balance, convert only what you need into EUR, and use a linked debit card to pay locally or withdraw cash without unnecessary conversion fees.
Comparison of the best multi-currency accounts in Portugal
Here’s a comparison of the multi-currency accounts covered in this guide. Scroll down for a more detailed description of each one.
| Provider | Monthly fee | Currencies available | Trustpilot rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Wise | 0 EUR for individual and business customers | 40+ | 4.3 |
| Revolut | Individuals: 0-50 EUR Businesses: from 10-90 EUR | 30+ | 4.6 |
| Monese | Individuals: 0-14.95 EUR Businesses: multi-currency account not available | 3 | 4.3 |
| OFX | Individuals: multi-currency account not available Businesses: 0-125 EUR | 25+ | 4.3 |
Details are correct at time of research – 18th January 2026
The multi-currency accounts featured in this guide were selected based on their availability, features, fees, and usability for individuals and businesses in Portugal.
Wise
Open a Wise account online or via the app for personal or business use and hold 40+ currencies in one account. Exchange between currencies at the mid-market rate with low, transparent fees. Order an optional debit card for spending and withdrawals, and get up to 3 virtual cards. Wise also lets you send and receive payments globally, with local account details for 8+ currencies and SWIFT details for 20+ currencies.
- Account opening fee: 0 EUR for individual customers; 50 EUR for business customers.
- Exchange rates: Mid-market exchange rate, plus a transparent fee starting from 0.68%.
- Local account details: EUR, GBP, USD, AUD, CAD, and more.
Revolut
Choose from 5 personal plans and 3 business plans. Personal customers can use the free Standard plan or upgrade to one of 4 paid plans, with fees up to 50 EUR/month. The Ultra plan, the most comprehensive option, offers perks such as unlimited airport lounge access and no extra weekend currency exchange fees. Hold and exchange 30+ currencies in the app, use your debit card worldwide, and access local account details for EUR and GBP.
- Account opening fee: 0 EUR for individual and business customers.
- Exchange rates: For personal customers, weekday currency exchanges use the Revolut rate within plan limits, with fair usage fees of up to 1%. Weekend exchanges may incur an additional fee of up to 1%. Business customers receive the mid-market rate plus a 0.6% fee for exchanges above fair usage on weekdays, and a 1% markup on all exchanges made during weekends.
- Local account details: EUR, GBP.
Monese
Choose from 4 different personal plans, including a free option and a premium plan (14.95 EUR/month) with additional perks, such as 200 free transfers per month and 2 500 EUR/month in free ATM withdrawals. All plans let you hold money, access account details, and manage balances in EUR, GBP, and RON.
- Account opening fee: 0 EUR for individual customers.
- Exchange rates: Mid-market exchange rate, plus a fee that depends on the type of transaction. For example, on the free plan, exchanging between currencies within your Monese account costs 1% on weekdays. On the same plan, if the exchange occurs on outgoing international transfers, you pay 2%+ of the amount, with a minimum charge of 3 EUR. An additional 1% applies on weekends.
- Local account details: EUR, GBP, RON.
OFX
Two plans are available for businesses, with the option to create a custom plan by contacting OFX. The free plan includes 2 users and lets you hold, exchange, and pay in 25+ currencies. The Full Suite Plan (125 EUR/month) includes 5 users and features such as spend management tools, bill automation, and a dedicated account manager.
- Account opening fee: 0 EUR for business customers.
- Exchange rates: OFX customer rate.
- Local account details: EUR, GBP, USD, CAD.
Writer’s tip: how to choose the best multi-currency account?
The best multi-currency account depends on your personal or business needs. When evaluating options, consider which currencies you’ll use most often, the fees for holding, converting, and transferring money, and whether a debit card is included for spending and cash withdrawals. Other factors to check include local account details, virtual cards, limits on exchanges, and any additional perks or restrictions.
Here are some things to be aware of when choosing a multi-currency account:
- Currencies available and whether they match your needs;
- Fees and charges for currency exchange, transfers, and maintenance;
- Availability of a debit card for spending and withdrawals;
- Limits on transactions or monthly usage;
- Access to virtual cards or additional features for convenience.
How to open a multi-currency account in Portugal
The process for opening a multi-currency account in Portugal varies by provider, but for the accounts featured in this guide, it can be done entirely online and usually takes just a few minutes. Typically, you’ll need to choose the type of account (personal or business), select a plan, enter your or your business information, and provide the required documents for verification. Once approved, you can start holding, converting, receiving, and spending multiple currencies.
To open a personal account, you usually need to provide:
- A valid passport or national ID;
- Proof of address (such as a utility bill, rental contract, or bank statement).
To open a business account, you may need to provide:
- Business name and type;
- Official registration number;
- Registered and trading addresses;
- Details about business activity and source of funds;
- Information about key people, such as directors and owners.
Wise account
Are you an expat or thinking of moving to Portugal? Managing your money across borders shouldn’t be complicated. With a Wise account, you can hold over 40 currencies and pay with a Wise debit card in more than 150 countries. Whether you’re using spending abroad, receiving or sending money home, Wise can help make international money management simpler.
What is the eligibility for a multi-currency account?
To open a multi-currency account, you generally need to meet a few basic requirements. Most providers require account holders to be at least 18 years old. Some accounts may also have a minimum balance or initial deposit requirement, depending on the type of plan or provider. Additionally, you must provide valid identification and proof of address, and in the case of business accounts, relevant company registration documents and information about key personnel. Requirements can vary between providers, so it’s important to check the specific eligibility criteria before applying.
Pros and cons of a multi-currency account in Portugal
Multi-currency accounts offer flexibility for managing money across different currencies, but they also come with some considerations. The table below summarises the main advantages and disadvantages.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| – Hold, convert, and spend multiple currencies from a single account; – Minimise conversions, with the option to exchange when rates are favourable; – Get local account details to receive payments like a local; – Access physical and virtual cards for worldwide spending; – Convenient for expats, frequent travelers, and businesses with cross-border operations. | – Some accounts may have monthly maintenance or plan fees; – Weekend or high-volume currency exchanges can incur extra charges; – Credit card might not be available; – Limited access to in-person services compared to most Portuguese banks. |
Multi-currency account fees
Multi-currency accounts offer convenience for managing money across currencies, but it’s important to be aware of the fees that may apply. Fees vary by provider and plan, so reviewing the fee structure before opening an account can help you avoid surprises. Some common fees include:
- Account maintenance fee: Some accounts charge a monthly or annual fee to keep the account active. Fees vary depending on the plan or provider.
- Currency conversion fee: This fee applies when you convert money from one currency to another. Many providers charge a percentage of the amount exchanged.
- Transaction or transfer fee: Sending money to other accounts or countries may incur a fee. The amount often depends on the currency, destination, or payment method.
- ATM withdrawal fee: Using a debit card to withdraw cash may incur a fee, especially for withdrawals in foreign currencies or beyond a certain monthly limit.
- Inactive account fee: Some providers charge a fee if your account remains unused for a certain period of time. This usually applies after no transactions or logins occur for several months.
Are there free multi-currency bank accounts?
Yes, there are multi-currency accounts that can be opened with no opening fee or monthly maintenance charge. For example, Wise, Revolut, and Monese allow you to open a personal multi-currency account for free, with no ongoing fees to hold the account.
However, “free” applies only to account opening and maintenance. Most providers still charge for certain features, such as currency conversion, transfers, ATM withdrawals, or other types of international transactions, even on accounts with no monthly fee.

What are multi-currency accounts used for?
Multi-currency accounts are designed to simplify managing money in different currencies. They are particularly useful for people who travel frequently, live between countries, or run businesses that deal with international payments.
If you split your time between Portugal and another country, a multi-currency account allows you to receive income in one currency and convert it to another when needed. This reduces conversion fees and gives you more control over the timing of currency exchanges.
For businesses that receive payments from clients in different countries, a multi-currency account enables you to hold funds in the original currencies, pay suppliers abroad, and manage cash flow without constantly converting money. This can save on fees and simplify financial operations.
Are multi-currency accounts safe?
Multi-currency accounts can be safe. To ensure an account is secure, check that the bank or provider is properly licensed and supervised by financial regulators in its country or region. Look for information on deposit protection schemes, which safeguard your money in case the institution faces financial difficulties.
It’s also important to verify how your data and transactions are protected, including encryption, secure login methods, and fraud monitoring. Always review the security information provided by each bank or provider before opening an account.
Conclusion
Multi-currency accounts offer a flexible way to hold, convert, send, and receive money in multiple currencies, making them ideal for people living in or moving between countries, frequent travelers, and businesses with international payments. When choosing an account, consider your specific needs, the currencies you use most, fees, and whether you need features like a debit card or local account details.
For managing money across currencies efficiently, consider exploring providers like Wise, which allow you to receive payments in multiple currencies, convert funds at the mid-market exchange rate, and use a debit card for spending and withdrawals worldwide.
FAQs
Can I open a multi currency account in Portugal?
Yes, you can open a multi-currency account in Portugal. Many providers allow accounts to be opened entirely online, and you can choose between personal and business accounts depending on your needs.
How much does it cost to open a multi-currency account?
Some multi-currency accounts can be opened without any fee, while others may charge a monthly fee depending on the plan. Accounts without maintenance costs may have fees for currency conversions, transfers, or ATM withdrawals.
Which is the best multi-currency account?
The best account depends on your individual or business needs, including which currencies you use, fees, and features like debit cards or local account details. Consider factors like where you send and receive money, how frequently you make international transfers and withdraw cash, and whether you value premium perks.
What is a multi-currency account with IBAN?
A multi-currency account with an IBAN provides an account number that follows the International Bank Account Number (IBAN) system, which is used to identify accounts across national borders. While some countries outside Europe also use IBANs, this system is widely adopted in the European Economic Area (EEA) to facilitate secure and efficient cross-border transactions. If your multi-currency account includes EUR local account details, it will come with an IBAN, allowing you to receive payments in EUR just like a local European account.
What are the best multi-currency business accounts?
Some providers that offer personal multi-currency accounts also provide business accounts, while others focus only on businesses. For example, Wise, Revolut, and OFX provide business accounts that allow companies to receive payments in multiple currencies, hold funds, convert money, and use debit cards for payments and withdrawals. The best option for your business will depend on the currencies you need, the fees for your most frequent transactions, and the features that matter most to you.
Useful resources
- Wise – Landing page for Wise Portugal (last checked 18th January 2026)
- Wise personal pricing – Wise pricing information for personal customers (last checked 18th January 2026)
- Wise business pricing – Wise pricing information for business customers (last checked 18th January 2026)
- Revolut – Landing page for Revolut Portugal (last checked 18th January 2026)
- Revolut personal pricing – Revolut pricing information for personal customers (last checked 18th January 2026)
- Revolut business pricing – Revolut pricing information for business customers (last checked 18th January 2026)
- Monese – Landing page for Monese (last checked 18th January 2026)
- Monese fees and limits – Monese fees and limits information for EU customers (last checked 18th January 2026)
- OFX – Landing page for OFX EU (last checked 18th January 2026)




