In a historic development for the Pacific island nation of Tuvalu, the country has introduced its first-ever automated teller machines (ATMs), marking a transformative shift in access to financial services. The ceremonial launch, held in the capital Funafuti, was attended by senior government officials, banking executives, and local residents.
Prime Minister Feleti Teo hailed the installation as a significant leap forward for the nation, which has long relied on manual, cash-only banking services. “Today not only marks a momentous occasion,” he said during the event, “but it is also historic as the bank moves into a totally new era, not just in terms of its services but also in terms of its strategic direction.”
Long queues and limited access a thing of the past
Until now, Tuvalu’s residents faced long queues and early bank closing hours to access cash. The National Bank of Tuvalu, the country’s only bank, closed daily at 2pm, making it difficult for many to manage financial transactions. Salaries were typically withdrawn in full and used for day-to-day expenses such as food, utilities, and services, all transacted in cash.
The project, launched in 2021 and valued at over AU$3 million, was executed in partnership with Pacific Technologies Limited from Fiji. Five ATMs have been installed across Funafuti, including at the airport and in community hubs, with a further 30 point-of-sale terminals placed in local businesses to support card payments.
🚨🚨Tuvalu Celebrates Historic First ATMs in Funafuti
— CyberBeast 📐 Mode (@TechToTesla) April 18, 2025
Tuvalu, a remote Pacific paradise, marked a transformative milestone on April 15, unveiling its first ATMs at the National Bank of Tuvalu in Funafuti. Prime Minister Feleti Teo and dignitaries celebrated with a chocolate… pic.twitter.com/uxXj3rJEGm
Tuvaluan bank cards to roll out soon
At present, the ATMs function using prepaid cards provided by the bank. Siose Penitala Teo, General Manager of the National Bank of Tuvalu, explained that plans are underway to issue Tuvaluan debit cards, and eventually Visa cards, to enable both domestic and international transactions.
“We’ve been in an analogue space all this time, and these kinds of services were things we used to dream about,” said Teo. “The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. People are eager to see how this technology can improve their daily lives.”
The bank estimates that around 6,000 customers across Tuvalu maintain multiple accounts, and the introduction of digital services is expected to reduce overcrowding at bank branches and make financial services more accessible, particularly for residents on outer islands.
To encourage early adoption, the ATM service is being offered free of charge during the initial rollout. “We’re providing the service for free until people get used to it,” Teo confirmed. “In time we’ll look at what kind of fee structure is sustainable.”
What this means for foreign travellers
While the arrival of ATMs is a significant convenience for local residents, foreign travellers may still face limitations. The new machines currently operate with local prepaid cards, meaning tourists likely will not be able to withdraw money using international cards, at least for now.
Just over 3,000 tourists visited Tuvalu in 2023, according to government data, making it one of the least-visited nations in the world. The country has a single airport located on Funafuti, which receives only a few flights per week from neighbouring Fiji. When no planes are landing, the airport runway doubles as a public space where locals play rugby, football, and enjoy casual gatherings. Within the country, inter-island travel is by ferry, as there are no domestic flights. Despite these limitations, Tuvalu’s remote charm and close-knit community remain appealing to the few who make the journey.
Tuvalu’s highest point is only 15 feet above sea level, making it extremely vulnerable to rising sea levels. It is considered one of the nations most threatened by the climate crisis. In that context, the move to digital banking is not only a practical step, but also part of broader efforts to build resilience.
The launch of the country’s first ATMs reflects a critical step in modernising infrastructure and expanding financial inclusion. For Tuvalu, it marks a new chapter in connectivity, empowerment, and future-readiness.
