Chase Foreign Transaction Fees in 2024

Last Updated on December, 2024

What are you thinking? Is it about using your Chase card abroad? Hold on!

Before you decide, you should know that there will be some extra charges to know about – I mean, those foreign transaction fees. 

Some cards take away 3% of your money as a transaction amount, including ‘Chase Freedom Unlimited.’ But the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card doesn’t. 

However, I’ll cover everything about Chase’s foreign transaction fees to help you understand the politics behind this and make your international spending easy.

Keep reading to make the BEST decision ever!

Quick Summary

Foreign transaction fees are an added cost when using a Chase card abroad, with some cards charging 3% of the transaction amount.

Certain Chase cards, such as the Sapphire Preferred and Sapphire Reserve, do not charge foreign transaction fees.

Alternative providers like Wise and Revolut may offer more transparent fees and better exchange rates for international transactions compared to Chase.

Chase Foreign Transaction Fees

chase logo

Knowing the specific fees associated with various services is essential when using Chase debit cards. One notable fee, typical with most cards, is the foreign transaction fee. Debit cards listed on their website typically impose a 3% fee on every transaction in a currency other than U.S. dollars. 

This fee applies to various transactions, including ATM withdrawals, cash transactions outside ATMs, and card purchases.

When does the fee apply? Well, you are likely to encounter the foreign transaction fee in two main scenarios:

  • ATM Withdrawals Abroad: A 3% fee is applied to each transaction when you use your debit card to withdraw money from an overseas ATM.
  • Purchases from Foreign Sellers: The same 3% fee is applied to each transaction when purchasing from a foreign seller using your card.

The foreign transaction fee can accumulate, particularly with multiple overseas ATM withdrawals. So, be mindful of these charges to make informed decisions about using your debit card internationally.

Plus, regarding Chase cards, some options do not charge foreign transaction fees, making them ideal for frequent international travelers or those who often purchase in foreign currencies.

Here’s a list of Chase no-foreign transaction fee personal finance cards:

  • Sapphire Preferred
  • Sapphire Reserve
  • Instacart Mastercard
  • Aeroplan Card
  • Southwest Rapid Rewards Priority and Premier Cards
  • United Club Infinite Card
  • United Gateway Credit Card
  • United Quest Card
  • United Explorer Card
  • British Airways Visa Signature
  • Aer Lingus Visa Signature
  • Iberia Visa Signature
  • Marriott Bonvoy Boundless
  • Marriott Bonvoy Bountiful
  • Rewards Premier Credit Card
  • Prime Visa
  • Hyatt Credit Card
  • Amazon Visa

To ensure a complete understanding, be aware of the following fees as well:

  • Yearly fees
  • APR (Annual Percentage Rate)
  • Balance transfer fees and APR
  • Cash advance fees
  • Late payment fees
  • Returned payment fee

Note: By considering these factors, you can AVOID unnecessary fees while using your Chase card internationally.

Can I Use My Chase Card Internationally?

a picture of two chase sapphire cards

Yes. Suppose you’re wondering about using your Chase card outside the United States. In that case, it’s essential to know that Chase debit cards usually operate on the Visa network, while Chase credit cards can be on either the Visa or Mastercard networks.

Do you know? Both Visa and Mastercard are accepted worldwide.

However, when using your card overseas or making online purchases in a foreign currency, it’s crucial to be aware that your regular Chase card may have additional foreign transaction fees, which will surely INCREASE your overall expenses.

To check if your card is suitable for international use, look for the network logo on ATMs or near the checkout in stores where you plan to spend. And, if you have a question, “Can it be used internationally ONLINE?” The answer is YES.

Both Chase debit and credit cards can be used globally for online purchases. This means you can buy things from foreign websites or make transactions with international sellers.

It’s important to know that Chase cards are accepted worldwide. However, there might be up to 3% foreign transaction fees, depending on your specific Chase card.

To avoid these fees, consider using a Chase card from other providers that doesn’t charge extra for international transactions.

How Much Does Chase Charge for International Fees Compared to Others?

I’ll help you understand the overall comparison of global transactions with your card or checking account. 

However, you should know how Chase measures against Wells Fargo, another central US bank, and two specialized alternatives, Wise and Revolut.

Check the table below:

Service/FeeChaseWiseRevolutWells Fargo
Available Card TypeCredit & debit cardDebit cardDebit cardCredit & debit card
Annual Fees/ Card OrderCredit cards available from 0 to 550+ USD annually
Chase Sapphire Preferred – 95 USD
No annual fee for debit cards
No annual feeNo feeNo annual fee
Account Maintenance FeesMaintenance fees included for checking accounts, varied by accountNo fee0 to 16.99 USD per monthMaintenance fees included for checking accounts, varied by account
International Transaction Fees3% waived for the Chase Sapphire Prefered cardFree to spend any currency you have in your account (40+ supported currencies)No fees when you spend any currency you hold in your account (25+ supported currencies)3%
International ATM Withdrawals10 USD or 5% cash advance fee applies for credit cards
And, 5 USD for debit cards
2 withdrawals up to 100 USD in value – free
2% + 1.5 USD after that
No fees applied up to 1200 USD per month
2% fee after that
10 USD or 5% cash advance fee applies for credit cards
And, 5 USD for debit cards
Exchange RateWhen you send money internationally, there’s an extra charge added
When you use your Visa or Mastercard to buy things, there’s a set rate with an added cost
Mid-market exchange rateMid-market exchange rate to account limitsWhen you send money internationally, there’s an extra fee added on top
Visa/Mastercard rate for card spending
International Money TransferYou can pay 50 dollars at a branch or over the phone
For online and mobile payments, If your payment is under 5000 dollars, it will cost 5 dollars 
If your payment is 5000 dollars or more, there’s no extra charge.
From 0.43%You can make 10 transfers each month without any fees
But after that, you’ll have to pay fees, which you can see in the Revolut app
Mobile and online payments are free
If you pay at a branch or over the phone, it costs $35

Related guide: How to Wire Money From Chase?

Chase Credit and Debit Card Transaction Fees

a screenshot of the chase contactless cards

If you use a Chase debit or credit card for transactions in an overseas currency, you will have to pay foreign transaction fees. These fees APPLY when traveling abroad and when you make online purchases from international retailers in the U.S.

Check the following details I’ve added regarding the foreign transaction fees for various Chase cards:

  • Chase Debit Cards: 3% foreign transaction fees
  • Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card: 3% foreign transaction fees
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card: Overseas transaction fee abandoned 
  • Chase Slate Edge Credit Card: 3% foreign transaction fee
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card: Overseas transaction fee abandoned

However, remember that this list doesn’t cover all Chase cards, and other options may be available. Plus, it’s important to note that foreign transaction fees are just one type of fee you will face when using Chase internationally. Let me discuss a few more common costs associated with international transactions.

That said, international money transfers with Wise include two distinct and transparent fees: 

  • Wise Foreign Transaction Fees: With Wise debit cards, there are no foreign transaction fees. Customers can spend freely in any currency if their account has enough balance.
  • Revolut Foreign Transaction Fees: Revolut does not apply foreign transaction charges when spending in any of the 25+ supported currencies in your account.
  • Wells Fargo Foreign Transaction Fees: You will have a 3% transaction fee for each overseas transaction amount converted to U.S. dollars with Wells Fargo.

Chase Debit Cards, Other Fees and Features

Card NameKey FeaturesMonthly FeeOther Fees & Restrictions
Debit cards associated with the Chase total checking accountIt offers a debit card option that can temporarily cover purchases even if you don’t have enough money in your accountYou don’t have to pay $12 every month if you do certain things with your accountChecking your balance or transferring money at an ATM outside the country costs $2.50
Withdrawing cash at an overseas ATM will cost you $5
Chase Disney VisaA debit card that lets you get cheaper prices at Disney places and when you buy Disney stuffMonthly fee depends on the linked accountYou can’t use it with Chase High School Checking or Chase Access Checking accounts

Chase Card Alternatives

chase alternatives

GUESS WHAT? When considering international spending, Chase cards are BEST for their safety and convenience. However, they can be expensive compared to other options.

Below, I’ve broken down the costs associated with Chase and explored some alternative provider(s) for your reference.

Service/FeeChaseWells FargoWiseRevolut
Available Card TypeDebit and credit cardDebit and credit cardDebit cardDebit card
Card Order/Annual FeesDebit cards: No annual fee
Credit cards: Annual fees range from $0 to over $550
No annual fee$9 card order fee
No annual fee
No fee
International Transaction FeesIn certain cases, there’s a 3% charge Travel credit cards might be fee-free, but they might come with an annual fee3%You can use any currency you have in your account for free. We support over 40 different currenciesYou can spend any currency in your account without any fees. We support over 25 different currencies
International ATM Fees (Withdrawals)Debit cards – $5
Credit cards – $10 or 5% cash advance fee
Debit cards – $5
Credit cards – $10 or 5% cash advance fee applies
2% + $1.5 after that
2 withdrawals up to $100 in value free
For ATM withdrawals made within the network, there are no fees
For ATM withdrawals made outside our network, you won’t be charged fees for up to $400 per month. After that, a 2% fee applies
Exchange RateCard spending rate for Mastercard/VisaCard spending rate for Mastercard/VisaMid-market exchange rateMid-market exchange rate to account limits

Now, let me tell you in detail about Chase cards and their ALTERNATIVES (this will be definitely useful).

Chase Travel Credit Cards:

  • There are no foreign transaction fees.
  • Offer travel rewards on spending (when shopping online too).
  • Annual charges range from $95 to $550.
  • You can evaluate if the rewards justify the upfront cost.

Chase Debit Cards:

  • There is no specific annual fee.
  • 3% foreign transaction fee for spending in different currencies.

Wells Fargo Cards (Alternative):

  • Best for credit cards with no annual fee.
  • 3% foreign transaction fee, usually no annual fee.
  • Safe for international use. Wells Fargo is a large, regulated, and licensed international bank.

Wise Debit Card (Alternative):

  • Best for low-cost currency conversion and a digital account with 40+ currencies.
  • Currency conversion from 0.43% with the mid-market exchange rate.
  • It’s safe for International use and fully regulated. Plus, the Wise app allows easy management and transaction notifications.

Revolut Debit Card (Alternative):

  • Best for account plans with high no-fee International ATM withdrawals.
  • No charges up to $400 per month for out-of-network ATM withdrawals. And mid-market rate currency conversion to plan limits.
  • Safe for International use, managed in the app. Revolut is licensed in various countries.
  • Different account plans with benefits like travel insurance and airport lounge access.

Note: You can consider these alternatives to Chase cards for your overseas spending based on your preferences and needs.

Wise Card and its Benefits Over Chase 

wise online money transfer

The Wise card offers significant advantages over Chase for international travelers. As mentioned, Chase debit cards impose a 3% foreign transaction fee on purchases and ATM withdrawals in non-US currencies.

Additionally, Chase charges $5 for foreign ATM withdrawals and $2.50 for inquiries or transfers.

In contrast, Wise provides a solution to AVOID these charges. For a one-time fee of $9, you can get a Wise debit card with no foreign transaction fees in 50+ currencies, offering mid-market exchange rates without hidden charges.

This allows you to spend and convert money internationally with transparency and cost-effectiveness. Moreover, the Wise card provides bank details in multiple currencies, enabling you to pay and receive funds like a local in various regions (that’s why I always prefer Wise).

TRUST ME. With the convenience of holding, sending, spending, and converting currencies, Wise offers a GREAT and economical alternative for international transactions compared to Chase’s debit cards with their associated charges.

Chase Debit Dynamic Currency (DCC)

Remember this! When using your debit card abroad, sticking to the local currency is SMART. Choosing DCC is convenient, but it often comes with extra fees.

Got it?

Chase offers a range of debit cards, though some may need more selection. However, specific cards come with attractive offers. For example, the Disney-branded card provides discounts on Disney products.

Note: There isn’t a monthly fee.

If you select the Total Checking debit card, be prepared for a significant monthly fee. Additionally, using ATMs outside the Chase network has extra costs. 

Before choosing a debit card, consider your needs and compare different options. For those who frequently travel outside the U.S., PAY CLOSE ATTENTION to foreign transaction fees for using overseas ATMs. Taking the time to EVALUATE these factors can save you money in the long run.

Chase International ATM Fees

a screenshot of finding nearest chase atm or branch page

Do you know? When using an ATM outside the United States with your Debit card (Chase), various charges may apply for withdrawals, transfers, or inquiries.

In addition to Chase’s charges, you will also face a foreign transaction fee, and there could be an extra fee from the ATM deployer.

Sad, right? 

I understand. However, check out the following tables I’ve added to know more.

Chase Debit Cards

Transaction TypeFee Amount
ATM Withdrawal$5
ATM Inquiry$3
ATM Operator FeeVaries depending on country and ATM

Chase Sapphire Preferred

Transaction TypeFee Amount
ATM Withdrawal$10 or 5% cash advance fee applies, plus interest
ATM InquiryNot available
ATM Operator FeeVarious depending on country and ATM

Overall Comparison With Other Providers

ProviderCredit Card ATM Fee
Wells Fargo$10 or $5% cash advance fee applies
WiseFree for 2 withdrawals up to $100 each
RevolutNo payment up to $1,200 per month. And 2% will be charged after that

Chase International ATM Partners

Chase is one of America’s largest banks, offering extensive access to ATMs globally. Within the USA alone, there are over 15,000 Chase ATMs. To find the nearest Chase ATM worldwide, visit the official Chase website.

However, it’s important to note that fees apply when using Chase cards for foreign ATM transactions. The specific charges vary based on the type of card you’re using. Remember! This information ONLY ensures clarity regarding international ATM transactions with Chase. 

Keep reading to learn more, including Chase card exchange rates, which are my favorite!

Chase Card Exchange Rates

a screenshot of the chase new features

In short, when using your Chase card abroad, be aware of extra fees and choose the right card. AVOID Dynamic Currency Conversion. Also, know how other banks like Wells Fargo, Wise, and Revolut handle exchange rates.

Using Chase Debit Card Overseas:

  • If you use a Chase debit card to shop online or outside the country, they add a 3% fee to the regular exchange rate.
  • But, with particular credit cards like Chase Sapphire Preferred or Chase Sapphire Reserve, they might not charge this extra fee.

Exchange Rate Details:

  • The card network determines the exchange rate, but you can’t check it until after your purchase.
  • Be careful about Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC). If a seller asks if you want to pay in dollars or the local currency, choose the local currency to AVOID extra charges.

Other Bank and Services:

  • Wells Fargo sets its exchange rate with an added fee at their discretion.
  • Wise and Revolut use a fair mid-market rate, like you see on Google, without any extra charges.

Tip: To be MORE CAREFUL, jot down your analysis of my discussion. So nobody can confuse you!

Chase Card Foreign Transaction Limits

Chase debit and credit cards have specific limits for ATM withdrawals and transactions. These limits are typically set daily.

Debit Card Limits:

  • Your Chase debit card limits for ATM withdrawals and transactions can be easily viewed in your online banking service.
  • Sometimes, you may have the option to change these limits through your online banking account.

Credit Card Limits:

  • Chase credit cards also have transaction limits.
  • However, the specific limit depends on the terms and conditions of the particular credit card you were issued.

ATM Operator Limits:

  • When making an ATM withdrawal, be aware that the ATM operator may impose additional limits.
  • These operator-imposed limits can sometimes be lower than those a foreign bank sets.

Are Chase Cards Suitable for Travel?

a screenshot of the chase travel service

Yes, Chase cards are good for a trip abroad, but not 100%. I’ll tell you the reason with its pros and cons to have an analysis.

Take a look!

Pros of Chase Credit Cards for International TravelCons of Chase Credit Cards for International Travel
Global Acceptance (Visa/Mastercard)Foreign Transaction Fee (Up to 3%)
Travel-Focused Cards with No Foreign Transaction ChargesUnclear Exchange Rates
Reward Programs (e.g., Lounge Access, Travel Insurance)Premium Card Accessibility
Emergency Services (Card Replacement, Cash Disbursement) 

However, when you compare it with Wise and Revolut, it differs. 

Check the following table.

Wise CardRevolut Card
Linked to Wise AccountMulti-Currency Debit Card
No Foreign Transaction FeeEfficient Foreign Currency Exchange (Mid-market Rate)
Currency Conversion Fees Starting from 0.43%No ATM Withdraw money (Within Plan Limits)
Automatic Balance Conversion for the Cheapest Available FeeNo Hidden Fees for International Travelers

Want to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees? But, How?

a screenshot of the chase for business

Listen, as you’re well aware, when you spend money or withdraw cash in a foreign country, you might encounter various fees.

However, to make the BEST informed choices and possibly minimize these costs, consider the following tips:

  • Be aware of standard international fees, such as ATM withdrawal, inquiry, and foreign transaction fees. Check your account fee schedule to know what to expect.
  • Avoid Credit Card Cash Withdrawals. So you don’t have to pay an advance fee, which can be costly.
  • Some Chase cards do not charge foreign transaction fees but may have a higher annual cost than others.

Evaluate the overall benefits to decide what works best for you. Alternatively, consider cards from different providers:

  • Watch for ATM Operator Fees because additional fees may be imposed. 
  • Check Exchange Rates to stay updated on the costs involved.
  • Choose Local Currency Payments to avoid the high costs associated with DCC.
  • Consider Specialist Service Cards like Wise and Revolut for more transparent fees and better exchange rates.

Useful guides:

Conclusion

RELAX. To make your decision simpler, take my advice. 

If you’re a frequent traveler, consider fee-FREE options like Chase Sapphire Preferred Card, Wise, and Revolut to have the safest international transactions.

If not, discuss this with a PRO and make the best decision.

However, remember to choose the card that aligns with your needs!

FAQs

To use your credit card abroad, you should first contact your credit card company or check your card’s terms and conditions for any applicable foreign transaction fees.

To find out if you have to pay fees for transactions in a foreign country, check the terms and conditions of your card or account for any applicable fees for foreign transactions.

Yes, the Chase Freedom Unlimited® and Chase Freedom Flex℠ are great credit cards to consider getting because they offer cash-back rewards and have no annual fees. However, it’s not advisable to use them while traveling abroad to avoid potential foreign transaction fees.

You can use the Chase Sapphire Preferred®, the Chase Sapphire Reserve®, and the Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card to avoid foreign transaction fees.

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Author
Allen Morning
I'm Allen Morning, with a background spanning over 15 years in international finance and education from Harvard and Stanford. I founded Currenciap with a vision to demystify and streamline global financial transactions. My journey in finance has fueled my commitment to creating a platform that is both user-friendly and efficient, making international finance accessible to everyone. You can find more about me here.

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