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.
Contents
- Chase Foreign Transaction Fees
- Can I Use My Chase Card Internationally?
- How Much Does Chase Charge for International Fees Compared to Others?
- Chase Credit and Debit Card Transaction Fees
- Chase Card Alternatives
- Wise Card and its Benefits Over Chase
- Chase Debit Dynamic Currency (DCC)
- Chase International ATM Fees
- Chase Card Exchange Rates
- Chase Card Foreign Transaction Limits
- Are Chase Cards Suitable for Travel?
- Want to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees? But, How?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
Chase Foreign Transaction Fees
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:
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:
To ensure a complete understanding, be aware of the following fees as well:
Note: By considering these factors, you can AVOID unnecessary fees while using your Chase card internationally.
Can I Use My Chase Card Internationally?
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/Fee | Chase | Wise | Revolut | Wells Fargo |
Available Card Type | Credit & debit card | Debit card | Debit card | Credit & debit card |
Annual Fees/ Card Order | Credit cards available from 0 to 550+ USD annually Chase Sapphire Preferred – 95 USD No annual fee for debit cards | No annual fee | No fee | No annual fee |
Account Maintenance Fees | Maintenance fees included for checking accounts, varied by account | No fee | 0 to 16.99 USD per month | Maintenance fees included for checking accounts, varied by account |
International Transaction Fees | 3% waived for the Chase Sapphire Prefered card | Free 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 Withdrawals | 10 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 Rate | When 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 rate | Mid-market exchange rate to account limits | When you send money internationally, there’s an extra fee added on top Visa/Mastercard rate for card spending |
International Money Transfer | You 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
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:
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:
Chase Debit Cards, Other Fees and Features
Card Name | Key Features | Monthly Fee | Other Fees & Restrictions |
Debit cards associated with the Chase total checking account | It offers a debit card option that can temporarily cover purchases even if you don’t have enough money in your account | You don’t have to pay $12 every month if you do certain things with your account | Checking 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 Visa | A debit card that lets you get cheaper prices at Disney places and when you buy Disney stuff | Monthly fee depends on the linked account | You can’t use it with Chase High School Checking or Chase Access Checking accounts |
Chase Card 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/Fee | Chase | Wells Fargo | Wise | Revolut |
Available Card Type | Debit and credit card | Debit and credit card | Debit card | Debit card |
Card Order/Annual Fees | Debit 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 Fees | In certain cases, there’s a 3% charge Travel credit cards might be fee-free, but they might come with an annual fee | 3% | You can use any currency you have in your account for free. We support over 40 different currencies | You 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 Rate | Card spending rate for Mastercard/Visa | Card spending rate for Mastercard/Visa | Mid-market exchange rate | Mid-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:
Chase Debit Cards:
Wells Fargo Cards (Alternative):
Wise Debit Card (Alternative):
Revolut Debit Card (Alternative):
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
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
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 Type | Fee Amount |
ATM Withdrawal | $5 |
ATM Inquiry | $3 |
ATM Operator Fee | Varies depending on country and ATM |
Chase Sapphire Preferred
Transaction Type | Fee Amount |
ATM Withdrawal | $10 or 5% cash advance fee applies, plus interest |
ATM Inquiry | Not available |
ATM Operator Fee | Various depending on country and ATM |
Overall Comparison With Other Providers
Provider | Credit Card ATM Fee |
Wells Fargo | $10 or $5% cash advance fee applies |
Wise | Free for 2 withdrawals up to $100 each |
Revolut | No 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
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:
Exchange Rate Details:
Other Bank and Services:
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:
Credit Card Limits:
ATM Operator Limits:
Are Chase Cards Suitable for Travel?
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 Travel | Cons of Chase Credit Cards for International Travel |
Global Acceptance (Visa/Mastercard) | Foreign Transaction Fee (Up to 3%) |
Travel-Focused Cards with No Foreign Transaction Charges | Unclear 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 Card | Revolut Card |
Linked to Wise Account | Multi-Currency Debit Card |
No Foreign Transaction Fee | Efficient 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 Fee | No Hidden Fees for International Travelers |
Want to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees? But, How?
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:
Evaluate the overall benefits to decide what works best for you. Alternatively, consider cards from different providers:
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
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