Chase debit card foreign transaction fees — a quick guide

If you’re planning an overseas trip or shopping from international websites, chances are you’ll rely on your debit card for purchases or grab cash from an ATM. And if you’re a Chase customer, well, you’ll probably want to use your Chase debit card. It’s convenient and widely accepted. Plus, it feels safer than carrying large amounts of cash. 

But convenience comes at a cost. There are international fees — some obvious, others sneaky — that can quickly add up and make your transactions cost more than expected.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn everything about Chase debit card international fees, including Chase foreign transaction fees, ATM withdrawal costs, and Chase currency exchange fees. You’ll also discover practical ways to cut these costs, see how Chase stacks up against competitors, and learn why BOSS Money could be a smarter alternative for travelers.

Are there Chase debit card international transaction fees?

Here’s what to expect:

• Chase foreign transaction fee. There’s a 3% foreign transaction fee for Chase debit cards for any transaction not in U.S. dollars. 
• Chase Visa international fees for ATM withdrawals. Aside from the foreign transaction fee, Chase also charges a $5 international ATM transaction fee if you’re using a non-Chase ATM and a $2.50 international ATM inquiry and transfer fee. 
• Currency exchange adjustment. This is built into the rate used for currency conversion.

Chase debit card international fees explained

When you take your debit card overseas, you’ll likely encounter three main types of charges:

1. Foreign transaction fee (3%)

This fee is charged for transactions that are processed by a foreign bank.

For Chase, the foreign transaction fee is 3% of the transaction amount converted to U.S. dollars. It applies whether you’re paying for a hotel in Paris, buying souvenirs in Tokyo, or ordering from international retailers. Unless you have a higher-tier account like Chase

Sapphire or Chase Premier Plus Checking, this fee is standard. 

For instance, if you treat yourself to a $1,000 dinner abroad and pay with your debit card, expect an extra $30 tacked on as a foreign transaction fee.

2. International ATM withdrawal fee

Every time you withdraw cash abroad, specifically out-of-network transactions, you pay:

• $5 per withdrawal
• 3% foreign exchange (FX) adjustment on the converted amount (conversion to USD)
• ATM operator surcharge, which varies by bank and country.

3. Foreign exchange rate adjustment fee.

Chase uses the Visa or Mastercard exchange rate for conversions. These are decent but still have a small markup compared to the mid-market rate. Add the 3% fee on top, and your effective cost can be much higher than expected. 

Chase international network ATM fees

Chase has more than 15,000 ATMs across the U.S.¹, but international withdrawals count as out-of-network. That means fees like the $5 withdrawal fee and 3% FX fee will apply.

If you’re traveling to a place where cash is more commonly used, you’ll need to plan your withdrawals to avoid multiple charges. Try to avoid using airport ATMs because they often have a high surcharge while giving you the worst exchange rates. 

Here’s a quick look at the Chase debit card international fees:

What ATMS can I use with Chase?

If you’re traveling abroad, you might have a hard time finding a Chase ATM network. That said, anywhere that displays Visa or Mastercard logos should accept your Chase debit card.

For example, if you’re using a non-Chase ATM⁷ within the U.S. and the U.S. territories, you’ll be charged a $3 fee per transaction. But if you’re withdrawing cash from non-Chase ATMs outside the U.S. and the U.S. territories, you’ll be charged:

• A $5 fee for withdrawals
• A $2.50 fee for inquiries and transfers

Plus, surcharge fees from ATM operators may apply. So, here are some smart strategies to help you minimize fees:

• Use major bank ATMs instead of standalone machines in airports or hotels to avoid high surcharges. 
• Check this ATM locator⁸ to find international Chase-compatible ATMs before traveling. 
• Skip “convenience” ATMs in touristy areas because they often have the highest fees and may have less competitive rates.
• Review the fees displayed before completing your transaction. For example, if you’re using a Euronet ATM, you’ll see the applicable fees or cost breakdown on the screen. 

Chase currency exchange rates & fees

When you make a foreign purchase, Chase applies:

• The Visa or Mastercard rate for your transaction – This sets the base conversion that will then be sent to Chase
• A 3% Chase currency exchange fee (the foreign transaction fee)

Even if you select “Pay in USD” at checkout (dynamic currency conversion), you’ll usually pay more because merchants use unfavorable rates and add hidden fees. So, it’s always best to pay in local currency. 

The currency exchange rate also varies, depending on factors such as wholesale currency market rates, transaction amount and type, and exchange rates determined by local governments.

Tips to avoid Chase foreign transaction fees

The foreign transaction fee for Chase debit cards can quickly add up, but these strategies can help minimize them:

Upgrade to a premium Chase account

Chase Sapphire and Private Client waive foreign transaction and ATM withdrawal fees. Frequent travelers may find this worth the monthly service fee. It’s also a good idea to check if your bank offers refunds for out-of-network withdrawals. For instance, Chase Sapphire refunds fees in case you’re charged by non-Chase ATMs.

Use a no-foreign-transaction-fee card

Cards like Chase Sapphire and Chase Private Client waive foreign transaction fees. If you don’t have these accounts, try looking into alternatives like the no foreign transaction fee credit cards from issuers like Capital One (VentureOne Rewards) or Mastercard (Titanium Card).

Download the Chase Mobile app

Instead of going to the nearest ATM to check your balance (which incurs fees), stay on top of your Chase account with the Chase Mobile app⁹. 

Avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC)

Always pay in local currency. While DCC may seem helpful, it usually leads to worse exchange rates and hidden fees. Paying in local currency typically costs less. 

Consider prepaid travel cards

This is a convenient, flexible option that lets you add funds to a card with local currency. For example, if you’re traveling to Japan, you’d load your prepaid travel card with Japanese yen. These cards also support multiple currencies and let you add more funds. Options like Wise and Revolut offer competitive exchange rates and transparent fees. 

Use BOSS Money for quick cash needs

If you need cash, avoid additional fees by sending money to yourself from a U.S account. With BOSS Money, you can:

• Send funds from your U.S. account to a partner location abroad
• Pick up cash in local currency upon arrival
• Avoid ATM surcharges and unpredictable conversion costs

Here’s how you can use BOSS Money to send money to your travel destination using the cash pickup service:

1. Download the BOSS Money app and choose your destination country.
2. Enter the amount you want to send. The app shows details like the fees, exchange rate, and how much you’ll be receiving in the local currency.
3. Select “Cash Pickup” and choose from thousands of global payout locations.
4. Pay using your credit or debit card and wait for your cash pickup number.
5. Use the app to track your transfer. 

If you’re using this service, your money will usually be ready for pickup in minutes. BOSS Money also offers a more convenient option with the home delivery service. Note that this is only currently available in select locations. 

Other delivery options include bank deposit, mobile wallet, and direct debit.

Pay with cash

Before leaving your home country, exchange some cash in your destination’s local currency. You can also use BOSS Money to send money beforehand to family or friends so you won’t have to carry a large amount of cash. 

Plan withdrawals wisely

Withdrawal fees can quickly add up, so it’s best to limit your cash withdrawals. Need to check your balance? Use online banking instead, and if you must use ATMs, consider withdrawing larger amounts less often to minimize fixed fees. Paying one $5 fee for $500 beats five $5 fees ($25 total) for withdrawals of $100 each.
 

Conclusion

You can use your Chase debit card internationally. But, between $5 ATM withdrawal fees, exchange rate markups, and the 3% foreign transaction fee from Chase, using your card abroad can cost you extra. 

So, what’s your best move? You can try upgrading your Chase account to waive fees, using cards with no foreign transaction costs, and completing transactions in the local currency. 

You can also take control of your travel finances by sending money to yourself with BOSS Money, so you have local cash ready when you need it, without surprise ATM or conversion costs. 

With options like BOSS Money, it’s easier to avoid unexpected costs and stay in control of your travel budget.

Sources: all third party information obtained from applicable website as of July 28, 2025

1. https://www.chase.com/digital/resources/about-chase

2. https://account.chase.com/sapphire/brand

3. https://www.chase.com/personal/checking/private-client

4. https://www.chase.com/personal/checking/total-checking

5. https://personal.chase.com/personal/secure-banking

6. https://www.chase.com/personal/checking/premier-plus-checking

7. https://www.chase.com/personal/fees/savings

8. https://www.visa.com/locator/atm

9. https://www.chase.com/personal/fees/tips

10. https://www.chase.com/personal/credit-cards/education/rewards-benefits/should-you-notify-your-credit-card-company-when-traveling

This article is provided for general information purposes only and is not intended to address every aspect of the matters discussed herein. The information in this article is not intended as specific personal advice. The information in this article does not constitute legal, tax, regulatory or other professional advice from IDT Payment Services, Inc. and its affiliates (collectively, “IDT”), and should not be taken or used as such by any individual. IDT makes no representation, warranty or guaranty, whether express or implied, that the content in this article is current, accurate, or complete. You should obtain professional or other substantive advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the information in this article.