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Best no-foreign-transaction-fee credit cards of December 2023

Updated November 27, 2023

Foreign transaction fees are only one of many unnecessary charges travelers and online shoppers are likely to encounter. This surcharge can be up to 3 percent of the cost when making international purchases or withdrawing funds from a foreign ATM. Here’s what you need to know about the best credit cards without foreign transaction fees from our partners as well as some tips on how to avoid other unnecessary fees when shopping internationally.

Best for bonus category variety
Rating: 4.4 stars out of 5
4.4
Info
Apply now Lock
on Discover's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit

Intro offer

Info

1% - 5%

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Best for occasional travelers
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
Info
Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit

Intro offer

Info

$340

Offer valuation

Info

1.25 Miles - 5 Miles

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Info
Best for flat-rate cash back
Rating: 3.8 stars out of 5
3.8
Info
Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit
chance of approval
Info

Intro offer

Info

$200

Offer valuation

Info

1.5% - 5%

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Best for intro APR
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
Info
Apply now Lock
on Bank of America's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit

Intro offer

Info

$250

Offer valuation

Info

1.5X

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Info
Best for redemption value
Rating: 4.9 stars out of 5
4.9
Info
Apply now Lock
on Chase's secure site

Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit
chance of approval
Info

Intro offer

Info

$1200

Offer valuation

Info

2x - 5x

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Best for students
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
Info
Apply now Lock
on Discover's secure site
No Credit History
Info
Recommended Credit

Intro offer

Info

1% - 5%

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Info
Best for flat-rate travel rewards
Rating: 4.9 stars out of 5
4.9
Info
Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit
chance of approval
Info

Intro offer

Info

$1275

Offer valuation

Info

2 Miles - 5 Miles

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Info
Best for annual credits
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
Info
Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

Excellent (740 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit
chance of approval
Info

Intro offer

Info

$1275

Offer valuation

Info

2 Miles - 10 Miles

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Info
Best for dining
Rating: 5 stars out of 5
5.0
Info
Apply now Lock
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply

Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit
chance of approval
Info

Intro offer

Info

$1200

Offer valuation

Info

3X - 4X

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Info
BEST FOR LOUNGE ACCESS
Rating: 4.8 stars out of 5
4.8
Info
Apply now Lock
on American Express's secure site
See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply

Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit
chance of approval
Info

Intro offer

Info

$1600

Offer valuation

Info

5X - 5X

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Best for first-year value
Rating: 4.1 stars out of 5
4.1
Info
Apply now Lock
on Discover's secure site
Good to Excellent (670 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit

Intro offer

Info

N/A

Offer valuation

Info

1.5X

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Info
Best for luxury perks
Rating: 4.3 stars out of 5
4.3
Info
Apply now Lock
on Chase's secure site

Excellent (740 – 850)
Info
Recommended Credit
chance of approval
Info

Intro offer

Info

$1200

Offer valuation

Info

1x - 10x

Rewards rate

Info

Annual fee

Regular APR

Compare Bankrate’s top no-foreign-transaction-fee credit cards

Card name Annual fee Best for Bankrate review score
$0

Bonus category variety

Apply now Lock
on Discover's secure site

4.4 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

$0

Occasional travelers

Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

4.1 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

$0

Flat-rate cash back

Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

3.8 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

$0

Intro APR

Apply now Lock
on Bank of America's secure site

4.1 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

$95

Redemption value

Apply now Lock
on Chase's secure site

4.9 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

$0

Students

Apply now Lock
on Discover's secure site

5.0 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

$95

Flat-rate travel rewards

Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

4.9 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

$395

Annual credits

Apply now Lock
on Capital One's secure site

5.0 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

$250

Dining

Apply now Lock
on American Express's secure site

5.0 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply
$695

Lounge access

Apply now Lock
on American Express's secure site

4.8 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

See Rates & Fees , Terms Apply
$0

First-year value

Apply now Lock
on Discover's secure site

4.1 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

$550

Luxury perks

Apply now Lock
on Chase's secure site

4.3 / 5

Info

(Read card review)

A closer look at Bankrate's top no-foreign-transaction-fee credit cards

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Discover it® Cash Back

Best for bonus category variety

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This card’s terrific rotation of spending categories each quarter, low rates and fees and the Unlimited Cashback Match™ at the end of your first year.

People who enjoy bonus category variety to cover popular seasonal expenses or already have a card that rewards staple categories year-round, such as grocery purchases.

The Discover it rewards program requires cardholders to activate a bonus category each quarter and track their spending in order to maximize rewards, so the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card may be a better match if you’re looking for a more low-maintenance rewards strategy.

Read our Discover it® Cash Back review or jump back to offer details.

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Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card

BEST FOR OCCASIONAL TRAVELERS

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The low-maintenance flat rate and easy redemption of miles for any recent, travel-related purchases made in the previous 90 days, including flights with any airline. This gives you flexibility to hunt for deals on third-party sites or book travel before you’ve earned all the miles you’d need to book through the portal.

Rookie international travelers or someone who only travels occasionally but wants to earn miles on everyday purchases.

While this is a great card for someone who doesn’t want to worry about offsetting the cost of an annual fee (See Rates and Fees), travel rewards maximizers who travel often are likely better off with a more premium card such as the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® card.

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Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card

Best for flat-rate cash back

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You can automatically redeem your cash back earnings, making this one of the most streamlined rewards experiences available.

Simplicity lovers and credit card beginners, as this card provides a simple solid rewards structure for no annual fee (See Rates and Fees).

If you want to maximize cash back earnings in multiple categories or have a higher rewards rate, we suggest the Discover it® Cash Back.

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Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Best for intro APR

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If you book travel through Bank of America Travel Center, you can earn additional points per dollar on airfare, hotels and rental cars, boosting your reward earning potential. Plus, purchases made at campgrounds, zoos, art galleries, aquariums and more can be redeemed for travel statement credits.

People looking for travel rewards in solid spending categories and nonrestrictive redemption options.

This credit card lacks premium perks like airport lounge access that many luxury travelers are looking for, so a traveler searching for premium rewards and perks might find a card like The Platinum Card from American Express to be a better fit.

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Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Best for redemption value

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The Chase Sapphire Preferred's welcome bonus is a steal compared to bonuses on luxury cards with much higher annual fees. You can also enjoy ongoing elite value at a budget price with its robust travel protections and 25 percent redemption boost toward Ultimate Rewards travel.

Occasional travelers seeking flexibility, as points transfer at a 1:1 ratio when booking hotels and airlines with Chase’s extensive list of travel partners.

Travelers looking for luxury perks such as airport lounge access or free checked bags may prefer the Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card or the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card.

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Discover it® Student Cash Back

Best for students

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The Cashback Match™ is an unlimited dollar-for-dollar match of all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year. Unlike a sign-up bonus, there’s no spending minimum, so there’s less pressure to overspend.

Students who are ready to dive into the world of credit card rewards. Along with a generous cash back program, this card boasts Discover’s acclaimed customer service and minimal fees, making it an ideal starter pick for credit newbies.

If you don't want to activate the card's rotating bonus categories each quarter, the Discover it® Student Chrome, which has a more simplified rewards program, is a better alternative.

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Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

BEST FOR FLAT-RATE TRAVEL REWARDS

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You can earn unlimited miles on all purchases, which can be very lucrative even without a jet-setting lifestyle since your can earn as many bonus miles on everyday purchases as your general travel purchases.

Occasional travelers in search of a high rewards rate and generous sign-up bonus.

If you exclusively fly one airline or stay at one hotel chain, you’re probably better off with a co-branded card — and if you don’t like annual fees, consider this card’s low-cost alternative, the Capital One VentureOne Rewards Card (See Rates and Fees).

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Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card

BEST FOR ANNUAL CREDITS

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It strikes a unique balance between luxury and mid-tier travel card features. You’ll still get plenty of top-of-the-line travel benefits without paying extra for niche perks that you may not use often.

Frequent travelers who want to cash in on essential travel benefits but don’t need elite cards’ bloated features and annual fees over $500.

If you want a card that rewards your personal travel habits, such as booking with your favorite airlines or hotels, there are cards with brand-specific perks. Co-branded credit cards, such as the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, help you earn rewards with the hotels and airlines you prefer. 

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American Express® Gold Card

Best for dining

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Although a few cards reward both at-home dining and eating out, this card's generous annual foodie-related credits are harder to come by.

Foodies who want to earn travel rewards on their meals at home and abroad (you’ll earn boosted points on dining at restaurants, Uber Eats and U.S. supermarkets).

For travelers seeking premium travel perks like airport lounge access, you’d be better off with the Chase Sapphire Reserve, as it comes with some of the highest rewards for travel and dining compared to other luxury travel cards.

Read our American Express Gold Card review or jump back to offer details.

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The Platinum Card® from American Express

Best for lounge access

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This card’s lounge access privileges are second to none, making it a perfect fit for frequent flyers who want to travel in maximum comfort. The card also comes with plenty of perks, including statement credits for expedited security screening, airline incidentals, hotels and Uber.

Frequent travelers who can take advantage of most of its perks. 

If you only think you’ll use a handful of its benefits, the Amex Platinum may cost more than it’s worth to you. The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a great alternative thanks to its lower annual fee and solid travel perks, including annual travel credits and bonus miles that can offset the annual fee.

Read our Amex Platinum card review or jump back to offer details.

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Discover it® Miles

Best for first-year value

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Discover will automatically match all miles you’ve earned at the end of your first year, which could prove even more valuable than a traditional welcome bonus. It’s also one of the few travel cards to let you redeem miles for cash back without sacrificing rewards value.

Occasional travelers looking for a simple rewards program and a unique welcome offer.

If you’re looking for travel perks or the ability to transfer miles to airline or hotel loyalty programs, cards like the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Priority Credit Card or the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card may be better suited for your needs.

Read our Discover it® Miles review or jump back to offer details.

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Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Best for luxury perks

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The Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with a $300 annual travel credit, which is much more flexible than the credits you’ll find on most competing cards. Your points are also worth 50 percent more when you redeem for travel through the Ultimate Rewards portal.

Frequent travelers looking to capitalize on air travel, car rentals, hotel stays and Chase Dining purchases.

If you only travel occasionally, aren’t comfortable with a hefty annual fee or you’re not sure you’d get $550 of value out of this card each year, the Chase Sapphire Preferred is a better choice.

Read our Chase Sapphire Reserve review or jump back to offer details.

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American Express® Green Card

Best for everyday travel

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It carries solid perks at a relatively low cost, allowing you to get a taste of luxury travel even if you only take a few flights per year. It also offers one of the most generous rewards rates out there on transit, making it a great pick for commuters.

Occasional travelers, fans of public transit and anyone who wants to try out perks like lounge access while keeping costs relatively low.

Though the Capital One Venture X carries a higher annual fee ($395) (See Rates and Fees), it offers more than enough value to make it worth the cost. Indeed, it may be a better value than the Amex Green overall thanks to its wider-reaching lounge access privileges, annual travel credit and ongoing anniversary bonus. 

All information about the American Express® Green Card has been collected independently by Bankrate.com and has not been reviewed or approved by the issuer.

What to know about foreign transaction fees

When you use a credit card overseas to buy something in the local currency, your credit card issuer has to convert the money you’ve spent into U.S. dollars. It may seem like any other transaction, but the credit card issuer covers various costs associated with international purchases such as transferring money through a foreign bank and more.

Many issuers offset these costs by charging a foreign transaction fee for overseas purchases.

Why do banks charge a foreign transaction fee?

Overseas transactions are a bit more complex than standard transactions as they require banks to convert the money spent into U.S. dollars. The total fee you pay often involves adding the charge from the issuing bank and the processing fee from the payment network (like Visa or Mastercard). However, Capital One and Discover do not charge foreign transaction fees on any of their credit cards.

Due to automation improvements in the global banking system, foreign transaction fees are becoming less common, particularly among premium or travel credit cards. However, many cards still impose the charge.

When can banks apply foreign transaction fees?

It can be hard to avoid foreign transaction fees when making purchases abroad. Unless you pay with a credit card that waives this fee, you’ll likely be charged a foreign transaction fee for:

  • Hotel bookings: While it largely depends on the location of the hotel and the specific travel provider, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee when you book a stay in another country.
  • Online purchases: If you purchase something from a seller based outside the U.S. and your transaction is processed abroad, you may be charged a foreign transaction fee — even if you’re shopping from the comfort of home.
  • Debit card, charge card or gift card purchases: Unfortunately, you can't escape foreign transaction fees just by using a different type of card. Credit cards, debit cards, charge cards and even prepaid gift cards commonly charge foreign transaction fees.

Foreign transaction fees typically show up on your credit card statement at the end of your billing cycle and get paid when you pay your credit card balance.

How much are foreign transaction fees?

Depending on the issuer and card, a foreign transaction fee typically ranges from 1 percent to 3 percent, but it can go as high as 5 percent.

On its own, one or two foreign transaction fees may seem reasonable, but the more you spend, the more those fees start to add up. When traveling overseas or shopping with international vendors, you may also have to deal with other common credit card fees that can decrease your purchasing power, including cash advance fees, ATM fees and conversion fees.

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Bankrate Insight

It’s a common misconception that paying in U.S. cash is a way to get out of paying a foreign transaction fee. It isn’t, and paying in U.S. dollars will likely cost you more because the price will include a currency conversion fee.

Top credit card issuers' foreign transaction fees

Foreign transaction fees by credit card issuers vary widely. Issuers like Amex and Discover have their own payment networks while other issuers, like Capital One or Chase, use Visa or Mastercard’s networks. Also, it’s not unusual for an issuer to charge a foreign transaction fee with some cards but not with others.

Here's a quick look at how the fee structure breaks down among several major credit card issuers:

Issuer Foreign transaction fee (%)
American Express 2.7%
Bank of America 3%
Capital One 0%
Chase 3%
Citi 3%
Discover 0%
Wells Fargo 3%
U.S. Bank 3%
Barclays 3%
Synchrony 3%
Credit One 3%

Tips on choosing the best no foreign transaction fee card for you

As you search for a card to use for your upcoming international trip, it’s important to fully understand foreign transaction fees, how they work and how you can avoid them. Here are a few things to think about when searching for a card with no foreign transaction fee:

  • Check if base rewards come with the card. If you want to earn rewards while avoiding foreign transaction fees, look for cards that offer bonus rewards in categories that match your spending habits. In addition to travel cards offering points or miles, some of the best no-foreign-transaction-fee cards offer cash back rewards on popular spending categories.
  • See if other travel-related perks are available. If you want to choose a travel credit card, compare the full suite of benefits each one offers. Along with base rewards and a lack of foreign transaction fees, top-tier travel credit cards commonly offer trip cancellation insurance, free checked bags, complimentary Wi-Fi, airport lounge access and other notable travel benefits.
  • Confirm if there is an annual fee. Annual fees are common among mid-tier and premium travel credit cards, even if these cards skip foreign transaction fees. When considering cards with an annual fee, it’s important to weigh whether that fee can be offset with reward earnings and  added benefits or if you can just shoulder the added cost. Keep in mind that you may find some annual-fee cards that are worth the expense due to the high-end rewards they offer.
  • Look out for any other fees. While comparing options, it’s important to know what fees you might incur. Common credit card fees include annual fees, late fees (usually up to $40 for each missed payment), balance transfer fees (typically 3 percent to 5 percent of the amount you’re transferring), cash advance fees and returned payment fees.
  • Check the card’s APR. The annual percentage rate (APR) or interest rate on a card is a key feature to consider when picking a card with no foreign transaction fee. Some rewards credit cards have APRs that are higher than average, which can be a significant factor in your purchases abroad if you carry a balance on the card. 
  • Pick a card specific to your needs. For some people, prioritizing having no foreign transaction fees can save hundreds of dollars. 
    • If you’re a frequent international traveler, a credit card without foreign transaction fees such as the Bank of America Travel Rewards Card or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card have a rewards program that lets you earn points toward cash back or travel expenses.
    • If you’re shopping online from a non-U.S. merchant, you’ll be charged a foreign transaction fee because the money is still passing through the merchant's foreign bank. The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Card is a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card that allows you to earn unlimited 1.5 percent cash back on every purchase — so you don’t have to worry about keeping up with tiered reward rates or categories for spending.
    • If you’re a student planning to study abroad or do some post-graduate traveling, a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card such as the Discover it® Student Cash Back card should be in your wallet. With its $0 annual fee, impressive rewards rate and first-year Cashback Match™, it's one of the best student credit cards on the market. 
    • If you're a business owner who travels overseas frequently, multiple fees and exchange rates can be frustrating every time you or your employees make a purchase. The Capital One Venture X Rewards card has no foreign transaction fees (See Rates and Fees) and exceptional rewards. But if you’re not a fan of paying a hefty annual fee, the Capital One Venture Rewards Card is a cheaper alternative.

Still unsure if a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card is right for you? Check out our Credit Card Spender Type Tool, where you can get personalized credit card recommendations based on your credit score, spending habits and daily needs.

Expert tips & tricks for no foreign transaction fee cards 

If you often travel overseas or make purchases in foreign currencies, it's worth understanding why a card with no foreign transaction fee might benefit you. 

Reasons to get a card with no foreign transaction fees

  1. You'll have more peace of mind knowing that there will be no surprises when it comes time to pay your bill.

    If you're making multiple purchases in different currencies and paying for purchases with a credit card that has foreign transaction fees, it can quickly add up. And if you're using a credit card that already has a high balance and charges interest, those fees are going to be even more painful.

  2. You don’t have to worry about using cash or your debit card.

    There are many benefits to using your debit card overseas — but there are also drawbacks. For example, if you become a victim of pickpocketing in a foreign country, your cash will be gone without any recourse, and there’s a chance that you still would be held liable for unauthorized charges with a stolen debit card. But with a credit card, you are protected against fraud and identity theft. Plus, you can request an overnight replacement card from the issuer.

  3. You don’t have to sacrifice high-reward earnings.

    If you want to avoid paying these fees while also enjoying the advantages of a credit card rewards program, then it would be best to consider getting a card with no foreign transaction fees. You don’t have to worry about pesky fees cutting into the rewards you earn. The average foreign transaction fee rate is 3 percent, and some cash back cards only offer 1 to 2 percent flat-rate rewards.

  4. You would have better exchange rates.

    Using a Visa or Mastercard overseas can help you save tremendously on converting currency at a local ATM, bank or airport. While the average DCC rate is 7 percent, Visa and Mastercard only charge 1 percent to convert currency to U.S. dollars.

  5. You can stay more organized when tracking your expenses.

    When everything is charged straight to your credit card without foreign transaction fees, you won't have to keep track of different methods of payment or currency exchange fees when calculating how much you spent on the trip if you use the card for all of your transactions.

How to save on credit card fees when traveling abroad

When using your credit card internationally, follow these tips to ensure you’re spending your money wisely and not racking up unnecessary fees.

  • Have a mix of credit cards. The excessive cost of foreign transaction fees can ruin a great experience when traveling abroad. While traveling internationally, you should use at least one credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees if you want to keep these charges to a minimum. Be aware that not every credit card will work in every country, so before you go on your trip, make sure at least a couple of your credit cards use networks available in the places you’ll visit.
  • Avoid cash advance fees. Withdrawing cash from an ATM with your credit card could cost you up to 5 percent of the amount withdrawn with each transaction. On top of that, you’ll also be on the hook for interest charges that are typically higher than the normal interest charges you pay for carrying a balance. Try to avoid having to take out a cash advance by keeping some cash or a debit card on hand for emergencies.
  • Check if you’re eligible for VAT refunds. VAT or value-added tax is a flat tax levied on purchases. The consumer owes the full amount of the tax to the government at the time of purchase. Some destinations offer visitors a refund on value-added tax for goods or merchandise. Details will vary by country, but typically you’ll need to ask the merchant to help you fill out a tax form and then show that form to customs upon your departure.
  • Have a chip-and-PIN credit card. If it's time for you to get a new card, go for one that has both a chip and a PIN — as it can save you from having to get cash from an ATM when you're visiting another country, and the transaction fee might be less than the foreign exchange fee the bank tacks on to your withdrawal. These cards will have a small metallic computer chip and require a 4-digit personal identification number to help verify purchases. These cards are also more secure in general if you don’t want to worry about any fraudulent activity like stolen card data or a stolen physical card.

Should I get a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card or traveler’s checks?

Whether or not you should get traveler’s checks or a credit card with no foreign transaction fee depends on your preferences, but keep in mind that getting traveler's checks may be more difficult than using a credit card. Some banks no longer offer traveler's checks, so you may have to jump through more hoops to get them. 

However, with a credit card you can enjoy the same protections and benefits as you would with a traveler's check, such as:

  • Replacement protection. If you lose or have your traveler's checks stolen, they can be replaced, but many credit cards also come with replacement protection. If your card is lost or stolen, you may notify your issuer and they will deactivate the existing card and send you a new one.
  • Broad acceptability. You could use traveler's checks at places that didn't take personal checks. However, you wouldn't have to worry about acceptability with a Visa or Mastercard credit card either. 
  • Replacement for cash. While an added benefit of a traveler's check is that you could exchange it for cash, using a credit card with adequate security features makes using cash internationally unnecessary.

Alternatives to cards with no foreign transaction fees

If you're looking for an alternative to credit cards with no foreign transaction fees, here are some great options:

  1. Using a traveler's check

    When obtained through an eligible bank, this alternative method can be used almost anywhere in the world to make purchases. The paper document is cashed in exchange for local currency once you’re abroad. They are also safer than carrying cash, since you can replace them if they are stolen or lost.

  2. Using a prepaid debit card

    These cards let you load money onto them at home, then use them to make purchases wherever you go — no matter where in the world you are. You can even use these cards online or over the phone, just as if they were a traditional credit card.

  3. Exchanging currency before you travel

    It’s a good idea to have some local currency on hand in case you're somewhere that doesn’t accept credit cards. Before you travel, stop by your local bank and ask to exchange your dollars for your destination’s currency. Your bank will likely charge lower exchange fees than you’ll find at the airport (or none at all).

How we assess the best cards with no foreign transaction fee

Checkmark
250+
cards rated
Rewards
50+
rewards programs valued
Search
5000
data points analyzed
Congrats
40+
perks evaluated

When evaluating the best credit cards with no foreign transaction fee, we take into account several factors, including how cards score in our proprietary card rating system and whether they offer features that fit the priorities of a diverse group of cardholders, from earning rewards to scoring a large sign-up bonus to saving on interest.

We analyzed over 250 of the most popular credit cards and selected standouts that carry no foreign transaction fee. We scored each card based on the factors most relevant to its primary category, including its rewards rate, estimated annual earnings, intro APR period, ongoing APR, perks and more to determine whether it belonged in this month’s roundup.

Here are some of the key factors that we considered:

For Capital One products listed on this page, some of the above benefits are provided by Visa® or Mastercard® and may vary by product. See the respective Guide to Benefits for details, as terms and exclusions apply.

Frequently asked questions about no foreign transaction fee credit cards