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You can typically use a debit card when traveling in another country as long as the merchant accepts transactions from the card issuer. Debit cards are especially useful when withdrawing cash from ATMs internationally, but cash and credit cards may make more sense for other purchases abroad.
Here’s what to know about using a debit card internationally.
Key Points
• Using a debit card internationally is generally possible, but you may incur foreign transaction fees and should carry multiple payment methods for convenience and security.
• Informing the bank about travel plans is important to prevent card freezes due to suspected fraudulent activity while abroad, ensuring uninterrupted access to funds.
• Exchanging currency before traveling can help avoid high airport exchange rates, and using ATMs in the bank’s network can minimize ATM fees while withdrawing cash.
• Prioritizing safety when using a debit card abroad includes practicing ATM security, using ATMS inside banks, and withdrawing funds from ATMs during banking hours so you can get help if needed.
• In the event of a debit card malfunction abroad, contacting the bank or using alternative payment methods like a credit card can help resolve issues.
Do Debit Cards Work Internationally?
Yes, typically, you can use a debit card internationally. This means you can spend money directly from your checking account, rather than run up a balance on your credit card.
One of the facts about debit cards is that they are usually linked to a processing network, such as Visa or Mastercard, which allows them to be used anywhere cards in that network are accepted. Visa and Mastercard are almost universally accepted anywhere you can pay with plastic.
However, some networks are not accepted internationally, so it’s a good idea to carry cards from more than one issuer, as well as cash, when traveling abroad. If you don’t have a card from another issuer, you may want to look into getting one. When you find a new card that suits you, you can typically apply for a debit card online.
Before you leave on your trip, be sure you have details like the customer service phone numbers in case you were to lose your cards or be the unfortunate victim of a pickpocket (see more safety tips below).
Are There International Fees on Debit Cards?
While you can typically use your debit card in another country, there are fees you may be charged, depending on your card and bank.
Foreign Transaction Fees
When using your debit card internationally, just like using your credit card internationally, you may have to pay foreign transaction fees. Though these fees vary by bank and card issuer, they are usually around 1 to 3% of any transaction abroad. If you want to avoid foreign transaction fees, you can look for a bank account offering a debit card without these fees.
Out-of-Network ATM Fees
Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Fees
You may be given the option by an ATM when making a withdrawal or by a merchant when making a purchase to pay or withdraw money in local or U.S. currency. If you opt for the latter, it is known as dynamic currency conversion (DCC), and you will likely face an upcharge, possibly a steep one. It’s usually wiser to opt for local currency when given the choice.
What to Do Before You Travel to Another Country
Traveling to another country is exciting, but there’s a lot to do before you hop on that plane. These are some of the important financial moves to make before traveling internationally.
• Informing your bank: Banks and credit unions offer a number of services to prevent fraud. Unexpected transactions in foreign countries can be a red flag to your financial institution; in attempting to protect you from fraud, they may decline the transaction or freeze your card. It’s a good idea to let your bank and/or credit card issuer know where and when you’ll be traveling so there aren’t any interruptions to your banking service.
It can also be wise to note international customer service numbers for your bank and credit cards in a safe place but not in your wallet in case you were to lose your wallet or be robbed while traveling. You can then spring into action quickly to report losses.
• Safeguarding your card. Place your debit card in a place where thieves can’t easily access it, such as in a pocket inside your jacket, rather than in a purse or backpack.
• Exchanging your money: You’ll want cash in the local currency for your trip, but it’s a good idea to exchange currency before setting out on your travels. Airport kiosks, hotels, and train stations have notoriously high exchange rates; you’ll likely get a better rate if you exchange in advance with a bank or credit union near your home.
That said, you don’t want to carry too much cash on you when traveling in another country, meaning you’ll need to exchange money as you go. You can avoid high exchange rates abroad by getting cash from an in-network ATM using your debit card.
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7 Tips for Safely Using Your Debit Card in Another Country
Taking your debit card with you abroad offers convenience, but it’s important to prioritize safety when withdrawing and spending money in another country. Here are a few tips for safely using your debit card internationally:
1. Set Up Travel Alerts With Your Bank
Avoid becoming stranded in another country without access to your funds by notifying your bank about your travels in advance. This should prevent them from freezing your card because of unusual activity.
Additionally, set up transaction alerts so that you’ll be notified any time your card is used. You can typically set up these alerts by logging in to your account on your bank’s online portal.
Many banks automatically send out fraud alerts immediately if they suspect fraudulent activity on your account. Check with your financial institution to make sure they provide this service.
2. Always Pay in the Local Currency
As mentioned above, paying in the local currency is generally much less expensive than paying in U.S. dollars. If you choose U.S. currency, this triggers dynamic currency conversion in which the merchant’s bank sets the exchange rate, often with a hefty upcharge. This can add 6% or more to your bill. If you pay in the local currency, your bank or card network service does the conversion instead.
3. Bring a Backup Credit Card for Emergencies
In case your debit card is lost or stolen, or it’s not accepted for payment at certain places, it’s wise to bring a credit card with you when traveling internationally as another form of payment you can use.
Ideally, you might carry with you a credit card, a debit card, and cash in the foreign currency so you have different payment options and types of backup funding.
4. Stick to ATMs Located Inside Banks
Practice ATM safety. When using your debit card to withdraw funds at an ATM, go to an ATM inside a bank. These machines are more secure and help protect against card skimmers. Independent ATM machines, like those you might find on the street in tourist areas, often offer high exchange rates and hidden fees.
Use the bank’s ATM during banking hours, if possible. That way, if you have a problem with the ATM machine, you can ask someone who works at the bank for help. Avoid using an ATM at night. And bring someone with you, if you can.
5. Connect Your Card to a Mobile Wallet
Adding your debit card to your mobile or digital wallet adds another layer of safety. Mobile wallets typically require you to authenticate with a code or fingerprint or facial recognition to use them. And card skimmers don’t work on digital credit cards.
Once you connect to a digital wallet with your card, the wallet uses a tokenized number rather than your account number for transactions. And sensitive data on the card is typically encrypted and unreadable.
6. Know Your Daily Withdrawal Limits
When you’re using your debit card to take out cash from an in-network ATM, be sure to keep your ATM withdrawal limits in mind. Banks typically put a limit on how much you can withdraw in one day, with amounts ranging from about $500 to $1,000. Check the limit your bank imposes before you leave on your trip.
7. Monitor Your Accounts Regularly Using Your Banking App
Keep tabs on your bank accounts while traveling by downloading and using your bank’s app. That way you can stay on top of all transactions to make sure there is no suspicious activity going on, and you can report any fraud to your bank immediately. Just avoid using the app on public wifi and use secure networks instead.
Can You Withdraw Money at an International ATM?
Yes, you can use your debit card in another country to withdraw money from an international ATM. That is a top reason to bring your debit card with you when traveling overseas. Before traveling, you can research which ATMs are in your bank’s network in the country you’re visiting — and even make a list of their locations so you know where to go during your trip.
While using an in-network ATM may help you avoid ATM fees, some banks and card issuers may still charge foreign transaction fees. If you’ll be traveling for a while — several months, say — or you are overseas for work for an extended period of time or travel very frequently, you may want to consider opening a bank account in another country so that you can avoid foreign transaction fees and have an easier time doing daily banking tasks.
What to Do If Your Debit Card Does Not Work?
If you’re in a foreign country and your debit card isn’t working, don’t panic. There are a few things you can do to ensure you can safely spend your money abroad, including:
• Calling your financial institution. Making an international call might be expensive, but talking to someone at your bank can usually rectify any issue with your debit card. Also, some financial institutions have numbers to use when traveling internationally. It can be wise to jot that information down in advance so it’s handy.
• Using another form of payment. If you’re in the midst of a transaction, it might make sense (at least temporarily) to pay with a credit card or cash. Then, when you’re back at your hotel or another quiet place, you can resolve your debit card issues.
• Finding a U.S. embassy. As a last resort, if you have no way of getting money and are stranded abroad, find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. In emergencies, they may be able to help you get money transferred or wired to you from family or friends at home; in very dire cases, they may offer temporary loans to certain travelers.
The Takeaway
You can typically use your debit card overseas to make purchases and/or withdraw cash at an ATM. Just keep in mind that not all U.S. debit cards are accepted internationally, and your bank may charge a foreign transaction fee. If you use an ATM that is not in your bank’s network, you may also get hit with an ATM fee.
If you’re looking for a new banking partner, it’s a good idea to consider not only interest rates but also any fees you may encounter both at home and abroad.
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FAQ
Is it better to use cash instead of a debit card internationally?
When traveling internationally, it’s a good idea to have a mix of payment methods: cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Some financial professionals advise using credit cards and cash for purchases and relying on your debit card for ATM transactions.
Can I use my debit card in all countries?
In most cases, you can use your debit card in other countries, as long as the merchant takes them and accepts cards with your logo. Visa and Mastercard are the most universally accepted, with American Express and Discover following behind. When you use your debit card abroad, you may have to pay foreign transaction fees and ATM fees.
Is it better to use a credit card or debit card internationally?
When traveling abroad, you may want to prioritize payment methods that do not charge foreign transaction fees, whether that’s a credit card or a debit card. However, it’s a good idea to carry both kinds of cards (plus cash). Financial professionals generally recommend using a credit card for cash for purchases and utilizing a debit card to withdraw more money at ATMs as needed.
How do I avoid international fees on my debit card?
To avoid international fees on your debit card, use or switch to a bank that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees or out-of-network foreign ATM fees. Otherwise, use ATMs in your bank’s network whenever possible. Also, be sure to complete all your ATM transactions in local currency rather than U.S. dollars to avoid dynamic currency conversion fees.
What happens if my debit card is lost or stolen abroad?
If your credit card is lost or stolen abroad, report it immediately via your bank’s mobile app or by calling the bank’s international customer service number to freeze or lock the card. This will prevent anyone from using the debit card. Check your account to make sure there have been no unauthorized transactions. If you suspect the card was stolen, file a police report and get a copy of it as documentation in case you need it for your bank. Finally, request a replacement debit card. Many card issuers can send it to you abroad via expedited shipping.
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