Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards of October 2022 - NerdWallet Advertiser disclosure
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Discover the best credit cards for international travel.NerdWallet Oct 24, 2022 Many or all of the products featured here are from our partners who compensate us. This may influence which products we write about and where and how the product appears on a page. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money. ALSO CONSIDER: Best credit cards of 2022 Best travel credit cards Best rewards credit cards Best cash back credit cards Most credit cards tack an extra charge onto purchases made outside the United States. If you're planning to travel abroad, you'll want to look out for these foreign transaction fees (sometimes called international transaction fees). They are assessed by your credit card issuer and are usually 1% to 3% of the purchase amount, with 3% being common. That amount might not seem like a big deal, but if you spent, say, $3,000 at a hotel, you could be looking at an additional $90 charge. The best way to avoid foreign transaction fees is to get a travel credit card that doesn't charge them. Fortunately, any travel credit card worth its salt — including airline cards — will not charge foreign transaction fees, so you have plenty of options. Some major issuers — most notably Capital One and Discover — don't charge these fees on any of their cards. Here are our favorite cards without the fee. Note, some of our selections for the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards can be applied for through NerdWallet, and some cannot. Below, you'll find application links for the credit cards from our partners that are available through NerdWallet, followed by the full list of our picks. ALSO CONSIDER: Best credit cards of 2022 Best travel credit cards Best rewards credit cards Best cash back credit cards Most credit cards tack an extra charge onto purchases made outside the United States. If you're planning to travel abroad, you'll want to look out for these foreign transaction fees (sometimes called international transaction fees). They are assessed by your credit card issuer and are usually 1% to 3% of the purchase amount, with 3% being common. That amount might not seem like a big deal, but if you spent, say, $3,000 at a hotel, you could be looking at an additional $90 charge. The best way to avoid foreign transaction fees is to get a travel credit card that doesn't charge them. Fortunately, any travel credit card worth its salt — including airline cards — will not charge foreign transaction fees, so you have plenty of options. Some major issuers — most notably Capital One and Discover — don't charge these fees on any of their cards. Here are our favorite cards without the fee. Note, some of our selections for the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards can be applied for through NerdWallet, and some cannot. Below, you'll find application links for the credit cards from our partners that are available through NerdWallet, followed by the full list of our picks.Show summary NerdWallet' s Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards of October 2022
Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for Bonus category cash backBank of America Travel Rewards credit card: Best for Simple travel rewards + no annual feeWells Fargo Autograph℠ Card: Best for Bonus rewards + no annual feeChase Sapphire Preferred Card: Best for Bonus travel rewardsCapital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best for Flat-rate travel rewardsCapital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for Flat-rate cash backInk Business Preferred Credit Card: Best for Business travelCapital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for Average creditDeserve EDU Mastercard for Students: Best for Students Best No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Cards From Our Partners
Credit cardNerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formulas take into account multiple data points for each financial product and service.Annual feeRewards rateIntro offerLearn more Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit CardApply now on Capital One's website 5.0/5 Best for Bonus category cash back$01%-8% Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target), plus 1% on all other purchases. Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases and tickets at Vivid Seats. Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply.Cashback$200 Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening.Apply now on Capital One's website Bank of America Travel Rewards credit cardApply now on Bank of America's website 3.8/5 Best for Simple travel rewards + no annual fee$01.5x Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases and your points don't expirePoints25,000 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.PointsApply now on Bank of America's website Wells Fargo Autograph℠ CardApply now on Wells Fargo's website 4.5/5 Best for Bonus rewards + no annual fee$01x-3x Earn unlimited 3X points on restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Plus earn 1X points on other purchases.Points30,000 Limited time offer. Earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $300 cash redemption value. Offer expires 1/10/2023.PointsApply now on Wells Fargo's websiteRates & Fees Chase Sapphire Preferred CardApply now on Chase's website 5.0/5 Best for Bonus travel rewards$951x-5x Enjoy benefits such as a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x on dining and 2x on all other travel purchases, plus more.Points60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards.PointsApply now on Chase's website Capital One Venture Rewards Credit CardApply now on Capital One's website 4.7/5 Best for Flat-rate travel rewards$952x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.Miles75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.MilesApply now on Capital One's website Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit CardApply now on Capital One's website 4.6/5 Best for Flat-rate cash back$01.5%-5% Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day. Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply.Cashback$200 One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening.Apply now on Capital One's website Ink Business Preferred Credit CardApply now on Chase's website 5.0/5 Best for Business travel$951x-3x Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year, Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases - with no limit to the amount you can earnPoints100,000 Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards.PointsApply now on Chase's website Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit CardApply now on Capital One's website 4.7/5 Best for Average credit$391.5%-5% Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day. Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms applyCashbackN/AApply now on Capital One's website Deserve EDU Mastercard for StudentsApply now on Deserve's website 4.5/5 Best for Students$01% 1% cash back on all purchasesCashback$0Apply now on Deserve's website Our pick for Bonus category cash backApply nowon Capital One's website Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
5.0NerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features.Apply nowon Capital One's websiteAnnual fee $0Rewards rate 1%-8% CashbackIntro offer $200Recommended Credit Score690850good - excellentSee your approval oddsSee your approval odds A credit score in or above the recommended range means you have a higher chance of approval, but doesn’t guarantee it. Use this link to create an account and connect your credit score with TransUnion to get an estimate of your approval odds based on your credit score and other factors. Read more.Why We Like It Pros & Cons Product Details The $0-annual-fee Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers an irresistible (and hard-to-find) combination: high rates on dining AND at grocery stores. The $0-annual-fee Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card offers an irresistible (and hard-to-find) combination: high rates on dining AND at grocery stores. Pros You'll earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases and 3% back on dining, grocery stores, eligible streaming services and entertainment. All other purchases earn 1% back. There's also a generous sign-up bonus, not to mention an intro APR offer. That's a lot of value packed into a card with a $0 annual fee. Cons If your spending is more concentrated in one food category over the other — dining out or cooking at home — you might do better with a card that specializes in one of those areas.Read full review Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening Earn unlimited 3% cash back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart and Target), plus 1% on all other purchases Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases and tickets at Vivid Seats No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 17.99% - 27.99% variable APR after that; 3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months No foreign transaction fee No annual fee Our pick for Simple travel rewards + no annual feeApply nowon Bank of America's website Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card
3.8NerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features.Apply nowon Bank of America's websiteAnnual fee $0Rewards rate 1.5x PointsIntro offer 25,000 PointsRecommended Credit Score690850good - excellentSee your approval oddsSee your approval odds A credit score in or above the recommended range means you have a higher chance of approval, but doesn’t guarantee it. Use this link to create an account and connect your credit score with TransUnion to get an estimate of your approval odds based on your credit score and other factors. Read more.Why We Like It Pros & Cons Product Details For travelers on a budget, the Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card offers excellent value. For those with large balances in affiliated Bank of America savings and investment accounts, it’s even better. For travelers on a budget, the Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card offers excellent value. For those with large balances in affiliated Bank of America savings and investment accounts, it’s even better. Pros This card gives you many of the perks of a travel card without the price tag: It has an annual fee of $0. You get 1.5 points per $1 spent on anything, and you can redeem points at a value of 1 cent apiece for credit against any travel purchase. This card also happens to have one of the broadest definitions of “travel” in the industry — not just flights, hotels and other routine expenses, but also the cost of visiting an amusement park, an aquarium or a fortuneteller. If you maintain high balances in affiliated accounts, you can earn 25% to 75% more through the Preferred Rewards program. Plus, there's a sign-up bonus: 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases.. Cons If you don’t have a Bank of America account, you can earn a higher rewards rate with other cards — and if you spend enough, could come out ahead even after paying an annual fee.Read full review Earn unlimited 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees and your points don't expire. 25,000 online bonus points after you make at least $1,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening - that can be a $250 statement credit toward travel purchases. Use your card to book your trip how and where you want - you're not limited to specific websites with blackout dates or restrictions. Redeem points for a statement credit to pay for travel or dining purchases, such as flights, hotel stays, car and vacation rentals, baggage fees, and also at restaurants including takeout. New longer intro period! 0% Introductory APR for 18 billing cycles for purchases, and for any balance transfers made in the first 60 days. After the intro APR offer ends, 16.99% - 26.99% Variable APR will apply. A 3% fee (min $10) applies to all balance transfers. If you're a Preferred Rewards member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means instead of earning an unlimited 1.5 points for every $1, you could earn 1.87-2.62 points for every $1 you spend on purchases. Contactless Cards - The security of a chip card, with the convenience of a tap. This online only offer may not be available if you leave this page or if you visit a Bank of America financial center. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now. Our pick for Bonus rewards + no annual feeApply nowon Wells Fargo's websiteRates & Fees Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
4.5NerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features.Apply nowon Wells Fargo's websiteRates & FeesAnnual fee $0Rewards rate 1x-3x PointsIntro offer 30,000 PointsRecommended Credit Score690850good - excellentSee your approval oddsSee your approval odds A credit score in or above the recommended range means you have a higher chance of approval, but doesn’t guarantee it. Use this link to create an account and connect your credit score with TransUnion to get an estimate of your approval odds based on your credit score and other factors. Read more.Why We Like It Pros & Cons Product Details The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card offers so much value, it's hard to believe there's no annual fee. Start with a great bonus offer, then earn extra rewards in a host of common spending categories. The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card offers so much value, it's hard to believe there's no annual fee. Start with a great bonus offer, then earn extra rewards in a host of common spending categories. Pros The card earns unlimited 3 points per dollar spent on travel, dining, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services and phone plans. Other spending earns 1 point per dollar. The bonus offer is outstanding for a $0-annual-fee card, and you even get a introductory APR period. Cons You don't get the perks of a dedicated airline or hotel card, and there's no option to transfer points to airline or hotel programs.Read full review Limited time offer. Earn 30,000 bonus points when you spend $1,500 in purchases in the first 3 months - that's a $300 cash redemption value. Offer expires 1/10/2023 Earn unlimited 3X points on the things that really add up - like restaurants, travel, gas stations, transit, popular streaming services, and phone plans. Plus, earn 1X points on other purchases $0 annual fee 0% intro APR for 12 months from account opening on purchases. 17.99%, 22.99%, or 27.99% variable APR thereafter Get up to $600 of cell phone protection against damage or theft when you pay your monthly cell phone bill with your eligible Wells Fargo card. (subject to a $25 deductible). Redeem your rewards points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits. Or shop at millions of online stores and redeem your rewards when you check out with PayPal. Enjoy a premium collection of benefits at a selection of the world's most intriguing and prestigious hotel properties with Visa Signature Concierge. Select "Apply Now" to learn more about the product features, terms and conditions.View Rates & Fees Our pick for Bonus travel rewardsApply nowon Chase's website Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
5.0NerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features.Apply nowon Chase's websiteAnnual fee $95Rewards rate 1x-5x PointsIntro offer 60,000 PointsRecommended Credit Score690850good - excellentSee your approval oddsSee your approval odds A credit score in or above the recommended range means you have a higher chance of approval, but doesn’t guarantee it. Use this link to create an account and connect your credit score with TransUnion to get an estimate of your approval odds based on your credit score and other factors. Read more.Why We Like It Pros & Cons Product Details The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is best in class for travelers looking for an outsize sign-up bonus and opportunities to transfer their points to leading loyalty programs. The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is best in class for travelers looking for an outsize sign-up bonus and opportunities to transfer their points to leading loyalty programs. ProsWhat really sets this card apart is its big sign-up bonus and rewards transfer options. The bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards. When using the card, you’ll earn 5 points per $1 spent on all travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards; 3 points per $1 spent on dining (including eligible delivery services and takeout), select streaming services, and online grocery purchases (not including Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs); 2 points per $1 spent on travel not purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards; and 1 point per $1 spent on other purchases. Points are generally worth 1 cent, but they’re worth 25% more when used to book travel through Chase. They can also be transferred at 1:1 rate to several airline and hotel loyalty programs. Cons A big chunk of this card’s value rests in its sign-up bonus; other travel cards have better long-term rewards. Also, this card doesn’t offer the perks — free checked bags, priority boarding — of airline-specific cards.Read full review Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Ultimate Rewards. Enjoy benefits such as a $50 annual Ultimate Rewards Hotel Credit, 5x on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards, 3x on dining and 2x on all other travel purchases, plus more. Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Ultimate Rewards. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel. With Pay Yourself Back℠, your points are worth 25% more during the current offer when you redeem them for statement credits against existing purchases in select, rotating categories Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more. Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2024. Our pick for Flat-rate travel rewardsApply nowon Capital One's website Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
4.7NerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features.Apply nowon Capital One's websiteAnnual fee $95Rewards rate 2x-5x MilesIntro offer 75,000 MilesRecommended Credit Score690850good - excellentSee your approval oddsSee your approval odds A credit score in or above the recommended range means you have a higher chance of approval, but doesn’t guarantee it. Use this link to create an account and connect your credit score with TransUnion to get an estimate of your approval odds based on your credit score and other factors. Read more.Why We Like It Pros & Cons Product Details Loaded with value, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an excellent companion for travelers who value flexibility with their rewards. Loaded with value, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is an excellent companion for travelers who value flexibility with their rewards. Pros This card earns 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel and an unlimited 2 miles per dollar spent on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed for statement credit against travel expenses at a rate of 1 cent apiece. Just book travel however you want, then use miles to pay for it. Plus, when you redeem miles, you get 5% of those miles back as a bonus. There's a fantastic sign-up offer: Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel. Cons You won't get the perks that often come with branded travel cards, like free checked bags and priority boarding with an airline card or a free night's stay each year with a hotel card. Read full review Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day Miles won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how many you can earn Receive up to a $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck Enjoy two complimentary visits per year to Capital One Lounges or to 100+ Plaza Premium Lounges through our Partner Lounge Network Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs Our pick for Flat-rate cash backApply nowon Capital One's website Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.6NerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features.Apply nowon Capital One's websiteAnnual fee $0Rewards rate 1.5%-5% CashbackIntro offer $200Recommended Credit Score690850good - excellentSee your approval oddsSee your approval odds A credit score in or above the recommended range means you have a higher chance of approval, but doesn’t guarantee it. Use this link to create an account and connect your credit score with TransUnion to get an estimate of your approval odds based on your credit score and other factors. Read more.Why We Like It Pros & Cons Product Details If you’re a frugal type, the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a simple way to earn more on every dollar spent, at home and abroad. If you’re a frugal type, the Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card is a simple way to earn more on every dollar spent, at home and abroad. Pros The best cash back cards make rewards easy to earn and easy to redeem, and this card does that better than most. You earn a flat 1.5% cash back on every purchase, and there’s no minimum redemption amount. That’s music to a frugal traveler’s ears. The annual fee is $0. This card also comes with an introductory 0% APR period on new purchases (then an ongoing variable APR of 14.99% - 24.99%) and a solid sign-up bonus: One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening. Among cash back cards with no foreign transaction fees, it offers the best rewards and benefits and is widely accepted overseas. Cons Unlike many travel rewards cards, which let you stretch your value by redeeming points or miles selectively, this card won't give you more than 1.5 cents back per dollar spent.Read full review One-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within 3 months from account opening Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day $0 annual fee and no foreign transaction fees Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply No rotating categories or sign-ups needed to earn cash rewards; plus, cash back won't expire for the life of the account and there's no limit to how much you can earn 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months; 17.99%-27.99% variable APR after that; 3% fee on the amounts transferred within the first 15 months Our pick for Business travelApply nowon Chase's website Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
5.0NerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features.Apply nowon Chase's websiteAnnual fee $95Rewards rate 1x-3x PointsIntro offer 100,000 PointsRecommended Credit Score690850good - excellentSee your approval oddsSee your approval odds A credit score in or above the recommended range means you have a higher chance of approval, but doesn’t guarantee it. Use this link to create an account and connect your credit score with TransUnion to get an estimate of your approval odds based on your credit score and other factors. Read more.Why We Like It Pros & Cons Product Details If your business needs a good travel card, the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card offers great rewards in common spending categories, and the sign-up bonus is outstanding. If your business needs a good travel card, the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card offers great rewards in common spending categories, and the sign-up bonus is outstanding. Pros The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card delivers outstanding value from the get-go with a big sign-up bonus: Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards. You earn 3 points per dollar spent on travel, telecommunications, shipping and advertising on social media and search engines, on up to $150,000 in combined spending each year. All other spending earns 1 point per dollar. Points are worth 1.25 cents apiece when used to book travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards; they can also be transferred on a 1:1 basis to travel partners such as United, Southwest, Marriott and Hyatt. Cons As with most credit cards with generous rewards, the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card has an annual fee: $95. There’s a limit to how much spending earns 3 points per dollar; it’s a high limit, but it’s still a limit.Read full review Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $15,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,000 cash back or $1,250 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases With Fraud Protection your card transactions will be monitored for possible signs of fraudulent activity using real-time fraud monitoring. With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information. Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Ultimate Rewards Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account. Our pick for Average creditApply nowon Capital One's website Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
4.7NerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features.Apply nowon Capital One's websiteAnnual fee $39Rewards rate 1.5%-5% CashbackIntro offer N/ARecommended Credit Score630689averageSee your approval oddsSee your approval odds A credit score in or above the recommended range means you have a higher chance of approval, but doesn’t guarantee it. Use this link to create an account and connect your credit score with TransUnion to get an estimate of your approval odds based on your credit score and other factors. Read more.Why We Like It Pros & Cons Product Details If you don’t carry a balance and your credit is “meh,” the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card may be your best bet for rewards with no foreign transaction fee. If you don’t carry a balance and your credit is “meh,” the Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card may be your best bet for rewards with no foreign transaction fee. ProsThis card pays 1.5% cash back on all purchases — the same as on the regular Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card for excellent credit. That makes it one of the most valuable cards available for those with average credit. Plus, you can redeem cash back in any amount. Cons There's an annual fee of $39. To earn enough rewards to make up for the fee, you’d have to spend $2,600 a year. For some, that’s a tall order. The card also lacks a sign-up bonus. The ongoing APR is 28.49% Variable APR, so it’s not a good pick for carrying a balance.Read full review Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day No rotating categories or limits to how much you can earn, and cash back doesn't expire for the life of the account. It's that simple Be automatically considered for a higher credit line in as little as 6 months Enjoy peace of mind with $0 Fraud Liability so that you won't be responsible for unauthorized charges Help strengthen your credit for the future with responsible card use Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options. Terms apply Monitor your credit score with CreditWise from Capital One. It's free for everyone Check out quickly and securely with a contactless card, without touching a terminal or handing your card to a cashier. Just hover your card over a contactless reader, wait for the confirmation, and you're all set Our pick for StudentsApply nowon Deserve's website Deserve EDU Mastercard for Students
4.5NerdWallet rating NerdWallet's ratings are determined by our editorial team. The scoring formula takes into account the type of card being reviewed (such as cash back, travel or balance transfer) and the card's rates, fees, rewards and other features.Apply nowon Deserve's websiteAnnual fee $0Rewards rate 1% CashbackIntro offer $0Recommended Credit Score630850average - excellentSee your approval oddsSee your approval odds A credit score in or above the recommended range means you have a higher chance of approval, but doesn’t guarantee it. Use this link to create an account and connect your credit score with TransUnion to get an estimate of your approval odds based on your credit score and other factors. Read more.Why We Like It Pros & Cons Product Details Studying abroad? Adding the Deserve EDU Mastercard for Students to your wallet before the big trip could help you save on fees. Studying abroad? Adding the Deserve EDU Mastercard for Students to your wallet before the big trip could help you save on fees. Pros The Deserve EDU Mastercard for Students doesn’t require applicants to have a co-signer or security deposit, and international students don't need a Social Security number. That makes it a little easier to get approved — even for students with limited credit histories. Plus, it comes with a solid 1% back on all purchases and a one-time reimbursement for Amazon Student Prime after spending $500 in the first three billing cycles. The annual fee is $0. Cons The ongoing APR is 21.74% Variable, so carrying a balance on it could get expensive in a hurry. You also must be currently enrolled at a U.S. college or university to get approved.Read full review Receive one year of Amazon Prime Student on Deserve after spending $500 in the first three billing cycles with your EDU card (Lifetime Value of $69). Earn 1% Cash Back on all purchases with your Deserve EDU Mastercard. Once approved, you'll automatically start earning cash back on all purchases. Feel secure with cell phone protection up to $600. No deposit required. No annual fees. No international transaction fees on purchases abroad so you can travel with confidence. No Social Security Number required for international students to apply. Refer A Friend Program: Refer anyone to Deserve using your personal referral code. Upon approval, card activation and use, you'll receive $30 and so will your referral. Referral bonuses are unlimited! Manage and track your spending, set automatic payments and securely freeze your card all through one easy to use app. See if you prequalify with no impact to your credit score in minutes. Deserve Mastercards are issued by Celtic Bank, Member FDIC. Enjoy Mastercard Platinum Benefits intended to make your life easier like Mastercard ID Theft Prevention and Master Rental.FULL LIST OF EDITORIAL PICKS: BEST NO FOREIGN TRANSACTION FEE CREDIT CARDS
Click the card name to read our review. Before applying, confirm details on the issuer’s website. Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
Our pick for Flat-rate travel rewards
The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is probably the best-known general-purpose travel credit card, thanks to its ubiquitous advertising. You earn 5 miles per dollar on hotels and car rentals booked through Capital One Travel and 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed at a value of 1 cent apiece for any travel purchase, without the blackout dates and other restrictions of branded hotel and airline cards. The card offers a great sign-up bonus and other worthwhile perks. Read our review. Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
Our pick for Bonus travel rewards
For a reasonable annual fee, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card earns bonus rewards (up to 5X) on travel, dining, select streaming services, and select online grocery purchases. Points are worth 25% more when you redeem them for travel booked through Chase, or you can transfer them to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. The sign-up bonus is stellar, too. Read our review. Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card
Our pick for Simple travel rewards no annual fee
One of the best no-annual-fee travel cards available, the Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card gives you a solid rewards rate on every purchase, with points that can be redeemed for any travel purchase, without the restrictions of branded airline and hotel cards. Bank of America has an expansive definition of "travel," too, giving you additional flexibility in how you use your rewards. Read our review. Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card
Our pick for: Bonus rewards + no annual fee The Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card offers so much value, it's hard to believe there's no annual fee. Start with a great bonus offer, then earn extra rewards in a host of common spending categories — restaurants, gas stations, transit, travel, streaming and more. Read our review. Ink Business Preferred Credit Card
Our pick for Business travel
The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card starts you off with one of the biggest sign-up bonuses of any credit card anywhere (assuming you spend enough to earn it), then gives you bonus rewards in common business spending categories. Points are worth 25% more when redeemed for travel booked through Chase, or you can transfer them to about a dozen airline and hotel partners. Read our review. Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
Our pick for Flat-rate cash back
The original 1.5% flat-rate cash-back card still holds its own in a now-crowded field. The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card offers a compelling combination of a good rewards rate, redemption flexibility, sign-up bonus and introductory 0% APR period. Read our review. Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Our pick for: Bonus category cash back Love the night life but dead-set against paying an annual fee? Consider the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card. It pays a lower cash-back rate on dining and entertainment than the regular Savor card, but the rewards are nevertheless quite good. The sign-up bonus is smaller than on the annual-fee version, too, but it's still solid. Read our review. Capital One QuicksilverOne Cash Rewards Credit Card
Our pick for Average credit
This card for people with fair or "average" credit pays the same cash-back rate as the regular Quicksilver card, which targets people with excellent credit. The key difference is that this version charges an annual fee while the regular one does not. Read our review. Deserve EDU Mastercard for Students
Our pick for College students
The Deserve EDU Mastercard for Students doesn’t require applicants to have a co-signer or security deposit, and international students don't need a Social Security number. That makes it a little easier to get approved — even for students with limited credit histories. Plus, it comes with a solid 1% back on all purchases. Read our review. • • •
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By Erica Corbin, NerdWallet Top credit card issuers foreign transaction fees
Here’s a look at the standard foreign transaction fees charged by major U.S. credit card issuers. It’s important to note that many of these issuers waive the foreign transaction fee (also called an international transaction fee) on certain cards. Further, some major issuers don’t charge foreign transaction fees on any of their cards.What is American Express’ foreign transaction fee? The standard foreign transaction fee for American Express is 2.7%. However, Amex does not charge a foreign transaction fee for cards like The Platinum Card from American Express and the American Express Gold Card.What is Bank of America’s foreign transaction fee? The standard foreign transaction fee for Bank of America is 3%. That said, if you have a Bank of America credit card such as the Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card or the Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card do not charge foreign transaction fees.What is Barclaycard’s foreign transaction fee? The standard foreign transaction fee for Barclaycard is 3%.What is Capital One’s foreign transaction fee? The standard foreign transaction fee for all Capital One cards is 0%. So, if you have the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card, Capital One VentureOne Rewards Credit Card or another Capital One card entirely, you won’t pay any international transaction fees.What is Chase’s foreign transaction fee? The standard foreign transaction fee for Chase is 3%. So, for the Chase Freedom card, for instance, the foreign transaction fee is 3%. However, if you have certain Chase credit cards, like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve, you won’t pay any international transaction fees.What is Citi’s foreign transaction fee? The standard foreign transaction fee for Citi is 3%. If you’re looking for a Citi card that doesn’t charge these fees, however, there are some exceptions. For example, the Citi Premier Card and the CitiBusiness / AAdvantage Platinum Select Mastercard do not charge foreign transaction fees.What is Discover’s foreign transaction fee? The standard foreign transaction fee on all Discover cards is 0%. So, whether you have the Discover it Cash Back, the Discover it Miles or a completely different Discover card, you will not be charged an international transaction fee.What is U.S. Bank’s foreign transaction fee? The standard foreign transaction fee for U.S. Bank is 3%. For transactions made in U.S. dollars, the fee is reduced to 2%. (Learn about dynamic currency conversion below.)What is Wells Fargo’s foreign transaction fee? The standard foreign transaction fee for Wells Fargo is 3%. The Wells Fargo Propel American Express card, though, carries no foreign transaction fee. (Note: The Wells Fargo Propel American Express card is not accepting new applications.) » What about debit card foreign transaction fees? Using credit cards internationally
Which credit cards work worldwide
Whether you're in the U.S. or a foreign country, your ability to use a credit card at a merchant depends on whether the merchant accepts that card's payment network. The four major U.S. networks — Visa, Mastercard, American Express or Discover — all have an international presence, although to varying degrees. In the U.S., Visa and Mastercard are ubiquitous. If a merchant accepts credit cards, it almost always accepts Visa and Mastercard, although there are a few exceptions, such as Visa-only Costco. Discover is a close third, just a hair behind the leaders. American Express is widely accepted, just not as widely as the other three. Smaller merchants, in particular, are less likely to take AmEx. Even so, when traveling in the U.S., you should be able to get by with a card on any of the four networks. Outside the U.S., Visa and Mastercard are also dominant worldwide networks. And while American Express has a strong presence overseas — it has more cardholders outside the U.S. than in — it doesn't match the extent of Visa and Mastercard. Discover is a smaller player outside the U.S. If you're planning to travel internationally and your primary card is American Express or Discover, it's best to bring along a Visa or Mastercard as a backup. Should I use dynamic currency conversion
When you buy something with a credit card in a foreign country, your receipt will show the cost in the local currency. When you get your statement, however, you'll see that the charge has been converted to dollars. Your payment network takes care of the conversion, and you can usually be confident that you're getting a fair exchange rate. (A 2016 NerdWallet study found that Visa and Mastercard tended to convert currency at near-market rates, which is about the best you can get.) Sometimes when you're shopping overseas, merchants will ask if you want your purchases to be denominated in dollars rather than the local currency. This is known as "dynamic currency conversion." It seems attractive, as it allows you to see how much you're spending in terms you understand — say, $50 rather than 5,000 Japanese yen or 45 euros. But dynamic conversion is usually a bad deal. That's because the exchange rates are considerably worse than what you'd get if you made your purchase in the local currency and then let your credit card network handle the conversion. One other thing about dynamic conversion: It won't get you out of paying foreign transaction fees. If your card charges a fee on overseas purchases, it doesn't matter if those purchases are in dollars, yen, euros, rubles or whatever. You'll still pay the fee. » MORE: Foreign transaction vs. currency conversion fees Do I need a chip-and-PIN card
Most credit cards issued in the U.S. are "chip-and-signature" cards. When you make a purchase at a store, the chip embedded in the card passes information to the merchant's computer system. Further, the chip protects that information with a one-time code so that if the data is stolen, it can't be used to make a counterfeit card. It's all very high-tech. But then you complete the transaction by verifying your identity in a decidedly low-tech way: You sign your name — and you might not even do that. Cards issued in other countries have "chip-and-PIN" technology. You use the card the same way, but instead of signing your name to complete the transaction, you have to enter a four-digit code, or PIN. This adds a layer of security by making it harder for someone to use a stolen card. When traveling abroad, you'll usually be able to use a U.S.-issued chip-and-signature card for in-person transactions. Among the places where you can't use one is at self-service kiosks and vending machines. These typically require chip-and-PIN. Among major issuers in the U.S., Barclays offers chip-and-PIN on its cards. Some credit unions oriented toward military servicemembers who may be deployed overseas also offer chip-and-PIN functionality. If you don't have a chip-and-PIN card, it's not a crisis situation. You'll just have to plan ahead and keep in mind that if you need to buy something like train tickets, you'll have to go up to the window and buy from a live person rather than from a ticket machine. Finally, be aware that simply having a PIN for your credit card does not make it a chip-and-PIN card. Many cards allow you to get cash advances for an ATM using a PIN. A PIN for accessing cash advances is not the same as one for verifying transactions though chip-and-PIN technology. If in doubt, ask your issuer. Credit cards or travelers checks
Travelers checks have been mostly replaced in travelers' wallets by credit and debit cards, which also solve many of the security problems that travelers checks were created to address. So while you can still get travelers checks, most travelers would find them more trouble than they're worth. Back before credit cards were as widely used and accepted as they are today, people who didn't want to risk carrying a lot of cash on a trip would rely on travelers checks. A traveler might go to a bank or travel agency in their hometown and buy, say, six $100 checks, which they would sign at the bank. At their destination, they'd use the checks at stores or restaurants that accepted them, or exchange them for cash at a hotel or bank. When they redeemed the check, they'd sign it again, and the recipient would compare the signatures to verify the check. Among the advantage of travelers checks: If they were lost or stolen, the issuer would replace them, so you didn't lose money. Nowadays, credit card issuers can cancel a lost or stolen card and expedite a replacement just as quickly. You could exchange them for cash far from home. The wide acceptance of credit cards makes cash less critical to carry, and credit cards can provide cash in a pinch. And, of course, debit cards can get you cash, too. You could use them in places that didn't accept out-of-town personal checks. Today, credit cards are accepted at millions more locations than travelers checks ever were. Travelers checks still have their uses. But when you combine the dwindling number of places that accept travelers checks with the fees you have to pay to get them, most leisure travelers will be better off with the cards they already carry. Last updated on October 24, 2022 Methodology
NerdWallet's Credit Cards team selects the best credit cards with no foreign transaction fee based on overall consumer value, as evidenced by star ratings, as well as their suitability for specific kinds of consumers. Factors in our evaluation include annual fees, rewards rates and redemption options, introductory and ongoing interest rates, bonus offers for new cardholders, international acceptance of the card's payment network, and other noteworthy features such as travel perks. Learn how NerdWallet rates credit cards. Frequently asked questions
What is a foreign transaction fee? Most credit cards issued by U.S. banks impose a surcharge when you use your card outside the United States. Foreign transaction fees are charged on purchases you make while traveling in other countries, but they can also be applied when you buy something from a foreign merchant. If you're at home in the U.S. and you use your card to order online from a company in, say, London, you might get hit with the fee, since the transaction was processed outside the U.S. Some issuers, including Capital One, Discover and USAA, do not charge foreign transaction fees on any of their cards, and many issuers do not charge them on specific cards. Credit cards marketed to frequent travelers usually do not charge foreign transaction fees, even if the issuer has them on other cards.How much are foreign transaction fees? The typical foreign transaction fee is 3% of the purchase price. Charge a $1,000 hotel stay on a card that imposes such a fee, for example, and you'll pay an extra $30. However: • Some issuers charge a lower rate. American Express has long charged 2.7%, for example. • Some issuers have no foreign transaction fees on any of their cards. They include Capital One, Discover and USAA. • Most credit cards specifically designed for frequent travelers do not charge foreign transaction fees, even when the issuing bank charges such fees on its other cards.When do I pay a foreign transaction fee? When a foreign transaction fee applies to a purchase, you won't see it until you receive your credit card statement. That's because the fee is charged by the credit card company, not by the merchant. If you charge a $1,000 hotel stay in another country, your receipt from the hotel will just say $1,000 (or the equivalent amount in the foreign currency); when your statement arrives, the charge for the purchase will total $1,030.Does it make a difference if the purchase is in U.S. dollars? When you buy something in a foreign country, the merchant may give you the option of having the purchase converted to U.S. dollars so you can see how much it costs in a way you're more likely to understand. (See the question about dynamic currency conversion below.) But for the purpose of the foreign transaction fee, it usually doesn't matter whether a purchase is submitted to your credit card company in U.S. dollars or in the local currency. The fee applies based on where the transaction takes place, not how it is denominated. The one exception among major issuers is U.S. Bank, which charges a 3% foreign transaction fee but knocks that down to 2% if the purchase is denominated in U.S. dollars.Is the foreign transaction fee affected by exchange rates? Foreign transaction fees are independent of exchange rates. Currency exchange rates tell you how much a unit of foreign currency is worth in dollars. If you buy something in France for 100 euros, for example, the cost in dollars might be $105 or $110 or $112.37 or something else, based on the current exchange rate. Your credit card's payment network — Visa, Mastercard, Discover or American Express — converts foreign purchases to dollar amounts according to the current exchange rate. The foreign transaction fee is then applied to the converted dollar amount.Does dynamic currency conversion avoid foreign transaction fees? Dynamic currency conversion is a service offered by some merchants overseas, in which they convert your purchase to dollars so that you can better get a sense of what it costs. It might be easier for you to understand a price of, say, $35 compared with 500 South African rand. Using dynamic currency conversion will not affect your foreign transaction fee in most cases. (An exception is U.S. Bank, which reduces the fee to 2% when purchases are processed in U.S. dollars.) In general, dynamic currency conversion is a costly convenience for U.S. travelers. A NerdWallet study of credit card currency conversion rates found that when you let your credit card company convert your purchase to dollars, it usually does so at the current market rate. But when you choose dynamic currency conversion, it typically costs you an extra 1% to 3% because the merchant uses a less favorable exchange rate and pockets the difference. In other words, rather than save you money, dynamic currency conversion could as much as double the surcharge on a foreign transaction. About the author
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