Best Credit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees

Planning a trip abroad? Escape the burden of extra charges looming over your shopping and other transactions abroad with the best travel credit card with no foreign transaction fee.

One must beware of foreign transaction fees, an unwelcoming companion that usually ranges from 1% to 3% of your purchase amount.

If your hotel bill is $3,000, then you’ll have to pay a potential additional charge of $90.

Embark on a journey of financial freedom and global adventures with our guide to the best no-foreign transaction fee credit cards.

As international travel beckons, these visa cards become your passport to seamless transactions abroad.

Say goodbye to high fees that chip away at your hard-earned money.

Opt for a travel credit card that says no to foreign transaction fees.

Elevate your financial strategy and ensure every purchase contributes to your next exciting journey.

We unveil what credit cards have no foreign transaction fees while highlighting various additional perks offered.

Discover the power of these cards, transforming your overseas experiences into unforgettable moments without the worry of extra charges.

What is a foreign transaction fee?

A credit card foreign transaction fee, typically around 3%, is a surcharge imposed by issuers on purchases made outside the U.S.

Even when opting for dynamic currency conversion and paying in U.S. dollars, this fee may still apply.

The magnitude of these fees typically falls within the range of 2% to 3%. For instance, using a card with a 3% fee to buy a $140 item in London incurs a $4.20 foreign transaction fee, visible as a separate item on your statement.

Importantly, these fees apply abroad and also to online purchases processed internationally.

Notably, issuers like Capital One, Discover, and USAA don’t charge foreign transaction fees on any card, and travel-oriented cards often exempt users from these fees.

However, many credit cards come with international fees, such as Chase Freedom Unlimited foreign transaction fee of 3% and Amex Blue Cash Preferred foreign transaction fee of 2.7%.

How much are foreign transaction fees?

The foreign transaction fee, varying from 1 to 3 percent and occasionally reaching 5 percent, hinges on the specific issuer and card.

While a single fee may appear reasonable, the cumulative impact grows as your spending increases.

International travel or purchases from global vendors may expose you to additional credit card fees, such as cash advance fees, ATM fees, and conversion fees, collectively diminishing your purchasing power.

Foreign transaction fees imposed by credit card issuers exhibit significant variation.

Issuers such as Amex and Discover operate on their proprietary payment networks, whereas others like Capital One or Chase utilize the networks of Visa or Mastercard.

Additionally, it is common for an issuer to levy foreign transaction fees on certain cards while exempting others.

Below is a concise overview of the fee structures among several major credit card issuers:

Credit Card Issuer	Foreign Transaction Fee (%)
1. Capital One	0%
2. American Express	2.7%
3. Discover	0%
4. Chase	3%
5. Citi	3%
6. Bank of America	3%
7. Wells Fargo	3%
8. U.S. Bank	3%
9. Barclays	3%
10. Synchrony	3%

8 Best Credit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees

You can now relish your trips without worrying about extra charges. Discover the freedom of international spending with our unique selection of 8 best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.

From elite travel perks to straightforward cash rewards, these cards redefine the way you navigate the world.

Explore the top choices that cater to your lifestyle and enhance your travel experience without the burden of international transaction fees.

When picking a credit card for your global travels, look for cards that not only waive these fees but also offer rewards aligned with your spending habits.

Travel credit cards often provide additional perks like trip cancellation insurance and airport lounge access.

Check for annual fees, as some high-end cards may charge them despite no foreign transaction fees.

Consider the card’s APR, especially if you might carry a balance.

Tailor your choice based on your specific needs, whether you’re a frequent traveler, student, or business owner.

For example, the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card suits international travelers, the Discover It Student Cash Back card is ideal for students studying abroad, and the Capital One Venture X Business card is a great choice for business owners who frequently travel overseas.

Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
Renowned for its travel perks, the Chase Sapphire Preferred stands out as one of the best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees.

Beyond stress-free international shopping, cardholders enjoy a robust rewards program.

With a $95 annual fee, you can earn a generous welcome bonus, 5x points on travel, and 3x on dining, online grocery shopping, and select streaming services.

Additional benefits encompass travel insurance, 15+ transfer partners for flexible redemption, and purchase protection.
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
As a stellar credit card option without foreign transaction fees, the Capital One Venture Rewards shines in the travel credit card arena.

Boasting 2x miles per dollar on every purchase, it provides flexibility in redeeming rewards for various travel expenses.

The card’s simplicity, combined with a sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles, makes it an ideal choice for those seeking hassle-free travel rewards and no charges on their purchases abroad.

Cardholders can also enjoy $100 credit for Global Entry/TSA PreCheck and travel insurance perks at just a $95 annual fee.
Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Quicksilver Cash Rewards Card stands out for its straightforward approach to rewards and no foreign transaction fees.

Offering unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, it caters to those who prefer cash rewards without the complexity of categories.

Undoubtedly, it is one of the best no annual fee and no foreign transaction fee credit cards.

Beyond its cash-back benefits and one-time $200 bonus, the card ensures a seamless international spending experience with no added fees, travel insurance, and Capital One Entertainment & Travel perks.
American Express Platinum Card
Regarded as a top luxury travel card, the Amex Platinum Card not only waives foreign transaction fees but also provides many exclusive benefits.

From access to over 1,400 airport lounges in the Global Lounge Collection to Hilton Honors & Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status and concierge services, the card offers unparalleled travel privileges.

With an annual fee of $695, cardholders enjoy a substantial welcome bonus of 75,0000 Membership Rewards points and 5x points on flights and prepaid hotels.

You also get $200 credits for Airline fees, Hotels, and Uber, making it a top-tier choice for wise travelers.
Citi Premier Credit Card
The Citi Premier Credit Card is a standout option for international travelers, thanks to its no foreign transaction fees.

With a strong emphasis on travel rewards, cardholders earn 3x ThankYou points on air travel, dining, supermarkets, hotels, and gas stations.

It is an excellent no-foreign transaction fee credit card with flexible ThankYou points that can be redeemed for various travel options.

The card’s welcome bonus of 60,000 points, $100 Annual Hotel Savings Benefit, no expiration and limit on points, and other perks, make it a compelling choice for those seeking a well-rounded travel credit card.
Delta SkyMiles Blue American Express Card
Tailored for Delta Air Lines enthusiasts, the Amex Delta SkyMiles Blue is a great no international-fee credit card with exclusive Delta perks.

Cardholders earn 2x SkyMiles on dining and Delta purchases.

You also enjoy priority boarding, 20% in-flight discounts, purchase protection, Global Assist Hotline, etc.

The card’s simplicity and focus on Delta-related benefits make it an attractive option for frequent Delta travelers seeking no annual fee and no foreign transaction fee credit cards.
Chase United Business Card
Ideal for business travelers, the United Business Credit Card combines robust travel perks with the convenience of no foreign transaction fees.

Cardholders accrue 2x miles on business expenses, United purchases, dining, and more.

You also enjoy complimentary checked bags, priority boarding, and United Club access.

It is one of the best travel credit cards no foreign transaction fee!

With a fantastic rewards structure and travel insurance benefits, it is a valuable asset for those navigating international business travel.
Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card
The Chase Sapphire Reserve Card is a premier choice for global travelers with its no foreign transaction fees feature.

It elevates the travel experience with an annual $300 travel credit, Priority Pass airport lounge access, and statement credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck.

You can also earn 5x points on flights, 10x on hotels, and 3x at restaurants.

Beyond travel, this visa no foreign transaction fee credit card offers perks like- valuable travel protections, DoorDash benefits, and a complimentary Lyft Pink membership, making it a comprehensive choice for frequent travelers.

Credit card	Uthrive rating	Intro offer	Rewards rate	Annual fee	Learn more
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.8/5 Best Travel Rewards Credit Card	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 3x - 5x total points	Annual Fees annual_fees	Tell me more
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.7/5 Popular Travel Rewards Credit Card	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 2- 5 Miles per dollar	Annual Fees annual_fees	View how to apply
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.6/5 Unlimited Cash Back Card with No Annual Fee	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 1.5% - 5% cash back	Annual Fees annual_fees	View how to apply
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.8/5 Best for Luxury Travel and Benefits	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points	Annual Fees annual_fees	View how to apply
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.4/5 Top-Tier Travel Credit Card	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 1x - 3x points per dollar	Annual Fees annual_fees	View how to apply
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.8/5 An excellent choice for those looking for a no-annual-fee credit card	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 1x - 2x Miles per dollar	Annual Fees annual_fees	View how to apply
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.2/5 Exciting Card for United Airlines travelers	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 1X - 2X miles per $1	Annual Fees annual_fees	Tell me more
card_name card_name Terms Apply	Rating 4.2/5 Luxury Travel Perks and Rewards Card	Intro Offer bonus_miles	Reward Rates 2x - 10x total points	Annual Fees $550	Tell me more

Conclusion

Using a credit card outside the U.S. can come with extra charges, typically around 2 to 3%. But not all cards have these fees.

Some credit card issuers provide cards without annual fees, and some don’t charge foreign transaction fees.

When traveling abroad, it’s smart to have a credit card that doesn’t hit you with extra fees, saving money for your next adventure!

Opting for a credit card with no foreign transaction fees offers several advantages.

Firstly, it provides peace of mind by eliminating surprise charges on your bill, especially crucial when making numerous purchases in different currencies.

Secondly, using a credit card avoids the risks associated with carrying cash or using a debit card, offering protection against theft and unauthorized charges.

Additionally, you can enjoy high-reward earnings without the worry of fees diminishing your rewards.

With better exchange rates from Visa or Mastercard, you save on currency conversion costs.

Finally, staying organized becomes simpler as all expenses are consolidated on your credit card, eliminating the need to track various payment methods or currency exchange fees.