Last Updated on October, 2024
If you plan to go abroad with your Wells Fargo card, be prepared for possible fees!
Before your trip, check out this quick guide.
‘WHY?’ Because I’ve openly discussed everything for your benefit.
One is that Wells Fargo charges about 3% for international transactions. But don’t worry – other OPTIONS like Wise and Revolut will save your bugs.
However, if you’re CLUELESS how Wells Fargo compares to others, you will learn everything, as I’ve discussed in detail.
So, READ my piece before it’s too late!
Contents
- A Quick Summary on Wells Fargo Foreign Transaction Fees
- Wells Fargo Card International Fees
- Wells Fargo Cards Foreign Transaction Fees (Debit and Credit)
- Can I Use My Wells Fargo Card Internationally?
- Wells Fargo Cards Alternatives
- Wise Cards Benefits Over Wells Fargo Cards
- Wells Fargo International ATM Fees
- Wells Fargo Card Exchange Rate
- Wells Fargo Foreign Transaction Limits
- Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) of Wells Fargo
- How to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees?
- Few Tips When Using ATMs and Paying By Card While Abroad
- Conclusion
- FAQs
- How Can I Inform Wells Fargo About My Travel Plan?
- How Can I Determine if I Need to Incur Foreign Transaction Fees?
- Can I Use My Wells Fargo Card for International Transactions?
- What is the Exchange Rate Used By Wells Fargo for International Transactions?
- How Do I Dispute a Foreign Transaction Fee on My Wells Fargo Statement?
- Was this article helpful?
A Quick Summary on Wells Fargo Foreign Transaction Fees
Wells Fargo Card International Fees
Listen to using your Wells Fargo card when traveling abroad. You must be aware of potential international fees to manage your finances wisely.
Wells Fargo typically charges foreign transaction fees for purchases outside the United States. These fees are a percentage of the transaction amount and may apply to in-person and online transactions.
Plus, ATM cash withdrawals in foreign countries may charge additional fees. You should check your Wells Fargo card’s specific terms and conditions to learn the exact fees applicable to international use.
GUESS WHAT? Being informed about these fees in advance helps you plan your expenses efficiently and avoid unexpected costs while traveling or making international transactions.
Remember, when it comes to Wells Fargo cards, it’s worth exploring to find the one that best suits your international spending requirements.
Wells Fargo Cards Foreign Transaction Fees (Debit and Credit)
Foreign transaction fees apply when you use Wells Fargo cards in a currency other than USD. This pertains to both credit and debit card transactions unless you have a travel-specific card that may reject these fees.
Here are the foreign transaction fees for Wells Fargo debit cards and Wells Fargo Active Cash credit cards:
However, it’s important to note that these fees are not the ONLY COSTS you will face when making international transactions with Wells Fargo.
Other providers, such as Chase, charge a 3% foreign transaction fee. In contrast, Wise and Revolut do not apply any foreign transaction fees.
Can I Use My Wells Fargo Card Internationally?
Yes. Because Wells Fargo provides a debit card mostly on the Visa network and offers various credit card options, mainly on Visa with one on Mastercard. Both Visa and Mastercard are acceptable worldwide, making them convenient for international use.
However, using Wells Fargo cards abroad will charge additional fees. If you’re a Wells Fargo customer, you can use your cards internationally, but check the network symbol (Visa or Mastercard) for merchant acceptance.
Keep in mind:
And, if you have the question, ‘Can I use Wells Fargo Card Internationally Online?’ Yes, again! You can use a Wells Fargo card for online transactions internationally, as it is generally accepted by most online merchants worldwide.
However, be aware of potential foreign transaction fees, typically around 3% of the transaction amount, depending on your specific card.
Does Wells Fargo Charge Foreign Transaction Fees?
Yes. As I said before, when using your Wells Fargo card for international purchases, you will face foreign transaction fees, typically around 3%. However, the specific fees depend on your Wells Fargo card.
Wells Fargo Debit Card Foreign Transactions
| Transaction Type | Fee |
| Withdrawal at Non-Wells Fargo ATM Overseas | $5+ additional ATM fees |
| International Purchase Transaction Fee | 3% of the purchase amount |
| Over the Counter Debit Card Cash Disbursement Internationally | 3% of the amount |
Wells Fargo Credit Card Foreign Transaction Fees (Wells Fargo Active Cash)
| Fee Type | Fee |
| Annual Fee | No annual fee |
| APR | 0% Introductory rate, then variable APR of 15.74% – 25.74% |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% |
Wells Fargo Reflect
| Fee Type | Fee |
| Annual fee | No annual fee |
| APR | 0% APR Introductory rate, which is followed by variable APR of 13.74% – 25.74% |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% |
Note: To avoid these fees, consider using digital banking solutions like Wise and Revolut, which offer international money transfer services without charging foreign transaction fees.
Wells Fargo Cards Alternatives
I have compared Wells Fargo and Chase for international fees on credit cards, debit cards, and Wells Fargo checking account(s). The costs are pretty similar between the two big banks.
While central bank(s) offer a wide range of services, they may have higher international transaction fees than specialized providers like Wise and Revolut.
The Wells Fargo Active Cash Card and the Cash Freedom Unlimited Card have comparable international fees. However, Wise and Revolut use different approaches, potentially resulting in lower overall costs and more transparency.
Check out the table below and also see how it compares when it comes to International Fees.
| Service/Fee | Wells Fargo | Chase | Wise | Revolut |
| Available Card Type | Debit and credit card | Debit and credit card | Wise debit card | Revolut debit card |
| Annual Fees/Card Order | No annual fee | Credit cards available from $0 to $550+ annual fee No annual fees for a debit card | No annual fee, $9 card order fee | No fee |
| Account Maintenance Fee | Maintenance fees to check accounts (varies by account) | Maintenance fees to check accounts (varies by account) | No fee | $0 – $16.99 per month |
| International Transaction Fee | 3% | 3% where applied | You’re free to spend any currency you have in your account (40+ supported currencies) | You’re free to spend any currency you have in your account (25+ supported currencies) |
| International ATM Withdrawals | Credit cards – $10 or 5% cash advance fees applies $5 – debit card | Credit cards – $10 or 5% cash advance fees applies $5 – debit card | 2 withdrawals up to $100 in value free After that 2%+ $1.5 | No fees applied up to $1,200 per month After that 2% |
| Exchange Rate | Visa/Mastercard rate for card spending International money transfer rates include a markup | Visa/Mastercard rate for card spending International money transfer rates include a markup | Mid-market exchange rate | Mid-market exchange rate to account limits |
| International Money Transfer | No foreign transaction fee for online and mobile payments $35 for branch or phone payments | Online and mobile payments – $5 for payments under $5000 rejected above that amount $50 for branch or phone payments | From 0.43% | International Transfers of $200 or greater will charge a fee of up to 5% on the transaction amount International transfers less than $200 will charge a fee of up to $10, depending on the amount of transfer |
Here’s a detailed view:
Chase
Wise
Revolut
Wise Cards Benefits Over Wells Fargo Cards
Wise offers several benefits over Wells Fargo for international travelers. First, Wise provides a multi-currency account with a linked debit card, allowing users to hold and convert currencies at the mid-market applicable exchange rate. This helps AVOID hidden costs and exchange rate markups.
Wise also emphasizes payment transparency. While Wells Fargo imposes various fees on foreign transactions, Wise’s debit card has no foreign transaction fees. This can save travelers money, especially with frequent international spending.
Moreover, Wise encourages users to pay in local currency when using ATMs abroad to ensure favorable exchange rates. On the other hand, Wells Fargo may charge fees to withdraw money from international non-Wells Fargo ATMs.
So, Wise stands out with its transparent structure, no foreign transaction fees, and convenient multi-currency account, making it a more cost-effective and user-friendly option for international travelers compared to Wells Fargo.
Wells Fargo International ATM Fees
| Card Type | ATM Withdrawal Fee | ATM Inquiry Fee | ATM Operator Fee |
| Wells Fargo Debit Cards | $5 | $2.5 balance inquiry | Varies by country and ATM |
| Wells Fargo Active Cash Credit Card | $10 or 5% cash advance fee + interest | Not available | Varies by country and ATM |
| Chase Credit Cards | $10 or 5% cash advance fee | N/A | N/A |
| Chase Debit Cards | $5 | N/A | N/A |
| Wise Card | First 2 withdrawals (up to $100 each) free | Subsequent withdrawals 2%+ $1.5 fee | N/A |
| Revolut Card | First $1,200 per month No fee | After $1,200, 2% fee | N/A |
Note: All cards may have an additional 3% foreign transaction fee.
Wells Fargo Card Exchange Rate
When using Wells Fargo for foreign currency services, like sending a wire or cashing a foreign check, you’ll get their exchange rate, which is usually less favorable than rates on Google or currency converters.
And, if you use a Wells Fargo for spending, the exchange rate is set by Visa or Mastercard, which is generally considered fair. But be aware that the rate you see is when the payment is processed, not when you make debit card purchases.
A foreign transaction fee, typically around a 3% balance, also increases your overall costs. Plus, BEWARE of dynamic currency conversion (DCC), where merchants offer to charge you in USD. Go for paying in the local currency to avoid surprise fees and get a better rate.
However, alternative providers offer better OPTIONS:
Wells Fargo Foreign Transaction Limits
Wells Fargo debit and credit cards have specific limits depending on the card type. For debit cards, check your online banking for applicable limits.
Credit card holders can find limits in the card terms and conditions. When making an ATM withdrawal, note that the ATM operator may have lower limits than your bank.
Wells Fargo International ATM Withdrawal Limits
Wells Fargo’s international ATM withdrawal limits depend on your account and card and vary based on your available balance. Your withdrawal limits and purchase limits are provided when your card is issued. You can manage these limits on the Wells Fargo website or app or by calling the number on your card.
For other providers:
Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) of Wells Fargo
Listen, when using your debit card at a foreign ATM, go for the local cash instead of U.S. dollars if given the choice.
Choosing U.S. dollars means the exchange rate will be set by the ATM provider or bank, not the card network, and it’s likely to be unfavorable. ALWAYS go for the local cash at ATMs for the best exchange rate. Also, remember to check Wells Fargo’s exchange rate before your travels.
How to Avoid Foreign Transaction Fees?
When making international transactions, you will face some fees.
However, to understand and minimize these costs:
Few Tips When Using ATMs and Paying By Card While Abroad
TRUST ME. My tips, such as using ATMs and paying by card while abroad, will benefit you.
So, keep reading! Before you travel:
Use a 4-digit PIN for safer transactions abroad. Avoid currency exchange at the airport, as rates are usually unfavorable. As I said, be aware of ATM fees; cancel and find another if needed.
Adapt to local payment methods, as not all places accept cards. Carry cash when necessary, especially in places like Germany. Use an online cash converter if you’re unsure of prices.
Please make the most of your Wells Fargo card by understanding its usage details. Focus on enjoying your trip and knowing how to handle your finances abroad.
Useful guides:
- Wells Fargo Wire Transfer International
- Capital One Foreign Transaction Fees
- Best Travel Cards for Europe
Conclusion
If you ask me whether to prefer Wells Fargo or alternatives, I will tell you to consider Wise and Revolut to save your bugs.
However, I cannot force you to stick to my choice. So, if your eyes are still open to the benefits of the Wells Fargo Card, apart from its international fee, list out why you prefer it and read it.
If it’s convincing, choose that option without having a second thought. Because, as I promised you, I’ve covered everything, and it’s your turn now!
FAQs
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