Traveling abroad often comes with unexpected expenses—and international ATM fees are one of the most frustrating. Between out-of-network charges, foreign transaction fees, and currency conversion costs, withdrawing cash overseas can cost $5–$10 per transaction. Fortunately, with the right planning, you can avoid or minimize these fees and keep more money for your trip.
1. Understanding International ATM Fees
When you withdraw cash overseas, you may face multiple fees from different sources. Here’s a breakdown of the most common charges:
| Fee Type | Who Charges It | Typical Cost | How to Avoid It |
|---|---|---|---|
| ATM Surcharge | ATM Operator | $2–$5 per withdrawal | Use surcharge-free networks |
| Out-of-Network Fee | Your Bank | $2–$5 per withdrawal | Use partner banks overseas |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | Your Bank or Card Network | 1–3% of amount withdrawn | Use cards with no foreign fees |
| Currency Conversion Markup | ATM Operator / Bank | Variable, often hidden | Decline Dynamic Currency Conversion |
For fee-free ATMs in the U.S., see our Best No-Fee ATMs Nationwide Guide.
2. Use Banks with International ATM Partnerships
Some U.S. banks partner with overseas banks to offer fee-free withdrawals at thousands of ATMs worldwide. These partnerships waive both the out-of-network fee and sometimes the local ATM surcharge.
- Bank of America: Partners with banks like Barclays (UK), BNP Paribas (France), and Deutsche Bank (Germany).
- Chase: Offers global ATM networks in select countries with fee rebates for premium accounts.
- Schwab Bank: Refunds all ATM fees worldwide with its High-Yield Investor Checking account.
For a full comparison, visit our Avoid ATM Fees Complete Guide.
3. Look for Global Surcharge-Free ATM Networks
Large ATM networks like Allpoint and MoneyPass provide surcharge-free ATMs across multiple countries. By using participating machines, you avoid the local ATM operator’s fee even if you’re abroad.
See our Allpoint vs. MoneyPass Comparison Guide to understand how each network works.
4. Use Debit Cards with No Foreign Transaction Fees
Some banks and credit unions issue debit cards that waive foreign transaction fees and reimburse ATM charges automatically. Examples include:
- Charles Schwab Bank: Unlimited worldwide ATM fee refunds.
- Fidelity Cash Management: No foreign transaction fees or ATM fees.
- Capital One 360: No foreign transaction fees for debit card withdrawals.
5. Decline Dynamic Currency Conversion
When using an overseas ATM, you might be asked whether to charge your withdrawal in local currency or U.S. dollars. Always choose local currency. Selecting U.S. dollars triggers Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), which often comes with poor exchange rates and extra fees.
6. Make Larger, Less Frequent Withdrawals
Since many fees are per-transaction rather than a percentage, withdrawing larger amounts less often can reduce your total fees. Just be sure to store cash securely and follow common-sense safety tips when carrying larger sums.
Our ATM Safety Tips Guide explains how to stay safe when handling cash abroad.
7. Credit Unions and International Fee Benefits
Many credit unions belong to the CO-OP Shared ATM Network or other global alliances that offer low or no international ATM fees. If you’re a credit union member, check whether your institution participates in any foreign ATM partnerships.
8. Use Mobile Banking for Cash Alternatives
With the rise of contactless payments and digital wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, many travelers find they need less cash than before. Paying directly with a card or mobile wallet can help you avoid ATM fees altogether in many destinations.
See our Contactless ATM Transactions Guide for more on digital banking tools.
9. Additional Tips for Reducing ATM Fees Overseas
- Check with your bank about daily withdrawal limits before traveling. For a comparison, see our ATM Withdrawal Limits by Bank Guide.
- Use airport ATMs sparingly—they often have the highest fees.
- Consider prepaid travel cards with low foreign transaction fees.
- Keep backup payment methods in case your main card is lost or blocked.
International ATM Fee FAQs
Which U.S. banks refund international ATM fees?
Banks like Charles Schwab, Fidelity, and SoFi reimburse ATM fees worldwide, making them popular choices for frequent travelers.
Can I avoid currency conversion fees abroad?
Yes. Always choose to be charged in local currency instead of U.S. dollars to avoid Dynamic Currency Conversion markups.
Do credit unions offer lower international ATM fees?
Many credit unions participate in shared networks or partnerships that reduce or eliminate international ATM fees.
Related Guides
- Avoid ATM Fees Complete Guide
- Allpoint vs. MoneyPass Comparison Guide
- Contactless ATM Transactions Guide
- ATM Withdrawal Limits by Bank Guide
Conclusion
International ATM fees can take a bite out of your travel budget, but with the right strategies—like using partner banks, fee-free networks, and cards that reimburse charges—you can access cash abroad without overpaying. Plan ahead, use local currency, and leverage mobile banking tools to keep your money where it belongs: in your wallet, not in fees.