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Best cards with no foreign transaction fees of March 2024

The cards we feature here are from partners who compensate us when you approve through our site, and this may impact how or where these products appear. We don’t cover all available credit cards, but our analysis, reviews, and opinions are entirely from our editorial team. Please view our advertising policy and product review methodology for more information.

If you’re traveling abroad, don’t forget to double-check that you’ve got a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card in your wallet. These cards are excellent for frequent and occasional travelers alike since fees are one less thing you have to worry about every time you make a purchase.

Plus, there are plenty of great credit card options that waive these fees and earn rewards like cash back, points and miles you can use in the future. Some even carry no annual fee. To help you narrow down your choices and find the card that suits you best, check out this roundup of some top cards from our partners with no foreign transaction fees, picked by TPG’s expert editorial team.

At The Points Guy, our goal is to help you maximize your travel experiences while minimizing spending. Our travel and credit cards experts share their own experiences and give honest analyses to help you make decisions that benefit you the most. While we do receive compensation through our credit card application links, ads, and clearly indicated sponsored content, our editorial content, points valuations and card analysis are entirely our own.
  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card: Best for total value
  • Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card: Best for entertainment spending
  • Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: Best for bonus earning
  • The Platinum Card® from American Express: Best for luxury perks
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card: Best for flat-rate earning
  • Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card: Best for Bank of America customers
  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Best for travel
  • Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card: Best for airline miles

Best for total value
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4.5 / 5
Go to review
5x5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠.
3x3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries.
2x2x on all other travel purchases.
1x1x on all other purchases.
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 Travel℠.
60,000 bonus points
$95
21.49% - 28.49% Variable
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Excellent/Good

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of the most popular travel rewards credit card on the market. Offering an excellent return on travel and dining purchases, the card packs a ton of value that easily offsets its $95 annual fee. Cardholders can redeem points at 1.25 cents each for travel booked through Chase or transfer points to one of Chase’s 14 valuable airline and hotel partners. Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card.

Pros

  • Premium travel protection benefits including trip cancellation insurance, primary car rental insurance and lost luggage insurance.
  • You’ll earn 5 points per dollar on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3 points per dollar on dining, select streaming services and online grocery store purchases, 2 points per dollar on all other travel and 1 point per dollar on everything else.

Cons

  • The card comes with a $95 annual fee
  • 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 Travel℠.
  • Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel, plus more.
  • Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
  • 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.
  • Member FDIC

BEST FOR CASH BACK
Best for entertainment spending
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
3.5 / 5
Go to review
8%8% Cash Back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
5%5% Cash Back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel (terms apply)
3%3% Cash Back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®)
1%1% Cash Back on all other purchases
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
$200
$0
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Excellent, Good

The Capital One SavorOne is a great cash back credit card for beginners looking for a solid rewards structure and no annual fee. Dining, entertainment and groceries are high-value bonus categories, and it’s rare for a card to hit all three. Read our full review of the Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card.

Pros

  • Earning 3% back on dining, entertainment, popular streaming services, and at grocery stores (excluding superstores like Walmart® and Target®) is a great return for a no-annual-fee credit card
  • This card is great for beginners.
  • The intro APR offer that comes with this card makes it a solid choice for those looking to finance a large purchase. You’ll get 0% intro APR on purchases and balance transfers for the first 15 months (19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after, there's a 3% balance transfer fee for the first 15 months or 4% at the promotional APR offered at any other time).

Cons

  • If you spend a lot on dining and entertainment each year, there are cards that provide better value with higher rewards potential.
  • The sign-up bonus isn’t anything to write home about (though it is easy to earn).
  • 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 10% cash back on purchases made through Uber & Uber Eats, plus complimentary Uber One membership statement credits through 11/14/2024
  • Earn 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment 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
  • 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; 19.99% - 29.99% variable APR after that; balance transfer fee applies
  • No foreign transaction fee
  • No annual fee

Lower Spend Threshold
Best for bonus earning
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4.5 / 5
Go to review
3XEarn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year
1XEarn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases – with no limit to the amount you can earn
Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Earn 100,000 bonus points
$95
21.24% - 26.24% Variable
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Good, Excellent

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is among the highest we’ve seen from Chase. Plus earn points across the four bonus categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers) that are most popular with businesses. The card comes with travel protections, shopping protections and will also have primary coverage when renting a car for business purposes for you and your employees. Read our full review of the Ink Business Preferred Credit Card.

Pros

  • One of the highest sign-up bonuses we’ve seen — 100,000 bonus points after $8,000 worth of spend in the first three months after card opening.
  • Access to the Chase Ultimate Rewards portal for points redemption.
  • Reasonable $95 annual fee.
  • Bonus categories that are most relevant to business owners; primary car insurance.
  • Perks including cellphone and purchase protection; extended warranty; trip cancellation/interruption insurance; trip delay reimbursement.

Cons

  • High spending needed to get 100,000-point sign-up bonus.
  • No travel perks.
  • Subject to Chase's 5/24 rule on card applications.
  • Earn 100k bonus points after you spend $8,000 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 Travel℠
  • 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
  • Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
  • 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 Travel℠
  • Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
  • Member FDIC

Best for luxury perks
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4.5 / 5
Go to review
5XEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year.
5XEarn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
Earn 80,000 points
$695
See Pay Over Time APR
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Excellent/Good

The Amex Platinum is unmatched when it comes to travel perks and benefits. If lounge access, hotel elite status and annual statement credits are important to you, this card is well worth the high annual fee. Read our full review of the Platinum Card from American Express.

Pros

  • The current welcome offer on this card is quite lucrative. TPG values it at $1,600.
  • This card comes with a long list of benefits, including access to Centurion Lounges, complimentary elite status with Hilton and Marriott, and at least $500 in assorted annual statement credits and so much more (enrollment required)
  • The Amex Platinum comes with access to a premium concierge service that can help you with everything from booking hard-to-get reservations to finding destination guides to help you plan out your next getaway

Cons

  • The $695 annual fee is only worth it if you’re taking full advantage of the card’s benefits. Seldom travelers may not get enough value to warrant the cost.
  • Outside of the current welcome bonus, you’re only earning bonus rewards on specific airfare and hotel purchases, so it’s not a great card for other spending categories
  • The annual airline fee credit can be complicated to take advantage of compared to the broader travel credits offered by competing premium cards
  • Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Apply and select your preferred metal Card design: classic Platinum Card®, Platinum x Kehinde Wiley, or Platinum x Julie Mehretu.
  • Earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
  • $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts® or The Hotel Collection bookings with American Express Travel when you pay with your Platinum Card®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
  • $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
  • $155 Walmart+ Credit: Cover the cost of a $12.95 monthly Walmart+ membership (subject to auto-renewal) with a statement credit after you pay for Walmart+ each month with your Platinum Card®. Cost includes $12.95 plus applicable local sales tax. Plus Up Benefits are excluded.
  • $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card®.
  • $200 Uber Cash: Enjoy Uber VIP status and up to $200 in Uber savings on rides or eats orders in the US annually. Uber Cash and Uber VIP status is available to Basic Card Member only. Terms Apply.
  • $300 Equinox Credit: Get up to $300 back in statement credits per calendar year on an Equinox membership, or an Equinox club membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you pay with your Platinum Card®. Enrollment required. Visit https://platinum.equinox.com/ to enroll.
  • $189 CLEAR® Plus Credit: Breeze through security with CLEAR Plus at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues nationwide and get up to $189 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Platinum Card®. Learn more.
  • $100 Global Entry Credit: Receive either a $100 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
  • Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
  • $300 SoulCycle At-Home Bike Credit: Get a $300 statement credit for the purchase of a SoulCycle at-home bike with your Platinum Card®. An Equinox+ subscription is required to purchase a SoulCycle at-home bike and access SoulCycle content. Must charge full price of bike in one transaction. Shipping available in the contiguous U.S. only. Enrollment Required.
  • Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card® to your Resy profile.
  • $695 annual fee.
  • Terms Apply.

Best for flat-rate earning
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4.5 / 5
Go to review
5 Miles5 Miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
2 Miles2 Miles per dollar on every purchase, every day
New Venture cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once they spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
Earn 75,000 miles
$95
19.99% - 29.99% (Variable)
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Excellent, Good

When it comes to simplicity and strong rewards, the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a solid choice for most travelers. You’ll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase with no bonus categories to memorize, making it an ideal card for those with busy lives. Read our full review of the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card.

Pros

  • This flexible rewards card delivers a solid sign-up bonus of 75,000 miles, valued by TPG at $1,388.
  • You'll earn 2 miles per dollar on every purchase, which means you won't have to worry about memorizing bonus categories.
  • Rewards earned are versatile as they can be redeemed for any hotel or airline purchase for a statement credit or transferred to 15+ travel partners.

Cons

  • Transfer ratios to a couple of partners are mediocre at less than 1:1 ratio
  • Capital One airline partners do not include any large U.S. airlines
  • 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
  • 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
  • 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®
  • Use your miles to get reimbursed for any travel purchase—or redeem by booking a trip through Capital One Travel
  • Enrich every hotel stay from the Lifestyle Collection with a suite of cardholder benefits, like a $50 experience credit, room upgrades, and more
  • Transfer your miles to your choice of 15+ travel loyalty programs

Best for Bank of America customers
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
3.5 / 5
Go to review
2XEarn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases.
1.5XEarn unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases.
Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
60,000 points
$95
20.24% - 27.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Excellent/Good

The Bank of America Premium Rewards card is great for using the points earned for rewards that normal airline miles or credit card points can’t cover. Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members get a 25%-75% rewards bonus on every purchase. New cardmembers earn a 60,000-point sign-up bonus after spending $4,000 in the first 90 days of account opening. Read our full review of the Bank of American Premium Rewards card.

Pros

  • This card is more valuable for Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members, who can get between a 25% and 75% bonus on points earned
  • Comes with up to $100 in airline incidental statement credits annually and up to $100 Global Entry/TSA PreCheck® statement credit and travel protections
  • Can transfer points earned into a 529 college fund

Cons

  • Other cards offer higher points for key bonus categories
  • Must open a Bank of America account to get the best value for points
  • Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
  • Earn unlimited 2 points for every $1 spent on travel and dining purchases and unlimited 1.5 points for every $1 spent on all other purchases. No limit to the points you can earn and your points don't expire as long as your account remains open.
  • If you're a Bank of America Preferred Rewards® member, you can earn 25%-75% more points on every purchase. That means you could earn 2.5-3.5 points on travel and dining purchases and 1.87-2.62 points on all other purchases, for every $1 you spend.
  • Redeem for cash back as a statement credit, deposit into eligible Bank of America® accounts, credit to eligible Merrill® accounts, or gift cards or purchases at the Bank of America Travel Center.
  • Get up to $100 in Airline Incidental Statement Credits annually and TSA PreCheck®/Global Entry Statement Credits of up to $100, every four years.
  • Travel Insurance protections to assist with trip delays, cancellations and interruptions, baggage delays and lost luggage.
  • No foreign transaction fees.
  • Low $95 annual fee.
  • 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.

Best for travel
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4.5 / 5
Go to review
10xEarn 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠.
5xEarn 5x total points on flights through Chase Travel℠.
3xEarn 3x points on other travel and dining.
1xEarn 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
60,000 bonus points
$550
22.49% - 29.49% Variable
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
740-850Excellent

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is one of our top premium travel cards. With a $300 travel credit, generous points on dining and travel purchases and other benefits, you can get excellent value that far exceeds the annual fee on the card. Read our full review of the Chase Sapphire Reserve.

Pros

  • $300 annual travel credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year
  • Access to Chase Ultimate Rewards hotel and airline travel partners
  • 10 points per dollar on hotels, car rentals and Chase Dining purchases through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 5 points per dollar on flights booked through the Ultimate Rewards portal, 3 points per dollar on all other travel and dining, 1 point per dollar on everything else
  • 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel directly through Chase Travel

Cons

  • Steep initial $550 annual fee
  • May not make sense for people that don't travel frequently
  • Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
  • $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
  • Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
  • Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
  • 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
  • Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck®
  • Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more
  • Member FDIC

Best for airline miles
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
4 / 5
Go to review
3 milesEarn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases.
2 milesEarn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases.
1 mileEarn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases.
Get 70,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
70,000 bonus miles
$95
20.24% - 28.24% Variable APR on purchases and balance transfers
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO© Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
670-850Excellent/Good

There’s a lot to love about the Alaska Airlines Visa  credit card, in part due to its highly valuable loyalty program: Alaska Airlines MileagePlan. Whether you’re a loyal Alaska flyer or a points maximizer looking to diversify your rewards portfolio, this card has a lot to offer. For starters, you’ll receive Alaska’s Famous Companion Pass from $122($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after spending $6,000 or more within the prior anniversary year, free checked bags for you and up to six guests on your itinerary, 20% back on in-flight purchases and more. Plus, Alaska has joined the oneworld alliance, opening up endless redemption opportunities. Read our full review of the Alaska Airline Visa credit card.

Pros

  • Free checked bag for you and up to six guests on your reservation
  • Alaska discounts, including 20% back on in-flight purchases
  • No foreign transaction fees

Cons

  • $95 annual fee
  • Limited Time Online Offer – 70,000 Bonus Miles!
  • Get 70,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
  • Get Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) each account anniversary after you spend $6,000 or more on purchases within the prior anniversary year. Valid on all Alaska Airlines flights booked on alaskaair.com.
  • Earn unlimited 3 miles for every $1 spent on eligible Alaska Airlines purchases. Earn unlimited 2 miles for every $1 spent on eligible gas, EV charging station, cable, streaming services and local transit (including ride share) purchases. And earn unlimited 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. And, your miles don't expire on active accounts.
  • Earn a 10% rewards bonus on all miles earned from card purchases if you have an eligible Bank of America® account.
  • Free checked bag and enjoy priority boarding for you and up to 6 guests on the same reservation, when you pay for your flight with your card - Also available for authorized users when they book a reservation too!
  • With oneworld® Alliance member airlines and Alaska's Global Partners, Alaska has expanded their global reach to over 1,000 destinations worldwide bringing more airline partners and more ways to earn and redeem miles.
  • Plus, no foreign transaction fees and a low $95 annual fee.
  • This online only offer may not be available elsewhere if you leave this page. You can take advantage of this offer when you apply now.

Comparing the best credit cards with no foreign transaction fees

Credit card
Best forIntro offerEarning rateAnnual fee
4.5
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Chase's secure site
total value
60,000 bonus points
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 Travel℠.
1 - 5X points
$95
3.5
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Capital One's secure site
entertainment spending
$200
Earn a one-time $200 cash bonus after you spend $500 on purchases within the first 3 months from account opening
1 - 8% cash-back
$0
4.5
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Chase's secure site
bonus earning
Earn 100,000 bonus points
Earn 100,000 bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
1 - 3X points
$95
4.5
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at American Express's secure site
luxury perks
Earn 80,000 points
Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 on purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
5X points
$695
4.5
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Capital One's secure site
flat-rate earning
Earn 75,000 miles
New Venture cardholders can earn 75,000 miles once they spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening
2 - 5X miles
$95
3.5
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Bank of America's secure site
Bank of America customers
60,000 points
Receive 60,000 online bonus points - a $600 value - after you make at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
1.5 - 2X points
$95
4.5
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Chase's secure site
travel
60,000 bonus points
Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.
1 - 10X points
$550
4
Card Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
at Bank of America's secure site
airline miles
70,000 bonus miles
Get 70,000 bonus miles plus Alaska's Famous Companion Fare™ ($99 fare plus taxes and fees from $23) with this offer. To qualify, make $3,000 or more in purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account.
1 - 3X points
$95

More details on the best credit cards

Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is well known within the world of travel rewards credit cards. The card offers a strong return on travel and dining purchases, an annual hotel credit and amazing travel protections — all for a low annual fee. Points can be redeemed for 1.25 cents each toward travel booked through Chase and can gain even more value when transferred to one of Chase’s airline and hotel partners.

The card is an excellent choice for those looking to earn on dining and travel at solid rates with the option of redeeming points for travel with one of Chase’s transfer partners. Card members will enjoy travel protections to help ensure their journeys go smoothly.

“The Chase Sapphire Preferred has remained a top card in my wallet for years. Between the consistently strong sign-up bonus, low annual fee and continual improvements that have been made over the years, it's hard for any other mid-tier rewards card to compare. I love that I can earn bonus rewards on travel, dining, streaming and online grocery purchases — all with just one card. Plus, Chase Ultimate Rewards points are valuable and easy to use whether you're new to points and miles or an expert.” — Madison Blancaflor, senior content operations editor

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a great alternative. It is known for its impeccable earning hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel and solid flat earning rate on everyday purchases, plus a strong welcome bonus. 

Capital One SavorOne Cash Rewards Credit Card

The Capital One SavorOne is a cash-back card and a great addition to a beginner’s wallet. The card offers a solid rewards structure and no annual fee (see rates and fees). The bonus categories of dining, entertainment and groceries are easy to maximize, and it’s very rare for a card to have all three high-value bonus categories.

Individuals who don’t want to pay an annual fee but still want to earn cash back by simply using their card in the bonus-earning categories. 

The card is easy to use since it doesn’t require activating quarterly bonus-earning categories, streamlining the rewards-earning process for cardholders.

The Chase Freedom Unlimited® is a great choice for those looking for a simpler cash-back credit card with no annual fee. Cardholders earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on all purchases, which is great if you have expenses that fall outside of the SavorOne's bonus categories.

Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred Credit Card’s sign-up bonus is incredibly high and something to consider when looking to open this card. The card earns bonus points across four categories (travel, shipping, advertising and telecommunication providers), which are some of the most popular for businesses. In addition, the card provides travel and shopping protections, including primary coverage for car rentals and purchase protection. 

Business owners who spend within the card’s bonus-earning categories would benefit most from this card, especially business travelers. If you already have another Chase credit card, you can also easily combine your points to maximize value and redemption opportunities. 

“I originally signed up for the Ink Business Preferred primarily for its sign-up bonus. But, over the last year, I've found myself making it my go-to card when booking travel. After all, the Ink Business Preferred earns 3 points per dollar spent on travel and provides excellent travel protections, including trip delay protection and rental car insurance.” — Katie Genter, senior writer

The Capital One Spark Miles for Business offers cardholders a flat rewards rate on all purchases, which may be useful for those who cannot utilize the Ink Business Preferred’s bonus categories.

The Platinum Card® from American Express

The Amex Platinum comes with unmatched travel perks and benefits. For those looking for lounge access, hotel elite status, annual statement credits and other benefits meant to elevate your travel and lifestyle experiences, this card is well worth the high annual fee.

The Amex Platinum is perfect for frequent travelers who like to enjoy the more luxurious aspects of travel. Benefits include statement credits tailored toward flights and hotels, in addition to lifestyle-based credits for gym membership and streaming services. 

“Whilst this card has a high annual fee, it more than justifies itself for frequent travelers like me. The lounge access options that come with the Platinum are unrivaled by competitors. I put all of my flights — whether bought with cash or points — on this card to earn 5 points per dollar spent and trip protection insurance. I make sure to take full advantage of the Uber, Saks Fifth Avenue, Hulu/Disney+ and Clear Plus credits (enrollment required for select benefits). And, honestly, pulling a Platinum card out of your wallet to pay for something does feel pretty fancy.” — Matt Moffitt, senior credit cards editor

The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card has a more affordable annual fee (see rates and fees) while still offering perks that rival those of the Amex Platinum. Additionally, you’ll earn bonus rewards on purchases outside of just travel, which can be helpful if you’re hoping to apply rewards from everyday spending toward your travel experiences. 

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Simplicity, strong earning potential and a low annual fee are all strengths that come to mind for this card. Travelers will enjoy earning bonus rewards on all purchases without having to memorize bonus categories, instead focusing on redeeming rewards, such as transferring miles to one of Capital One’s partners. 

Travelers interested in earning rewards in a simplified manner, especially toward travel redemptions. Rewards earned are versatile as they can be redeemed for eligible travel purchases as a statement credit or transferred to Capital One travel partners. 

“The Capital One Venture is a great card that can add value to pretty much anyone's wallet. I use it to earn 2 miles per dollar on the purchases that fall outside of my other cards' bonus categories. The annual fee is low, Capital One miles are easy to redeem and the card does come with a few nice perks — including TSA PreCheck/Global Entry application fee reimbursement.” — Madison Blancaflor, senior content operations editor

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is an excellent card for those who would prefer to stay within the Chase Ultimate Rewards ecosystem. You’ll still earn generously across travel, dining and select streaming services.

Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card

The Bank of America Premium Rewards credit card generously offers 2 points per dollar on travel and dining, while giving cardholders 1.5 points per dollar on all other purchases, a higher bonus-earning potential than other travel cards. Flexible redemption options and the ability for Bank of America Preferred Rewards® members to get a 25%-75% rewards bonus on every purchase make the card even more outstanding. 

Individuals who currently have a Bank of America account and want a stress-free card that offers simplicity. For semifrequent travelers, this card offers solid benefits such as an annual airline incidental credit, comprehensive travel protection insurance and unique redemption options such as transferring points into a 529 college fund.

The card offers benefits and a variety of redemption options to suit almost any individual. Strong earning potential in broad categories such as travel and dining make this an excellent choice for a card with a low annual fee. 

The Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card is a strong contender for those looking for a BofA card tailored more toward travel with no annual fee and no foreign transaction fees. 

Chase Sapphire Reserve®

The Chase Sapphire Reserve is a top premium travel card among TPG staffers and many travel aficionados. Offering a generous travel credit and bonus earnings on dining and travel purchases, this card is an easy way to build up your points balance for your next adventure. With such excellent benefits offered, the annual fee on the card is easy to justify for many travelers. 

The card is best for those who spend a lot on travel and dining. If you travel often, this card is also a must-have for its travel protections, statement credits and lounge access. 

“I've had the Sapphire Reserve for years, and it's going to stay in my wallet for the near future. I get $300 off travel every year, along with great earning rates on travel and dining (3 points per dollar) and varied travel protections that can reimburse me when things go wrong. And by leveraging other cards in the Ultimate Rewards ecosystem, I'm able to maximize the earnings across all of my purchases.” — Nick Ewen, director of content

The Platinum Card® from American Express provides additional travel and lifestyle benefits over the Chase Sapphire Reserve and is aimed toward travelers looking to upgrade their travel experiences with perks such as lounge access, automatic elite status and more.

Alaska Airlines Visa® credit card

The Alaska Airlines Visa credit card is loved by many thanks to the ability to earn miles with the airline’s highly valuable loyalty program: Alaska Airlines MileagePlan. In addition to earning coveted Alaska miles, cardholders earn Alaska’s Companion Pass, an outstanding perk for those who fly with Alaska often.

Those who are frequent flyers on Alaska Airlines benefit the most from this card because of airline-specific perks such as a free checked bag and priority boarding. The card is an excellent way to earn Alaska miles, which can redeemed for travel on Oneworld alliance airlines and other partners. 

Alaska MileagePlan miles are among the most difficult to earn within the world of credit card points and miles, so having a card that helps boost your mileage balance can provide a lot of value. 

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a good choice for those looking to be flexible with their rewards, as Capital One miles transfer to multiple airline and hotel partners.  

Maximizing credit cards with no foreign transaction fees

Enjoy multicountry trips with ease

Jumping from country to country within different regions of the world has its complications in terms of money due to varying currencies. When a credit card charges a foreign transaction fee, it can often outweigh the potential benefits of earning rewards on those purchases abroad. However, you can travel knowing that wherever you go, you don’t have to worry about pesky foreign transaction fees charged by banks when swiping one of TPG’s best cards with no foreign transaction fees.

Check category spending restrictions

When a credit card does not charge a foreign transaction fee, you want to make sure that your travel card is earning bonus points during your travels. For example, the American Express® Gold Card earns 4 points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets only, so your supermarket purchases abroad will not earn bonus points. It’s always a good idea to check if cards in your wallet have any restrictions on earning bonus points, especially if you plan on earning those points overseas. 

Beware of dynamic currency conversion

Even if you have a card that waives foreign transaction fees, you’ll want to watch out for dynamic currency conversion. This is when a merchant in a foreign country offers to charge you in your home currency rather than the local one. For example, a shop in London might ask if you want to be charged in British pounds instead of U.S. dollars. While it may seem like a nice option, it will almost always cost you. In fact, some TPG staffers have data points with conversion rates that would’ve added more than 7% to the purchase price!

Stick to the local currency, since your card issuer will convert the transaction at the spot rate at the time of the transaction.

How we rate cards

Paying a foreign transaction fee every time you make a purchase abroad can add up. That’s why we curated a list of the best foreign transaction fee cards. We rated the cards based on their travel earning rates, annual fee and added benefits like global acceptance and travel insurance. To learn about how TPG evaluates and chooses cards for our roundups, check out our methodology here.
Earning ratesSince you only pay foreign transaction fees if you are abroad, we rated cards on their earning rates for travel.
Annual feeSelect cards come with annual fees but also offer additional benefits. Depending on your needs, a card with an annual fee may be worth it.
Welcome bonusWelcome bonuses can cover your next adventure which is why it is one of the primary factors we considered for this list.
Redemption optionsTransferable reward points are arguably the most valuable reward currency and many of the cards on this list earns transferable points and miles.
Added benefitsSince many of the cards on this list are travel oriented, select cards offer additional benefits that complement your travel lifestyle.

What is a foreign transaction fee?

A foreign transaction fee is charged by your card issuer every time you swipe your card outside of the U.S. When you buy something abroad or on a non-U.S website, the cost of the purchase will likely need to be converted into U.S. dollars. This comes at a cost, which the foreign bank then passes onto the issuer, which then passes that fee onto you, the consumer.

Top credit card issuers' foreign transaction fees

While a few issuers don’t charge foreign transaction fees across any of their cards, others offer a mix of cards with foreign transaction fees and without. Here is a rundown of the standard transaction fees charged by the major U.S. credit card issuers for the cards that do have these fees. 

Issuer Standard foreign transaction fees
American Express 2.7% for personal and small-business cards, and 2.5% for corporate cards
Bank of America 3%
Capital One  No Capital One cards have foreign transaction fees
Chase 2%-5%
Citi 3%
Discover No Discover cards have foreign transaction fees
Wells Fargo 3%

How to avoid foreign transaction fees

The best way to avoid foreign transaction fees is to travel with a card that doesn’t charge those fees. When applying for a card, you can check the terms and conditions for a rate table that should list any fees that the card will incur — including foreign transaction fees. 

When shopping online with retailers or travel companies based outside of the U.S. it’s also good practice to use a card that doesn’t charge these fees. Even though you may be pressing the purchase button while in the U.S., if the store or brand you’re shopping with is based abroad, that purchase may still be considered a foreign transaction, which would incur the fee.

Be especially diligent about which card you use when booking travel at hotels abroad. While Hilton and Marriott are both U.S.-based companies, many of the individual hotels within those brands are locally owned and operated and could charge a foreign transaction fee for bookings when you don’t use the right credit card.  

How to choose the best no foreign transaction fee card

Choosing a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card can be difficult given there are so many options, but it's important to keep in mind how that card will be used. If you’re interested in travel, find a card that offers more bonus-earning categories and benefits related to travel or dining. If you’re interested in saving money on everyday expenses, find a cash-back card that earns flat-rate rewards or one that has bonus categories you can take advantage of domestically and internationally.
Here are some of the main points to consider when choosing a no foreign transaction fee credit card:
  • 1
    Annual fee
    An annual fee card may be well worth it if the card features benefits that are worth more than the card’s annual fee. Depending on your travel lifestyle, it might be beneficial to consider a card with an annual fee.
  • 2
    Welcome bonus
    Welcome bonuses are an important part of determining a card’s value. It is often significantly more difficult to earn as many points as a card’s welcome bonus through regular spending alone. Generally, the higher the welcome bonus is, the higher the required spend will be so make sure you can earn your card’s welcome bonus through your normal spending habits.
  • 3
    Bonus categories
    Cards on this list feature a variety of bonus categories. Choosing a card with elevated earning rates on your regular spending categories is the best way to get the most out of your card. You want to choose a card that best benefits you and your earning strategy.
Foreign transaction fees: Everything you need to know - The Points Guy
Guide to foreign transaction fees

Ask our experts

What’s your favorite credit card with no foreign transaction fee — and why?

Frequently asked questions

When you buy something abroad or on a non-U.S. website, the cost of the purchase will likely need to be converted into U.S. dollars. A foreign transaction fee is generally charged to mitigate the financial risks of the ever-changing foreign exchange market. Once the purchase is converted into U.S. dollars, then a foreign transaction fee is charged.

Foreign transaction fees vary for each issuer but are generally anywhere between 2% and 5%. Given that most bonus rewards categories fall into the same earning percentage, a foreign transaction fee on purchases can easily completely offset any value you’d be getting from your credit card’s rewards structure. 

You don’t have to be in another country to rack up a foreign transaction fee. If you make a payment online with a brand that isn’t based in the U.S., you might still be charged a foreign transaction fee, even if you were in the U.S. when you made the purchase. 

This can happen when you are buying from a company that is not based in the U.S., but it also happens when booking hotels abroad. Most properties within major hotel brand portfolios like Hilton or Marriott are individually owned and managed, but reservations are facilitated through a brandwide website. 

This means that while your reservation may be made on a U.S. website and you may pay in U.S. dollars, the room charges may be processed by the hotel itself through a non-U.S. bank. It’s generally hard to tell in these cases whether you’ll be charged a foreign transaction fee until after the payment is already processed. So it’s a best practice to use a card with no foreign transaction fees just in case.

If foreign transaction fees are charged on purchases made for business purposes then the fees are tax deductible, but all foreign transaction fees for personal expenses are not tax deductible. 

Foreign transaction fees are not refundable. The best way to avoid incurring these fees is to use a card that doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee to begin with (or to use cash while abroad, but then you’ll miss out on the potential to earn rewards). 

However, there are some cards that will refund you for foreign ATM fees when traveling abroad. ATM fees are not the same thing as foreign transaction fees — ATM fees are charged by a bank when using an ATM that is not affiliated with your bank — but are an example of fees you may be charged while traveling abroad. A Schwab Bank Investor Checking account from Charles Schwab comes with a debit card that will refund any fees incurred from using ATMs while abroad. 

When applying for a new card or evaluating an existing card, look at your cardholder agreement and rates and fees page, which will highlight if the card charges foreign transaction fees or not.

There are U.S. credit card issuers that never charge foreign transaction fees, regardless of which credit card you have — most notably Capital One and Discover

However, even the credit card issuers who do charge foreign transaction fees across some of their cards almost always offer at least a few credit cards within their lineup that don’t charge these fees — many of which are included in this list. These cards are usually geared toward travelers and include bonus categories and benefits that are suited for those who want to make the most of their travels.