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Can You Buy Euros with a Credit Card?
July 1, 2025
Quick Answer
Yes, you can purchase euros with a credit card, but be mindful that most issuers process this transaction as a cash advance, which often incurs steep fees and immediate interest charges.
Should You Buy Euros With A Credit Card?
Using a credit card to buy Euros has both advantages and disadvantages to consider.
Benefits
- Convenience: You can quickly purchase currency online or at an ATM without carrying large amounts of your home currency.
- Security: Credit cards provide robust fraud protection, limiting your liability if the card is lost or stolen.
- Rewards Potential: Some cards may offer points, miles, or cashback on transactions, though terms can vary significantly.
Costs
- Cash Advance Fees: Issuers often treat currency purchases as cash advances, which typically incur a fee of 3% to 5% of the transaction amount.
- Immediate Interest: Unlike regular purchases, interest on cash advances usually accrues immediately at a higher rate, with no grace period.
- Foreign Transaction Fees: A separate fee, often 1% to 3% of the total, may be charged for transactions processed in a foreign currency.
- Unfavorable Exchange Rates: The exchange rate you receive might be less competitive than rates offered by banks or dedicated currency specialists.
How to Buy Euros With A Credit Card
Planning a trip to Europe? Using a credit card for purchases in Euros is convenient and often cost-effective. Here’s how to navigate the process and make smart financial choices abroad.
- Choose the Right Card: Not all plastic is created equal for international use. Prioritize cards with no foreign transaction fees to avoid extra charges on every purchase. A dedicated card exploration tool can help you compare options.
- Notify Your Bank: Before you travel, give your credit card issuer a heads-up about your trip dates and destinations. This simple step prevents your account from being frozen for suspected fraudulent activity while you're overseas.
- Decline Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): When paying, you may be asked if you want to pay in your home currency or in Euros. Always choose Euros. Opting for your home currency triggers DCC, which almost always results in a less favorable exchange rate.
- Understand the Exchange Rate: The conversion rate is set by your card network (like Visa or Mastercard), not the local merchant. These network rates are highly competitive and are typically much better than what you'd get at a currency exchange kiosk.
- Review Your Statement: After a purchase, check your statement online. You’ll see the transaction listed in your home currency, reflecting the exchange rate on the day it was processed, allowing you to track your spending accurately.
Impact On Your Credit Score
Using a credit card to buy Euros can affect your credit score in several ways. Here are a few key factors to consider before you make the transaction.
- Credit Utilization Ratio. A large currency purchase can increase your credit utilization, the amount of credit you use versus your total limit. A higher ratio can negatively impact your score, so it's best to keep your balance low.
- Cash Advance Treatment. Many card issuers classify buying foreign currency as a cash advance rather than a standard purchase. This can come with higher fees and interest rates and may be viewed negatively on your credit report.
Alternative Ways To Buy Euros
Bank Transfers and Debit Cards
Instead of a credit card, which can incur cash advance fees, consider a direct bank transfer or debit card. Many online currency services and banks let you fund your euro purchase directly from your checking account. This method avoids the higher interest rates and fees often associated with credit card transactions, making it a more cost-effective choice for larger amounts.
Multi-Currency Accounts
For frequent travelers or those who regularly transact in foreign currencies, a multi-currency account is a strategic option. Offered by banks and fintech firms, these accounts let you hold various currencies, including euros, and exchange them at competitive rates. This provides the flexibility to buy euros when rates are favorable, rather than just before a specific transaction.
Choose the Right Card to Buy Euros
When you're traveling or shopping internationally, the right credit card can be your best friend, helping you avoid hefty foreign transaction fees and rack up travel rewards. With thousands of cards on the market, finding the perfect match can feel overwhelming. That's where the Kudos Explore Tool comes in. This free, personalized recommendation engine helps you compare options side-by-side to find the best card for your specific needs, ensuring you get the most value out of every purchase abroad.
For those wanting to maximize their card benefits, Kudos is the ultimate free tool for online shopping. Plus, we have a special offer of $20 back on your first qualifying purchase when you sign-up for free using the code "GET20" and buy from a Boost merchant.
Frequently Asked Questions
What fees are involved when buying euros with a credit card?
You may face cash advance fees, foreign transaction fees, and potential currency conversion markups from your card provider.
Will buying euros with a credit card affect my credit score?
It can, as it's often treated as a cash advance, which can increase your credit utilization ratio.
Are there limits on how many euros I can buy?
Yes, your purchase is typically restricted by your credit card's cash advance limit, which is usually quite low.
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Editorial Disclosure: Opinions expressed here are those of Kudos alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.
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