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Planning a trip abroad or shopping on international websites? If you’re a Chase Freedom cardholder, you might be wondering whether you’ll get hit with foreign transaction fees. These sneaky fees can add up—so it’s smart to know what you’re dealing with before you swipe your card outside the country.
TLDR: The classic Chase Freedom and Chase Freedom Flex cards do charge foreign transaction fees. If you want to avoid these fees, consider a different Chase card like the Chase Sapphire Preferred. These fees usually amount to 3% of every purchase made in a foreign currency. So if you’re traveling or shopping internationally often, they can really bite into your budget.
What Are Foreign Transaction Fees?
Foreign transaction fees are extra charges that credit card companies add when you make purchases outside the U.S. or in a foreign currency online.
These fees usually come in two parts:
- A fee from the payment network (like Visa or Mastercard)
- A fee from your credit card issuer (like Chase)
The total fee is around 3% of the purchase price. Let’s say you spend $100 abroad—that’s an extra $3 added to your bill. Ouch!
Does Chase Freedom Charge These Fees?
Yes, it does. The original Chase Freedom card and the newer Chase Freedom Flex both have a 3% foreign transaction fee.
That means:
- You’ll be charged extra even for online purchases made in foreign currencies
- Using your card in another country = extra fees
- Even contactless or mobile payments abroad will include the 3%
So while the cash back rewards and rotating categories are great, these cards aren’t your best travel buddies when it comes to international use.
What’s the Difference Between Chase Freedom and Freedom Flex?
Great question! Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Chase Freedom (Discontinued for new users): This was the original version. Some people still have it.
- Chase Freedom Flex: This is the new version using Mastercard instead of Visa. It has bonus categories and similar rewards.
BUT, both versions include the same 3% foreign transaction fees. So, no difference there.
Can I Still Use Chase Freedom Abroad?
You can, but it’s not ideal. If you’re only making one or two small purchases, the fees won’t hurt much. But if you’re spending a lot or traveling for a while, those 3% charges start adding up fast.
Let’s say you spend $1,000 during your trip. That’s $30 extra in fees. That could be a nice dinner or some cool souvenirs you miss out on.
How to Avoid These Fees
Easy fix—use a card that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees! Good news: Chase actually has some great options that are travel-friendly.
Check out these cards instead:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred®: No foreign transaction fees, excellent for travel, and earns points.
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®: Also fee-free abroad, plus additional travel luxuries.
- Chase Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card: No foreign fees—and great if you’re a business traveler.
If you’re looking to travel smart, do consider switching before your next big trip.
Why Do These Fees Even Exist?
Credit card companies use different banks and processors to convert your U.S. dollars into other currencies. Each part of this chain wants a little piece of the pie. So they pass the cost on to you in the form of a percentage fee.
Sounds like a lot, right? That’s why many newer travel cards try to cut this out completely to win travelers—and that’s a good deal for you.
What If I Have to Use It Abroad?
Sometimes, it’s your only option. In that case, here are a few tips to soften the blow:
- Use it sparingly—only for emergencies or small purchases
- Have a backup card that doesn’t charge foreign fees
- Avoid dynamic currency conversion—Always pay in the local currency
Just because you can use your Chase Freedom card abroad doesn’t mean you should. Try to keep it local—or digital with fee-free options.
Are There Any Exceptions?
Nope. For the Chase Freedom and Freedom Flex cards, the foreign transaction fee applies across the board. It doesn’t matter:
- How much you spend
- What kind of merchant you’re buying from
- If it’s in-person or online
3% is 3%, every time.
Conclusion
If you’re using a Chase Freedom or Chase Freedom Flex card to make purchases outside of the U.S., expect to pay a little extra in foreign transaction fees. While the card is great for its cash back perks in the U.S., it loses points for international use.
Want to keep every dollar you spend? Pick a fee-free travel card from Chase or other major issuers. Your future self will thank you every time you swipe or tap that card overseas!
Final Tip: If you already have a Chase Freedom card, consider keeping it for U.S. spending and applying for a second card (like Sapphire Preferred) specifically for travel.
Happy travels and smart spending!
