Most credit cards charge a hefty 2–3.5% international transaction fee when you use it overseas while traveling or shopping online. But not these cards.
Many credit cards charge 2%+ all international transactions, which can quickly add up when you're travelling or shopping online. A card with no fees can save you hundreds of dollars.
The Bankwest Breeze Platinum Mastercard won the 2025 Finder Award for best travel credit card.
Check the annual fee and pay off your card in full each month to maximise your savings.
How do credit cards with no foreign transaction fees work?
A small selection of credit cards don't charge you the standard 2 to 3.5% fee when using the card overseas. Some cards charge the fee but give you a rebate.
This is a great benefit if you're using the credit card overseas while travelling, or even if you're just shopping online at non-Australian merchants.
Finder ranks the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards using the Finder Score, which considers fees but also benefits like interest-free days and complimentary travel insurance.
How much can I save with a 0% foreign transaction fee card?
If you spent $2,000 on a card with a 3% international transaction fee, it would cost you $60. A 0% fee card would save you $60 in one transaction.
Keep in mind that the cost of foreign transaction fees may not be obvious straight away, as they are added as separate transactions on your credit card account.
In 2024 the ACCC found that credit and debit cards can be cheaper than travel credit cards when making purchases overseas. Especially cards that don't charge international transaction fees.
The Bankwest Breeze Platinum Mastercard won the 2025 Finder travel credit card award. It offers a 0% foreign transaction fee, a low purchase rate plus complimentary travel insurance and a very competitive annual fee.
The Bankwest Breeze Platinum Mastercard won the 2025 Finder travel credit card award. It offers a 0% foreign transaction fee, a low purchase rate plus complimentary travel insurance and a very competitive annual fee.
How to compare no foreign transaction fee credit cards
0% fee conditions. Certain credit cards automatically waive foreign transaction fees when you make an international purchase. Others offer a rebate when you meet specific requirements.
Annual fees. Annual fees typically range from $0 to $400 or more for higher-end cards. You can weigh this fee against the value you'd get from 0% foreign transaction fees and any other card perks.
Interest rates. Interest rates on these cards range from around 10% to 28% for purchases. If you pay off your credit card as you go – or pay the total by the due date on your statement – you'll typically get interest-free days on your purchases. But if you end up carrying over a balance, a low rate credit card could be a more cost-effective option.
Overseas ATM withdrawal fees. Overseas ATM fees typically cost around $5 or between 2-3% of the total transaction. And that's not including any charges added by the overseas ATM operator.
💡 Tip: If you're planning to withdraw international currency from an overseas ATM, a multi-currency account such as Wise or the HSBC Everyday Global Account means avoiding cash advance fees. You can also check out Finder's guide to travel money for other options.
Want to use your credit card in Australia as well?
The range of credit cards that offer no foreign transaction fees means it's worth looking for other features that you want on your credit card. For example frequent flyer points, 0% interest rate offers, cashback bonuses or something else. The key is to find a card with features that add value when you're shopping in Australia and overseas.
Our expert says: You don't have to use a credit card when you travel
"I use a frequent flyer credit card when booking flights and hotels so I can earn points. But when I go overseas I use a travel card like Wise. This lets me load up money in a foreign currency pretty cheaply and spend it like a local. For me it's the best of both worlds."
When you're planning to use your card overseas spending, keep the following details in mind:
Daily cash withdrawal limits. Some credit card providers have a limit on the amount you can withdraw from an ATM using your credit card – and it could be lower than your available credit limit. Check your credit card account details through Internet or mobile banking, or call your provider for specific information on these limits.
Global ATM alliance networks. Many Australian credit card providers have ATM alliance networks that extend around the world and allow you to get cash out overseas without paying an ATM withdrawal fee. For example, a credit card from Westpac, St.George, BankSA or Bank of Melbourne gives you access to the Global ATM Alliance network, which includes Westpac NZ (New Zealand), Barclays (UK), Bank of America (US) and Deutsche Bank (Germany and Spain).
Exchange rates. Currency exchange rates will apply when you use an Australian credit card for a transaction in another currency. This rate can fluctuate daily, making it harder to work out the cost in Australian dollars (until it's added to your transaction list).
Meet our money expert Graham Cooke
Graham heads Finder's insights team and specialises in a variety of financial topics, including credit cards, loans, insurance and investing. He regularly appears on TV including ABC News, Sunrise and Today, and edits Finder's Insights column.
Graham's top credit card tips
Credit cards often charge a significant foreign transaction fee, so check your card's terms before you travel.
A card with low or no international transaction fees could help you save when travelling or shopping online with overseas businesses.
You could also consider debit cards which offer low transaction fees or refund ATM charges.
These cards offer lower currency conversion fees and relevant perks for travelers like insurance and ATM access.
7+
Great
Reasonable cards for travelers, however can potentially charge higher fees.
5+
Standard
While eligible to be used to travelers internationally, these cards may charge currency conversion, overseas ATM withdrawal and ongoing fees.
0+
Basic
These cards should be used for international purchases only in the event of an emergency.
The lowdown on Finder Score
The Finder Score gives you a simple score out of 10, the higher the better. In the travel card category we examine 250+ credit cards and assess six features, assigning them scores out of 10.
We look at features like international transaction fees, travel insurance, annual fees and the purchase rate. Cards with 0% foreign transaction fees and other travel perks score higher.
The methodology is designed by our insights and editorial team. Commercial partnerships carry no weight, all products in the database are scored objectively.
The same card will receive a different score within each category, depending on the features being assessed.
Our intention is to enable informed financial decision-making quickly and easily. Please consider your own financial circumstances when making a decision.
9+ Excellent - These cards offer lower currency conversion fees and relevant perks for travellers like insurance and ATM access.
7+ Great - Reasonable cards for travellers, however can potentially charge higher fees. 5+ Satisfactory - While eligible to be used to travellers internationally, these cards may charge currency conversion, overseas ATM withdrawal and ongoing fees.
Less than 5–Basic - These cards should be used for international purchases only in the event of an emergency.
Finder Score metric assessment - Travel credit cards
Feature
Definition
Assessment
Weight
Foreign Exchange Fees
Fees charge on international transactions
Lower fees score higher
50%
Travel Insurance
Complimentary travel insurance
Full score for complimentary insurances
15%
Overseas ATM Fees
Fees charged by card provider to withdraw from international ATMs
Lower fees score higher
10%
Purchase Rate
Interest rate on new purchases
Lower rates score higher
10%
First-Year Fee
Annual fee charged in the first year of ownership
Lower fees score higher. $0 fee receives the maximum points.
7.5%
Ongoing Annual Fee
Annual fee charged from the second year onwards
Lower fees score higher. $0 fee receives the maximum points.
7.5%
Frequently asked questions
When you use a credit card to make a transaction in another currency, it will be converted back to Australian dollars based on the exchange rate that's applicable for your credit card. For example, if you spent US$100 and the exchange rate was US$0.67 to AUD$1, this transaction would show up on your credit card account as AUD$148.85 (to the nearest cent).
Sometimes when you're travelling, a business will give you the option of paying in the local currency or in Australian dollars. If you choose to pay in Australian dollars, the transaction will be processed using Dynamic Currency Conversion. This usually costs you a lot more than paying in the local currency.
According to the ACCC, this is because overseas banks "usually add a mark-up to the exchange rate". And depending on your credit card, you could still be charged an international transaction fee.
It's often useful to have a couple of different ways to spend money when you're travelling. As well as a credit card, you may want to buy foreign currency before you go or take a debit card in case you end up needing cash. Another option is getting a prepaid travel card that lets you spend money in different currencies so you can avoid foreign transaction fees.
A good credit is always one that matches your needs. If you plan to travel overseas or shop internationally, a no foreign transaction fee credit card is really useful.
But if your main interest is earning frequent flyer points, spending locally while avoiding big fees or paying off existing credit card debt you are probably looking for a different type of card.
Richard Whitten is Finder’s Senior Money Editor, with over eight years of experience in home loans, property, credit cards and personal finance. His insights appear in top media outlets like Yahoo Finance, Money Magazine, and the Herald Sun, and he frequently offers expert commentary on television and radio, helping Australians navigate mortgages and property ownership. Richard started his career in education and textbook publishing in South Korea. He holds multiple industry certifications, including a Certificate IV in Mortgage Broking (RG 206) and Tier 1 and Tier 2 certifications (RG 146), as well as a Bachelor of Education from the University of Sydney and a Graduate Certificate in Communications from Deakin University.
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Hi, we have the coles platinum mastercard. It says there are no international transaction fees but it doesn’t mention the currency conversion fee. I just called them and of course I get an overseas call centre, who tells me that there is no currency conversion fees but I can’t locate those words. Do you know if this card charges a currency conversion fee? Many thanks.
Finder
AllyJanuary 20, 2016Finder
Hi Kim,
Thanks for reaching out.
Foreign currency conversion fees and international transaction fees are just about the same.
The Coles Platinum card does not charge any currency conversion fees.
For your reference, you may read through our review of the Coles Rewards Mastercard. Please ensure to read through the relevant product disclosure statement and terms and conditions of the card to ensure that you got everything covered on your transactions.
I hope this helps.
Cheers,
Ally
JenniferDecember 28, 2015
With some change occurring in Cuban US relations can you please supply very current information re card use in Cuba? We usually travel with a 28 degrees MasterCard and QANTAS travel card. From research neither appear usable in Cuba. Any assistance would be much appreciated.
Finder
SallyJanuary 4, 2016Finder
Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for your question.
You should be able to use a Visa or MasterCard issued in Australia so long as it’s not affiliated with a US bank (for example, American Express, Westpac, ANZ, Commonwealth Bank and 28 degrees as they’re all associated with US General Electric). Please note that you’ll have trouble finding an Australian travel card (such as the Qantas travel card) that’ll work in Cuba.
I hope this has helped.
Cheers,
Sally
deniceNovember 26, 2015
I am going to use my Australian credit card for a purchase of 16000 in one transaction in Thailand. What would the international fee cost be approximately please
Finder
SallyNovember 26, 2015Finder
Hi Denice,
The fees you will incur will vary depending on the card you’re using.
If you could please confirm the card you’re using, we could provide you with a more specific response.
Otherwise, the fees you can look out for are the foreign transaction fees and currency conversion fees.
Please keep in mind that many credit cards have a daily transaction limit, so you may not be able to spend $16,000 within one transaction or one day.
If you have any more specific enquiries, you may need to get in touch with your credit card issuer.
Cheers,
Sally
georgeblOctober 29, 2015
We will be travelling to Usa/Canada/Europe/UK and Hong Kong next year over a 3 month period
we need a card that covers travel insurance and of course has low or minimal fees Also is there a site for finding out which banks/credit unions have Alliances or partnerships with other large international banks,so hoping to get zero international ATM fees
You can select the “Go to Site” button of your preferred credit card to proceed with your application. You can also contact the provider if you have specific questions. A gentle reminder, please ensure to read through the relevant product disclosure statement and terms and conditions to ensure that you got everything covered before you apply.
Cheers,
Jonathan
damoOctober 19, 2015
IM JUST WONDERING WHAT THE BEST CREDIT CARD WOULD BE?
I NEED:
-0% ON INTERNATIONAL PURCHASES
-IF POSSIBLE COMPLEMENTARY TRAVEL INSURANCE
– EXTENDED INTEREST FREE ON PURCHASES(MINIMUM 6 MONTHS)
THANKS
Finder
YsaOctober 19, 2015Finder
Hi Damo,
Thanks for your inquiry.
Finding the best credit card may be overwhelming, but you can focus your search by comparing credit cards in a specific category. Here are some of the most popular options.
You can select the “Go to Site” button of your preferred credit card to proceed with your application. You can also contact the provider if you have specific questions. A gentle reminder, please ensure to read through the relevant product disclosure statement and terms and conditions to ensure that you got everything covered before you apply.
Compare credit cards that give you an outcome within 60 seconds of when you submit your application online and find out how to increase your chances of getting this type of "instant" credit card approval.
Compare the best Qantas frequent flyer credit cards based on bonus point offers, points per $1 spent, rates, fees and other features so you can find a card that works for you.
When you apply for a credit card online, you could receive a response within 60 seconds. Find out how you to find a card that you're eligible for and increase your chances of approval.
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Finder makes money from featured partners, but editorial opinions are our own.
Finder is one of Australia's leading comparison websites. We are committed to our readers and stand by our editorial principles.
We try to take an open and transparent approach and provide a broad-based comparison service. However, you should be aware that while we are an independently owned service, our comparison service does not include all providers or all products available in the market.
Some product issuers may provide products or offer services through multiple brands, associated companies or different labeling arrangements. This can make it difficult for consumers to compare alternatives or identify the companies behind the products. However, we aim to provide information to enable consumers to understand these issues.
We make money by featuring products on our site. Compensation received from the providers featured on our site can influence which products we write about as well as where and how products appear on our page, but the order or placement of these products does not influence our assessment or opinions of them, nor is it an endorsement or recommendation for them.
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Hi, we have the coles platinum mastercard. It says there are no international transaction fees but it doesn’t mention the currency conversion fee. I just called them and of course I get an overseas call centre, who tells me that there is no currency conversion fees but I can’t locate those words. Do you know if this card charges a currency conversion fee? Many thanks.
Hi Kim,
Thanks for reaching out.
Foreign currency conversion fees and international transaction fees are just about the same.
The Coles Platinum card does not charge any currency conversion fees.
For your reference, you may read through our review of the Coles Rewards Mastercard. Please ensure to read through the relevant product disclosure statement and terms and conditions of the card to ensure that you got everything covered on your transactions.
I hope this helps.
Cheers,
Ally
With some change occurring in Cuban US relations can you please supply very current information re card use in Cuba? We usually travel with a 28 degrees MasterCard and QANTAS travel card. From research neither appear usable in Cuba. Any assistance would be much appreciated.
Hi Jennifer,
Thanks for your question.
You should be able to use a Visa or MasterCard issued in Australia so long as it’s not affiliated with a US bank (for example, American Express, Westpac, ANZ, Commonwealth Bank and 28 degrees as they’re all associated with US General Electric). Please note that you’ll have trouble finding an Australian travel card (such as the Qantas travel card) that’ll work in Cuba.
I hope this has helped.
Cheers,
Sally
I am going to use my Australian credit card for a purchase of 16000 in one transaction in Thailand. What would the international fee cost be approximately please
Hi Denice,
The fees you will incur will vary depending on the card you’re using.
If you could please confirm the card you’re using, we could provide you with a more specific response.
Otherwise, the fees you can look out for are the foreign transaction fees and currency conversion fees.
Please keep in mind that many credit cards have a daily transaction limit, so you may not be able to spend $16,000 within one transaction or one day.
If you have any more specific enquiries, you may need to get in touch with your credit card issuer.
Cheers,
Sally
We will be travelling to Usa/Canada/Europe/UK and Hong Kong next year over a 3 month period
we need a card that covers travel insurance and of course has low or minimal fees Also is there a site for finding out which banks/credit unions have Alliances or partnerships with other large international banks,so hoping to get zero international ATM fees
Hi Georgebl,
Thanks for your question!
You can compare credit cards that cover international travel insurance and credit cards with no overseas ATM withdrawal fees
You can select the “Go to Site” button of your preferred credit card to proceed with your application. You can also contact the provider if you have specific questions. A gentle reminder, please ensure to read through the relevant product disclosure statement and terms and conditions to ensure that you got everything covered before you apply.
Cheers,
Jonathan
IM JUST WONDERING WHAT THE BEST CREDIT CARD WOULD BE?
I NEED:
-0% ON INTERNATIONAL PURCHASES
-IF POSSIBLE COMPLEMENTARY TRAVEL INSURANCE
– EXTENDED INTEREST FREE ON PURCHASES(MINIMUM 6 MONTHS)
THANKS
Hi Damo,
Thanks for your inquiry.
Finding the best credit card may be overwhelming, but you can focus your search by comparing credit cards in a specific category. Here are some of the most popular options.
– No Foreign Currency Exchange Fee Credit Cards
– Travel Insurance Credit Cards
You can select the “Go to Site” button of your preferred credit card to proceed with your application. You can also contact the provider if you have specific questions. A gentle reminder, please ensure to read through the relevant product disclosure statement and terms and conditions to ensure that you got everything covered before you apply.
I hope this has helped.
Cheers,
Ysa