Yes, Chase can order euros for you, but it takes planning and costs money
Chase Bank can order euros through its foreign exchange service, but you cannot walk into a branch and leave with them the same day. The bank orders currency from a wholesale supplier, which typically takes three to five business days. You pay a conversion rate that includes Chase's markup — usually 2% to 3% above the mid-market rate — plus a flat ordering fee that varies by branch, typically $5 to $15.
The process works best if you know your trip date weeks in advance. If you need euros in a few days, you may find better rates and faster service elsewhere. Chase also limits how much you can order at once; the cap depends on your account history and relationship with the bank, but $5,000 to $10,000 is common for most customers.
Key Takeaways
- Chase orders euros through its foreign exchange desk, and the order typically arrives in three to five business days, not immediately.
- You pay the bank's conversion rate plus a markup of 2% to 3% and a flat fee per order, making it more expensive than some alternatives.
- You must order in advance by visiting a branch or calling the foreign exchange line; you cannot buy euros online or at an ATM.
- Chase sets a maximum order amount based on your account, usually between $5,000 and $10,000 for standard customers.
- If you need euros within 48 hours or want a better rate, airport currency exchanges or credit unions may be faster or cheaper.
How to order euros through Chase
Visit your local Chase branch in person or call the foreign exchange desk at the number on the back of your debit or credit card. Tell them how many euros you need and when you plan to travel. The representative will quote you the current rate, explain the fee, and confirm the order date and pickup date.
You will need to bring a valid ID and have funds available in your account to cover the order plus the fee. Chase will hold the euros at your branch for pickup, usually for up to 30 days. If you do not pick them up by then, the bank may convert them back to dollars at the rate on that day, which could be different from your original rate.
Some Chase branches offer this service more readily than others, especially larger branches in cities with international travel. If your local branch says they cannot order euros, ask for the nearest branch that can, or request that they order through their regional foreign exchange center.
Why Chase's rates and fees cost more than alternatives
Chase's markup of 2% to 3% is standard for banks, but it adds up quickly. On a $1,000 euro order, a 2.5% markup plus a $10 fee costs you roughly $35 in total fees and unfavorable rates. That same $1,000 might cost $15 to $20 through a currency exchange service at the airport or a credit union.
The trade-off is convenience and safety. Chase holds your money in a bank account, not a cash exchange booth. If something goes wrong with your order, you have recourse through the bank. Airport exchanges and independent currency services offer no such protection, though they are regulated by state money transmitter laws.
The mid-market rate — the true wholesale rate between banks — is what you see on Google or XE.com. Chase's rate is always worse than that, by design. The bank makes money on the spread between what it pays for euros and what it charges you.
Faster and cheaper ways to get euros
If you are leaving within 48 hours, skip Chase and go to an airport currency exchange or a local independent currency exchange. These services often have euros in stock and can sell them on the spot. Their rates are usually better than Chase's, though still not as good as the mid-market rate. Expect to pay 1% to 2% markup plus a small fee.
Credit unions often offer better foreign exchange rates than banks, especially if you are a member. Call ahead to confirm they have euros in stock or can order them quickly. Some credit unions partner with other credit unions nationwide, which can speed up orders.
Using an ATM in Europe is another option. You withdraw euros directly from your Chase account using your debit card. Chase charges a foreign transaction fee (usually 1% to 3%) and an out-of-network ATM fee if you use a non-Chase machine, but you get the mid-market rate plus those fees — often cheaper than ordering euros in advance. This works well if you can wait until you arrive or if you are comfortable carrying less cash.
What to do if Chase cannot order euros in time
If your trip is sooner than three to five business days, ask Chase whether they have euros in their vault already. Some branches keep small amounts of common currencies on hand for walk-in customers, though availability varies. If they do, you can buy them the same day at a higher rate than an advance order.
Check whether your destination city has a Chase branch or partner bank. If it does, you can withdraw euros from an ATM there using your debit card, which avoids the need to carry large amounts of cash from home. This also locks in the mid-market rate at the time of withdrawal, not the rate on your order date.
Call a local currency exchange or airport exchange and ask their rate for the amount you need. Compare that rate plus their fee to what Chase quoted. If the difference is small and Chase is more convenient, order through the bank. If the independent exchange is significantly cheaper and you have time to visit, go there instead.
Understanding Chase's foreign transaction fees
If you use your Chase debit or credit card to make purchases in Europe, Chase charges a foreign transaction fee on top of the merchant's conversion. This fee is typically 1% for credit cards and 1% to 3% for debit cards, depending on the card type. This fee applies whether you ordered euros in advance or not — it is charged on every transaction made outside the United States.
Some Chase credit cards marketed to travelers offer 0% foreign transaction fees. If you travel frequently, switching to one of these cards can save money over time. Check your current card's terms in your account or call Chase to confirm the fee rate.
Using a Chase ATM in Europe avoids the merchant fee but still incurs Chase's foreign transaction fee on the withdrawal. The total cost is usually lower than using a credit card for purchases, because you are converting money once instead of multiple times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order euros online through Chase?
No. Chase requires you to order euros in person at a branch or by phone through their foreign exchange desk. You cannot place an order through the Chase mobile app or website. Call the number on your card to reach the foreign exchange line, or visit your nearest branch.
What if I need more euros than Chase will let me order?
Chase's order limits are based on your account history and relationship with the bank. If you hit the limit, ask the branch manager whether the limit can be raised for your trip. Some branches will increase it for established customers with good standing. If not, you may need to split the order across multiple days or use an alternative like a currency exchange service.
Do I have to pick up euros in person, or can Chase mail them to me?
Most Chase branches require in-person pickup for security reasons. Some larger branches or regional foreign exchange centers may mail euros to your address, but this adds time and is not may provide. Ask your branch directly whether mailing is an option before you place the order.
What happens if the euro rate drops after I order but before I pick up?
You are locked into the rate quoted when you placed the order. If the rate moves in your favor, you do not benefit. If it moves against you, you still pay the original rate. This is why ordering far in advance can be risky — you are betting the rate will not improve. For trips more than two weeks away, consider waiting a few days before ordering.
Is it safer to carry euros or use my debit card in Europe?
Both are safe if you take precautions. Carrying euros means you do not rely on card networks or ATMs, but you risk losing cash if it is stolen. Using your debit card means you can replace it if lost, but you depend on ATM availability and pay foreign transaction fees. Most travelers use a combination: carry some euros for small purchases and use a card for larger ones.