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 euros from a currency supplier, which typically takes three to five business days. You pay a conversion rate that includes Chase's markup over the wholesale rate, plus a flat ordering fee that varies by branch. For small amounts, this is often more expensive than alternatives like airport currency exchanges or online services.

The process requires you to visit a Chase branch in person, bring a valid ID, and place the order with a teller. Some branches handle foreign currency orders more frequently than others, so availability and speed can depend on your location. If you need euros urgently — say, for a trip leaving in two days — Chase may not be your best option.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase orders euros through its foreign exchange desk, but the order takes three to five business days to arrive at your branch.
  • You pay both a conversion rate markup and a flat fee, making Chase more expensive than some alternatives for smaller amounts.
  • You must visit a Chase branch in person with a valid ID to place and pick up your order.
  • Airport currency exchanges and online currency services often offer faster delivery or better rates for smaller transactions.
  • Calling your branch ahead of time to confirm they handle foreign currency orders can save you a wasted trip.

How the ordering process works at Chase

Start by calling or visiting your local Chase branch and asking to speak with someone in foreign exchange or the personal banking department. Not every teller handles currency orders, so asking specifically for the right person saves time. Tell them how many euros you need and when you need them. They will quote you the conversion rate and fee, then ask you to come in to complete the order.

When you visit, bring a valid government-issued ID (passport, driver's license, or state ID). The teller will have you fill out a foreign exchange order form, which includes your name, the amount you want, and the date you need it. You will pay the full amount upfront, including the conversion rate and fees. Chase then orders the physical euros from its currency supplier and notifies you when they arrive — usually within the timeframe quoted.

Once your euros are ready, you return to the branch to pick them up. The bank will not mail foreign currency, so you must collect it in person. Bring your ID again when you pick up your order.

What Chase charges for euros

Chase's costs for ordering euros include two separate charges: the conversion rate and a flat ordering fee. The conversion rate is the price per euro, which includes a markup above the mid-market rate (the rate banks pay each other). This markup is how Chase makes money on the transaction. The flat fee — sometimes called a service charge or handling fee — ranges from $5 to $15 depending on your branch and the amount ordered, though Chase does not publish a standard fee schedule.

For example, if the mid-market rate is 1.10 USD per euro and you order 500 euros, Chase might offer you a rate of 1.07 USD per euro (a 3-cent markup per euro, or $15 total) plus a $10 flat fee. You would pay $545 for 500 euros instead of $550 at the mid-market rate. The exact markup and fee depend on the branch, the amount, and current market conditions.

Call ahead and ask for a quote before you commit. Different branches sometimes quote different rates, and knowing the total cost helps you decide whether Chase is worth it compared to other options.

Faster alternatives if you need euros soon

If your trip is in the next few days, airport currency exchanges are usually faster than Chase. Most major airports have exchange booths that sell euros on the spot, with no advance order needed. Their rates are typically worse than Chase's (they charge a larger markup), but you walk out with cash immediately. This trade-off makes sense if you are leaving tomorrow and Chase cannot deliver in time.

Online currency services like OFX, Wise, or XE also offer faster turnaround than Chase — sometimes same-day or next-day delivery to your home or a pickup location. Their rates are often better than airport exchanges and sometimes competitive with Chase, especially for larger amounts. These services require you to set up an account and verify your identity online, which takes 10 to 30 minutes. You then arrange delivery or pickup based on your timeline.

Credit unions sometimes offer foreign exchange services to members at better rates than Chase, though they also require advance ordering. If you belong to a credit union, call and ask whether they handle euros and what their fees are.

Using your Chase debit or credit card abroad instead

For many trips, you do not need to order physical euros at all. Using a Chase debit card or credit card at ATMs in Europe is often cheaper and more convenient than carrying cash. Chase charges a foreign transaction fee (typically 1% to 3% depending on the card) and an ATM fee if you use a non-Chase ATM, but you avoid the markup and ordering fee entirely. You also avoid the risk of carrying large amounts of cash.

Before you travel, call Chase and let them know you will be using your card in Europe. This prevents fraud holds that can lock your card. Ask what the foreign transaction fee is on your specific card — some Chase cards have no foreign transaction fee, which makes them the cheapest option by far.

If you do want some physical euros for small purchases, taxis, or tips, order a modest amount through Chase (say, 100 to 200 euros) and use your card for everything else. This gives you a safety net without paying the full ordering cost for a large amount.

What to do if your branch cannot order euros

Some smaller Chase branches do not handle foreign currency orders regularly and may refuse or delay your request. If your branch says they cannot help, ask whether they can transfer your order to a larger branch nearby or whether you can pick it up at a different location. Chase's system allows orders to be fulfilled at any branch, so you have options.

If the nearest Chase branch that handles foreign exchange is inconvenient, this is a good time to compare online currency services or airport exchanges. The cost and time savings of using an alternative may outweigh the convenience of using your existing bank.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order euros online through Chase's website?

No. Chase requires you to order foreign currency in person at a branch. You cannot place the order online, by phone, or by mail. You must visit with a valid ID and complete the order form at the teller window.

What if I need euros but my trip is tomorrow?

Chase will not work — the order takes three to five business days. Go to an airport currency exchange if you are flying out, or use an online service like Wise or OFX if they offer same-day delivery in your area. Using your debit card at European ATMs is also an option if you have time to notify Chase of your travel.

Do I have to pay the full amount upfront when I order?

Yes. Chase requires payment at the time you place the order, not when you pick up the euros. You pay the conversion rate, the flat fee, and any applicable taxes all at once.

Can I return unused euros to Chase?

Most branches will buy back unused euros, but they will quote you a different rate than the one you paid to buy them — usually worse. You will lose money on the round trip. If you end up with leftover euros, it is often better to exchange them at an airport or keep them for a future trip.

Is the Chase rate better or worse than getting euros at the airport?

Chase's rate is usually better than airport exchanges, but the three- to five-day wait makes it impractical for last-minute trips. For a planned vacation with time to order, Chase is often cheaper. For a trip leaving soon, the airport exchange is faster even if it costs more.