Chase does exchange foreign currency, but only at certain branches and with limits on the amounts and currencies they handle

Chase will exchange foreign currency for you, but the process is not as simple as walking into any branch. Most Chase locations do not keep foreign cash on hand. You typically need to order the currency in advance through Chase, and the bank charges a markup on the exchange rate — usually between 1% and 2% above the mid-market rate, though the exact fee varies by currency and branch.

The currencies Chase stocks regularly include euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, Mexican pesos, and a handful of others. If you need a less common currency, Chase may be able to order it, but the wait time and fees are higher. Some branches handle foreign exchange more frequently than others — branches in major cities or near airports tend to have better access and faster turnaround.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase exchanges foreign currency at most branches, but you usually need to order it ahead of time rather than expecting to buy it on the spot.
  • Chase charges a markup on top of the mid-market exchange rate, typically 1% to 2%, which is higher than what you would pay through a dedicated currency exchange service.
  • Common currencies like euros and pounds are easier to order and arrive faster than rare currencies, which may take a week or more.
  • Ordering online through your Chase account or calling ahead saves time and lets you lock in the rate before you visit the branch.

How to order foreign currency from Chase

The fastest way to order is through your Chase online banking account. Log in, look for the foreign exchange or travel services section, and select the currency and amount you need. Chase will show you the rate they are offering and the total cost in dollars. You can then pick it up at your chosen branch, usually within one to three business days for common currencies.

If you do not have online access or prefer to speak to someone, call the branch directly or visit in person. Tell them which currency you need, how much, and when you plan to travel. They will place the order and give you a pickup date. Some branches also allow you to order by phone through their customer service line, though you may be transferred to a specialized department.

Bring your Chase debit card or account information when you pick up the currency. The bank will deduct the full amount from your account at that time. If you change your mind before pickup, you can usually cancel the order, though some branches may charge a small fee if the currency has already been received.

What Chase charges compared to other options

Chase's markup is not the cheapest option available. Dedicated currency exchange services like XE or OFX often offer rates closer to the mid-market rate, with markups of 0.5% to 1%. Airport currency exchanges typically charge 3% to 5% or more, so Chase is better than that, but worse than a specialist.

If you are exchanging a large amount — say, more than $1,000 — the difference between Chase's rate and a competitor's rate can add up to $20 or $30. For smaller amounts, the difference is usually under $10. Your choice depends on whether convenience (using a bank you already trust and have an account with) matters more to you than saving a few dollars on the rate.

Credit unions sometimes offer better rates than Chase, especially if you are a member. It is worth calling your credit union before you order from Chase, particularly if you need a large amount or an uncommon currency.

Currencies Chase typically stocks

Chase regularly exchanges these currencies: euros (EUR), British pounds (GBP), Canadian dollars (CAD), Japanese yen (JPY), Mexican pesos (MXN), Swiss francs (CHF), Australian dollars (AUD), and New Zealand dollars (NZD). A few branches in major cities also keep Chinese yuan (CNY) and Indian rupees (INR) on hand, though these may require advance notice.

If you need a currency not on this list — say, Thai baht or Brazilian reals — Chase can usually order it, but the wait is longer (often a week or more) and the fee may be higher. In those cases, a currency exchange specialist may be faster and cheaper, especially if you live near a major city with dedicated exchange services.

Timing and what to expect at pickup

For common currencies, Chase usually has the cash ready within one to three business days of your order. If you order on a Friday, expect pickup on Tuesday or Wednesday. Weekends and bank holidays add to the wait. If you need currency urgently — say, you are leaving tomorrow — call the branch directly and ask if they have any on hand; some branches keep small amounts of euros and pounds in the vault for same-day service.

When you pick up, bring your ID and your Chase card or account number. The teller will count the cash with you and give you a receipt. Check the amount and the bills before you leave — once you walk out, it is your responsibility. If the amount is wrong, tell the teller immediately.

What happens if you need currency after hours or on a weekend

Chase branches are closed on weekends and evenings, so if you need currency outside business hours, you have limited options. Some airports have Chase branches or partner currency exchange desks that stay open later, but the rates are usually worse than ordering ahead. If you are traveling internationally and realize you need cash after the bank closes, an ATM in the destination country is often your cheapest option — you withdraw local currency directly, and your bank charges a foreign transaction fee (usually 1% to 3%) rather than the markup Chase charges for exchanging cash.

Plan ahead if you can. Order your currency at least three to five business days before you travel, so you have it in hand and do not have to scramble at the airport or rely on worse rates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exchange foreign currency I already have back into dollars at Chase?

Yes, Chase will buy back foreign currency you have left over from a trip. The rate they offer for buying back is usually worse than the rate they charged you when you bought it — this is how the bank makes money on both sides of the transaction. Bring the bills and your ID to any Chase branch. They will count it, quote you a rate, and deposit the dollars into your account.

Does Chase charge a fee on top of the exchange rate?

Chase does not charge a separate transaction fee for exchanging currency, but the rate they quote already includes their markup — typically 1% to 2% above the mid-market rate. That markup is how they profit. You are not paying an extra fee on top; the fee is built into the rate.

What if my branch does not have the currency I need in stock?

They will order it from another branch or from a currency supplier. For common currencies, this usually takes one to three business days. For rare currencies, it can take a week or longer. Ask the branch for an estimate when you place the order, and ask whether they can rush it if you are leaving soon.

Is it cheaper to use an ATM in the foreign country instead of exchanging cash at Chase?

Often yes, especially for large amounts. ATM withdrawals in a foreign country charge a foreign transaction fee (usually 1% to 3%) plus any fee the foreign bank charges (often $2 to $5). Chase's markup is 1% to 2%, so the total cost is similar, but ATMs give you the current rate rather than a rate locked in days before. For small amounts, the difference is negligible; for large amounts, an ATM may save you money.

Can I order foreign currency through Chase's mobile app?

Not all Chase apps support foreign exchange ordering yet. Check your app or log into Chase online banking to see if the option is available. If not, call your branch or visit in person. The online banking website is more likely to have the feature than the mobile app.