Using credit and debit cards abroad

It's safe and easy to use your Tesco Bank cards overseas. There are just a few things to be aware of before you go, like fees, charges and security.

There's no need to ring us to let us know you're going - your card will work automatically while you're abroad
Remember, choosing the option to pay in local currency when using your card abroad is likely to be cheaper than paying in your own currency
If you need to log on to Online Banking from a new device, make sure your mobile phone will be with you and capable of receiving text messages, as we will send you a one-time access code (network charges may apply)
Check your account for any unfamiliar transactions, and give us a call immediately if you see anything suspicious
Take a note of the overseas customer service number from the back of your card or from our 'Contact us' page

How to contact us

What are the costs of using my credit card abroad?

You can use your credit card to make purchases, withdraw cash and other cash transactions in both the UK and overseas. Cash transactions include gambling and purchasing non-sterling currency outside of Tesco. For a full list of transactions that qualify as cash, see your credit card terms and conditions.

Making purchases: We'll charge you an additional 2.75% of the cost of your purchase on each transaction in a foreign currency. Clubcard Plus Credit Card holders will not be charged the additional 2.75% Foreign Exchange fee on any transactions.
Withdrawing cash: In addition to any foreign exchange fees, we will charge you 3.99% of the value of the transaction (minimum £3 fee applies to cash withdrawals).

There is no interest-free period on cash withdrawals.

Gambling transactions are subject to a 3.99% handling fee, but there is no minimum charge. This is on top of the 2.75% foreign exchange fee.

We don't add a mark-up to the exchange rates applied by VISA and Mastercard. All fees are calculated based on the exchange rate on the day the transaction is posted to your account, which may be later than the date the transaction took place.

Understand how your credit card consumer rights could protect you abroad

What are the costs of using my debit card abroad?

Making purchases: We’ll charge you a Foreign Exchange Fee of an additional 2.75% of the cost of your purchase on each transaction in a foreign currency.
Withdrawing cash (excluding Euros): We’ll charge you a fee of 1% of the amount you withdraw, along with the 2.75% Foreign Exchange Fee.

You can withdraw a maximum of £400 within a 24 hour period with your debit card.

We don't add a mark-up to the exchange rates applied by VISA. All fees are calculated based on the exchange rate on the day the transaction is posted to your account, which may be later than the date the transaction took place.

See all international fees for your Clubcard Pay+ account

Compare the cost of using your debit card and credit card abroad

Making a purchase abroad

VISA exchange rate on 6 June 2022 was €1 = 0.858618

Mastercard exchange rate on 6 June 2022 was €1 = 0.859118


Tesco Bank card type	Amount	€100 at exchange rate	Foreign Exchange Fee	Cost to you
Clubcard Plus Credit Card (Mastercard)	€100	£85.91	£0.00	£85.91
All other Mastercard credit cards	€100	£85.91	£2.36	£88.27
VISA debit card	€100	£85.86	£2.36	£88.22

The exchange rate is used for illustrative purposes only.

Withdrawing money abroad

VISA exchange rate on 6 June 2022 was €1 =0.858618

Mastercard exchange rate on 6 June 2022 was €1 = 0.859118


Tesco Bank card type	Amount	€100 at exchange rate	Foreign Exchange Fee	ATM withdrawal fee	Cost to you
Clubcard Plus Credit Card (Mastercard)	€100	£85.91	£0.00	£3.43	£89.34
All other Mastercard credit cards	€100	£85.91	£2.36	£3.43	£91.70
VISA debit card	€100	£85.86	£2.36	£0.00	£88.22

The exchange rate is used for illustrative purposes only.

Use our calculator to find out the cost of using your card abroad

Feel right at home when you're away

Your card will work in the same way abroad as it does at home - just remember your PIN
Use the Mobile App to keep track of your spending (network charges may apply)
Log in to Online Banking to manage your money (network charges may apply) How to log in
Switch off or manage your text alerts to save on roaming costs How to manage alerts
Need to block your credit card? You can block and unblock your card on our Mobile App

More information on our products that can help you on your holiday

Important information

For impartial advice on using your card abroad, visit the Money Advice Service

Money Advice Service