Wise Travel Card Review: How to use a Wise card abroad when traveling
With a Wise account you can hold and exchange 40+ currencies, and switch between currencies using the mid-market exchange rate every time. Plus, with linked Wise card you can spend and withdraw cash in 150+ countries, making it easy to travel or shop online with international retailers.
Ready to get started? In this guide, we’ll look at how to use a Wise card overseas, the fees, limits and some tips to save money.
Quick summary: Wise travel card review
- Global spending: Use your Wise card in over 150 countries to make purchases and cash withdrawals.
- Multi-currency convenience: Hold over 40 currencies in one account and spend your balance without incurring extra fees.
- Low-cost conversion: Automatically convert currencies at low fees, starting from just 0.42% at the mid market exchange rate.
- Easy top-up and management: Top up your account easily via multiple low-cost methods and manage your money and get instant alerts via the Wise app wherever you are.
- Hassle-free setup: Activate your Wise card at home in the US and use it abroad without needing to notify Wise for simple international traveling.
How to use a Wise card overseas for travel
You can use your Wise card to spend and withdraw money overseas in exactly the same way you use your regular card here in the US. Wise cards are contactless and can be added to mobile wallets like Apple Pay and Google Pay, for fast and convenient payments wherever you are. Plus, there’s no fee to spend any currency you hold in your account, and the card can automatically switch your balance to the currency you need with low fees from 0.42%.
Here’s a look at how you can use your Wise card overseas:
- Hold 40+ currencies and spend any balance you hold for free
- Make purchases in store and online internationally in 150+ countries
- Withdraw up to 100 USD a month fee free, with low fees after that
- Allow the card to convert to the currency you need for the lowest available fee
- Get instant transaction notifications and manage your card in the Wise app
- Choose from a selection of free, fast and low cost methods to top-up your Wise account and card
Your Wise card is designed with international use in mind, so there’s no need to notify Wise you intend to travel. Just activate your Wise card in the US before you head off and you can start using it for in-store purchases as well as withdrawals and online shopping in 150+ countries.
About the Wise card
The Wise card is an international debit card linked to an online multi-currency Wise account. It’s free to open a personal Wise account and you can get set up from your phone or laptop easily. Once you’ve registered for a Wise account, simply order your Wise card for delivery to your home address within a couple of weeks.
Once you’ve got your Wise card up and running you’ll be able to access the following handy travel features:
- Spend and withdraw in 150+ countries and hold 40+ currencies
- No fees to spend any currency you hold in your account
- Currency conversion from 0.42% when you spend or withdraw with your Wise card
- Top up your account in dollars and convert to the currency you need using the mid-market rate
Is Wise card good for international travel?
| Pros of Wise travel card | Cons of Wise travel card |
|---|---|
| ✅ Hold 40+ currencies ✅ Spend in 150+ countries ✅ Currency exchange uses the mid-market rate with low, transparent fees ✅ Send money to 160+ countries ✅ Google and Apple Pay compatible for mobile payments ✅ Safe provider, with 16 million+ customers worldwide | ❌ 9 USD card order fee ❌ Some ATM fees apply once you’ve used your monthly free withdrawal allowance ❌ No branch network – you’ll need to order your card online or in the Wise app |
Read also: Wise card review
How does Wise travel card work?
The Wise card is a debit card linked to a multi-currency Wise account. You can top up your Wise account in dollars or the currency of your choice, and convert to the currency you need for international spending – or just let the card do the conversion for you, with the mid-market rate and low fees.
You can spend and make withdrawals with your Wise card in 150+ countries, and shop online with international retailers easily. We’ll look at how spending and withdrawals with your Wise card work in more detail a little later, including the fees and limits that apply to your Wise account and card.
Does a Wise card automatically use the right currency?
When you spend using your Wise card the money will be deducted from the balance you hold in that currency, if you have enough in your account. If not, the Wise card will automatically convert money from another currency balance you hold, choosing the balance with the lowest available fees so you get the best possible deal.
Is Wise travel card a multi currency card?
Yes. The Wise account and travel money card have powerful international features which make them perfect for anyone who wants a multi-currency card and account.
You can hold 40+ currencies, including a broad selection of major world currencies, and plenty of less common currency options, too. And you can spend around the world – over 160 countries are covered, with in person, online and mobile payments, and cash withdrawals as and when you need them.
Who is the Wise travel card for?
The Wise travel card is available for both personal and business customers, and your account can be entirely opened and managed online or in the Wise app. That makes it handy for a range of people:
- Frequent travelers who need to spend in any of the 150+ supported countries
- Individuals, business owners and entrepreneurs who want to hold and exchange 40+ currencies
- Anyone who likes to convert their USD to the destination currency in advance to set their travel budget before they leave
- People paying or getting paid from overseas – for example if you have income from an overseas vacation rental, or need to pay a mortgage on your property abroad
- Business owners who want to issue travel cards to their team members for overseas expenses
- Online shoppers spending with international retailers
- Anyone who wants to view and manage their account and card online or in-app
Fees for using a Wise card abroad
To get your Wise card you’ll pay a one time order fee of 9 USD, with no monthly or annual fees after that.
Top up your Wise account with dollars or any of the other supported currencies, and convert to the currency you need for spending. There’s no fee to spend any currency you hold in your Wise account – and if you don’t have a balance in the right currency your Wise card can automatically convert for you, with a small conversion fee and the mid-market exchange rate.
Here’s a rundown of the key Wise fees to know about. We’ll cover ATM cash withdrawals, fees and limits in more detail a little later on.
| Service | Wise card fee |
|---|---|
| Order a Wise card | 9 USD |
| Spend a currency you hold | Free, when you have enough balance in that currency |
| Spend in a currency you don’t hold | Wise will auto convert the balance you have to the currency you need, using the mid-market exchange rate and the lowest available fees (conversion from 0.42%) |
| ATM withdrawals | First 2 withdrawals, to the value of 100 USD/month are free After that a fee of 1.5 USD + 2% of the withdrawal value applies |
| Order a replacement card | No fee to replace an expiring card 5 USD for a replacement at any other time |
Does the Wise card have foreign transaction fees?
There are no foreign transaction fees when you spend with a Wise card. You can spend any currency you hold in your account for free.
If you don’t have a balance in the currency you need – or if your balance isn’t enough – the Wise card uses smart conversion technology to convert your balance from the currency which charges the lowest possible fee, using the mid-market exchange rate. Wise currency conversion fees vary but can be as low as 0.42%.
Wise card exchange rates
Wise currency exchange uses the mid-market exchange rate, with a low and transparent fee from 0.42%. You’ll be able to see the exchange rates available in the Wise app, and double check the fees, before you switch currencies. Once you have the currency you need for spending or withdrawals in your account, there’s no Wise foreign transaction fee.
How does my Wise card know which currency to use?
You can spend with your Wise card even if you don’t have money in the currency you need. Your Wise card will simply convert the amount needed from the currency balance you hold which offers the lowest available fee. This applies if you don’t hold a balance in the currency needed, or if you don’t hold enough for the transaction in the required currency.
The good news is that this means you’ll always pay the lowest available fee, and you don’t need to convert funds in advance if you’re traveling or spending overseas.
What if I spend money in a currency that I don’t have in my account?
You’ll be able to top up your Wise account in dollars or a selection of other currencies, and then convert to any of the supported 40+ holding currencies in the Wise app.
But what if you don’t hold a balance in the currency you need when you spend with your Wise card? In this case, the Wise card will do the hard work for you and switch what’s needed from the currency balance which has the lowest available fee.
Here are some examples of how the Wise auto convert technology can work:
- You hold 200 euros in your account and want to make a purchase that costs 100 euros – in this case, the 100 euros will be deducted from your euro balance, with no fee to pay
- You want to make a purchase that costs 100 euros but you don’t have a euro balance in your Wise account – in this case, the Wise card will convert from your available funds, with a conversion fee from 0.42%. Conversion fees do vary, but the card will pick the balance which offers the lowest available fee at the time of the transaction
- You hold 50 euros in your account and want to make a purchase that costs 100 euros – in this case, the 50 euros will be deducted from your euro balance, with no fee to pay, and the remaining amount will be converted from your available funds, with a variable conversion fee from 0.42%.
How to withdraw money abroad with a Wise card
You can make convenient ATM withdrawals all over the world using your Wise card. Here’s how to withdraw money abroad with a Wise card:
- Find a convenient ATM which supports the network your Wise card is issued on (Visa or MasterCard)
- Insert your card and select the option to make a withdrawal
- Enter the amount you want to withdraw
- Enter your PIN for security
- Your money will be dispensed and your card will be returned
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Wise ATM withdrawal limits
There are Wise card withdrawal limits which apply whenever you use your Wise card to take cash from an ATM. Wise limits are set to a default amount, but you can then change this within the app if you need to. You can also check how much of your daily or monthly limit you’ve already used, so there’s no need to keep a track manually – just have a quick look on the Wise app and you’re done.
Here’s how to view and change your Wise card ATM withdrawal limits in the Wise app:
- Log in on the Wise app and select the Cards tab
- Tap Account limits and the type of transaction – ATM withdrawals
- Select the button to change the limit within the Wise maximum available limit range
Daily limits reset each day at midnight, and monthly limits reset at the end of each calendar month.
Here are the Wise ATM withdrawal limits, per day and month, you’ll need to know about:
| Limit type | Single payment | Daily limit | Monthly limit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Default ATM withdrawal limit | 250 USD | 250 USD | 1,500 USD |
| Maximum ATM withdrawal limit | 1,000 USD | 1,000 USD | 6,000 USD |
* Details correct at time of writing – 23rd April 2024.
Wise card ATM withdrawal fees
You may find when you’re making an ATM withdrawal that a message is displayed on the ATM asking you if you’d rather pay in your home currency – so in this case, dollars, rather than the currency of the country you’re in.
This is described as dynamic currency conversion (DCC), and can happen when you spend or withdraw with a card overseas. It’s positioned as a service which makes it easier to see how much your transaction costs you more easily – but in reality, it also usually means paying higher fees.
Avoid this unnecessary cost by choosing to pay in the local currency wherever you are every time. You can also learn more in this Wise article about ATM fees and DCC.
Wise offers all card holders some free ATM withdrawals every month, with low fees after that. Here’s how Wise card ATM fees breakdown:
| ATM withdrawal | Wise fee |
|---|---|
| Up to 2 withdrawals per month, to the value of 100 USD | No Wise fee |
| Additional withdrawals once your monthly allowance is exhausted | 1.5 USD + 2% of withdrawal value |
* Details are correct at time of writing – 23rd April 2024.
How to get a Wise travel card
To get your Wise travel card you’ll first need to open a Wise account online or in the Wise app using your email address, Facebook, Apple or Google ID. Once your account has been verified, you can top up your Wise account balance in dollars (or one of the other 20 or so supported currencies for loading funds).
Within the Wise app you can then order your Wise card, for a one time fee of 9 USD.
What documents you’ll need
When you open your Wise account you’ll need to provide some documents for verification purposes. This is to keep your account secure and to comply with local and international law – but the whole process can be done right from your phone. You’ll be guided through what’s needed based on your account type – usually that’ll mean uploading images of:
- Your proof of ID – such as your passport
- Proof of address – like your driving license or a utility bill
You’ll also need to enter your SSN or ITIN if you have one.
How to get started with Wise card
- Open a Wise account: Sign up for a Wise account online or via the Wise app using your email, Facebook, Apple or Google ID.
- Verify your identity: Provide the requested documents like a passport or proof of address for account verification.
- Order your Wise card: Once verified, order the Wise card from the app for a one-time fee of 9 USD.
- Top up: Add money to your account using methods like ACH, wire transfer, debit or credit card.
- Activate: Once you’ve received your card, you’ll need to activate it via the Wise website or app, entering the 6-digit code that’s on the card.
- Open a currency balance: Open balances for currencies of the countries you plan to travel to for easy transactions.
How do I put money on my Wise card?
The Wise card is linked to your multi-currency Wise account. To use your Wise card for spending or withdrawals you’ll first need to add money to your Wise account – you can choose from a variety of different ways to top up Wise, including some low-cost and fast methods, and ways to add different currencies if you’d like.
Wise top up options include ACH, wire transfer, debit card and credit card. ACH and wire transfer are often the cheapest options, and credit card is usually the most expensive way to add money to Wise.
Adding money to Wise so you can spend with your Wise card is easy – and can all be done online or in the Wise app. To give an example, here’s how to add money to a Wise card in USD, by ACH, using just your phone:
- Log into your Wise account on the Wise app
- Tap your USD currency balance
- Select Add and enter the amount you want to top up
- Pick ACH as the payment method
- Connect your bank manually or automatically
- Follow the prompts to deposit funds and you’re good to go
Is it safe to use the Wise card abroad?
Wise is a safe and fully regulated provider. Wise is overseen by relevant state and Federal regulatory bodies in the US, and other equivalent organizations around the world.
To open a Wise account you’ll need to complete a verification step which helps keep your account secure, and to use your card you’ll need to set up security including your own PIN. Once your card is up and running you’ll get instant transaction notifications, and can easily freeze or cancel your Wise card if you’re concerned it’s been lost or stolen.
How do I activate my Wise card outside the US?
Once you’ve received your Wise card you’ll need to activate it before you can start using it. You must complete this step in the US, so your card is ready for use when you travel. Here’s how to activate your card in the US:
- Visit the Wise website or app and log in
- Tap Card and choose Activate your card
- Enter the 6 digit code that’s shown on your card
- Set a PIN for security
Do I need to activate my Wise card for overseas use?
Before you can set off on your travels, you’ll need to activate your Wise card while you’re still in the US via the Wise app or online via the website. Simply tap ‘Card’ and choose the ‘Activate your card’ option before entering the 6 digit code that’s shown on your card and setting up a PIN for added security.
Use Google Pay or Apple Pay and spend with your phone
You can use your US issued Wise card conveniently with an e-wallet like Apple Pay for mobile spending. That means you don’t need to carry the physical card to make contactless payments in person, or when shopping online.
You can add your Wise card to your preferred wallet by going to the wallet’s app and following the instructions there – or right from the Wise app instead.
As an example, here’s how to add your Wise card to Apple Pay:
- Open the Wise app
- Tap on the Card tab, where you can see all your available cards
- Select the card you’d like to add then tap on Add to Apple Wallet
Which countries can I use my Wise card in?
Wise customers in a broad range of countries, including the US, UK, most of the EEA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Brazil can order a Wise card. In the US specifically, Nevada residents are not able to order a Wise card at the time of writing.
Wise cards can be used almost anywhere in the world where Visa or Mastercard debit cards are accepted – a total of 150+ countries. The Wise card can be used for online payments, and for in person payments when you travel.
If you’re a frequent traveller, these guides might be helpful o get the best out of your Wise card:
- How to use Wise card in Europe
- How to use Wise card in Australia
- How to use Wise card in Japan
- How to use Wise card in Thailand
Are there any countries where the Wise card doesn’t work?
There are a few countries where the Wise card cannot be used – usually because of global sanctions or practical constraints. These include Afghanistan, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Congo and Democratic Republic of Congo, Cuba, Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Russia, Somalia, Sudan and South Sudan, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen.
There are also a few additional countries where US Wise card holders will find their card doesn’t function. These include Bolivia, Cambodia, Côte d’lvoire (Ivory Coast), Ethiopia, Kenya, Lebanon, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Paraguay, Sao Tome and Principe, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Vietnam, and Zambia.
Exactly where Wise services can be offered may vary from time to time, so do double check if you’re unsure about whether or not your Wise card can be used in your destination.
Which ATM can I use with a Wise card?
You can use your Wise card to make ATM withdrawals at ATMs which support your card’s payment network. Check the network your card is issued on – Visa or MasterCard – and look out for ATMs displaying that logo. There are a small number of countries where Wise cards issued in the US can’t be used, usually because of global sanctions – full details are available on the Wise website.
What happens when the Wise card expires?
Once your Wise card is coming close to its expiry date you’ll be notified, and Wise will send you a new card automatically for free.
Tips for saving money when spending abroad
Nobody wants to spend more than necessary when traveling. Wise card and account can be a good way to cut your costs – here are a few other things to look out for:
- Always pay in the local currency – an ATM or merchant may ask if you’d prefer to pay in dollars, but this is always more expensive
- Keep a couple of payment methods handy, like cards on different networks and a small amount of cash, so you’re never stuck
- If you ever need to convert cash, avoid airport and hotel currency exchange kiosks, as these usually mean higher fees
How to spend safely when you are traveling
Traveling abroad opens up a world of adventure, but it’s always essential to stay mindful when it comes to the safety of your finances. Using your Wise card smartly can ensure a secure and hassle-free experience, allowing you to spend safely while enjoying your travels:
- Freeze/Unfreeze your card via the mobile app: Suspect that your card is lost or stolen? Freeze it immediately on the Wise app to prevent unauthorized transactions. If you find your card, you can easily unfreeze it.
- Use Jars to separate your funds: The Wise ‘Jars’ feature lets you keep money separate from your main balance, preventing you from accidentally overspending and helping you maintain better control over your budget.
- Utilize mobile payments: Link your Wise card to mobile payment services like Apple Pay or Google Pay for contactless and secure transactions. It adds an extra layer of security, as you won’t physically need to hand over your card and is also convenient.
Key takeaways: Benefits of Wise travel card
- No foreign transaction fees: Enjoy spending in any currency you hold in your Wise account without worrying about foreign transaction fees.
- Smart currency conversion: If you don’t have the currency you need, Wise automatically converts it at the lowest fee, using the mid-market exchange rate with fees as low as 0.42%.
- Accepted internationally: Use your Wise card in over 150 countries wherever Visa or Mastercard is accepted for both in-person and online purchases.
- Free and low-cost ATM withdrawals: Benefit from up to two free ATM withdrawals each month up to 100 USD, with low fees once you’ve hit your allowance, for easy access to cash while traveling.
- Easy currency management: Top up your account in various currencies. The Wise card will pick the currency with the lowest conversion fee for effortless spending abroad.
Conclusion: Is Wise card good for traveling?
The Wise card can be a very helpful card for travel and overseas purchases. You can order a Wise card conveniently online, and link it to your Wise account which can be used to hold 40+ currencies.
Wise currency conversion always uses the mid-market exchange rate and low fees from 0.42%. It’s free to spend currencies you hold in your Wise account, and if you don’t have the currency you need, the Wise card auto convert technology can convert for you, using the mid-market rate and Wise’s low fees. That can mean you save compared to using a regular bank card, whenever you spend or withdraw in a foreign currency.
FAQs on using Wise card for travel
Is a Wise card a debit or credit card?
The Wise card is an international debit card that’s linked to a multi-currency Wise account.
How do I use my Wise debit card in Europe?
As long as you’ve activated your Wise card before you travel to Europe, you’ll be able to use it just like a regular payment card. To activate your card you’ll need to log into Wise and enter the code you see on your card into your Wise account, following the prompts.
Is Wise an international debit card?
Wise offers multi-currency accounts with linked international debit cards for personal and business customers in the US. You can hold funds in your account, exchange between 40+ currencies with the mid-market rate, send and receive payments, and use your Wise international debit card for easy spending and withdrawals.
How do I pay with Wise without a card?
If you don’t have a Wise card you can still use your Wise account to send and receive payments. Wise transfers can be sent to 160+ countries, and use the mid-market rate and low fees from 0.42%.
