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How to choose a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card
Ryan Wilcox
Former credit card writer
When Ryan worked as a TPG credit cards writer, he oversaw refreshes of card reviews and card offer stories. He enjoyed racking up cash back and helping readers maximize their points and miles for their next big trip.
Lakeisha Robinson
Compliance associate
Compliance associate Lakeisha Robinson has 12 years of compliance experience. She uses her credit card knowledge, passion for travel and general compliance rules to ensure that she and her team share the most accurate and compliant content with TPG readers.
Stephanie Stevens
Associate credit cards writer
Stephanie Stevens is an associate writer with TPG's credit cards team. She focuses on creating timely credit cards content for TPG readers.
March 19, 2025
•
11 min read
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Editor's Note
This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information and offers.
If you’re a frequent traveler, you might be familiar with foreign transaction fees — and how they can add up, making every purchase more expensive.
When you make a purchase in a foreign country through an international merchant, your credit card issuer charges these fees, typically up to 3% of the transaction amount.
The good news? Many credit cards waive foreign transaction fees entirely, helping you save money when you travel. In fact, Discover and Capital One don’t charge foreign transaction fees on any of their cards.
Here's our guide to finding a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card that works for you.
Related: 9 types of cards you should pack for your next trip abroad
Comparing the best no-foreign-transaction-fee credit cards
| Card | Best for | Welcome offer | Earning rates | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Flat-rate earning | Earn 75,000 miles after spending $4,000 on purchases within the first three months of account opening. |
| $95 | |
Total value | Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening. |
| $95 | |
Renters | N/A |
(Must use Bilt Mastercard 5 times each statement period to earn points on rent and qualifying net purchases) | $0 | |
Entertainment spending | Earn $200 cash back after spending $500 on purchases within three months of account opening. |
| $0 | |
Bonus spending | Earn 90,000 bonus points after spending $8,000 in the first three months from account opening. |
| $95 | |
Dining at restaurants worldwide | Find out your offer and see if you are eligible to earn as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 on eligible purchases in your first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. |
| $325 (see rates and fees) | |
Luxury perks | Find out your offer and see if you are eligible for as high as 175,000 Membership Rewards Points after spending $8,000 on purchases within the first six months of card membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. |
| $895 (see rates and fees) | |
Bank of America customers | Earn 60,000 online bonus points after making at least $4,000 in purchases in the first 90 days of account opening. |
| $95 | |
Travel | Earn 125,000 bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases in the first three months of account opening.
|
points on travel earned after the annual $300 travel credit | $795 | |
Airline points | Earn 60,000 bonus points and a $99 Companion Fare (plus taxes and fees from $23) after spending $3,000 on purchases within the first 90 days of opening your account, plus receive a 30% global flight discount code for a qualifying future flight after opening your new account. |
| $95 | |
One Key+™ Card | Expedia enthusiasts | Earn $400 in OneKeyCash™ after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first three months. |
| $99 |
No annual fee and no foreign transaction fees | Earn Unlimited Cashback Match for all new cardmembers–only from Discover. Discover will automatically match all the cash back you’ve earned at the end of your first year. |
| $0 | |
Beginner travelers | Earn 40,000 bonus points after spending $3,000 in eligible purchases within the first six months of card membership. |
| $150 | |
ApplePay and mobile wallet users | Earn 50,000 points after spending $4,500 in the first 90 days. |
| $400 |
*TPG Brian Kelly is a Bilt advisor and investor.
**The information for the Bilt Mastercard, Ink Business Preferred, One Key+ Card, Discover it Cash Back, the U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite and the Amex Green card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
How to choose a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card
Consider where you’re traveling
Before choosing a credit card, make sure it's widely accepted in the countries you plan to visit. Even the best travel card won't be useful if merchants don't take it.
For example, Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted almost everywhere, while issuers such as Discover and American Express are often limited outside North America. Checking ahead can help you pick the best card for your destination and avoid payment issues while abroad.
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Related: Where to go in 2025: The 29 best places to travel
Determine your overall goals
When choosing a no-foreign-transaction-fee credit card, consider what matters most to you. A generous welcome offer can add significant value, but you might prioritize an ongoing rewards program that aligns with your spending instead.
Think about your primary goal — do you want to maximize travel rewards, earn cash back or focus on paying down a balance? With several no-foreign-transaction-fees cards available, try to narrow down your options by deciding what type of card makes sense for you.
You might opt for a premium travel rewards card, a no-annual-fee cash back card or something in between.
For example, if you're planning a lavish 10-day getaway or have multiple trips lined up for the year, a premium travel rewards card could offer the most value with perks like lounge access and bonus points on travel purchases.
On the other hand, if you're an occasional traveler taking a short trip abroad, a no-annual-fee or cash back card with no foreign transaction fees might be a more practical choice. Fortunately, plenty of options are available to fit different travel styles and budgets.
Related: How to pick the right travel credit card for you
Compare welcome offers
Once you've identified the type of card that fits your needs, the next step is comparing current welcome offers. A strong welcome bonus can significantly boost a card's value, especially if it comes with a large amount of points, miles or cash back after meeting the minimum spending requirement.
However, a welcome offer isn't everything. You might prioritize a card with a lucrative, long-term rewards program over one with a short-term bonus — keep your goals in mind when making this decision.
To help, TPG has a guide that tracks the welcome offer history on some of the most popular travel cards on the market. It can help you determine the best time to apply for a specific card.
Related: How can I get a higher, targeted credit card introductory bonus?
How do I pay foreign transaction fees?
Foreign transaction fees are automatically applied to your credit card statement when you make a purchase in a foreign currency. There's no separate payment process — the fee is bundled into the total charge that appears on your statement.
If your credit card has foreign transaction fees, you will see them listed alongside each international transaction.
Are foreign transaction fees impacted by exchange rates?
No, foreign transaction fees are not impacted by exchange rates. These fees are separate charges imposed by your credit card issuer for processing transactions in a foreign currency.
While exchange rates may fluctuate based on market conditions, foreign transaction fees remain a fixed percentage of your purchase amount — typically up to 3%.
Bottom line
There are plenty of no-foreign-transaction-fee credit cards on the market. Considering a few basic factors, you can find a card that will give you plenty of value, whether traveling abroad or staying at home.
Related: Foreign transaction fees: Everything you need to know
For rates and fees of the Amex Gold Card, click here.
For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum Card, click here.
Updated 10/29/25.
Featured image by DIMENSIONS/GETTY IMAGES
Editorial disclaimer: Opinions expressed here are the author’s alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, airline or hotel chain, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of these entities.
TPG featured card
Best for dining at restaurants
Apply for American Express® Gold Card
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees
TPG Editor‘s Rating
Go to reviewCard Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
Apply for American Express® Gold Card
at American Express's secure site
Rewards
1 - 4X points
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro offer
As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.
Annual Fee
$325
Recommended Credit
Excellent to Good
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.
Apply for American Express® Gold Card
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees
Best for dining at restaurants
TPG Editor‘s Rating
Go to reviewCard Rating is based on the opinion of TPG‘s editors and is not influenced by the card issuer.
Rewards Rate
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Intro Offer
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after spending $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer.As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.Annual Fee
$325Recommended Credit
Credit ranges are a variation of FICO® Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit card application.Excellent to Good
Why We Chose It
There’s a lot to love about the Amex Gold. It’s a fan favorite thanks to its fantastic bonus-earning rates at restaurants worldwide and at U.S. supermarkets. If you’re hitting the skies soon, you’ll also earn bonus Membership Rewards points on travel. Paired with up to $120 in Uber Cash annually (for U.S. Uber rides or Uber Eats orders, card must be added to Uber app and you can redeem with any Amex card), up to $120 in annual dining statement credits to be used with eligible partners, an up to $84 Dunkin’ credit each year at U.S. Dunkin Donuts and an up to $100 Resy credit annually, there’s no reason that foodies shouldn’t add the Amex Gold to their wallet. These benefits alone are worth more than $400, which offsets the $325 annual fee on the Amex Gold card. Enrollment is required for select benefits. (Partner offer)Pros
- 4 points per dollar spent on dining at restaurants worldwide and U.S. supermarkets (on the first $50,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter and $25,000 in purchases per calendar year; then 1 point per dollar spent thereafter, respectively)
- 3 points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with the airline or with amextravel.com
- Packed with credits foodies will enjoy
- Solid welcome bonus
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $6,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an American Express Card for your transaction. That’s up to $120 Uber Cash annually. Plus, after using your Uber Cash, use your Card to earn 4X Membership Rewards® points for Uber Eats purchases made with restaurants or U.S. supermarkets. Point caps and terms apply.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin' locations. Enrollment is required to receive this benefit.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
- Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges* with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. *Eligible charges vary by property.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.