Using credit cards abroad
It's safe and easy to use your Tesco Bank Credit Card 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
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.
Making a purchase abroad
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 |
The exchange rate is used for illustrative purposes only.
Withdrawing money abroad
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 |
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)
Switch off or manage your text alerts to save on roaming costs
Need to block your credit card? You can block and unblock your card on our Mobile App
Visit our Credit Card help hub for access to more helpful information about using your card
Important information
For impartial advice on using your card abroad, visit the Money Advice Service