Should You Order Euros From Chase Bank, or Use an ATM Abroad Instead

Ordering euros from Chase is possible, but it costs more than using an ATM in Europe and takes several business days

Chase lets you order foreign currency, including euros, through most of its branches and online. The process takes 5 to 7 business days, and Chase charges a markup on the exchange rate — typically 2 to 3 percent above the mid-market rate, though the exact amount varies by currency and changes daily. If you need euros for an upcoming trip, ordering through Chase works, but you should compare the cost against using an ATM in Europe or exchanging money at your destination.

The decision comes down to timing, convenience, and cost. If you are leaving within a week and want euros in hand before departure, Chase is straightforward. If you have flexibility and want to save money, an ATM withdrawal in Europe almost always costs less. Most travelers use ATMs abroad and never order currency in advance.

Key Takeaways

• Chase charges a markup of roughly 2 to 3 percent on top of the exchange rate when you order foreign currency, making it more expensive than ATM withdrawals in most cases.
• You can order euros online through Chase.com, by phone, or in person at a branch, but the order takes 5 to 7 business days to arrive.
• You must have a Chase checking or savings account to order currency, and some branches may have minimum order amounts or limited euro availability.
• ATMs in Europe typically offer better exchange rates than Chase, though your bank may charge a foreign transaction fee of $2 to $5 per withdrawal.

How to place an order for euros at Chase

The easiest method is ordering online through Chase.com. Log into your account, look for the "Foreign Exchange" or "Travel" section (location varies by account type), and select euros. You will see the current rate Chase is offering, the total cost in dollars, and an estimated delivery date. Complete the order and Chase will either mail the euros to your address or hold them for pickup at your branch — you choose during checkout.

If you prefer to order by phone, call the Chase customer service number on the back of your debit or credit card and ask for the foreign exchange desk. They will quote you the current rate, confirm how much you want, and arrange delivery or pickup. Ordering in person at a branch also works, though availability and processing time may vary by location. Ask a teller about euro availability and whether your branch stocks them or needs to order from another location.

Chase typically needs 5 to 7 business days to process and deliver your order. If you are leaving sooner, call your branch directly — some locations keep euros in stock and can hand them over the same day, though this is not may provide. Plan your order at least a week before your trip to avoid delays.

What Chase charges for euros and how it compares

Chase's markup on foreign currency ranges from about 2 to 3 percent above the mid-market exchange rate, though the exact percentage shifts daily based on market conditions and currency demand. On a $1,000 order of euros, this markup typically costs $20 to $30 extra. You pay this markup whether you order online, by phone, or in person — the rate does not change by method.

Using an ATM in Europe usually costs less. Most European ATMs offer exchange rates very close to the mid-market rate, though your U.S. bank may charge a foreign transaction fee of $2 to $5 per withdrawal. On a $1,000 withdrawal, you might pay $2 to $5 in fees instead of $20 to $30 in markup. The math favors the ATM unless you are withdrawing very small amounts or your bank charges unusually high fees. Check your bank's fee schedule before your trip.

Currency exchange booths at airports and tourist areas charge even higher markups than Chase — often 5 to 10 percent — so ordering from Chase before you leave is better than exchanging money on arrival.

Requirements and limits for ordering euros

You must have an active Chase checking or savings account to order foreign currency. Chase does not sell euros to non-customers. Bring a valid government ID if you are ordering in person at a branch.

Minimum order amounts vary by branch and availability. Some locations require you to order at least $100 or $200 worth of euros, while others have no stated minimum. Maximum orders are typically $10,000 per transaction, though you can place multiple orders if you need more. Call your branch ahead of time to confirm their specific limits. Chase may not have euros in stock at every location, especially in smaller towns or rural areas. If your branch does not carry euros, they can usually order them from another Chase location or a currency supplier, which adds 1 to 2 days to the delivery time.

Pickup versus delivery options

When you order euros online or by phone, you choose whether to have them mailed to your home or held for pickup at your branch. Mailed orders typically arrive within 5 to 7 business days and come in a find envelope. Pickup orders are usually ready within the same timeframe and you collect them at the branch during business hours with your ID.

Pickup is safer if you are ordering close to your departure date, because you avoid the risk of mail delays or lost packages. Delivery to your home is more convenient if you have time and prefer not to make a branch visit. Either way, do not wait until the last minute — order at least a week ahead.

Alternatives to ordering euros from Chase

Using an ATM abroad is the most common alternative and usually the cheapest. Withdraw euros directly from an ATM in Europe using your Chase debit card. You will get the mid-market exchange rate plus your bank's foreign transaction fee, which is almost always less than Chase's markup on pre-ordered currency.

If you want euros before you leave the U.S., other banks and credit unions sometimes offer better rates than Chase. Call your bank or credit union and ask what they charge for foreign currency. Some online banks and currency exchange services like XE or OFX offer competitive rates for large orders, though they require advance planning and may not be convenient for small amounts. Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees let you pay for purchases in euros without conversion markup, though the card issuer still converts at their rate. This works well for hotels, restaurants, and shops, but you still need some cash for tips, small vendors, and places that do not take cards.

What to do if euros are not available

If Chase cannot get euros in time for your trip, ask whether they can order a different currency you can exchange locally, or straightforward plan to use ATMs and cards in Europe. Most travelers get by without pre-ordering currency at all — ATMs are widely available in every European city and town.

If you absolutely need euros before your trip and Chase cannot deliver in time, check whether a local currency exchange shop or airport exchange counter has euros in stock. Expect to pay a higher rate than Chase, but it may be your only option if you are leaving very soon. Keep in mind that airport exchanges are the most expensive option and should be a last resort.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order euros from Chase online if I do not have a branch nearby?

Yes. You can order online through Chase.com and have the euros mailed to your home, or arrange pickup at any Chase branch. You do not need to order from your home branch specifically.

What happens if I order euros and my trip gets cancelled?

Contact Chase as soon as possible. If the order has not been processed yet, Chase can cancel it and refund your account. If the euros have already been delivered or are ready for pickup, you can return them to a Chase branch for a refund, though the exchange rate may have changed since you ordered.

Does Chase charge a fee just to order euros, separate from the exchange rate markup?

No. Chase does not charge a separate ordering fee. You pay only the markup on the exchange rate itself. Some credit unions or smaller banks may charge a flat fee in addition to the markup, so confirm with Chase before you order.

Is it better to order euros from Chase or wait and use an ATM in Europe?

For most trips, using an ATM in Europe is cheaper. Chase's 2 to 3 percent markup typically costs more than a foreign transaction fee of $2 to $5. Order from Chase only if you prefer to have euros before you leave, or if your bank charges very high ATM fees abroad.

Can I order euros for someone else using my Chase account?

No. Chase requires the account holder to place the order and pick up or receive the currency. You cannot order euros for another person using your account.