Chase will exchange dollars for euros, but only at a branch and only if you have an account there
Chase does not exchange currency through its website, app, or phone line. You must visit a physical branch in person with your passport or government ID. The bank stocks major currencies including euros at most branches, but availability varies by location and demand — a small branch may not have euros on hand and may need to order them, which takes three to five business days.
You do not need to be a Chase customer to exchange currency at a branch, but having a Chase checking or savings account makes the process faster and may give you a slightly better exchange rate. Non-customers can exchange, but some branches may ask for additional ID or may limit the amount.
Chase charges a currency exchange fee on top of the mid-market rate. This fee is not published on their website and varies by branch and by the amount you exchange. The larger the transaction, the better the rate tends to be. You will see the exact fee only when you arrive at the branch or call ahead to ask.
Key Takeaways
- You must visit a Chase branch in person with a government ID to exchange dollars for euros; the bank does not offer this service online or by phone.
- Chase charges a currency exchange fee that is not posted online and varies by branch, so call your local branch before you go to learn the rate.
- If your branch does not have euros in stock, you can order them and pick them up in three to five business days.
- Having a Chase account may result in a slightly better rate than non-customers receive, but the difference is usually small.
What to bring and how much you can exchange
Bring your passport, driver's license, or state ID. Chase will ask to see it before completing the exchange. If you are exchanging a large amount — generally more than $10,000 — the bank is required by federal law to file a Currency Transaction Report, which does not affect you but may slow the transaction slightly.
There is no hard limit on how much you can exchange in a single day, but branches may decline very large requests if they do not have that much cash on hand. If you need more than a few thousand dollars in euros, call your branch first to confirm they have the amount available or can order it.
How to find out the exchange rate before you go
Call your local Chase branch directly and ask the currency exchange desk for the current rate on dollars to euros. They will quote you a rate that includes their fee. Write it down or ask them to hold it for you for a set time — some branches will honor a quoted rate for 24 hours, but this is not may provide.
Do not rely on the mid-market rate you see online (the rate between banks). Chase's rate will always be lower because the bank adds its fee. The difference is typically 2 to 3 percent, though it can be higher at smaller branches or during times of high demand.
Ordering euros if your branch does not have them
If the branch does not have euros in stock, ask to order them. Most branches can order euros and have them ready in three to five business days. You will pay the rate that is in effect on the day you pick them up, not the day you order, so the cost may change.
Some branches charge a small fee for ordering currency, usually $5 to $10. Ask about this when you place the order. You will need to return to the branch to pick up the euros in person — they cannot be mailed or delivered.
Comparing Chase to other options
Chase's exchange rate is typically worse than what you would get from a currency exchange specialist or from using a travel card or prepaid card that locks in a rate before you travel. If you are exchanging a large amount, it is worth calling a few currency exchange shops in your area or checking online services like XE or OANDA to compare rates.
Credit unions sometimes offer better rates than Chase, especially if you are a member. If you have time before your trip, opening a travel rewards credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees can save you money on purchases abroad, though it does not help with exchanging cash.
What happens if you need euros while traveling
If you arrive in Europe without euros, you can withdraw them from an ATM using your Chase debit card. This usually gives you a better rate than exchanging cash at a bank or airport, though Chase charges a foreign transaction fee of 3 percent on the withdrawal. ATMs in airports and city centers are widely available in all eurozone countries.
Using your Chase credit card for purchases abroad also triggers a 3 percent foreign transaction fee, so if you plan to spend significant money, a travel card without this fee is worth considering before you leave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I exchange euros back to dollars at Chase when I return?
Yes, the same process applies in reverse. Visit a branch with your euros and ID, and they will exchange them at the current rate minus their fee. You will get fewer dollars back than you spent because of the fee and because exchange rates fluctuate daily.
Do I need an appointment to exchange currency at Chase?
Most branches do not require an appointment for small exchanges, but calling ahead is a good idea if you are exchanging a large amount or if you want to confirm the rate and that euros are in stock. Some branches may ask you to come back at a less busy time if the line is long.
What if my local Chase branch does not have euros?
You can order them and pick them up in three to five business days, or you can visit a different Chase branch that may have them in stock. Call ahead to ask which branches near you carry euros regularly.
Is the exchange rate the same at every Chase branch?
No, rates vary slightly by branch and by the amount you exchange. Larger branches in cities typically offer slightly better rates than small branches in rural areas. Always call your specific branch to get their rate before you go.
Can I exchange currency online or through the Chase app?
No. Chase only exchanges currency at physical branches. You must visit in person with your ID to complete the transaction.