Yes, Wells Fargo can order euros for you, but it takes time and costs money

Wells Fargo branches can order euros through their foreign exchange service, but you cannot walk in and leave with them the same day. The bank orders currency from a central vault, which typically takes three to five business days. You will pay a markup on the exchange rate — the difference between what the bank pays for euros and what it charges you — plus a flat ordering fee that varies by branch, usually between $5 and $15.

The process works best if you know how many euros you need and can plan ahead. If you need currency in a hurry or want to avoid the markup, other options exist: airport currency exchanges, online currency delivery services, and ATM withdrawals abroad often cost less or move faster.

Key Takeaways

  • Wells Fargo orders euros through its foreign exchange desk, but the order takes three to five business days to arrive at your branch.
  • You pay both an exchange rate markup and a flat fee, making this option more expensive than withdrawing euros from an ATM in Europe.
  • Call your local Wells Fargo branch directly to ask about current fees and exchange rates before placing an order.
  • If you need euros within 24 hours, airport currency exchanges or online delivery services may be faster, though they also charge markups.

How to order euros through Wells Fargo

Visit or call your local Wells Fargo branch and tell them you want to order euros. Bring your passport or ID. The teller will ask how many euros you need and confirm the current exchange rate and fee. You will pay the full amount in US dollars at that moment — the bank does not hold the order until the euros arrive.

The branch will place the order with Wells Fargo's currency distribution center. Three to five business days later, you return to pick up the physical euros. Some branches allow you to pick up during regular hours; others require an appointment. Call ahead to confirm the pickup process at your specific location.

If you need a large amount — typically more than $10,000 equivalent — some branches require advance notice or may ask additional questions for compliance reasons. Smaller orders usually process without delay.

What the markup and fees actually cost you

Wells Fargo's exchange rate is not the same as the mid-market rate you see online. The mid-market rate is what banks pay each other; Wells Fargo adds a percentage on top of that for retail customers. This markup typically ranges from 2 to 3 percent, though it varies by currency and market conditions.

On top of the markup, you pay a flat fee per transaction. This fee is set by each branch and is not standardized across Wells Fargo locations. Call your branch to ask the exact fee before you commit to the order.

Example: If the mid-market rate is 1.10 USD per euro and you want 1,000 euros, the mid-market cost would be $1,100. With a 2.5 percent markup and a $10 fee, you would pay approximately $1,137.50. The same 1,000 euros withdrawn from an ATM in Europe typically costs only the ATM operator's fee — often $2 to $5 — making the ATM route significantly cheaper if you are traveling.

When ordering euros from Wells Fargo makes sense

Order euros through Wells Fargo if you need them before you travel and do not have access to an ATM abroad, or if you prefer to have physical currency in hand before departure. This is most practical for short trips where you want to avoid ATM fees or do not trust the ATM network at your destination.

Ordering also makes sense if you are exchanging a very large amount and want to lock in a rate before market movement, though this is rare for typical travelers. Business customers who regularly need foreign currency sometimes maintain standing orders with Wells Fargo.

Do not order euros if you are traveling soon and have time to use an ATM abroad. The ATM route is almost always cheaper. Do not order if you can use a credit card at your destination, which often has better exchange rates than Wells Fargo's retail markup.

Faster alternatives to Wells Fargo currency orders

Airport currency exchanges operate on-site and can sell you euros immediately, though their markups are typically higher than Wells Fargo's — often 3 to 5 percent or more. Use airport exchanges only if you absolutely need euros before you board and have no other option.

Online currency delivery services like OFX, Wise, and CIBC allow you to order euros online and pick them up at a local branch or have them delivered to your home. Delivery usually takes one to three business days, and their exchange rates are often better than Wells Fargo's because they do not add as large a markup. These services work well if you have a few days to wait.

ATM withdrawal abroad remains the cheapest option for most travelers. Your Wells Fargo debit card works at ATMs in Europe, and you pay only the ATM operator's fee — typically $2 to $5 — plus whatever Wells Fargo charges for foreign ATM use, which is usually $3 to $5 per withdrawal. Combined, this is almost always less than the Wells Fargo currency order markup and fee.

What to bring and what to expect at pickup

When you pick up your euros, bring the same ID you used to place the order. The teller will count the bills in front of you and place them in an envelope. You receive physical euro notes — typically a mix of denominations like €50, €20, and €10 bills, depending on what you requested.

If you ordered a large amount, the teller may ask you to sign a receipt or form for record-keeping. This is normal. If the amount seems wrong or the bills look damaged, tell the teller immediately before you leave the branch.

Keep your euros in a safe place during travel. Wells Fargo does not insure physical currency once it leaves the branch, so if you lose the bills, the bank is not responsible. Travel insurance sometimes covers lost cash, but check your policy before you travel.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order euros online through Wells Fargo's website?

No. You must visit a branch in person or call to place a currency order. Wells Fargo does not accept foreign exchange orders through its website or mobile app. Some online services like Wise and OFX do accept orders online, which may be more convenient if you prefer not to visit a branch.

What if my branch does not have euros in stock?

Most Wells Fargo branches do not keep euros on hand and must order them from a central distribution center. This is why the three to five business day wait exists. If your branch is in a major city with high international travel, they may stock euros and be able to sell them same-day, but you should call ahead to confirm.

Can I return unused euros to Wells Fargo for a refund?

Yes, but you will lose money. Wells Fargo will buy back unused euros at a lower rate than they sold them to you, because they apply a markup on the buy-back as well. If you ordered 1,000 euros and used only 500, returning the remaining 500 will net you less than half of what you paid for them.

Is it cheaper to exchange dollars for euros at my bank or at an ATM in Europe?

An ATM in Europe is almost always cheaper. You pay only the ATM operator's fee (typically $2 to $5) plus Wells Fargo's foreign ATM fee (usually $3 to $5). Wells Fargo's currency order includes a 2 to 3 percent markup plus a flat fee, which totals significantly more for most transactions.

Do I need to order euros in advance if I am leaving tomorrow?

Yes, you should have ordered them already. Wells Fargo needs three to five business days, so a same-day order is not possible. If you leave tomorrow, use an airport currency exchange (expensive but immediate) or withdraw euros from an ATM when you arrive in Europe (cheapest option).