Chase can order euros for you, but not instantly and not at every branch
Chase does not keep euros in stock at most branches. If you need euros, you can order them through Chase's foreign currency service, but the process takes several business days and comes with fees. You place the order at a Chase branch or by phone, the bank sources the euros from a currency supplier, and you pick them up when they arrive — usually within 3 to 7 business days depending on the amount and your location.
The cost is higher than exchanging money abroad. Chase charges a markup on top of the wholesale exchange rate, typically 2 to 3 percent above the mid-market rate. If you need euros urgently or want a better rate, other options exist: airport currency exchanges, online currency services like OFX or Wise, or simply withdrawing euros from an ATM once you arrive in Europe.
Key Takeaways
- Chase orders euros through its foreign currency service, but the order takes 3 to 7 business days and is not available at every branch location.
- You pay a markup of roughly 2 to 3 percent above the mid-market exchange rate, making Chase more expensive than ATM withdrawals or online currency services.
- You must order in person at a branch or by calling Chase, provide your account information, and pick up the cash when it arrives.
- For urgent travel or better rates, using an ATM abroad or a specialist currency service like Wise often costs less and moves faster.
How to order euros through Chase
Visit a Chase branch in person or call the number on the back of your debit or credit card to reach customer service. Tell them you want to order euros and specify the amount. The representative will confirm the current exchange rate (which includes Chase's markup), calculate the total cost in dollars, and deduct that amount from your account when you place the order.
You will receive a confirmation number and a pickup date. Return to the branch on or after that date with your ID to collect the physical euros. Some branches allow you to pick up at any Chase location, but confirm this when you order — a few branches have limited foreign currency inventory and may require you to pick up where you placed the order.
What the markup costs you in real dollars
The difference between Chase's rate and the true market rate adds up quickly on larger amounts. If the mid-market rate is 1 euro = $1.10 and Chase charges a 2.5 percent markup, you pay roughly $1.13 per euro instead. On $1,000 worth of euros, that markup costs you about $25 to $30.
Compare this to withdrawing euros from an ATM in Europe: most ATMs charge a flat fee of $2 to $5 per withdrawal plus a small percentage markup (often under 1 percent), which is usually cheaper than ordering through a bank. Online currency services like Wise or OFX often beat Chase's rate by 1 to 2 percent and deliver to your home or a pickup location, though they also take 1 to 3 business days.
When ordering euros from Chase makes sense
Order through Chase if you want physical cash before you travel and do not want to use an ATM abroad, or if you are uncomfortable carrying a debit card internationally. Having euros in hand before departure removes the need to find an ATM on arrival, which can be stressful if you land late or in a small town.
Chase is also useful if you need a large amount and want to avoid multiple ATM withdrawal limits. Most ATMs cap daily withdrawals at $500 to $1,000, so if you need $3,000 in euros, ordering through Chase lets you get it all at once. The higher cost may be worth the convenience in that scenario.
Better alternatives for most travelers
Using an ATM in Europe is almost always cheaper and faster. You withdraw euros directly from your account at the local exchange rate plus a small fee. Chase charges no ATM fees at its own machines, but international ATM fees from other banks typically run $2 to $5 per transaction. Even with that fee, the exchange rate is usually better than what Chase offers.
Online currency services like Wise, OFX, or Remitly let you lock in an exchange rate online, order euros to be delivered to your home or a pickup location, and often charge lower markups than banks. These services take 1 to 3 business days but cost less than Chase and give you more control over timing. If you have a few days before travel, this route usually saves money.
What to do if you need euros urgently
If you leave for Europe in 1 or 2 days, Chase's 3 to 7 day timeline will not work. Your options are limited: pay a premium at an airport currency exchange (rates are poor but you get cash immediately), order from an online service and hope it arrives in time (risky), or simply plan to use an ATM when you land.
Airport exchanges charge 5 to 10 percent markups and are the most expensive option, but they operate 24/7 and hand over cash on the spot. If you absolutely must have euros before boarding, this is your only choice — but budget for the high cost and exchange only what you need for the first day or two.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I order euros online through Chase's website?
No. You must order in person at a branch or by phone. Chase does not offer online foreign currency ordering through its website or mobile app. Call the number on your card or visit a branch to start an order.
What if my branch does not have euros in stock?
Most branches do not stock euros regularly. When you order, Chase sources them from a currency supplier, which is why the order takes several days. If your branch cannot order euros, ask if another nearby branch can, or request delivery to your home address if that option is available.
Do I need a Chase account to order euros?
Yes. You must have an active Chase checking or savings account. The bank deducts the cost from your account when you place the order. If you do not have a Chase account, you can open one, but that adds time to the process.
What happens if the exchange rate changes between when I order and when I pick up?
The rate you receive is locked in when you place the order. If the rate moves in your favor or against you before pickup, you still pay the rate quoted at order time. This protects you from sudden swings but also means you cannot benefit if the rate improves.
Can I return euros I did not use?
Chase will buy back unused euros, but the rate you receive on the return is typically worse than the rate you paid. You lose money on the round trip. Only order the amount you actually plan to spend, or plan to spend any leftover euros on a future trip.