Chase does exchange foreign currency, but only at certain branches and with limits on the amounts and types of currency they handle.

Chase offers foreign currency exchange at most of its full-service branches, but the service is not available at every location. You can exchange cash in person at a branch, and Chase can also order currency for you if they do not have it in stock. The exchange rates Chase offers are typically higher than the mid-market rate — meaning you pay more to buy foreign currency and receive less when you sell it back to Chase.

Before you go to a branch, call ahead to confirm they have the currency you need or can order it. Some branches handle only the most common currencies like euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, and Mexican pesos. If you need a less common currency, ordering ahead is essential — it can take several business days to arrive.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase exchanges foreign currency at most full-service branches, but you should call your local branch first to confirm they offer the service and have your currency in stock.
  • Chase charges a markup on exchange rates, so you will pay more than the mid-market rate when buying currency and receive less when selling it back.
  • If your branch does not have the currency you need, Chase can order it, but delivery typically takes three to five business days.
  • You will need a valid government-issued ID to exchange currency, and Chase may ask about the purpose of the exchange for larger amounts.

Which currencies Chase keeps in stock

Chase maintains inventory of the most widely traded currencies at most branches. These typically include euros (EUR), British pounds (GBP), Canadian dollars (CAD), Mexican pesos (MXN), Japanese yen (JPY), Swiss francs (CHF), Australian dollars (AUD), and New Zealand dollars (NZD). Availability varies by branch location — branches in areas with higher international travel or business activity are more likely to stock a wider range.

For currencies outside this common list, Chase can order them through its currency supplier. Less common currencies like Thai baht, South African rand, or Norwegian krone may take longer to arrive and may carry higher markups. Call your branch to ask about ordering; they will tell you the timeframe and whether there are any restrictions on that particular currency.

How to exchange currency at Chase

Visit a Chase branch in person with your valid passport, driver's license, or other government-issued ID. Bring the cash you want to exchange — Chase does not exchange currency held in accounts, only physical bills. Tell the teller the currency you need and the amount. If the branch has it in stock, the exchange happens on the spot. If not, the teller can place an order and tell you when to return to pick it up.

For larger exchanges, Chase may ask why you need the currency — this is standard practice for banks and helps them comply with anti-money-laundering rules. A straightforward answer like "I am traveling to France" or "I am sending money to family in Mexico" is all they need. There is no legal limit on how much foreign currency you can exchange, but very large amounts may require advance notice.

Exchange rates and fees at Chase

Chase does not charge a separate fee for currency exchange, but the exchange rate itself includes a markup. The mid-market rate is the rate banks use to trade with each other and is updated constantly throughout the day. Chase's retail rate — the one you receive — is typically 1 to 3 percent higher than mid-market when you are buying currency and 1 to 3 percent lower when you are selling it back.

This markup is how Chase makes money on the service. The exact percentage varies by currency and market conditions. Before you exchange, you can ask the teller what rate they are offering and compare it to the mid-market rate you can find online. If you are exchanging a large amount, it is worth shopping around — some credit unions and independent currency exchanges offer better rates than Chase.

Ordering currency in advance

If your branch does not have the currency you need, you can order it by phone or in person. Most orders arrive within three to five business days, though some currencies may take longer. You will typically need to pay for the currency when you place the order, either in cash at the branch or by debit card. Some branches may require you to pick up the order within a certain timeframe — usually 30 days — or the order may be cancelled.

Ordering ahead is especially useful if you need a large amount or an uncommon currency. It also gives you time to lock in an exchange rate before you travel. Ask the branch whether they can hold the currency for you if your travel dates shift, or whether you can cancel the order if your plans change.

Alternatives to Chase for foreign currency

If Chase's rates or availability do not work for you, other options exist. Credit unions often offer better exchange rates than large banks, especially if you are a member. Independent currency exchange shops in major cities and airports typically offer competitive rates for common currencies but charge higher markups for less common ones.

Online currency exchange services like OFX, Wise, and XE allow you to lock in a rate online and receive currency by mail or pick it up at a partner location. These services often have better rates than banks for international transfers, though they may charge a flat fee. ATMs in the country you are visiting usually offer the best exchange rate overall — the mid-market rate with only a small ATM fee — but you need a debit card that works internationally.

What to bring and what to expect

Bring a valid government-issued ID — a passport, driver's license, or state ID card. Bring the cash you want to exchange in the original currency. If you are picking up an order you placed earlier, bring your confirmation number or receipt. Expect the transaction to take 10 to 20 minutes if the currency is in stock, longer if the teller needs to verify rates or process a special request.

Chase may ask you to fill out a form for very large exchanges — typically over $10,000 — as part of federal reporting requirements. This is routine and does not mean anything is wrong. The teller will explain what information they need and why.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exchange foreign currency at a Chase ATM?

No. Chase ATMs only dispense US dollars. You can withdraw cash from a Chase ATM in another country if your debit card is enabled for international use, but you cannot exchange currency at the machine itself. You must visit a branch in person.

Does Chase exchange currency for non-customers?

Yes. You do not need to have a Chase account to exchange currency at a branch. You will still need a valid government-issued ID, and the same exchange rates and policies apply.

What happens if I exchange currency and then change my travel plans?

If you have already exchanged cash, Chase will buy it back at the current exchange rate, which may be different from what you paid. You will receive less than you paid because of the markup. If you ordered currency that has not yet arrived, call the branch immediately to cancel — policies vary on whether you can cancel after payment.

Is there a limit to how much foreign currency I can exchange?

There is no legal limit on currency exchange. Very large amounts — typically over $10,000 — trigger federal reporting forms, but this is normal and does not prevent the exchange. Call your branch ahead of time if you need a large amount so they can have it ready.

Can I exchange currency online through Chase?

Chase does not offer online currency exchange. You must visit a branch in person. However, you can call ahead to check rates and place an order for currency to be ready when you arrive.