Wells Fargo does exchange foreign currency, but only at certain locations and with advance notice

Wells Fargo will exchange foreign currency for you, but the process is not the same as withdrawing cash from an ATM. You cannot walk into most branches and exchange currency on the spot. Instead, you need to order the currency ahead of time, usually through your local branch or online, and pick it up a few days later. Some larger branches and all Wells Fargo foreign exchange centers can handle same-day exchanges, but availability depends on the currency and your location.

The bank charges a markup on the exchange rate — the difference between what the market rate is and what Wells Fargo charges you. This markup varies but typically ranges from 1% to 3% above the mid-market rate. You will also pay a flat fee if you order currency for delivery rather than in-branch pickup. Before you exchange, compare Wells Fargo's rate to other options like independent currency exchanges or your credit card's foreign transaction rate, because the bank's rate is often not the cheapest.

Key Takeaways

  • Wells Fargo exchanges foreign currency at most branches, but you must order it in advance — usually three to five business days before you need it.
  • The bank charges a markup above the mid-market exchange rate, typically 1% to 3%, plus a delivery fee if you do not pick up in person.
  • Larger branches and dedicated foreign exchange centers can sometimes exchange currency the same day, but this is not may provide and depends on the currency.
  • You can order currency online through your Wells Fargo account, by phone, or in person at a branch.
  • Wells Fargo does not exchange all currencies — less common ones may take longer to obtain or may not be available at all.

How to order foreign currency from Wells Fargo

Start by contacting your local Wells Fargo branch directly. Call ahead or visit in person and ask whether they can order the currency you need. Provide the currency code (for example, EUR for euros, GBP for British pounds) and the amount you want. The branch will quote you the exchange rate and any fees, and you can decide whether to proceed.

You can also order online through your Wells Fargo account if you are a customer. Log in, look for the foreign exchange or currency exchange option, and enter the currency and amount. The system will show you the rate and fees before you confirm. Once you place the order, the branch will prepare the currency and notify you when it is ready for pickup — usually within three to five business days.

If you need currency faster, call the branch and ask whether they have it in stock. Some branches keep small amounts of common currencies on hand and can exchange them the same day. Larger branches in major cities and dedicated Wells Fargo foreign exchange centers are more likely to have same-day options, but do not count on it.

What currencies Wells Fargo can exchange

Wells Fargo exchanges most major world currencies, including euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, Japanese yen, Swiss francs, Australian dollars, and Mexican pesos. The bank also handles many other currencies, but availability varies by branch and by how common the currency is.

Less common currencies — such as Thai baht, South African rand, or Philippine pesos — may take longer to obtain, sometimes two to three weeks. Some currencies the bank cannot get at all, or only in very large amounts. If you need an uncommon currency, ask the branch whether they can order it and how long it will take before you commit to a timeline.

Exchange rates and fees Wells Fargo charges

Wells Fargo publishes its daily exchange rates on its website, but the rate you receive will be higher than the mid-market rate shown there. The markup — the difference between the mid-market rate and what you pay — typically ranges from 1% to 3% depending on the currency. Major currencies like euros and pounds are usually on the lower end; less common currencies carry a higher markup.

On top of the markup, Wells Fargo charges a flat fee for orders placed online or by phone: typically $10 to $15 for in-branch pickup, or $20 to $30 if you request delivery to your home. If you order in person at the branch, you may avoid the online order fee, but confirm this before you place the order.

The total cost — markup plus fees — can add up quickly, especially for large amounts. Before you exchange at Wells Fargo, check the rates and fees at independent currency exchange services in your area or online. Some offer better rates than the bank, particularly if you are exchanging a large sum.

Picking up or receiving your currency

Once your currency is ready, the branch will call or email you. For in-branch pickup, bring your ID and go to the branch during business hours. The teller will count out the currency and give it to you. For delivery, Wells Fargo will mail the currency to your address — this takes an additional three to five business days and costs extra.

If you ordered online, you can pick up at any Wells Fargo branch, not just the one where you ordered. Check your order confirmation for the pickup location and deadline — most branches hold currency for about 30 days before returning it.

Alternatives to Wells Fargo for currency exchange

If Wells Fargo's rates or timeline do not work for you, consider other options. Independent currency exchange companies, often found in airports or downtown areas, sometimes offer better rates than banks, though they charge fees too. Online currency exchange services like OFX or XE allow you to lock in a rate and receive currency by mail, often with lower markups than banks.

Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees are another route if you are traveling — you avoid the exchange markup entirely by using the card abroad. ATMs in the country you are visiting often offer competitive rates as well, though your bank may charge a withdrawal fee.

If you are sending money to another country rather than exchanging it for travel, wire transfers through Wells Fargo or services like Wise (formerly TransferWise) may be cheaper and faster than exchanging cash.

What to do if Wells Fargo cannot get your currency

If the branch tells you they cannot order the currency you need, or if the timeline is too long, ask for a referral to another bank or exchange service that might have it. Some larger banks in major cities have dedicated foreign exchange departments and keep a wider range of currencies in stock.

Independent currency exchanges, particularly those near airports or in areas with large immigrant populations, often carry less common currencies and can exchange them faster than banks. Call ahead to confirm they have the currency and the amount you need before you visit.

If you are exchanging a very large amount or an unusual currency, consider contacting a currency broker — they work with businesses and individuals and can sometimes negotiate better rates than retail options.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exchange foreign currency at any Wells Fargo branch?

Most branches can order currency for you, but not all can exchange it on the spot. Larger branches and dedicated foreign exchange centers are more likely to have same-day exchange. Call your branch first to confirm they can handle the currency and timeline you need.

How long does it take to get foreign currency from Wells Fargo?

Standard orders take three to five business days for in-branch pickup. Same-day exchange is sometimes possible at larger branches, but availability depends on the currency and how much you need. Delivery by mail adds another three to five business days and costs extra.

What is the exchange rate Wells Fargo uses?

Wells Fargo uses the mid-market rate as a starting point, then adds a markup of 1% to 3% depending on the currency. The exact rate you receive is quoted when you place your order. You can see current mid-market rates on the Wells Fargo website, but your actual rate will be higher.

Is it cheaper to exchange currency at Wells Fargo or at an airport?

Airport exchanges typically charge higher markups and fees than banks, so Wells Fargo is usually cheaper. However, independent currency exchanges in your city may offer rates comparable to or better than Wells Fargo. Compare quotes from at least two sources before you exchange.

Can I return unused foreign currency to Wells Fargo?

Yes, most branches will buy back unused currency at their current exchange rate, though you will pay the markup again on the return exchange. The rate you receive for buying back is usually lower than the rate you paid to buy it. Ask the branch about their buyback policy before you exchange.