Withdrawing money and payments
Cashless payments
Within the EU: With the Girocard / EC card, it is possible to pay cashless without any fees in countries of the euro zone. In EU countries with their own currency (e.g. Poland or Denmark), a relatively small fee is charged for the currency conversion (approx. 1%).
In non-European countries: Card payments with the Girocard / EC card are not possible in all countries. This also depends on the type of giro card (Maestro, Vpay).
You can find out more about the regulations in individual countries on the relevant country pages on this website or contact the Outgoing Center directly.
For payments with credit cards that are carried out domestically and within the European Monetary Union, there are usually no additional fees for the consumer when paying. The dealer bears the costs incurred.
Additional costs abroad
Most providers charge a foreign transaction fee for each use of the credit card in the form of a percentage depending on the amount of money withdrawn. This usually ranges between 1% and 4% of the amount withdrawn, has a minimum fee and is payable again with each withdrawal.
The exact amount of this foreign transaction fee depends on the respective bank.
You should check with your bank before you travel. Some banks do not charge fees for VISA withdrawals internationally. Otherwise, fees are usually charged as a percentage depending on the amount, with a minimum fee for smaller amounts.
Withdrawal limit
Don't forget to check your withdrawal limits, many cards don't allow more than, for example, € 300 per week by default. If necessary, remember to notify your bank well in advance of the trip abroad so that your account is not blocked for suspicious activity.
Travel Credit Cards
A key advantage of travel credit cards is being able to withdraw money abroad in the respective national currency free of charge.