10 Best No-Foreign-Transaction-Fee Credit Cards

Jodie Price

By Jodie Price | Updated August 21, 2025

Foreign transaction fees can quietly inflate the cost of international purchases by up to 3%, but the best no-foreign-transaction-fee credit cards eliminate those charges while offering valuable perks. From travel rewards and cash back to rental protections and lounge access, these cards make spending abroad or online with foreign merchants simpler, smarter, and more rewarding.

  • Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

    The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is a travel rewards card built for users who frequently spend on dining and travel. It offers strong earning potential on those categories and valuable redemption options.

    It’s especially appealing for international travelers thanks to no-foreign-transaction fees and flexible point transfers. Users can enjoy both savings and premium travel benefits without unnecessary complexity.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Ultimate Rewards®
    • 3x points on dining, including eligible delivery services and takeout
    • 2x points on online grocery purchases and streaming services
    • 1x point on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 75,000 bonus points after spending $5,000 in the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: Variable (no introductory APR)
    • Chip-enabled for security and international acceptance

    Key Benefits:

    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Travel and purchase protections included
    • DoorDash DashPass membership discount available
    • Redeem points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel through Chase’s portal, transferred to travel partners, or used for gift cards and statement credits.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need a credit score of 700 or higher to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card has a variable APR and no introductory rate, which can lead to higher interest if a balance is carried.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple rewards and no foreign transaction fees make it easy for new travelers to earn points without extra costs abroad.

  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

    The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card is a travel-focused card designed for people who want to earn miles on every purchase. It offers a straightforward way to collect rewards that can be used mainly for travel expenses.

    This card is popular because it does not charge foreign transaction fees. It also has flexible options for redeeming miles, making it useful for frequent travelers.

    Earning Structure:

    • 5 miles per dollar on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
    • 2 miles per dollar on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders earn 75,000 bonus miles after spending $4,000 within the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: Variable (no introductory APR)
    • Includes up to $100 credit for Global Entry or TSA PreCheck
    • Travel accident insurance and auto rental collision damage waiver

    Key Benefits:

    • No blackout dates for travel redemptions
    • Ability to transfer miles to travel partners
    • Travel accident insurance and car rental coverage included

    Redemption Options:

    Miles can be redeemed for travel, including flights, hotels, and car rentals, or transferred to airline partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    This card typically requires good to excellent credit for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The annual fee may be a drawback for some users, especially those who spend less on travel.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers easy-to-understand rewards and no fees on international purchases, making it simple for new cardholders to start earning travel miles.

  • Bilt Mastercard®

    The Bilt Mastercard® is designed for renters who want to earn rewards without paying foreign transaction fees. It stands out by allowing users to earn points on rent payments, a unique feature in the credit card market.

    This card works well for everyday spending, offering flexibility for both domestic and international purchases. It has no fees on foreign transactions, making it a strong option for travelers and renters alike.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3 points per dollar on dining
    • 2 points per dollar on travel booked through the Bilt Travel Portal
    • 1 point per dollar on rent payments without transaction fees
    • 1 point per dollar on other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    There is currently no welcome bonus, but ongoing point-earning opportunities begin immediately upon approval.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: Variable
    • Works with the Bilt app to pay rent, even if your landlord doesn’t accept cards
    • Mastercard World Elite benefits

    Key Benefits:

    • Earn rewards on rent payments without added fees
    • Points can be transferred to several airline and hotel partners
    • Trip and travel protection included
    • No rent payment fees even if paying via Bilt’s routing number and account number

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, home goods, fitness classes, or transferred to travel loyalty programs.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need good to excellent credit to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    Some rental payment methods may have transaction limits or processing times that vary.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a simple way to earn rewards from rent payments and everyday purchases without extra fees, making it easy to start building credit rewards.

  • Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card

    The Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card is designed for people who spend a lot on dining, groceries, and entertainment. It offers cash-back rewards on everyday purchases without an annual fee, making it a solid option for those who want simple rewards.

    This card is focused on getting rewards from food and fun. It also has no foreign transaction fees, which is useful for travelers who want to avoid extra charges when using their card abroad.

    Earning Structure:

    • 8% cash back on Capital One Entertainment purchases
    • 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
    • 3% cash back at grocery stores, on dining, entertainment, and popular streaming services
    • 1% cash back on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn $200 cash back after spending $500 within the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $0
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Intro APR: 0% for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers
    • Ongoing APR: Variable, approximately 19.24%–29.24%
    • Includes travel accident insurance, extended warranty, and collision damage waiver

    Key Benefits:

    • No annual fee
    • No foreign transaction fees
    • Cash back rewards earned at a good rate on dining and groceries
    • 0% intro APR for 15 months on purchases and balance transfers

    Redemption Options:

    Cash back can be redeemed as a statement credit or transferred to a travel miles card at a 1:1 ratio.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit to qualify (e.g. a FICO score around 670 or higher).

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The higher cash-back rates apply only to dining, grocery, and entertainment purchases.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    Its simple rewards system and no annual fee make it easy to use and understand for those new to credit cards.

  • Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

    The Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card is tailored for small business owners who spend heavily on advertising, travel, and telecommunications. It rewards common business expenses with valuable points and offers tools to manage spending efficiently.

    With no foreign transaction fees and flexible redemptions through Chase Ultimate Rewards®, it’s a practical option for businesses with global operations or frequent travel needs.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3x points on shipping, advertising, internet, cable, phone services, and travel purchases
    • 1x point per dollar on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    The card offers a 90,000-point bonus after spending $8,000 within the first three months of account opening.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: Variable (no introductory APR)
    • Authorized user fee: $0
    • Earns Chase Ultimate Rewards® points

    Key Benefits:

    • Points transfer to travel partners at a 1:1 ratio
    • 25% bonus when redeeming points for travel through Chase
    • No foreign transaction fees for international spending
    • Mobile app and tools for managing business expenses

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, cash back, or transferred to airline and hotel partners for higher value.

    Credit Requirements:

    This card requires good to excellent credit to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The $95 annual fee might be a concern for businesses with low spending in bonus categories.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers straightforward rewards on common business expenses and no foreign fees, making it easier to use and understand.

  • American Express® Gold Card

    The American Express® Gold Card is designed for frequent diners and travelers who want to earn high rewards in everyday categories. It balances premium benefits with practical earning opportunities for users who prioritize food and flights.

    With no foreign transaction fees and strong transfer options, it’s well-suited for international use and long-term travel planning.

    Earning Structure:

    • 4 points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, including takeout and delivery in the U.S.
    • 4 points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets (on up to $25,000 per year)
    • 3 points per dollar on flights booked directly with airlines or through AmexTravel.com
    • 2 points per dollar on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com
    • 1 point per dollar on other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards points after spending $6,000 within six months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $325
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: Pay Over Time option with variable rates
    • Includes $120 dining credit and hotel collection benefits

    Key Benefits:

    • Up to $120 in dining credits annually
    • Travel benefits including baggage fee credit and personalized travel service
    • Access to exclusive events and offers through Amex Experiences

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be used for travel, gift cards, merchandise, or transferred to airline and hotel partners.

    Credit Requirements:

    This card requires good to excellent credit for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The annual fee is higher than some other no-foreign-transaction-fee cards, which might not suit casual users.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers a straightforward rewards program with valuable travel perks and no extra fees abroad, ideal for new travelers looking to earn points efficiently.

  • The Platinum Card® From American Express

    The Platinum Card® from American Express is a premium credit card designed for frequent travelers. It offers a wide range of travel perks that appeal to those who spend often on flights and hotels.

    This card does not charge foreign transaction fees, making it a smart choice for international use. Cardholders can enjoy benefits that help improve the travel experience both abroad and at home.

    Earning Structure:

    • Earn 5x Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com
    • Earn 5x points on prepaid hotels booked via AmexTravel
    • Earn 1x point on other eligible purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 175,000 Membership Rewards® points after spending $8,000 within the first six months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $695
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: Pay Over Time option with variable rates
    • Access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide
    • Includes trip delay, cancellation, and baggage insurance

    Key Benefits:

    • Complimentary Uber credits and monthly Saks Fifth Avenue credits
    • Access to the Global Lounge Collection
    • Exclusive access to top hotels and resorts programs
    • 24/7 concierge service for travel and lifestyle

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, statement credits, or transferred to airline and hotel loyalty programs.

    Credit Requirements:

    It requires excellent credit, typically a score over 720, for approval.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The card has a high annual fee, which may not suit occasional travelers or those on a tight budget.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers strong travel benefits and no foreign transaction fees, which helps those new to credit cards avoid extra costs abroad.

  • Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card

    The Bank of America® Premium Rewards® Credit Card is built for travelers and everyday spenders who want to earn flexible rewards without foreign transaction fees. It offers enhanced value for Bank of America Preferred Rewards members.

    With a modest annual fee and broad earning categories, the card blends solid travel perks with everyday practicality, making it a reliable choice for global and domestic use.

    Earning Structure:

    • 2 points per dollar on travel and dining
    • 1.5 points per dollar on all other purchases
    • Up to 3.5 points per dollar on travel and dining with Preferred Rewards
    • Up to 2.625 points per dollar on other purchases with Preferred Rewards

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders earn 60,000 bonus points (worth $600) after spending $4,000 within the first 90 days.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • Intro APR: 0% for 15 billing cycles on purchases and balance transfers
    • Ongoing APR: Variable after intro period
    • Points value is 1 cent per point

    Key Benefits:

    • No fees on foreign transactions
    • Higher earnings with Preferred Rewards status
    • Flexible point redemption options
    • Travel and dining focused rewards

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, cash back, gift cards, or merchandise through Bank of America’s rewards platform.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit to qualify for this card.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The $95 annual fee may not be worth it for those who don’t spend on travel and dining or don’t have Preferred Rewards status.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It provides easy-to-understand rewards and a valuable sign-up bonus, making it a good choice for those new to travel rewards cards.

  • Chase Sapphire Reserve®

    The Chase Sapphire Reserve® is a premium travel credit card aimed at frequent travelers who want flexible rewards and travel perks. It offers strong travel protections and benefits that can make trips more comfortable and rewarding.

    This card is designed to provide value through points and rewards while eliminating extra fees on foreign transactions. It supports a seamless experience for users who spend abroad often.

    Earning Structure:

    • 8 points per dollar on flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises, and vacation rentals booked through Chase Ultimate Rewards® / Chase Travel℠
    • 4 points per dollar on flights and hotels booked directly with airlines or lodging providers
    • 3 points per dollar on dining worldwide
    • 1 point per dollar on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders can earn 100,000 bonus points plus a $500 Chase Travel℠ promo credit after spending $5,000 within the first three months.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $795
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: Variable (no introductory APR)
    • Includes a $300 annual travel credit
    • Access to Priority Pass™ airport lounges and Chase Sapphire Lounge locations
    • Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS fee reimbursement every four years

    Key Benefits:

    • $300 annual travel credit
    • Priority Pass™ airport lounge access
    • Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee credit
    • Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
    • No foreign transaction fees

    Redemption Options:

    Points can be redeemed for travel, statement credits, gift cards, or transferred to airline and hotel partners at a 1:1 ratio.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants generally need excellent credit to qualify.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The high annual fee may not suit occasional travelers or those with low spending in travel and dining categories.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It combines valuable rewards and travel perks in one package, helping new card owners maximize benefits without worrying about foreign transaction fees during travel.

  • Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card

    This card is designed for travelers who often fly with Alaska Airlines and want to earn miles easily. It works well for those who value companion travel and perks related to the airline.

    The card offers a solid way to collect Alaska Airlines Mileage Plan miles. It also helps cardholders enjoy travel benefits that go beyond basic rewards.

    Earning Structure:

    • 3 miles per dollar on Alaska Airlines purchases
    • 2 miles per dollar on gas, EV charging stations, cable, streaming services, and transit
    • 1 mile per dollar on all other purchases

    Welcome Bonus:

    New cardholders earn 50,000 bonus miles plus a companion fare ticket (buy one ticket, get the second for just taxes and fees) after spending $3,000 within the first 90 days.

    Card Details:

    • Annual fee: $95
    • Foreign transaction fees: None
    • APR: Variable, between 20.24% and 28.24%
    • Companion Fare included in welcome offer and annually after $6,000 qualifying spend per year

    Key Benefits:

    • Alaska’s famous Companion Fare discount for a second ticket
    • Free checked bags for up to six companions on the same reservation
    • 20% statement credit on Alaska Airlines in-flight purchases
    • 10% mileage bonus with an eligible Bank of America checking or savings account

    Redemption Options:

    Miles can be redeemed for flights with Alaska Airlines and its Oneworld partners, including popular international airlines.

    Credit Requirements:

    Applicants typically need good to excellent credit to qualify for this card.

    Spending Limitations / Potential Drawbacks:

    The rewards on non-Alaska purchases are lower compared to other travel cards, which might limit overall earning potential.

    Why it Works for Beginners:

    It offers straightforward mile earning and valuable perks without confusing tiers, making it easy for new credit card users to understand.


Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best credit card options with no foreign transaction fees and no annual fee?

Cards like the Capital One Savor Cash Rewards Credit Card and Bilt Mastercard® have no foreign transaction fees and charge no annual fee. Both offer strong rewards on everyday categories like dining, groceries, and rent. They’re excellent for frequent spenders who want to avoid fees without sacrificing perks.

Are there credit cards from Chase without foreign transaction fees?

Yes, the Chase Sapphire Preferred® and Chase Sapphire Reserve® both waive foreign transaction fees. They earn bonus points on travel and dining and include flexible redemption options. Both are excellent for international travelers seeking value and protection.

How does the Chase Sapphire Preferred card handle foreign transaction fees?

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® does not charge foreign transaction fees. It earns points on global travel and dining and includes built-in travel protections. With a reasonable annual fee, it’s a top choice for frequent international use.

Which premium cards offer luxury travel perks with no foreign transaction fees?

The Platinum Card® from American Express and Chase Sapphire Reserve® both offer luxury benefits and no foreign transaction fees. These include lounge access, statement credits, and enhanced redemptions through their travel portals. They’re ideal for frequent travelers who want premium experiences.

Are there airline cards that waive foreign transaction fees?

Yes, the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® Credit Card charges no foreign transaction fees and includes valuable airline perks. These include a companion fare, free checked bags, and priority boarding. It’s a strong pick for Alaska Airlines loyalists traveling abroad.