Yes, Bank of America can order euros for you, but it takes planning and costs money

Bank of America branches can order euros through their foreign currency service, but you cannot walk in and leave with them the same day. The bank orders euros from a currency wholesaler, which takes three to five business days. You pay a conversion rate that includes Bank of America's markup — typically 2 to 3 percent above the mid-market rate — plus a flat ordering fee that varies by branch, usually between $10 and $25.

Not every branch handles foreign currency orders. Smaller branches or those in rural areas may not stock euros or have the infrastructure to order them. Your best option is to call your local Bank of America branch directly and ask whether they offer foreign currency ordering, rather than visiting in person.

Key Takeaways

  • Bank of America orders euros through a wholesale currency service, taking three to five business days to arrive at your branch.
  • You pay the bank's conversion rate plus a flat fee per order, which means euros cost more than the published exchange rate you see online.
  • Not all branches order foreign currency, so call ahead to confirm your branch can handle the request before visiting.
  • You must pick up the euros in person at the branch where you ordered them; the bank will not mail them or hold them indefinitely.
  • ATM withdrawals in Europe often give you a better exchange rate than ordering euros in advance, though fees vary by card type.

What the ordering process actually looks like

Call your branch and tell them you want to order euros. They will ask how many euros you need and confirm they can source them. You will then visit the branch in person to place the order and pay for it upfront — the bank does not hold the order until you pay. Bring a valid ID and be prepared to pay in US dollars from your account or with a debit card.

The branch will give you a receipt with a pickup date, usually three to five business days out. You must return to that same branch on or shortly after that date to collect the physical euros. If you do not pick them up within a set window (typically 10 to 14 days), the bank may reverse the transaction and refund your money, though policies vary by location.

How much the markup costs you

Bank of America's conversion rate is not the rate you see on financial news sites. The mid-market rate — the true wholesale price banks pay each other — is one number. Bank of America adds a percentage markup on top of that, usually 2 to 3 percent, plus a flat fee per transaction.

If the mid-market rate is 1.10 USD per euro and the bank marks it up 2.5 percent, you pay roughly 1.128 USD per euro before the flat fee. On a $1,000 order, that markup costs you $25 to $30 in addition to the flat ordering fee. For a $5,000 order, the markup alone could be $125 to $150. The exact rates and fees vary by branch and change daily, so ask for a quote before you commit to ordering.

Alternatives that may cost less

If you are traveling to Europe, using an ATM in the eurozone often gives you a better rate than ordering euros at home. Your Bank of America debit card will withdraw euros directly from your account at a rate closer to mid-market, though you will pay an out-of-network ATM fee (usually $2 to $5 per withdrawal) and possibly a foreign transaction fee depending on your account type.

Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees are another option if you plan to spend in euros rather than carry cash. Some travel-focused credit cards from other banks offer better rates than Bank of America's currency ordering service, though you should compare the full cost — including any annual fees — before switching.

Specialty currency exchange services like OFX, Wise, or XE also order physical currency and sometimes charge less than banks, though they also take several business days and require you to pick up the euros or arrange delivery. These services are worth comparing if you are ordering a large amount.

What happens if you need euros urgently

If you need euros in fewer than three days, Bank of America cannot help you. Some branches may have a small amount of euros on hand for when ready sale at a higher markup, but this is not may provide and depends entirely on what the branch happens to have in its vault that day. Call ahead to ask, but do not count on it.

If you are leaving for Europe in one or two days, your best option is to use an ATM once you arrive. If you absolutely need cash before you leave, a currency exchange kiosk at an airport may have euros available when ready, though their rates are typically worse than any other option. Plan ahead whenever possible.

Documents and information you will need

Bring a valid government-issued ID when you visit the branch to order euros. You will need to specify the exact amount of euros you want (or the dollar amount you want to convert). Have your Bank of America account number ready, or bring your debit card. The branch may ask why you need the euros, though this is routine and not a barrier to ordering.

If you are ordering a very large amount — typically more than $10,000 — the bank may ask additional questions for anti-money-laundering compliance. This is standard practice and does not mean anything is wrong; it is a federal requirement. Be honest about the purpose (vacation, business travel, etc.) and the process will move forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order euros online through Bank of America's website?

No. You must call your branch or visit in person to order foreign currency. Bank of America does not offer online currency ordering through their website or mobile app. Some other banks offer this service, but Bank of America requires a phone call or branch visit to initiate the order.

What if my branch does not have euros in stock?

If your branch does not regularly order foreign currency, they can still place a special order through their wholesale supplier. This takes the same three to five business days. Ask the branch manager whether they can order euros; most can, even if they do not advertise the service.

Do I have to be a Bank of America customer to order euros?

Yes. You must have a Bank of America account and bring a valid ID. Non-customers cannot order currency through Bank of America branches. If you are not a customer, you would need to use a currency exchange service or airport kiosk instead.

What if I order euros and then my trip gets cancelled?

Contact the branch when ready and ask about reversing the order. If the euros have not yet been delivered, the bank can usually cancel and refund your money. If the euros have already arrived and you have picked them up, you can exchange them back, but you will lose money on both the original markup and the return conversion fee.

Is it cheaper to order euros or use a credit card in Europe?

For most people, using a credit card with no foreign transaction fees is cheaper than ordering euros in advance. You avoid the ordering fee and the bank's markup. However, if you need cash for small purchases or places that do not accept cards, ordering euros ahead of time is more predictable than relying on ATM availability once you arrive.