Chase can order euros for you, but the process takes time and costs more than using an ATM abroad

Chase offers foreign currency exchange through its branches and online banking, but euros are not kept in stock at most locations. You will need to order them in advance — typically 7 to 10 business days — and pay a markup on the exchange rate that ranges from 2% to 3% above the mid-market rate. If you need euros quickly or want a better rate, using a Chase ATM in Europe or a currency specialist is usually cheaper.

The process itself is straightforward: you call ahead, reserve the amount you need, visit your branch with a valid ID and payment method, and pick up the euros when they arrive. But the cost and timing mean this route makes sense mainly if you need a large amount before you travel and want physical cash in hand before you leave the United States.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase orders euros through a third-party currency supplier and charges a markup of 2% to 3% above the market rate, making it more expensive than ATM withdrawals abroad.
  • Orders typically take 7 to 10 business days, so you must plan ahead and cannot use this method for last-minute travel.
  • You pick up euros in person at a Chase branch with a valid ID; Chase does not mail foreign currency to your home.
  • Using a Chase ATM in a eurozone country usually gives you a better exchange rate and lower fees than ordering euros before you travel.
  • Currency exchange specialists and online services like OFX or Wise often offer rates closer to mid-market than Chase does.

How to order euros through Chase online or by phone

Start by contacting your Chase branch directly or calling Chase customer service at 1-800-935-9935. Tell them you want to order euros and how much you need. Chase will quote you the current exchange rate (which includes their markup) and confirm how many business days the order will take. Most branches can order euros, but some smaller locations may need to route the order through a regional hub, which can add a day or two.

Once you confirm the order, Chase will hold the euros at your branch for pickup. You do not pay until you arrive to collect them. Bring a valid photo ID and be prepared to pay in cash, by debit card, or by check — policies vary slightly by branch. Ask when the euros will be ready before you make the trip; if the order is delayed, the branch will call you.

If you use Chase online banking, some accounts allow you to request foreign currency through the app or website, but you will still need to visit a branch to pick it up and complete the payment. The online request straightforward starts the order; it does not complete the transaction.

What the exchange rate and fees actually cost you

Chase's markup on foreign currency is not listed as a separate fee — it is built into the exchange rate they quote you. When you call to order euros, the rate they give you will be 2% to 3% worse than the mid-market rate (the true wholesale rate between banks). On a €1,000 order, that markup typically costs $20 to $30 in lost value.

There is no additional transaction fee for ordering currency through Chase, but if you need the euros urgently and miss the order window, you may end up paying rush fees at some branches, though this is not standard. The real cost is the time: if you wait until three days before your trip, you may not be able to order at all, and you will be forced to use a less convenient option.

Compare this to withdrawing euros from a Chase ATM in Europe: you will pay a foreign transaction fee (usually 1% to 3% depending on your account type) plus the ATM operator's fee (typically €2 to €5), but the exchange rate itself is usually better than Chase's pre-travel rate. For most travelers, the ATM route is cheaper unless you need a very large amount of cash upfront.

Alternatives that may offer better rates

Currency exchange specialists like OFX, Wise, and XE offer rates much closer to mid-market than Chase does, often with lower markups of 0.5% to 1.5%. These services let you order euros online and either have them mailed to you (which takes 3 to 5 business days) or pick them up at a physical location. Wise in particular has a strong reputation for transparent pricing and fast delivery.

If you are traveling to Europe, the cheapest option for most people is to withdraw euros from any ATM once you arrive. Your Chase debit card will work at ATMs in the eurozone, and while you will pay a foreign transaction fee and the ATM operator's fee, the exchange rate is usually the best available. Bring a backup card in case one is declined.

Airport currency exchanges are almost always the worst option — they charge markups of 5% to 10% or higher. Avoid them unless you have no other choice.

What happens if you need euros urgently

If you need euros in fewer than 7 days, calling your branch when ready is still worth trying. Some branches keep small amounts of euros on hand for walk-in customers, and they may be able to sell you a limited amount without a formal order. The rate will still include Chase's markup, but you will not have to wait.

If your branch cannot help, a local currency exchange shop (search "foreign currency exchange near me") may have euros in stock, though their rates are often similar to or worse than Chase's. Wise and OFX offer expedited delivery for an additional fee, which is sometimes faster than Chase's standard order.

If you are leaving within 48 hours and cannot find euros any other way, your last resort is to withdraw cash from a Chase ATM, exchange it for euros at an airport exchange desk (accepting the poor rate), or arrive in Europe and withdraw euros from an ATM there. None of these are ideal, but they are your options if you have waited too long.

Documents and information you will need

When you call to order euros, have the following ready: the exact amount of euros you want (or a range), your travel dates, and your preferred pickup date. When you arrive at the branch to pick up the euros, bring a valid photo ID (passport, driver's license, or state ID) and the payment method you agreed on when you placed the order.

If you are ordering a large amount (over €5,000), Chase may ask for additional information or documentation to comply with anti-money-laundering rules. This is standard and does not mean anything is wrong; just be prepared to explain the purpose of the withdrawal. For personal travel, a straightforward explanation is enough.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order euros online and have them mailed to my house?

No. Chase does not mail foreign currency. You must order through your branch and pick up the euros in person. This is a security measure to prevent loss or theft in the mail.

What if the exchange rate drops after I order but before I pick up the euros?

You are locked into the rate you were quoted when you placed the order. You cannot cancel and reorder at a better rate without losing the original order. This is why it is worth checking the rate a few times before you commit.

Do I need a Chase account to order euros?

You do not need to be a Chase customer, but you will need to visit a Chase branch in person. Non-customers may face longer wait times or additional verification requirements. It is faster if you have a Chase account.

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

Chase will convert the euros back to dollars, but you will lose money on the exchange rate both ways — once when you bought the euros, and again when you sell them back. The loss is usually 4% to 6% of the total amount. Check your branch's cancellation policy before you order.

Is it better to order euros or just use my Chase debit card in Europe?

For most people, using your Chase debit card at ATMs in Europe is cheaper. You pay a foreign transaction fee and ATM fee, but the exchange rate is better. Order euros in advance only if you want a large amount of physical cash before you leave, or if you are uncomfortable relying on ATMs.