Using Debit Card Abroad - first direct (2024)

FAQs

Is the first direct debit card good to use abroad? ›

Use wherever you see the relevant card network provider logo displayed - in shops, restaurants, cash machines and even contactless. You don't need to let us know you're going away, we will look out for any unusual spending on your accounts, as we would do when you're here at home.

Foreign transaction fee: Also known as a currency conversion fee, this fee can range from 1% to 3% of the total purchase amount.

Whether you should use a debit card for travel depends on your own circ*mstances. For instance, you should avoid using a debit card in another country if you'll be hit with high foreign transaction fees and ATM fees.

Even if you've got a card that doesn't charge you for overseas use, always check you're paying in the local currency. Remember that if a retailer or ATM offers to carry out the conversion for you so you can pay in pounds sterling, you'll likely end up paying more.

You may have to pay a fee when buying things on a debit or credit cards, as well as when withdrawing from cash machines. Charges vary according to the bank you're with and the type of account you hold.

When making payments in a foreign country to vendors you've never encountered, the fraud protection on credit cards and the ability to dispute unauthorized charges make this payment method desirable and super-safe. Credit cards may also be necessary when booking a hotel stay or car rental.

If you agree, the merchant will use the conversion rate provided by its DCC service provider. If you refuse, your payment network, such as Visa or Mastercard, will convert the currency, and you'll see the conversion on your statement in U.S. dollars.

You'll be able to use your card wherever Visa is accepted, including overseas and online. Remember, you're only ever spending funds from your transaction account. Use your NAB Visa Debit card to: Withdraw money at ATMs or at a branch, and to make purchases in person, online or over the phone.

Generally, you won't have trouble using an ATM in a foreign country as long as you let your bank know where and when you're traveling. You can do this online or by calling your bank. However, depending on your account and the ATM's operator, you may have to pay additional fees.

What is the best way to pay for things when traveling abroad? ›

Using credit cards for purchases when possible and using ATMs to get local currency for when you need to pay cash are by far the best ways to pay for things when abroad because you will get the wholesale exchange rate rather than the less favorable retail rate posted in currency exchange facilities or at bank teller ...

Some ATMs will charge withdrawal fees, and if you use more than the agreed overdraft limit then the fees tend to be much greater than those incurred by credit card usage. Another disadvantage of debit cards is the fact that they have limited funds, which can slow down business.

Using your card outside the UK

You can safely use your first direct Debit Mastercard^®, Visa Credit or Visa Gold Card anywhere in the world, the same way as you would at home.

With the Starling Bank account you do not pay any fees to use your debit card for purchases worldwide outside of Europe. If you pay in the local currency we will convert that cost to Sterling using Mastercard's globally accepted exchange rate.

Yes, anywhere Visa is accepted. Visa fees will apply, and it will show on your statement as an international 1% transaction service fee.

First Bank On The Go Mobile App

Set International Travel Notices to complete an international online purchase. You may also contact us at 800-760-BANK (2265) to notify us of an international purchase or travel. *Countries banned by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) are restricted from debit card usage.

You can safely use your first direct Debit Mastercard^®, Visa Credit or Visa Gold Card anywhere in the world, the same way as you would at home.