Ordering CIC Foreign Currency in France: Procedures, Fees, and Alternatives

When preparing for a trip abroad, you may need foreign currency and wonder about the easiest way to get it. This guide explains how ordering foreign currency with CIC works, step by step.

You will also discover a convenient alternative for converting your money: the Wise account. It allows you to access foreign currencies easily with low, transparent fees.

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How to order foreign currency with CIC

In a branch

CIC offers a manual currency exchange service, allowing you to buy foreign currency banknotes directly at a branch counter.

You visit a branch, specify the currency and amount you need, and the bank checks whether the currency is immediately available or if an order must be placed.

Some branches keep common currencies in stock, such as US dollars or British pounds. However, for many currencies, an order is usually required.

Once the banknotes arrive, the branch contacts you so you can collect them. You simply need to present a valid ID and pay the corresponding amount, or have it debited directly from your account.

Online

CIC does not offer fully online foreign currency ordering, unlike some exchange offices.

However, you can initiate a request or contact your advisor through your online banking area to prepare the order.

In all cases, collection of the banknotes takes place in a branch, as this remains a manual exchange service.

Some branches also accept requests by phone. Once your currency is available, you simply collect it at the branch counter.

Ordering foreign currency with CIC: applied fees

When you buy foreign currency at CIC, the total cost mainly depends on two factors. First, the bank applies a fixed fee of €4.60 for each manual exchange transaction.¹

Second, CIC uses its own exchange rate, which may include a markup not specifically detailed in the fee schedule.¹ This can affect the final cost, especially for larger amounts.

Some currencies may also be offered at different rates if they are less common or more difficult to obtain. In these situations, the bank may request supporting documents or adjust the rate depending on availability.

What are the alternatives for getting foreign currency?

Although CIC offers a manual exchange service, there are now several alternatives that may be more cost-effective depending on your situation.

Pay directly by card abroad

Paying by card is often the most convenient solution while traveling. In many countries, you can easily pay for purchases without carrying large amounts of cash.

However, most traditional bank cards apply exchange rate markups and charge additional foreign transaction fees.

At CIC, these fees are 2.90% + €0.33, up to a maximum of €10.¹

Withdraw money once you arrive

You can also wait until arrival to withdraw cash from an ATM. This is a practical option if you prefer not to travel with too much cash.

However, it is important to understand the associated fees beforehand.

At CIC, a foreign currency withdrawal from another bank’s ATM incurs a fee of 2.90% + €3.30 (maximum €10).¹

These costs can add up quickly if you make several withdrawals during your trip.

Use a multi-currency account

Multi-currency accounts allow you to convert money using exchange rates that are often more competitive, with transparent pricing.

You can then pay or withdraw money abroad with fees that may be lower than those charged by traditional banks.

This can be a useful option if you travel regularly or want to better control your travel expenses abroad.

FAQ: ordering foreign currency with CIC

Does CIC offer foreign currency purchases?

Yes. CIC offers a manual currency exchange service for buying and selling foreign currency banknotes.

How do you order foreign currency with CIC?

Orders are placed through a branch, as manual exchange is not fully available online. However, you can contact your advisor to prepare the request.

How long does it take to receive foreign currency with CIC?

CIC does not communicate official delivery times for foreign currency orders. Availability depends on the branch and the requested currency, so only your branch can provide an accurate estimate.

Can I order foreign currency directly online?

No. CIC does not offer fully online ordering of foreign currency banknotes. Collection must always take place in a branch, as this is a manual exchange service.

How much does a manual currency exchange cost?

Each transaction is charged €4.60, whether you are buying or selling foreign currency. CIC’s own exchange rate, which may include a markup, is then applied on top.¹

What documents are required in a branch?

CIC does not publish an official list of required documents. In most cases, a valid ID is needed for transactions carried out at the counter.

For larger amounts, the bank may request supporting documents in line with anti-money laundering regulations, depending on the branch.

Which currencies can I order?

CIC does not publish an official list of available currencies. Availability depends on the branch, so you should contact your advisor for more information.

Are foreign currencies available immediately at CIC?

This depends on the stock available at each branch. CIC does not provide any guarantee regarding immediate availability.

Get your foreign currency for less with Wise

With Wise, you can avoid some of the delays and fees associated with ordering foreign currency. From your phone, you can convert euros in just a few moments using the mid-market exchange rate with no hidden markups.

The Wise account also allows you to hold 40+ currencies, which can be convenient if you are traveling to several countries.

In addition, the Wise card linked to the account allows you to:

• Pay with no fees if you already hold the transaction currency in your account. If the balance is insufficient, a conversion will be necessary using the mid-market exchange rate.
• Make free monthly withdrawals up to €250 (or the equivalent in foreign currency)*. Beyond this allowance, a 2.69% fee applies. No fixed withdrawal fees are charged by Wise.

Opening the account is free, and the card only costs €7 for delivery, with no monthly subscription.

Open your Wise account

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Sources:

1. CIC Fees

Last checked on December 4, 2025

* Wise does not charge for these withdrawals, but additional fees may be applied by independent ATM networks.

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Wise Europe is not a bank. We are an authorized payment institution

This article is a translation of the original article published in French and was translated within 365 days of publication. While the content has been translated for accessibility, the data and sources referenced have not been updated since the original publication date.