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Using Westpac Debit Card Internationally: Guide to Foreign Transaction Fees and Overseas ATM Withdrawals

Aditya Shrivastava
Aditya Shrivastava
31.12.24 (last updated)
Read time 3 minutes

Traveling overseas is an exciting experience, but managing your finances while abroad can be a source of stress. If you're a Westpac New Zealand customer, understanding the fees and processes associated with using your Westpac debit card overseas is crucial. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about using your Westpac debit card overseas, from transaction fees and ATM withdrawals to markups on exchange rates.

We'll also introduce Wise Card as an alternative that offers international transactions at mid-market exchange rates without markups.

Table of contents

Can I Use My Westpac Debit Card Overseas?

The short answer is yes, in most cases. Westpac debit cards are widely accepted internationally, making them a convenient option for accessing your funds while traveling. However, there are some important points to keep in mind when using your Westpac debit card overseas:

Acceptance Network: Westpac debit cards operate on the Mastercard network. This means your card will be accepted at merchants and ATMs that display the Mastercard logo. Mastercard has a vast global network, so you'll likely be able to use your Westpac debit card overseas in most countries you visit.

Specific Restrictions: While acceptance is generally widespread, there are a few countries and regions where using your Westpac debit card may be restricted or unavailable due to international sanctions or other factors.

Countries Supported by Westpac Debit Card

As a general rule, you can use your Westpac debit card in any country where Mastercard is accepted. This includes popular travel destinations in:

  • Europe: United Kingdom, France, Italy, Spain, Germany, and many more.
  • North America: United States, Canada, Mexico.
  • Asia: Japan, Singapore, Thailand, Hong Kong, and many more.
  • Australia and the Pacific: Australia, Fiji, and most Pacific Island nations.
  • South America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, and many more.

Countries with Restrictions:

Westpac has specifically identified some countries where your card will not be accepted:

  • Cuba
  • Iran
  • North Korea
  • Syria
  • Crimea region of Ukraine
  • Donetsk region of Ukraine
  • Luhansk region of Ukraine

Important Note: Additionally, Westpac Mastercards will not work at Russian merchants or ATMs.

It's crucial to be aware of these restrictions before you travel. If you plan to visit any of these countries or regions, you'll need to make alternative arrangements for accessing your funds.

Understanding Westpac Debit Card's International Fees

When you use your Westpac debit card overseas, you'll likely encounter several fees. It's important to distinguish between these to budget effectively:

  • Westpac debit card foreign transaction fee: Westpac charges a 1.95% foreign transaction fee on all transactions made in a foreign currency, whether it's in-store or online. This is a common fee when using a Westpac debit card overseas.
  • Westpac debit card overseas ATM withdrawal fee: Westpac charges a fee of NZD 3 for every withdrawal you make from an overseas ATM. However, you can avoid this fee by using selected ATMs within the Global Alliance network.
  • Foreign Currency Conversion Markup: When you make a purchase or withdraw cash in a foreign currency, Westpac converts the amount from the foreign currency to NZD. This conversion uses the Mastercard exchange rate, which is different from the mid-market rate you usually see on Google. This markup is another important fee to consider when using your Westpac debit card overseas.

Exchange Rate Markups: The Hidden Cost

The exchange rate markup is often the most significant cost of using your debit card overseas. As an alternative, we would like to introduce you to the Wise Travel Card that offers the mid-market exchange rate on currency conversion. You can use the Wise Travel Card in 150+ countries and swipe like a local to make purchases at restaurants, stores and local sites.

foreign-transaction-fee-wise

Meet Wise Travel Card: A Convenient Alternative for your International Spending

For frequent travelers or those looking to minimize exchange rate markups, Wise card can offer a more cost-effective alternative for overseas spending.

Get your Wise Card 🚀

Wise vs Westpac: Fee Comparison for Overseas Debit Card Usage

FeatureWestpac Debit CardWise Debit Card
Card FeeNZD 10 per year (waived for first year)NZD 14 one-time fee (free digital card)
Foreign Transaction Fee1.95%None.
International ATM Withdrawal FeeNZD 3; free from selected Global Alliance ATMsFree for first 2 withdrawals up to NZD 350 per month, then 1.75% + NZD 1.50 per withdrawal
Exchange RateAs published by MastercardMid-Market Rate (no markups)

Wise allows you to hold and manage money in multiple currencies and uses the mid-market rate (the one you usually see on Google) for currency conversions, with fees that are transparent and always shown upfront. With a linked debit card available for a one-time fee of NZD 14, spend abroad like a local without any currency exchange markups.

Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.

Sources:

*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.

This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.

We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.

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