Can I use my debit card in Mexico? [2024 Complete Guide]

Planning a trip to Mexico? If you’re heading south, you’ll need to get vacation spending sorted.

The easiest option could be to take your debit card with you. But do US-issued debit cards work in Mexico? And are there any fees to watch out for?

Read on to find out. Plus, info on the Wise debit card, which lets you spend and withdraw in Mexican peso for low, transparent fees.

---

Is it better to use cash or debit card in Mexico?

The best way to spend in Mexico is a combination of both cash and your debit card. Larger businesses and those in major cities are likely to accept debit cards, but not all will.

Some smaller stores and businesses may only accept cash. For example, market stalls, street food stands and taxis. So, it’s definitely worth having some pesos on you just in case.

Can I use my Visa debit card in Mexico?

Yes, Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Mexico. But as above, it’s always worth having some cash in your wallet just in case. If you’re heading outside cities or tourist areas, cards may not be accepted.

Can I withdraw money in Mexico with my debit card?

Yes, Mexico has a wide network of ATMs(known as _cajeros _in Spanish) across the country. So, you should be able to withdraw cash whenever you need it

Using your debit card in Mexico - fees to watch out for

Before you travel to Mexico and start spending with your debit card, there are a few potential fees you need to know about. It’s worth checking with your bank before you travel to see if they charge any of the following:

• Foreign transaction fees
• ATM fees
• Currency conversion fees.

Not all US-issued debit cards are geared up for payments in different currencies. Your bank account is denominated in dollars, so the money will need to be converted to Mexican pesos (MXN) whenever you spend or withdraw cash. This can come with additional costs, whether it’s a currency conversion charge or a poor exchange rate.

It’s also a smart idea to pay in the local currency wherever possible. Otherwise, the ATM operator or merchant will choose the exchange rate, rather than your bank (where you know what you’re getting).

Get the Wise debit card to spend in Mexico for low fees and great exchange rates

The Wise debit card is available for a one-time fee of just $9 when you open a Wise Account.

Wise is a money service business, offering a multi-currency account and a debit card suitable for everyday use.

You can use your new Wise debit card to:

• Spend and withdraw cash from ATMs in 160 countries, including Mexico
• Have your US Dollars automatically converted to Mexican Peso at the mid-market exchange rate, whenever you spend. There’s just a small fee to convert the currency
• Withdraw up to $100 from overseas ATMs for free (although ATM operators may charge their own fees).

It has no foreign transaction fees, or monthly costs. It’s the ideal travel companion, letting you spend all over the world.

Get a Wise Account today

Please see Terms of Use for your region or visit Wise Fees & Pricing: Only Pay for What You Use for the most up-to-date pricing and fee information.

Bottom line

So, the good news is that you can use your debit card in Mexico. But the potentially bad news is that it may come with charges. It’s crucial to check with your bank before you make that first payment in pesos - just in case you’re hit with high foreign transaction fees.

If you don’t want to worry about that kind of thing, consider getting a Wise debit card. It offers transparent fees, so you always know what you’re paying.

💡 Planning a longer-term trip? Read our guides on moving to Mexico, and on the country’s border entry requirements.

FAQs

Is it better to use pesos or credit card in Mexico?

It’s a good idea to have both plastic and cash when taking a trip to Mexico. A credit card with no foreign transaction fees can be a cheap way to spend, but they aren’t accepted everywhere.

Does U.S. Bank debit card work in Mexico?

Yes, you can use your U.S. Bank debit card in Mexico. You’ll just need to let the bank know before you travel.¹

Can I use my Chase debit card in Mexico?

You should be able to use your Chase debit card outside the US, but you’ll need to contact the bank to find out - and check whether there are any fees.

Can I use my Wells Fargo debit card in Mexico?

Yes, Wells Fargo debit cards work worldwide. You’ll just need to turn on international usage for your debit card in card controls if you're traveling outside of the United States.²

---

Sources used for this article:

1. U.S. Bank - Can I use my debit or credit card while traveling?
2. Wells Fargo - Tips for managing money while traveling abroad

Sources checked on 13-Jul-2023.