Travel debit cards to use in Europe, abroad

Best debit card in the UK for use abroad?

The choice between a regular debit card and a card for use abroad is slightly different. After all, when choosing a debit card for use abroad, it is important to take into account factors such as fees for transactions abroad, fees for ATM withdrawals in different countries, exchange rates, etc. The main emphasis in the selection should be on features that make international travel more convenient for the cardholder. Here are some of the best UK debit cards to use abroad.

On this page, Bankchart analysts have collected the most popular travel debit cards prepaid, debit cards for Europe travel, debit cards with no foreign transaction fee, and international debit cards. We will describe in more detail the advantages of such cards offered by banks.

1. Starling Bank offers individuals a euro bank account. The bank does not charge commissions for foreign transactions, as well as for international withdrawals. Another important advantage is that the Mastercard exchange rate is used without an additional markup.
2. Monzo Bank offers the same card benefits as Starling Bank. However, the bank has put a limit on international free withdrawals, which is only valid up to £200 in 30 days
3. Revolut offers a Revolut Standard Account with no foreign transaction fees. There are no fees for ATM withdrawals abroad up to £200 per month on the standard plan. The exchange rate includes a mark-up only on weekends, on working days - without mark-up.

In addition, you can familiarize yourself with the offers of other banks and choose an account or travel card that best suits your needs. We remind you that when choosing such a card, you should take into account not only commissions and limits but also the exchange rate.

You can also place free funds on a savings account.

Calculate your future income on a savings account (example): 

What is the best debit card for Europe travel from the UK?

When traveling to Europe from the UK, the best debit card should offer low or no foreign transaction fees, favorable exchange rates, widespread acceptance, and easy access to customer support. Here are some of the top options:

1. Starling Bank Debit Card
2. Monzo Debit Card
3. Revolut Debit Card
4. Wise (formerly TransferWise) Debit Card
5. HSBC Global Money Account

What documents should I take to open a debit card?

When opening a debit card account in the UK, you typically need to provide the following documents:

1. Proof of Identity: a valid passport is widely accepted as proof of identity. Both full and provisional UK driving licences are usually accepted. For EU citizens, a national ID card can serve as proof of identity.
2. Proof of Address: a recent utility bill (e.g., electricity, gas, water) dated within the last 3 months. A recent statement from a UK bank or credit card provider, also within the last 3 months. A council tax bill for the current tax year. A formal tenancy agreement from a registered letting agency. If not used as proof of identity, it can be used as proof of address.
3. Proof of Income/Employment (Sometimes Required): recent pay slips from your employer, usually covering the last 3 months. A contract or letter from your employer confirming your employment.
4. Statements showing your income if you're self-employed.
5. Additional Documents for Non-UK Residents: proof of your right to reside in the UK, such as a visa or residency permit. If you are a non-resident, you may need to provide proof of your overseas address in addition to your UK address.
6. Additional Information: this may be required when opening an account that offers interest or other financial services. A valid UK phone number and email address.

See the similar FAQ at the link: 

• HSBC property valuation: what additional documents are required?
• Halifax for intermediaries: list of services, calculator
• Halifax mortgage age limit
• How can I log in to the Bank of Ireland mortgage program?
• How do I apply for a home loan from HSBC with a mortgage adviser?

Details of companies offering the financial services:

Bank of Scotland

Head office’s address: The Mound, Edinburgh EH1 1YZ

Phone: +44 (034) 5721 31 41

Web-site: http://www.bankofscotland.co.uk/

Swift code: BOFSGB31

Reference number: 169628

Stock code: 0076540

ABN: SC327000

BSB: BOFS

Barclays Bank

Head office’s address: 1 Churchill Place, London E14 5HP

Contact center: 0800-400-100

Phone: +44 (034) 5734 53 45

Web-site: http://www.barclays.co.uk/

Swift code: BARCGB33

Reference number: 122702

Stock code: BARC

ABN: 01026167

BSB: BARC

Chase

Head office’s address: 4 Lombard St, London EC3V 9AA

Contact center: 0800 376 3333

Phone: +44 203 493 0829

Web-site: https://www.chase.co.uk/gb/en/

Currensea

Head office’s address: 4 Claridge Court, Lower Kings Road, Berkhamsted, United Kingdom, HP4 2AF

Web-site: https://www.currensea.com/

EasyFX

Head office’s address: 32-38 Dukes Pl, London EC3A 7LP

Contact center: +44 20 7959-6995

Web-site: https://www.easyfx.com/

HSBC Bank

Head office’s address: Unit 8, Canada Square, Retail, London E14 5AH

Phone: +44 345 740 4404

Web-site: https://www.hsbc.co.uk/

Swift code: HBUKGB4B

Reference number: 114216

Stock code: HSBA

ABN: 00014259

BSB: HBUK

Kroo Bank

Head office’s address: Labs House, 15-19 Bloomsbury Way, London

Web-site: https://www.kroo.com/

Monzo Bank

Head office’s address: Broadwalk House, 5 Appold St, London EC2A 2AG

Contact center: 0800 802 1281

Phone: +44 20 3872-0620

Web-site: https://monzo.com/

Nationwide

Head office’s address: Nationwide House Pipers Way

Contact center: 0800-30-20-15

Phone: +44 (034) 5730 20 15

Web-site: http://www.nationwide.co.uk

Swift code: NBSMGB22

Reference number: 106078

Stock code: NBS

ABN: 355B

BSB: NBSM

Post Office

Head office’s address: 12 Eastcheap, London. EC3M 1AJ

Contact center: +44 345 722 3344

Web-site: http://www.postoffice.co.uk

Revolut UK

Head office’s address: London

Web-site: https://www.revolut.com/

Santander

Head office’s address: 2 Triton Square, Regent's Place, London, NW1 3AN

Contact center: 0800-389-7000

Web-site: http://www.santander.co.uk/

Swift code: ABBYGB3E

Reference number: 106054

ABN: 02294747

BSB: ABBY

Starling Bank

Head office’s address: 5th Floor, London Fruit And Wool Exchange, 1 Duval Square, London, E1 6PW.

Phone: +44 20 7930 4450

Web-site: https://www.starlingbank.com/

Swift code: SRLGGB3L

Reference number: 730166

Stock code: STERLNB

ABN: 09092149

BSB: SRLG

Wise

Head office’s address: London

Web-site: https://wise.com/