The 9 Best Credit Cards for Expats [+ Tips for Using Credit Abroad]

Planning an extended stay aboard or perhaps a move outside the U.S. due to a work assignment? Fortunately, in this day of digital payments and online account access, it’s easier than ever to manage your finances and credit card transactions while living and/or working as an American expat abroad.

One key element of planning and managing your finances abroad is securing a credit card that aligns with the associated demands of doing financial transactions in the specific foreign country you’ll be visiting.

Finding the best credit cards to use overseas, whether you’re an expatriate or just planning an extended vacation, is an interesting and important topic that is on our agenda today.

In our article, we’ll talk about some of the key attributes you’d want to consider when selecting such a card and which cards might best fit the criteria for making purchases abroad while minimizing fees and maximizing rewards.

The 6 Best Personal Credit Cards for Expats

Card Summary

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

OFFER ENDING SOON

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Preferred^® Card

A fantastic travel card with a great welcome offer, good benefits, and perks for a moderate annual fee.

Welcome Offer

Get up to $1,050 in Chase Travel^SM value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That’s worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.

$300 Chase Travel℠ Credit + 60,000 bonus points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,500

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Chase Sapphire Preferred^® card is one of the best travel rewards cards on the market. Its bonus categories include travel, dining, online grocery purchases, and streaming services, which gives you the opportunity to earn lots of bonus points on these purchases.

Additionally, it offers flexible point redemption options, no foreign transaction fees, and excellent travel insurance coverage including primary car rental insurance. With benefits like these, it’s easy to see why this card is an excellent choice for any traveler.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x points on all travel booked via the Chase Travel portal
• 5x points on select Peloton purchases over $150 (through March 31, 2025)
• 5x points on Lyft purchases (through March 31, 2025)

Cons

• $95 annual fee
• No elite benefits like airport lounge access or hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Get up to $1,050 in Chase Travel℠ value. Earn 60,000 bonus points after $4,000 in purchases in your first 3 months from account opening. That's worth $750 when redeemed through Chase Travel. Plus, get up to $300 in statement credits on Chase Travel purchases within your first year.
• Enjoy benefits such as 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases, $50 Annual Chase Travel Hotel Credit, plus more.
• Get 25% more value when you redeem for airfare, hotels, car rentals and cruises through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $750 toward travel.
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Why We Like the Card for Expats

First and foremost, you won’t be charged foreign transaction fees and your Visa Signature card will be widely accepted abroad. Your account can be accessed online and you’ll have connection options for customer service.

You can set up a PIN via Chase’s automated system and contactless transactions are available on cards that have the contactless symbol.

We like that the Chase Sapphire Preferred card has a generous welcome bonus, 5x points on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3x points on dining, and 2x points on all other travel purchases and those points receive 25% more value when redeeming for travel via the Chase travel portal. Points can also be transferred to the Chase travel partners for potentially greater value.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

BEST LOUNGE ACCESS

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

The Platinum Card^® from American Express

The Amex Platinum reigns supreme for luxury travel, offering the best airport lounge access plus generous statement credits, and complimentary elite status.

Welcome Offer

Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on the Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.

80,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,760

Annual Fee

$695

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

When it comes to cards that offer top-notch benefits, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better card out there than The Platinum Card^® from American Express.

Make no mistake — the Amex Platinum card is a premium card with a premium price tag. With amazing benefits like best-in-class airport lounge access, hotel elite status, and tremendous value in annual statement credits, it can easily prove to be one of the most lucrative cards in your wallet year after year.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• The best airport lounge access out of any card (by far) — enjoy access to over 1,400 worldwide lounges, including the luxurious Amex Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, Plaza Premium Lounges, and many more!
• 5x points per dollar spent on flights purchased directly with the airline or with AmexTravel.com (up to $500,000 per year)
• 5x points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels booked with AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $695 annual fee (rates and fees)
• Airline credit does not cover airfare (only incidentals like checked bags)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 80,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $8,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership.
• Earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points for flights booked directly with airlines or with American Express Travel up to $500,000 on these purchases per calendar year and earn 5X Membership Rewards^® Points on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel.
• $200 Hotel Credit: Get up to $200 back in statement credits each year on prepaid Fine Hotels + Resorts^® or The Hotel Collection bookings through American Express Travel using your Platinum Card^®. The Hotel Collection requires a minimum two-night stay.
• $240 Digital Entertainment Credit: Get up to $20 back in statement credits each month on eligible purchases made with your Platinum Card^® on one or more of the following: Disney+, a Disney Bundle, ESPN+, Hulu, The New York Times, Peacock, and The Wall Street Journal. Enrollment required.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market. As of 03/2023.
• $155 Walmart+ Credit: Save on eligible delivery fees, shipping, and more with a Walmart+ membership. Use your Platinum Card^® to pay for a monthly Walmart+ membership and get up to $12.95 plus applicable taxes back on one membership (excluding Plus Ups) each month.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to your Platinum Card^®.
• $200 Uber Cash: Platinum Card^® Members can get out and about and explore their local area with $15 in Uber Cash for US rides each month, plus a bonus $20 in December. That can be up to $200 in annual Uber savings. Simply download the Uber app and add your Platinum Card^® to your Uber account to get started. Available to Basic Card Member only. Effective 11/8/2024, an Amex Card must be selected as the payment method for your Uber or Uber Eats transaction to redeem the Amex Uber Cash benefit.
• $199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: CLEAR^® Plus helps to get you to your gate faster at 50+ airports nationwide and get up to $199 back per calendar year on your Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use your Card. CLEARLanes are available at 100+ airports, stadiums, and entertainment venues.
• Receive either a $120 statement credit every 4 years for a Global Entry application fee or a statement credit up to $85 every 4.5 years for a TSA PreCheck^® (through a TSA official enrollment provider) application fee, when charged to your Platinum Card^®. Card Members approved for Global Entry will also receive access to TSA PreCheck at no additional cost.
• Shop Saks with Platinum: Get up to $100 in statement credits annually for purchases in Saks Fifth Avenue stores or at saks.com on your Platinum Card^®. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• Unlock access to exclusive reservations and special dining experiences with Global Dining Access by Resy when you add your Platinum Card^® to your Resy profile.
• $695 annual fee.¤
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 125k (or 150k) points with the Amex Platinum. The current public offer is 80,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Why We Like the Card for Expats

We like that the Amex Platinum card does not charge foreign transaction fees (rates & fees) and that if you need emergency cash, you can withdraw from an ATM (fees apply) or visit an American Express office. You can easily set up a PIN on your card online and all cards with a contactless symbol can be used at merchants that accept contactless transactions.

Additionally, customer service and online account management are easily accessible outside of the U.S.

The Amex Platinum card also has a long list of travel protections and benefits such as worldwide lounge access, hotel and rental car elite benefits, and access to car rental Premium Protection (limit of 42 consecutive days).

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Chase Sapphire Reserve^®

A top player in the high-end premium travel credit card space that earns 3x points on travel and dining while offering top luxury perks.

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

60,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,200

Annual Fee

$550

APR

21.99% - 28.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Excellent (740-850)

Why We Like This Card

If you’re looking for an all-around excellent travel rewards card, the Chase Sapphire Reserve^® is one of the best options out there.

The card combines elite travel benefits and perks like airport lounge access, with excellent point earning and redemption options.  Plus it offers top-notch travel insurance protections to keep you covered whether you’re at home or on the road.

Don’t forget the $300 annual travel credit which really helps to reduce the annual fee!

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase TravelSM immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually
• 10x points on Lyft purchases through March 31, 2025
• 10x points on Peloton equipment and accessory purchases over $250 through March 31, 2025

Cons

• $550 annual fee
• Does not offer any sort of hotel elite status

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
• $300 Annual Travel Credit as reimbursement for travel purchases charged to your card each account anniversary year.
• Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Get 50% more value when you redeem your points for travel through Chase Travel℠. For example, 60,000 points are worth $900 toward travel.
• Get complimentary access to DashPass which unlocks $0 delivery fees and lower service fees for a minimum of one year when you activate by December 31, 2027.
• 1:1 point transfer to leading airline and hotel loyalty programs
• Access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide after an easy, one-time enrollment in Priority Pass™ Select and up to $100 application fee credit every four years for Global Entry, NEXUS, or TSA PreCheck^®
• Count on Trip Cancellation/Interruption Insurance, Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver, Lost Luggage Insurance and more.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 21.99% - 28.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Why We Like the Card for Expats

With worldwide lounge access via complimentary Priority Pass Select membership, 3x earnings on travel and dining, and a $300 statement credit each year for travel purchases, an expat will find value with the Chase Sapphire Reserve card.

Ultimate Rewards points earned on the card are worth 50% more on travel redemptions (via the Chase travel portal) and points can be transferred to travel partners for even greater potential value.

And, of course, the card does not charge foreign transaction fees, can be PIN-enabled, and is available as a contactless card.

American Express^® Gold Card

LAST CHANCE

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

American Express^® Gold Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

Apply With Confidence

Know if you're approved with no credit score impact

If you're approved and accept this Card, your credit score may be impacted.

American Express^® Gold Card

This is the best card for food lovers who dine out at restaurants (worldwide), order take-out and want big rewards at U.S. supermarkets!

Welcome Offer

Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.

60,000 points + up to $100 back

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,420

Annual Fee

$325

APR

See Pay Over Time APR

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The American Express^® Gold Card is a game-changer.

With this card, you can earn 4x Membership Rewards points at restaurants, up to $50,000 per calendar year, and you’ll also earn 4x Membership Rewards points at U.S. supermarkets on up to $25,000 per calendar year, then 1x.

There isn’t another card on the market that offers a 1-2 punch like this. Of course, there are several other benefits of the Gold Card as well, including extra monthly dining rewards and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 4x points per dollar at restaurants worldwide, up to $50,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 4x points per dollar at U.S. supermarkets, up to $25,000 per calendar year; then 1x thereafter
• 3x points per dollar on flights purchased directly from airlines or at AmexTravel.com

Cons

• $325 annual fee (rates and fees)
• No lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 60,000 Membership Rewards^® Points after you spend $6,000 on eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Plus, receive 20% back in statement credits on eligible purchases made at restaurants worldwide within the first 6 months of Card Membership, up to $100 back. Limited time offer. Offer ends 11/6/24.
• Get the American Express^® Gold Card in either the Gold, Rose Gold or Limited-Edition White Gold metal design. White Gold design is only available while supplies last.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 4X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
• Earn 3X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on flights booked directly with airlines or on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 2X Membership Rewards^® points per dollar spent on prepaid hotels and other eligible purchases booked on AmexTravel.com.
• Earn 1X Membership Rewards^® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
• $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Add your Gold Card to your Uber account and each month automatically get $10 in Uber Cash for Uber Eats orders or Uber rides in the U.S., totaling up to $120 per year.
• $84 Dunkin' Credit: With the $84 Dunkin' Credit, you can earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you enroll and pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at Dunkin' locations.
• $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year after you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card to dine at U.S. Resy restaurants or make other eligible Resy purchases. That's up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
• $120 Dining Credit: Satisfy your cravings, sweet or savory, with the $120 Dining Credit. Earn up to $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the American Express^® Gold Card at Grubhub, The Cheesecake Factory, Goldbelly, Wine.com, and Five Guys. Enrollment required.
• Explore over 1,000 upscale hotels worldwide with The Hotel Collection and receive a $100 credit towards eligible charges with every booking of two nights or more through AmexTravel.com. Eligible charges vary by property.
• No Foreign Transaction Fees.
• Annual Fee is $325.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: See Pay Over Time APR
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a welcome bonus offer of up to 90,000 points with the Amex Gold card. The current public offer is 60,000 points + up to $100 back. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Why We Like the Card for Expats

While bonus earnings on supermarket purchases are limited to the U.S., the Amex Gold card‘s 4x dining bonus earnings apply to restaurants, including Uber Eats, up to $50,000 in purchases per year.

The card also comes with Amex’s high level of customer service worldwide, access to chip and PIN technology, and access to a contactless card should you desire to have one.

Additional Personal Credit Cards for Expats

• Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card — The card comes with a generous welcome bonus, no foreign transaction fees (rates & fees), a low annual fee (rates & fees), and earns 2 miles per dollar spent on every purchase. The card also offers Global Entry or TSA PreCheck fee reimbursement.
• Bank of America^® Travel Rewards Credit Card — With no annual fee or foreign transaction fees, the card makes a nice traveling companion. You’ll earn 1.5% cash-back on every purchase.

The 3 Best Business Credit Cards for Expats

Need to conduct business and make related purchases abroad? Here are our top recommendations for business cards to use internationally.

Card Summary

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

Learn More(at Chase's secure site)

Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card

The Ink Business Preferred card is hard to beat, with a huge welcome bonus offer and 3x points per $1 on the first $150,000 in so many business categories.

Welcome Offer

Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠.

90,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$1,800

Annual Fee

$95

APR

20.74% - 25.74% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Ink Business Preferred^® Credit Card is a powerhouse for earning lots of points from your business purchases, especially for business owners that spend regularly on ads.

Plus the card offers flexible redemption options, including access to Chase airline and hotel transfer partners where you can achieve outsized value.

Business owners will also love the protections the card provides like excellent cell phone insurance, rental car insurance, purchase protection, and more.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 3x Ultimate Rewards points per $1 on up to $150,000 in combined purchases on internet, cable and phone services, shipping expenses, travel, and ads purchased with search engines or social media sites
• Cell phone protection
• Purchase protection

Cons

• No elite travel benefits like airport lounge access

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn 90k bonus points after you spend $8,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $900 cash back or $1,125 toward travel when redeemed through Chase Travel℠
• Earn 3 points per $1 on the first $150,000 spent on travel and select business categories each account anniversary year. Earn 1 point per $1 on all other purchases
• Round-the-clock monitoring for unusual credit card purchases
• With Zero Liability you won't be held responsible for unauthorized charges made with your card or account information.
• Redeem points for cash back, gift cards, travel and more - your points don't expire as long as your account is open
• Points are worth 25% more when you redeem for travel through Chase Travel℠
• Purchase Protection covers your new purchases for 120 days against damage or theft up to $10,000 per claim and $50,000 per account.
• Member FDIC

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 20.74% - 25.74% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

Chase Ultimate Rewards

Why We Like the Card for Expats

With a generous welcome bonus and ongoing bonus earnings for common business purchases, including travel, the Ink Business Preferred card works hard for the business owner abroad. There are no foreign transaction fees and when it comes time to redeem your rewards, you’ll have several flexible options. Redeem for travel via the Chase travel portal for 25% more in value or transfer points to travel partners for potentially greater value.

You’ll also have access to chip and PIN availability and contactless transactions. Just call Chase to set up a PIN or to have a replacement, contactless-capable card sent to you. Online access to your account and to customer service is also available.

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

ELEVATED OFFER

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Learn More(at Amex's secure site)

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express

This card is ideal for business travelers who enjoy luxury travel and are looking for a card loaded with benefits!

Welcome Offer

Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.

150,000 points

UP's Bonus Valuation*:

$3,300

Annual Fee

$695

APR

18.99% - 27.99% Variable

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Good to Excellent (670-850)

Why We Like This Card

The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express is a premium travel rewards card tailored toward business owners who are frequent travelers with a high number of annual expenses.

When you factor in the large number of perks that the card offers like the best airport lounge access at over 1,400 lounges, along with tons of annual credits, it’s easy to see why this card can is a top option for frequent traveling business owners.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• 5x Membership Rewards points per $1 on flights and prepaid hotels at Amex Travel
• Access to over 1,400 worldwide airport lounges as part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection
• Get 50% more Membership Rewards points (1.5 points per $1) on eligible purchases in key business categories, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more (cap applies)

Cons

• High annual fee of $695 (rates & fees)
• Airline fee credit does not cover airfare, only incidentals like checked bags

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Welcome Offer: Earn 150,000 Membership Rewards^® points after you spend $20,000 in eligible purchases on the Card within the first 3 months of Card Membership.
• 5X Membership Rewards^® points on flights and prepaid hotels on AmexTravel.com, and 1X points for each dollar you spend on eligible purchases.
• Earn 1.5X points (that’s an extra half point per dollar) on each eligible purchase at US construction material, hardware suppliers, electronic goods retailers, and software & cloud system providers, and shipping providers, as well as on purchases of $5,000 or more, on up to $2 million per Card Account per calendar year. Purchases eligible for multiple additional point bonuses will only receive the highest eligible bonus.
• Unlock over $1,000 in statement credits on select purchases, including tech, recruiting and wireless in the first year of membership with the Business Platinum Card^®. Enrollment required. See how you can unlock over $1,000 annually in credits on select purchases with the Business Platinum Card^®, here.
• $200 Airline Fee Credit: Select one qualifying airline and then receive up to $200 in statement credits per calendar year when incidental fees are charged by the airline to the Card.
• $199 CLEAR^® Plus Credit: Use your card and get up to $199 in statement credits per calendar year on your CLEAR^® Plus Membership (subject to auto-renewal) when you use the Business Platinum Card^®.
• The American Express Global Lounge Collection^® can provide an escape at the airport. With complimentary access to more than 1,400 airport lounges across 140 countries and counting, you have more airport lounge options than any other credit card issuer on the market as of 03/2023.
• $695 Annual Fee.
• Terms Apply.

Financial Snapshot

• APR: 18.99% - 27.99% Variable
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Rewards Center

American Express Membership Rewards

Hot Tip: Check to see if you’re eligible for a huge welcome bonus offer of up to 170,000 points with the Amex Business Platinum. The current public offer is 150,000 points. (This targeted offer was independently researched and may not be available to all applicants.)

Why We Like the Card for Expats

Worldwide lounge access to over 1,400 properties tops the list of premium travel benefits you’ll experience with the Amex Business Platinum card. Add in complementary hotel elite status, rental car perks, and elevated earnings on select travel purchases and you have a card that travels well.

We like the level of Amex customer service you receive abroad, as well. You can secure a PIN for your card, have access to emergency ATM cash, get a replacement card sent overnight, or call the Global Assistance Hotline for help with other incidents while traveling.

Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card

Terms Apply / Rates & Fees

Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card

U.P. Rating 

The rating for this card has been determined by our own industry experts who know the in's and out's of credit card products. Bonuses, rewards as well as rates and fees are all taken into account. Compensation from the issuer does not affect our rating. We only recommend products we either use ourselves or endorse.

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus card offers an unlimited 2% cash-back on all purchases and helpful features for business owners.

Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus card offers an unlimited 2% cash-back on all purchases and helpful features for business owners.

Welcome Offer

$2,000 cash back once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months. Earn an additional $2,000 cash bonus for every $500K spent during the first year.

Up to $4,000+

Annual Fee

$150

APR

N/A

Credit Recommended

Upgraded Points credit ranges are a variation of FICO^®Score 8, one of many types of credit scores lenders may use when considering your credit cardapplication.

Excellent (740-850)

Why We Like This Card

The information regarding the Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card was independently collected by Upgraded Points and not provided nor reviewed by the issuer.

---

The Capital One Spark Cash Plus Card is great for business owners looking to improve their bottom line by earning 2% cash-back on all purchases without a high annual fee. Further, with no preset spending limit, the ability to get your $150 annual fee refunded every year you spend at least $150,000, and no-additional-fee employee cards, there is something that every business owner will love (rates & fees).

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Unlimited 2% cash-back on all purchases
• 5% cash-back on hotels and rental cars purchased through Capital One Travel
• No preset spending limit

Cons

• $150 annual fee (rates & fees)

Read Full Review

Card Highlights

• Earn a one-time cash bonus of $2,000 once you spend $30,000 in the first 3 months
• Earn an additional $2,000 cash bonus for every $500K spent during the first year. You can earn this bonus multiple times over the course of year 1!
• Earn unlimited 2% cash back on every purchase, everywhere—with no limits or category restrictions
• Enjoy purchasing power that adapts to your business. The Spark Cash Plus card has no preset spending limit, so it can adapt to your needs based on your spending behavior, payment history, credit profile and other factors
• Earn unlimited 5% cash back on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel
• Empower your teams to make business purchases while you earn rewards from their transactions with free employee and virtual cards. Plus, automatically sync your transaction data with your accounting software and pay your vendors with ease
• $150 annual fee – Spend $150,000 annually and Capital One will refund this fee every year
• Spark Cash Plus has no APR because your balance is due in full every month
• For businesses that need large spending capacity and want to maximize cash back

Financial Snapshot

• APR: N/A
• Foreign Transaction Fees: None

Why We Like the Card for Expats

Busy business owners who don’t have time to navigate complex earning or redemption structures will like the Capital One Spark Cash Plus card*×Information collected independently. Not reviewed by Capital One.. You’ll be earning 2% cash-back on every purchase and enjoy no annual fee for the first year.

Setting up or changing a PIN online is simple and you’ll have fraud coverage while traveling. And, of course, the card does not charge foreign transaction fees.

Hot Tip: When selecting a business card to use abroad, be sure to look at the Schumer box. This summary is a required disclosure that lists all the related pricing, fees, and terms and conditions of the card you’re considering. The box will tell you whether the card charges foreign transaction fees, the amount of the annual fee, the level of interest rates charged, and other financial information about the card. You’ll find this box under “pricing and terms,” “pricing and fees,” or another similar title usually near the “apply now” link for the card.

10 Key Considerations When Selecting a Card To Use Abroad

There’s a lot to think about when selecting the right credit card to use in another country. Let’s look at some of the factors you’ll want to consider for maximizing your ability to use your card, avoid excess fees, and earn as many rewards as possible.

1. No Foreign Transaction Fees

Since most of your transactions will be foreign transactions, you’d want a card that does not charge fees for these payments or purchases. Foreign transaction fees can be as high as 3% of the amount of the transaction.

2. Card Acceptance

There are several payment networks that credit cards use to facilitate transactions. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted worldwide, while American Express and Discover are less so.

If you’re traveling with an American Express or Discover-issued card, you’ll want to carry a backup Visa or Mastercard just in case your card is not accepted by a specific merchant.

3. Customer Service Options

Having access to customer service if there’s a problem with your account can be critical. You’ll want to have easy access to account services such as live chat, social media service teams, or secure messaging to ensure you can get help without regard to your location.

4. Online Account Access

The ability to manage your card account online is paramount. You’ll want to be able to make timely payments, keep track of transactions, access benefit information, and even report a lost card, should you need to.

Fortunately, while site functionality can vary, card issuers across the board have online account management access.

5. Access to Emergency Funds

While your primary ATM debit card might be your go-to for accessing foreign currency, if your ATM card won’t work at a specific terminal, you may need to resort to a credit card to secure funds. You’ll want a card that can facilitate the transaction with ease and minimal fees.

6. Will You Need Contactless Transaction Capability?

Many countries currently accept contactless transactions. According to Wikipedia, contactless payments are increasing worldwide but are especially prominent in Australia, Canada, the U.K., Japan, Germany, and the Netherlands. If you want the convenience of having contactless transaction capability abroad, no worries. More and more U.S. credit card issuers are replacing traditional swipe and sign cards with contactless versions so you can easily find a card that offers this benefit.

7. Chip and PIN Technology

Many countries require you to input a PIN number for certain credit card transactions versus using a signature. The U.K. and Europe are 2 areas where these types of cards are commonly used. China, India, and Canada are also countries quickly making the transition.

If a human is processing your transaction, you may be able to sign. If, however, you’re purchasing a transit ticket from a machine, for example, you may only be able to use a chip and PIN card.

8. Earning the Card’s Welcome Bonus

If you secure a new credit card before your departure, you might want to complete any minimum spending requirements to earn the card’s welcome bonus. This may be difficult to accomplish if you are out of the country.

A little preplanning might be necessary to complete the necessary requirements to secure this 1-time bonus.

9. Utilizing Benefits & Offers That Help Offset the Annual Fee

If you’re located abroad, some perks and benefits may not be accessible. For example, perhaps the country you’re in does not have Uber, yet one of your card’s benefits is hundreds of dollars in Uber Cash. Additional offers could include statement credits for dining or food delivery services, shopping credits at specific retailers, or other specific purchase requirements not readily available at your destination.

If you are unable to take advantage of offers that help offset the annual fee on the card, the card may not provide good overall value.

10. Earning Ongoing Rewards

Earning rewards is one of the key attributes of a travel rewards card. However, some bonus-earning categories can be for U.S.-based retailers, such as restaurants, gas stations, shipping, wireless services, and supermarkets, which may not be accessible when out of the country.

The card you select to use abroad should ideally earn rewards on the types of purchases you plan to make.

Bottom Line: Selecting the right card to use abroad includes finding a card that minimizes fees, is widely accepted, and offers easy online account management. Additionally, if you’re counting on statement credits, bonus earnings, and other benefits to offset the card’s annual fee, you’ll want to select a card that allows you to utilize these benefits while abroad. 

Sizing up the Country You’ll Be Visiting

While most countries widely accept credit cards, you’ll want to know the type of credit card you’ll need. For example, will you need a chip and PIN card or a card that can make contactless payments? In rare cases, you’ll also need to know if cash payments are the norm.

Is Cash Still King or Do Credit Cards Rule the Day?

If you’re moving or planning an extended visit to any of these countries, you’ll find that credit cards may not be widely accepted and cash transactions are still prominent. According to the payment processing analyst company Merchant Machine U.K. in a report published earlier this year, these countries as still heavily reliant on cash transactions:

On the contrary, there are countries where credit cards are much more widely accepted than others. According to the research and analyst company Statista, you’ll find the highest percentage of credit card transactions in these countries (outside of the U.S.):

Bottom Line: It’s important to do your homework prior to selecting a credit card to use abroad to determine the type of card you’ll need in the specific country or area you’ll be visiting.

Comparing Worldwide Acceptance

Worldwide acceptance of all payment processing networks is improving rapidly.  Here’s how the networks compare when we look at global acceptance:

• Visa and Mastercard — According to each payment processer’s website, each of these card types is widely accepted in over 200 countries
• Discover — Discover states that the card is also accepted in over 200 countries
• American Express — While American Express cards are accepted at 99% of U.S. merchants that accept credit cards, the card’s international presence is around 100 countries according to the company’s website

There was a time when American Express was not widely accepted abroad, but those days are changing quickly. The same was true for Discover, but fortunately, both card networks have greatly expanded international presence. However, you’ll want to carry a backup Visa or Mastercard, just in case.

Bottom Line: Visa and Mastercard payment networks are the most widely accepted internationally. You will find acceptance of your Amex card or Discover card but you should have a backup Visa or Mastercard in case your card is not accepted by a specific merchant.

Everything Else You Need To Know

It’s best to apply for your card and complete the welcome bonus requirements prior to leaving the U.S. You will need a U.S. address to apply for the card and it may be easier to meet minimum spending requirements while in the U.S.

You’ll also want to set up your PIN and make sure your card has contactless capability prior to your departure. Having a replacement card sent to a U.S. address, should you need to do that, could be easier and safer than having it sent abroad.

If there are statement credits or bonus opportunities that would be difficult to use abroad, you may want to try to utilize these prior to departure.

While digital and e-wallet payments are not yet the majority of payment point-of-sale methods abroad, the 2020 World Payments Report, shows that non-cash digital payments are growing at the rate of 14% each year worldwide. You may want to update these wallets with your new card prior to departure.

Once you’re ready to make your move, you may want to contact the credit card company to let them know you’ll be using the card abroad for an extended period of time.

Bottom Line: It may be easier and/or safer to set up a PIN, order a contactless card, utilize bonus offers/statement credits, and complete any minimum spending requirements prior to your departure. It also makes sense to load your new card to your digital wallet as these payments are becoming more widely accepted globally. 

Final Thoughts

The best credit card for your use abroad will depend on which country you’re visiting, how the majority of your purchases will be made, and whether you’ll be able to utilize the benefits offered by the card.

Some of the most important considerations are that the card does not charge foreign transaction fees, that you have access to customer service, and there is a sufficient level of online account management capabilities.

Depending on the country, securing a PIN and having a card that facilitates contactless transactions could also be priorities.

And finally, if you’re selecting a card to use abroad, it’s best to receive the card, set up any applicable functions, and complete any spending requirements you deem difficult to complete abroad prior to your departure.