Yes, Chase exchanges foreign currency, but only at certain locations and with advance notice

Chase Bank does exchange foreign currency at many of its branches, but not all locations offer this service. You cannot walk into a random Chase branch and expect to exchange currency on the spot — most branches require you to order the currency ahead of time, usually three to five business days in advance. The bank stocks only the most common currencies at most locations, so if you need a less common currency, the wait may be longer or the branch may direct you to a larger location.

The exchange rate Chase offers is set by the bank and typically includes a markup over the mid-market rate. This means you will receive fewer foreign currency units per dollar than you would see quoted on a financial news site. Chase does not publish its exact markup publicly, so the rate you receive depends on the currency pair, the amount, and sometimes the specific branch.

If you need currency for travel, you have other options besides Chase — credit unions, independent currency exchanges, and online services sometimes offer different rates. Comparing your options before you order is worth the time, especially if you are exchanging a large amount.

Key Takeaways

  • Chase exchanges foreign currency at most branches, but you must order it in advance — typically three to five business days before you need it.
  • Chase stocks common currencies like euros, British pounds, Canadian dollars, and Japanese yen at most locations; less common currencies may require a longer wait or a trip to a larger branch.
  • The exchange rate includes a bank markup, so you receive fewer units of foreign currency per dollar than the mid-market rate published online.
  • You can compare Chase's rate to rates offered by credit unions and independent currency exchanges before you commit to an order.

How to order foreign currency from Chase

Call your local Chase branch or visit in person and ask to speak with someone in the foreign exchange department. Have ready the name of the currency you need, the amount, and the date you need it by. The staff member will tell you whether the currency is in stock, how long the order will take, and what the exchange rate will be. Some branches allow you to order online through your Chase account, but this varies by location — ask your branch whether that option is available.

Once you place the order, you will typically pay when you pick up the currency. Chase may require you to pick it up at the branch where you ordered it, though some branches will transfer currency between locations if you ask. Bring your passport or government-issued ID when you pick up the currency, as banks are required to verify your identity for currency transactions above certain amounts.

Which currencies Chase typically stocks

Chase keeps the following currencies on hand at most branches: euros (EUR), British pounds (GBP), Canadian dollars (CAD), Japanese yen (JPY), Swiss francs (CHF), Australian dollars (AUD), and Mexican pesos (MXN). If you need one of these, your wait is usually shorter — often just a few business days.

Currencies outside this list — such as Thai baht, Indian rupees, or South African rand — may take longer to arrive or may not be available at your branch at all. In those cases, the branch will either order it from another Chase location or direct you to an independent currency exchange that specializes in less common currencies. Ask your branch which option is faster for the specific currency you need.

What the exchange rate includes

When Chase quotes you an exchange rate, that rate is not the same as the mid-market rate you see on financial websites. The mid-market rate is the rate at which banks trade currency with each other; it does not include the cost of the service. Chase's rate includes a markup — essentially a fee for providing the service — built into the rate itself.

For example, if the mid-market rate for euros is 1 USD = 0.92 EUR, Chase might quote you 1 USD = 0.88 EUR. The difference (0.04 EUR per dollar) is the bank's markup. The exact markup varies by currency and by the amount you are exchanging. Larger amounts sometimes receive a slightly better rate than smaller amounts, though Chase does not publish a schedule of how this works.

Comparing Chase to other currency exchange options

Before you order from Chase, consider what other sources charge. Credit unions often offer better rates than banks for their members. Independent currency exchange shops — found in many cities and airports — sometimes beat bank rates, especially for large amounts. Online currency services like OFX or Wise (formerly TransferWise) offer rates closer to mid-market, though they are designed for transfers rather than physical currency pickup.

The trade-off is convenience and speed. Chase is available at thousands of locations, and you can pick up currency in person. Independent exchanges may have limited hours or locations. Online services require a bank transfer and take a few business days. If you are leaving for the airport tomorrow, Chase may be your only realistic option even if the rate is not the best.

What to bring when you pick up your currency

Bring a government-issued photo ID — a passport, driver's license, or state ID card. Chase is required by federal law to verify your identity for currency transactions. If you are picking up currency for someone else, that person may need to be present with their own ID, depending on the amount and the branch's policy. Ask when you place the order whether the person receiving the currency needs to be there in person.

Bring the payment method you agreed on when you placed the order — usually a debit card, credit card, or a check from your Chase account. Some branches may allow you to pay from your account balance if you are a Chase customer, but confirm this when you order.

What happens if you need currency urgently

If you need currency within 24 hours, Chase branches may not be able to help. In that case, look for an independent currency exchange near you — many operate in city centers and near airports with same-day service. The rate will likely be worse than Chase's, but you will have the currency when ready. Airport currency exchanges are convenient but typically charge the highest markups of all.

If you are traveling internationally and realize you need more currency after you arrive, ATMs in the destination country usually offer rates closer to mid-market than any exchange service in your home country. Using an ATM abroad is often cheaper than exchanging currency before you leave, even after accounting for ATM fees.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I exchange currency at any Chase branch?

Most Chase branches offer currency exchange, but not all. Call ahead or ask at your local branch to confirm they provide the service. Some very small branches may not stock currency and will direct you to a larger location nearby.

How long does it take to get my currency?

For common currencies like euros and British pounds, three to five business days is typical. Less common currencies may take one to two weeks. Ask when you place your order — the branch will give you a specific date.

Can I order currency online through my Chase account?

Some Chase branches allow online ordering through your account, but this is not available everywhere. Contact your branch to ask whether this option is available to you.

What if Chase does not have the currency I need?

Chase will either order it from another location (which takes longer) or direct you to an independent currency exchange that carries it. Ask your branch which option is faster for your specific currency.

Is the exchange rate locked in when I place my order?

Rates can change between when you order and when you pick up the currency. Ask your branch whether the rate is may provide or whether it may shift. Most branches will honor the rate quoted at the time of order, but confirm this when you place it.