BNP Paribas withdrawals abroad from France: all fees and rates

When you need to withdraw money abroad, an ATM is often the most convenient option. However, with BNP Paribas, these withdrawals are not free.

The bank applies variable fees for each withdrawal and commissions on currency conversion when applicable. But what exactly do these fees cover, and how much do they cost? Most importantly, how can you reduce them? Let’s find out.

Alternatively, you can avoid hidden markups and high withdrawal costs with the Wise international debit card. You can get your Wise card for a one-time €7 delivery fee and use it in 150+ countries.

The Wise card works at over 2 million ATMs worldwide and allows you to hold 40+ currencies directly in your account.

Discover the Wise card

BNP Paribas withdrawals abroad: what are the bank’s fees?

Like most traditional banks, BNP Paribas charges fees for each withdrawal made abroad. The total cost depends on several factors:
– Whether the withdrawal is made inside or outside the Eurozone
– The type of BNP card you hold
– The type of ATM used abroad

Before you travel, it’s worth checking exactly what fees apply to your specific card.

BNP withdrawal fees within the Eurozone

Here are BNP’s fees for withdrawals at an ATM within the Eurozone (outside France):¹

Beyond the limits shown above, each additional withdrawal costs €1. However, withdrawals made through the BNP Paribas Global Network or Global Alliance partner ATMs are free.¹

Note: BNP Paribas cards have annual fees that vary by type — for example, the Visa Infinite card costs €347 per year.¹

BNP withdrawal fees outside the Eurozone

Here are the fees for cash withdrawals outside the Eurozone:¹

In addition to these transaction fees, BNP applies a fixed commission for each withdrawal. When currency conversion is required, the bank uses a marked-up exchange rate, making withdrawals more expensive.¹

Avoid these hidden costs by using the Wise card, which offers:
– 2 free withdrawals per month up to €200
– Currency conversion at the mid-market rate
– No monthly or annual fees
– Transparent and competitive pricing on international transfers and withdrawals

More information
on the Wise card

Free BNP withdrawals abroad: is it possible?

BNP Paribas offers free withdrawals in specific cases.

Within the Eurozone:
– Unlimited with a Visa Infinite card
– Up to 6 free withdrawals with a Visa Classic (Esprit Libre)
– One free withdrawal with an Origin card under Esprit Libre
– Unlimited free withdrawals for customers under 25
– Free withdrawals at BNP Paribas Global Network or Global Alliance ATMs

Outside the Eurozone:
– Free withdrawals at Global Network or Global Alliance ATMs.¹

Steps to take before travelling abroad

To avoid payment or withdrawal issues abroad, here are some essential checks before departure:

• Ensure your card works internationally — Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted.
• Check your card’s expiry date and renew it if needed.
• Review your withdrawal and spending limits and adjust them temporarily if necessary.
• Inform your advisor of your travel dates to avoid automatic fraud blocks.
• Keep emergency contact numbers handy to block your card if it’s lost or stolen.

How to reduce withdrawal fees abroad with a BNP card

Withdraw from partner bank ATMs

Use BNP’s own ATMs or those within the Global Network or Global Alliance to avoid fees. Otherwise, withdrawals cost €1 each within the Eurozone after the free limit.¹

Withdraw less often

Outside the Eurozone, BNP applies both a fixed and variable commission per withdrawal — at least €2.20 + 2%.¹
To save money, make fewer withdrawals and take out larger amounts each time.

Pay by card whenever possible

Card payments usually have lower fees than withdrawals. Use your card for most purchases and only withdraw cash for small, local expenses.

BNP’s international packages and options

BNP offers travel-friendly options such as the “Travel” package, which includes free withdrawals (excluding exchange rate markups).¹ This can be useful if you travel frequently.

Use a prepaid or secondary card

BNP doesn’t provide prepaid cards, but you can open a separate account for your travels and transfer a set budget. If the card is lost, only a limited balance is at risk.

Alternatively, the Wise card gives you a debit card linked to a multi-currency account, letting you hold and manage 40+ currencies. Conversions are made at the non-marked-up mid-market rate.

FAQ: BNP Paribas withdrawal fees abroad

What are exchange rate fees?

When you withdraw or pay abroad, BNP applies its own exchange rate, which includes a markup over the market rate.
This means you’ll pay more than the rate you see on a currency converter — the difference represents the hidden fee.

Should you withdraw in local currency?

Yes. When an ATM asks if you want to convert the withdrawal into euros, always refuse.
This “dynamic currency conversion” adds another commission on top of BNP’s withdrawal and conversion fees.

Outside the Eurozone, BNP charges a minimum of €2.20 + 2% per withdrawal.¹

Avoid hidden fees with the Wise card

The Wise card could be a good option if you want to avoid high BNP fees.
It offers minimal costs and conversions at the mid-market exchange rate, without hidden markups.

You’ll only convert what you actually spend — helping you stay in control of your budget abroad.

Order your Wise card

This article is a translation of the original article published in French and was translated within 365 days of publication. While the content has been translated for accessibility, the data and sources referenced have not been updated since the original publication date.