Card payments abroad from France: what are the fees and how to reduce them?
Learn about the fees associated with card payments abroad and ways to reduce them to save money when traveling.
Société Générale withdrawals abroad from France: what are the fees?
Withdrawing money abroad with Société Générale can be costly. You may face commissions on the amount withdrawn, currency exchange markups, and even ATM operator fees. If you’re not careful, these expenses can add up quickly. So, how can you reduce withdrawal fees when abroad? Let’s take a look.
To keep your withdrawal costs low, consider the Wise card. It’s an international debit card accepted in most countries and allows you to withdraw up to €200 per month (maximum 2 withdrawals) for free. Plus, Wise doesn’t charge hidden fees — all costs are clearly displayed before you confirm a transaction.
Wise vs Société Générale: a fee comparison
Here’s how Société Générale’s withdrawal fees abroad compare with Wise:¹
| Provider | Société Générale | Wise |
|---|---|---|
| Currency conversion | Bank rate of the day + commercial margin | Mid-market exchange rate + small transparent fee |
| ATM withdrawal outside Eurozone | * CB Visa Infinite card: €3 + 2% * Other cards: €3 + 2.7% | * Up to €200/month for free (2 withdrawals max) * Beyond that: €0.50 + 1.75% |
| Card payments outside Eurozone (over €10) | * CB Visa Infinite: €1 + 2% * Other cards: €1 + 2.7% | Free if no currency conversion is required |
All prices are based on Société Générale’s 2025 tariff brochure and may vary depending on your banking package or plan.
What to check before leaving France
Planning a trip abroad? Here are a few things to verify before you go:
-
Can I withdraw money abroad with my card?
If you have a Société Générale Visa or Mastercard, you can withdraw money almost anywhere. Both are internationally recognized. -
Have I informed my bank?
If you don’t notify them, your withdrawals abroad might be flagged as suspicious and temporarily blocked. -
Is my card still valid?
Check the expiry date and request a new card before you leave if needed. -
What are my withdrawal and payment limits?
If you plan to spend more than usual, ask your advisor to increase your limits before your trip. -
Do I have the emergency number to block my card?
Keep it written down somewhere safe, but not in your wallet.
Fees to expect with Société Générale
ATM withdrawals abroad
Fees depend on the type of card:¹
- CB Visa Infinite: €3 + 2%
- Other cards: €3 + 2.7%
Card payments outside the Eurozone
The rate depends on your card type and the transaction amount:¹
| Card type | CB Visa Infinite | Other cards |
|---|---|---|
| ≤ €10 | 2% | 2.7% |
| > €10 | €1 + 2% | €1 + 2.7% |
How to reduce your bank fees
Here are a few simple ways to limit international withdrawal costs:
1. Limit withdrawals
Every withdrawal abroad over €10 incurs a commission. The CB Visa Infinite card has lower fees, but it costs €345 per year.¹
To save money, withdraw larger amounts less often, or take out the cash you’ll need before your trip.
2. Pay by card whenever possible
Card payments abroad generally cost less than ATM withdrawals. Try to use your card for purchases and reserve cash for when it’s essential.
3. Société Générale’s international options
Société Générale offers international options with reduced fees for JAZZ and Sobrio plan holders. Discounts may vary depending on your age and subscription.
Can I get a prepaid card from Société Générale?
No — Société Générale doesn’t currently offer prepaid cards.
However, you can use the Wise card, which works similarly. It lets you top up your balance anytime, pay in foreign currencies, and withdraw money at the mid-market rate with transparent fees.
Tips to avoid hidden fees
Beware of exchange rate markups
Société Générale applies its own exchange rate, including a commercial margin, rather than the mid-market rate. This makes your withdrawals and payments more expensive than they appear.
Avoid dynamic currency conversion
Some foreign ATMs or merchants offer to charge you in euros instead of the local currency. Always refuse — this “service” applies a higher exchange rate and leads to unnecessary extra costs.
To travel stress-free, choose a payment solution adapted for international use.
With Wise, save on all your withdrawals and payments abroad
The Wise card allows free withdrawals up to €200 per month (maximum of 2 withdrawals) and currency conversion at the mid-market rate.
Available for just a €7 delivery fee, it’s a practical and low-cost option for travellers and expats in France.
Here’s why it could be a great fit:
- Withdrawals and payments abroad at the mid-market rate, with no hidden fees.
- Hold and convert 40+ currencies in one account.
- Works with smartphones and smartwatches for contactless payments.
- Accepted in most countries worldwide.
- No limits on how much you can hold in your account.
Source:
Verified on September 17, 2025.
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.
*Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.
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