Using a credit card overseas

Credit cards are widely accepted in most countries so you don’t need to carry as much cash.

You also have the added reassurance that if your card is lost or stolen while away, we'll get a replacement card couriered to you and even provide emergency cash if required.

Keeping transactions safe and secure

Westpac credit cards are protected by CardShield™, which includes fraud detection, online protection and CHIP security features. Where possible, use a PIN instead of your signature to verify credit card purchases.

Our Westpac Added Online Security Service also protects you when purchasing at participating online retailers. Make sure you keep your mobile phone number and email address up to date.

Perfecting your PIN

If you've changed your PIN from the 4 digit number we issued to a 6 digit PIN, be aware that some transactions may not be successful overseas. You may also encounter an error with your 4 digit PIN in some countries requiring a 6 digit PIN.

Overseas travel notification

Always let us know when you’re travelling overseas and intend to use your credit card. We'll record your travel details and monitor the security of your credit cards while you're away.
 

Let us know:

• Altitude Business Cards
  • Notify us online
  • 132 142 Or if outside Australia +61 2 9155 7700
• BusinessChoice Rewards Platinum and Everyday Cards
  • 1300 650 107 Or if outside Australia +61 2 9155 7700

You can use your card at many places overseas

• Make purchases at over 28 million locations worldwide.
• Access cash at over 900,000 ATMs worldwide.

Fees for using your card overseas

A Foreign Transaction Fee is payable as a percentage of the Australian dollar value of any Foreign Transaction.

The percentage will vary depending on the applicable credit card scheme:

1. Transactions in foreign currency
   • Mastercard^® and Visa: 3.0%
      
2. Transactions in Australian dollars and the merchant or financial institution accepting the card is located overseas:
   • Mastercard and Visa: 3.0%

Note: It may not always be clear to you that the Merchant or entity processing the transaction is located outside Australia.

Countries where Westpac cards cannot be used

The Westpac Group operates in many overseas locations and must comply with economic and trade sanctions at all times. Some countries present significant risk in relation to sanctions compliance. Westpac cards are not accessible and cannot be used in the following affected countries: Cuba, Iran, Myanmar, North Korea, Sudan and Syria. To ensure access to other payment options in these countries, visit a Westpac branch to arrange an alternative solution.