Select local currency when abroad
When you pay with a card abroad, it’s best to choose the local currency. This gives you the best foreign exchange rate, even if you still pay a currency conversion fee.
When choose local currency when abroad?
When you pay with your card abroad, you are often asked whether to pay in NOK or in the local currency. It’s best to pay in the local currency.
- If you pay in NOK, the store you’re shopping in determines the exchange rate. They often set a high currency conversion fee on the foreign exchange, so they can make additional profit from your purchase.
- If you choose local currency, Visa does the exchange for you. They actively work to offer the best exchange rate on the market, which makes it cheaper for you – even with the currency conversion fee.
Main rule: Say NO to NOK
Check that you can choose the currency you want to pay in, and always choose “No conversion” on the card terminal or at the cash machine.
See what the product costs abroad
Use the Visa currency calculator to see what you’ll actually pay for a product while you’re abroad.
Useful tips for your journey
Get lots of good financial travel advice for your trip abroad.
What is a currency conversion fee?
A currency conversion fee is a charge that you pay when you pay by card abroad. All Norwegian cards have a currency conversion fee, regardless of the bank or whether you’re using a debit or credit card.
- When paying by card abroad, the amount is converted to NOK. The exchange rate is set by Visa and Mastercard, plus a currency conversion fee, which is 1.99% at DNB.
- Despite the currency conversion fee, as a rule, it’s always better to pay in the local currency when using your card abroad.
Read more at DNB News
