Using your credit card abroad or for international online purchases can be costly if your card charges foreign transaction fees. These fees—typically 1% to 3% of every purchase—can add up quickly. Fortunately, many banks now offer credit cards with no foreign transaction fee, and some of them even come with cashback rewards, making them ideal for travelers, freelancers, digital nomads, and online shoppers.
This guide will help you understand the benefits, compare the best cards, and choose the right option for your needs.
What Is a No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Card?
A no foreign transaction fee credit card is a card that does not charge extra fees when you:
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Make purchases abroad
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Pay in a foreign currency online
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Travel internationally and use your card at hotels, restaurants, or stores
These cards help you save money and avoid hidden charges while maintaining the convenience of card payments.
Why Choose a Credit Card With Cashback?
Cashback credit cards give you a percentage of your spending back as rewards. When combined with zero foreign transaction fees, you get double benefits:
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Save money when shopping online from international stores
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Earn cashback on every transaction
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Get better value when traveling abroad
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Reduce unnecessary bank fees
Top Benefits of a No-Foreign-Transaction-Fee Cashback Credit Card
1. Save on International Purchases
Foreign transaction fees can increase costs significantly—especially for frequent travelers and online shoppers. Choosing a card with 0% FTF means you pay the real price without hidden charges.
2. Earn Cashback on Every Purchase
Whether you’re spending on travel, dining, groceries, or online subscriptions, cashback cards help you earn money back.
3. Ideal for Travelers and Digital Nomads
These cards offer worldwide acceptance, making them perfect for:
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Business travel
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Vacations
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Online shopping from global websites
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Remote workers living abroad
4. Better Budget Control
With clear statements, spending categories, and cashback rewards, you can manage expenses more efficiently.
Best Credit Cards With No Foreign Transaction Fee and Cashback (2025)
Below are some of the top choices known internationally. (Availability depends on your country.)
1. Capital One Spark 2% Cash Plus
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Cashback: 2% unlimited
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Foreign transaction fee: 0%
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Best for: Business owners and entrepreneurs
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Why it’s great: Simple, flat-rate cashback + strong travel-friendly features.
2. Chase Freedom Unlimited® (when used abroad through Visa network)
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Cashback: 1.5%–5% depending on category
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Foreign transaction fee: 0% (depending on variant)
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Best for: Mixed categories + occasional international use
3. Citi® Double Cash Card (Select versions)
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Cashback: 2% (1% on purchase + 1% on payment)
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Foreign transaction fee: 0%
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Best for: Everyday spending + online international shopping
4. Santander Business Cashback Card (UK)
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Cashback: 1% unlimited
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Foreign transaction fee: 0%
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Best for: UK businesses with international spending
5. Mastercard No-Foreign-Transaction-Fee Cards
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Cashback: Varies by issuing bank
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Foreign transaction fee: 0%
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Best for: Travel and online global purchases
How to Choose the Right Card
Consider the following before choosing:
1. Cashback Structure
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Flat-rate cashback (e.g., 2%) is ideal for all-around spending
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Tiered cashback works well if you focus on specific categories
2. Annual Fees
Some zero-FTF cards charge annual fees in exchange for higher rewards. Compare cost vs benefit.
3. Travel Features
Look for added perks such as:
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Travel insurance
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Airport lounge access
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Hotel discounts
4. Acceptance
Visa and Mastercard offer the best global acceptance.
Tips for Maximizing Cashback Rewards
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Use the card for all international and online foreign-currency purchases
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Pay your balance in full to avoid interest charges
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Track bonus categories
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Redeem rewards regularly for maximum value
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Combine with travel deals for double savings
Conclusion
Choosing a credit card with no foreign transaction fee and cashback is one of the smartest financial decisions for anyone who spends internationally—whether for travel, business, or online shopping. You’ll save money, earn rewards, and enjoy a more seamless financial experience.