What's the American Express Blue Cash Preferred foreign transaction fee?

The American Express Blue Cash Preferred foreign transaction fee is 2.7%. This is the surcharge applied to all transactions made outside of the U.S. That includes both purchases in another country and stateside transactions through an internationally-based merchant.

All American Express cards with foreign transaction fees charge 2.7%. This includes Blue Cash Preferred’s companion card, the Blue Cash Everyday card. The percentage other issuers apply to foreign transactions varies, but will range from 1%-3%. Capital One, Discover and USAA are the three major issuers with no foreign transaction fees on any of their cards.

The Blue Cash Preferred card is ideal for everyday purchases. But it may not be the best option for travel. It offers 6% cash back on grocery purchases, up to $6,000 spent per year, and 3% at gas stations. There’s also a $200 statement credit for spending $1,000 in the first 3 months. Cash back rewards can be redeemed for statement credits, gift cards and merchandise. The Blue Cash Preferred card’s annual fee is $95.

American Express Blue Cash Preferred foreign transaction fee and more:

• Foreign transaction fee: 2.7%
• When the foreign transaction fee applies: On all transactions outside of the U.S. and through an internationally-based merchant.
• Annual Fee: $95.
• Introductory APR: 0% for 12 months on purchases and balance transfers within the first 60 days.
• Balance transfer fee: $5 minimum or 3% of the balance, whichever is greater.
• Cash advance fee: $5 minimum or 3% of the balance, whichever is greater.
• Maximum Late Fee: $38
• Regular APR: 15.24% - 26.24% (V)

The American Express Blue Cash Preferred foreign transaction fee is pricy, at 2.7%. No-fee alternatives from Amex include the Gold Card and Platinum Card. Co-branded options include the Delta SkyMiles cards, along with the Hilton and SPG hotel cards. The tradeoffs are that in some cases you may have to pay annual fees as high as $450 to $550. Also, the Gold and Platinum cards are charge cards, which require you to pay the entire balance in full each month.

Keep in mind that even without a foreign transaction fee, an American Express card may not be an ideal choice for your international travels. American Express cards are just not as widely accepted worldwide as cards from the other major networks. Amex cards are accepted in only about 160 countries. Discover cards are accepted in 180 countries, and Visa cards can be used in more than 200 countries. Mastercard is on top with its cards accepted in 210+ countries.