Can you use Wise and Revolut abroad?
Yes — both Wise and Revolut work in most countries for spending anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted and for ATM withdrawals. They differ on rates, monthly limits, and weekend markups, and neither replaces a genuine local account for things tied to residency. Here's how to use them well on the road.
The short answer
Both work worldwide for card spending and ATMs. Wise wins on transparent cheap conversions; Revolut adds budgeting and in-app rates within a monthly allowance. Many nomads carry both. Full comparison on our best bank account guide.
Where they work
Both issue cards that work anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted — effectively everywhere — and both support ATM withdrawals abroad. The catch is where you can open the account: eligibility depends on your country of residence at sign-up. Once you have it, though, you can use it while travelling worldwide, which is exactly why they're a nomad staple.
How they differ on cost
Wise converts at the mid-market rate with a small, upfront fee — consistent and easy to predict. Revolut offers strong in-app rates within a monthly fee-free allowance on its free tier, then adds a markup beyond it and on weekends, when currency markets are closed. For steady, transparent conversions Wise usually edges it; for app features and occasional spending Revolut is strong. Both crush a normal bank's 2–4% spread.
Carry a backup — and know the limits
Because these are e-money institutions rather than banks, accounts can be frozen during a routine compliance check, and resolving it can take time. Never rely on a single one: keep a second card and some cash, as covered in managing money as a nomad. And for anything tied to living somewhere — a lease, local salary, or a nomad visa requiring local banking — you'll still want a real local account, covered in opening a bank account abroad.
Frequently asked questions
Yes. Both issue cards that work anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted, which is almost everywhere, and both support ATM withdrawals abroad. Availability of the account itself depends on your country of residence when you sign up, but once you have it, you can use it while travelling worldwide.
Wise tends to win on transparent, consistently cheap conversions and receiving money in many currencies. Revolut offers strong in-app rates within your plan's monthly allowance plus budgeting features, but adds markups beyond the allowance and on weekends for free users. Many nomads carry both and use whichever fits the moment.
It can, usually during a routine compliance or identity check, or if activity looks unusual. Because these aren't traditional banks, resolving a freeze can take time, which is why you should never rely on a single account. Keep a backup card and some cash, and keep your verification documents up to date to reduce the risk.
For travelling and spending, usually not — they cover it. You'll only need a genuine local account for things tied to living somewhere long-term: a residential lease, local salary, utilities, or a nomad visa that requires local banking. Our guide on opening an account abroad covers when that step is worth it.
Wise or Revolut — which fits you?
Both are excellent abroad, but they suit different habits. See the head-to-head on fees, rates, and features before you pick.
Fees, rates, limits, and country availability change over time — always confirm current details on the provider's site before relying on them. This page is informational, not financial advice.