Traveling abroad
International Travel Information
We encourage you to be financially prepared before you travel abroad. As always, don't hesitate to contact us for further information. We wish you a safe journey!
Many of the Web site links in this section will take you out of our site. OUCU is not liable for the content or availability of any linked sites.
IMPORTANT NOTICE
Due to the number of fraudulent transactions coming from the following countries:
UK - cash advances, please call for more information
Portugal - cash advances, please call for more information
We recommend you bring multiple forms of payment (cash, credit cards, debit cards, etc.) when traveling abroad. Please call us before you travel and we can give you a more recent update on the situation.
ATM Locations
Other machines that can be used with your Visa Check and Cash card or STAR ATM card:
Star ATMs
Alliance One
Using Your Visa Credit Card and/or Debit Card Abroad
You should have no problem using your Visa Check and Cash (debit) card or Visa or MasterCard credit card wherever Visa or MasterCard are accepted. You can use them in ATMs, at stores and businesses, and you can also get a cash advance at a bank or credit union.
Please note, though, that it is a very good idea to let the Credit Union know if you will be traveling abroad. We can work with the VISA/MasterCard networks to make sure that your card works smoothly and dependably in the area wherever you are heading! Just call the OUCU Card Center at 597-2837 or 1-800-562-8420 ext. 72837.
Additional note on debit card (Visa Check & Cash Card) usage: Because a Visa Check & Cash card is attached to your Credit Union checking/savings accounts, it's always a good idea to carry multiple forms of payment/cash in the event your card should become lost or stolen. Consider also carrying an OUCU credit card for purchases, ATM usage, and cash advances abroad.
Advice on ATMs Abroad: In many instances, ATMs have replaced travelers checks as the primary source of currency for many travelers, both in the U.S. and overseas. In addition to making foreign cash easy and convenient to obtain, ATMs provide the best exchange rates, according to some.
Be aware that ATM machine operations and regulations vary from country to country and bank to bank. Daily withdrawals may also limited to fixed amounts determined both by the credit union and the bank that operates the machine; systems may also have weekly limits to how much cash a cardholder can get. The cost of that cash can also vary. Many banks charge fixed fees of up to $3 per transaction.
And of course, cards can be lost or stolen. The bottom line? ATMs do make it easier and cheaper to get cash anywhere, but you can't be sure until you get there. That's why wise travelers always have other cash options available whenever and wherever they go.
Note that ATM machines abroad only use numerals, so make sure you know the numeric equivalent of your four-letter PIN, if you currently use all letters.
Lost or Stolen Card Information
If your cards are stolen while on vacation, please contact the Credit Union as soon as possible at 1-800-562-8420 or memberservices@oucu.org. If that is not possible, please call the appropriate numbers listed below:
- Lost or Stolen MasterCard/Visa Credit Card (800) 325-3678
- Lost Stolen Visa Check & Cash Card (Debit) (800) 500-1044
- International Lost Stolen MasterCard (727) 570-4881
Click here for more information on Identity Theft.
My Travel Wallet Services
We have partnered with Travelex, the world's leader in foreign currency and travel cash products to offer you My Travel Wallet Services. Travelex acquired well-known Thomas Cook Global and Financial Services in 2001. More information on these services can be found on the My Travel Wallet Web site.
Purchase Foreign Currency
All legitimate orders are 100% guaranteed and more than 70 different currencies are available. You can pay for your order with your credit or debit card. A payment by a credit card will be treated as a cash advance and interest will begin to accrue at the purchase date. They do not buy back foreign currency at this time.
The CUNA Visa TravelMoney card is a prepaid debit card - the perfect travel companion. By simply preloading and activating your card before you leave to travel, you are ready to make purchases at millions of locations that accept Visa debit cards and access local currency instantly from more than 950,000 Visa ATMs around the world. The minimum load amount is US $250.00 and you can keep a balance of up to $9,999.99.
While your CUNA Visa TravelMoney Card gives you instant use of your funds whether you use a Visa ATM or at locations that accept Visa debit cards, your card also has the benefit of Interlink functionality. You can visit an Interlink merchant to get cash back with your purchase, or spend the remaining funds at locations that accept Visa debit cards.
Fees and Limits:
No annual fee
Card purchase fee of $9.95 for members
A second card can be taken for a fee of $2.00 (2 only)
An optional monthly statement can be ordered for $2.00 per month
Online balance inquiries are free at www.cashpassportcard.com
Balance Inquiries by phone are $0.50
Monthly maintenance fee of $1.25 after 12 months of inactivity
Over the counter withdrawal fee (in-bank) $10, $250 limit per advance
ATM withdrawal fee: US Dollar: $2.50 International currency: $2.00
Reload fee $3.95 (maximum of 3 reloads per card life)
The minimum card load is $250, the maximum card load amount is $9,999 and the account balance should be a maximum of $9,999.99 at any time
Card life up to 24 months - valid thru date printed on the card
U. S. State Department Sites of Interest
- Student Travel Tips
Government web site with travel tips for students. It also has a link to Visa information. - Passport Information
U.S. Department of State Web Site with information on obtaining a passport - International Travel Warnings
- Benefits for students and teachers
Foreign Exchange Rates
Here are several sites that offer foreign currency rates and conversion calculators.
- Federal Reserve Exchange Rates
- Foreign Currency Conversion Calculator
- International Currency Exchange Rates
- Universal Currency Exchange Rates
- Using the Euro
- Information on the Euro and where it can be used. Also has information on how to use credit cards overseas and additional travel tips.
Tips for Handling Cash Overseas
Time and Temperature
Other Links of Interest
Ohio University International Focus
CIA World Fact Book
Centers for Disease Control
