If you don’t want to pay extra for purchases in another currency, a Nationwide credit card is a practical option.
Below, you’ll find information on how it works, how to apply, the interest and fees, and practical tips to minimize costs abroad.
Why Travelers Consider Nationwide Credit Card
Using a Nationwide credit card abroad does not charge a non-sterling (foreign transaction) fee on purchases.
This means day-to-day spending in shops or online in another currency won’t add an extra card fee from Nationwide.
Nationwide cards are widely accepted. Carry a backup card in case a terminal is offline or a merchant is cash-only.
Key Rates, Fees and Limits (at a glance)
“Representative APR” is the rate offered to at least 51% of successful applicants; your actual rate and limit depend on your credit profile and other factors.
- Foreign cash withdrawals: Cash fee 2.5% (minimum £3); interest on cash usually accrues immediately. Avoid routine ATM use with a credit card.
- Representative APR: 24.9% APR (variable).
- Intro deals: 0% on purchases and balance transfers for 15 months (subject to eligibility and change).
- Balance transfer fee: 2.99% (minimum £5) if transferred within 90 days of opening; 2.4% (minimum £5) thereafter (with interest if outside promo).
Some merchants, especially outside the UK, may add their own card surcharge. That’s a merchant decision and not controlled by Nationwide.
How to Apply For a Nationwide Credit Card
You generally need to be a Nationwide member (e.g., a current account, savings, or mortgage holder).
1) Check eligibility and membership
The purchase and balance transfer credit card is typically available to UK residents aged 18+, with £5,000+ annual income.
If you’re not yet a member, you’ll need to open an eligible product before applying for the card.
2) Use the eligibility checker (soft search)
Nationwide offers an online eligibility check that doesn’t impact your credit score.
You input basic details about income and outgoings, and you’ll see an indication of whether you’re likely to be accepted.
3) Apply online (preferred route)
If eligible, log in to the Internet Bank or the Nationwide app and complete the application.
Select Nationwide credit card if the option is available for you.
Have your ID, address history, employer details, and income information to hand. You may be asked for additional documents if verification is required.
4) Or apply by phone / in branch
If you prefer to speak to someone or need assistance, you can apply by phone or get help at a branch.
Eligibility/applications by phone (UK): 0800 30 20 10 – Eligibility/applications from abroad: +44 1793 65 67 89
Application line hours are usually Mon–Fri 8:00–18:00; Sat 9:00–13:00.
5) Understand the introductory period and ongoing management
Introductory 0% periods usually start from the day the account is opened.
After they end, standard purchase or balance transfer interest applies to any remaining balances.
You can manage the card, set up Direct Debits (e.g., to pay in full), and monitor spending within the app and Internet Bank.
How to Avoid Foreign Fees and Poor Exchange Rates
Enabling app notifications helps you spot foreign transactions and keep tabs on your budget while you travel.
Use the card for purchases, not cash
Because Nationwide doesn’t charge a foreign transaction fee, using the card directly for hotels, restaurants, and shops is the most cost-effective option.
Avoid using it for ATM withdrawals unless you accept the 2.5% (min £3) cash fee and immediate interest on cash advances.
If you must use an ATM, consider one larger withdrawal rather than many small ones to reduce the impact of the fixed minimum charge.
Always choose to pay in the local currency
When a terminal or ATM offers you the option to pay in pounds (GBP) or the local currency, pick the local currency (for example, euros in the Eurozone).
This avoids Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC), where the merchant or ATM converts the price at its own rate, often with a built-in margin.
Letting the card network handle the conversion is usually cheaper and more transparent.
Watch for “helpful” conversion prompts
ATMs and some merchants abroad may frame DCC as a “guaranteed rate” or “no surprises.”
Decline these prompts and continue without conversion.
The receipt should show the local-currency amount; keep copies or photos in case you need to query a charge later.
Pay your statement in full to avoid interest
The lack of a foreign purchase fee doesn’t eliminate interest if you carry a balance after the grace period or after the 0% purchase window ends.
Set a Direct Debit to make your Nationwide credit card payments in full each month o
This also covers at least the statement balance during the 0% period, so travel spending doesn’t accumulate interest.
Contact Details
General Credit Card Services (UK): 03456 00 66 11
General Credit Card Services (from abroad): +44 2476 43 89 97
Postal address (Head Office): Nationwide Building Society Nationwide House, Pipers Way Swindon, SN38 1NW, United Kingdom
Who the Card Suits—and Who Should Reconsider
This card suits travelers who are already Nationwide members and want a way to spend abroad without a card-issuer foreign transaction fee on purchases.
The 0% purchase window can also help you spread big trip costs, provided you plan repayments so the balance is cleared before the promo ends.
If you frequently need cash in cash-heavy destinations, the ATM fee and immediate interest on cash advances can add up.
Consider pairing this card with a debit card known for fee-free ATM withdrawals or adjusting your travel budget to minimize cash.
Conclusion
For travelers who are (or can become) Nationwide members, the current Nationwide credit card is a strong everyday travel companion.
Avoid ATM withdrawals where possible, always choose local currency at terminals, and set a Direct Debit so interest never erodes your savings.
With those habits, you can keep international card costs simple and predictable.
Disclaimer: Rates, fees, eligibility criteria, phone numbers and product features change over time. Always check Nationwide’s official website, customer documents or branch advisors for the most up-to-date terms before applying or traveling. This article is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
