International Money Guide

Canada · Wise Card

Wise Card vs alternatives

Compare Wise with your existing debit or credit card for the same purchase and withdrawal. Include exchange costs, account fees and the benefits you actually use.

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Compare the options

Other options to compare: Wealthsimple. Compare your own plan and eligibility; this is not a price ranking.

Compare the options
What to compareWise CardOther cards
How you payDeducted from your available Wise balance.Check debit versus credit, billing dates and any borrowing costs.
Foreign currencyConversion fees apply when currencies need to be exchanged.Compare the exchange rate, foreign purchase fee and plan conditions.
Cash withdrawalsCheck your country’s Wise allowance, withdrawal fees and any ATM-operator charge.Compare the total for the same withdrawal, including operator and conversion fees.
Ongoing costs and benefitsCheck card order and replacement fees; do not assume credit-card rewards or insurance.Include account subscriptions and only the benefits you qualify for.

Before you choose

  1. A trip abroad

    Compare a typical purchase and withdrawal. At the terminal, check the local-currency option before accepting the merchant’s conversion.

  2. Hotels and car rental

    Ask whether the merchant accepts debit cards for a deposit. A balance-funded card does not give you a credit limit.

  3. Everyday payments

    Check the local payment methods you need and how you will fund the account. Keep a backup for merchants that cannot accept the card.

Ready for the next step?

Check eligibility and current terms on Wise before choosing.

Get a Wise card

Frequently asked questions

Is Wise Card a credit card?

No. It is a debit card funded by your Wise balance, with conversion charges when applicable.

Are cash withdrawals free?

Not always. Wise allowances and fees depend on where your card was issued; the ATM operator may charge separately.

Is Wise always cheaper than my bank card?

No. Compare the total debit for the same purchase or withdrawal, including exchange rates, subscriptions and fees.

Can I use the card for a hotel or car-rental deposit?

Check with the merchant before booking. Some deposits require a credit card or temporarily reduce your available balance.