Why was I billed an international fee for my recent transaction?Updated 2 years ago

Receiving an unexpected international fee for a recent transaction can be perplexing and vexing. To clarify this issue, let's explore the potential reasons behind the imposition of an international fee on your transaction. Understanding these factors will equip you with the knowledge needed to navigate future transactions and make well-informed decisions.

1. Conversion:

If your transaction entailed converting one currency into another, such as making a purchase in a foreign currency, your bank or credit card company may have levied an international fee to cover the expenses related to currency conversion.

2. Cross-Border Transaction:

If the transaction was conducted by a merchant located in a different country than your billing address, it may be categorized as a cross-border transaction. In such instances, financial institutions frequently impose international fees to offset the added processing and administrative costs associated with cross-border transactions.

3. International Payment Networks:

As an international company, we employ an American payment processor named Stripe. Consequently, some banks may impose additional fees while others may not. Unfortunately, this fee originates directly from your bank and is beyond our control.

Furthermore, we currently offer four payment gateways: USA, Canada, UK, and Singapore. Presently, all credit card payments are routed through our payment gateway in Canada or Singapore, leading to the assessment of an international fee on your bill. To bypass international fees in the future, you can opt to use PayPal as a payment method. Rest assured, the payment process remains secure, as Stripe is PCI-compliant and manages the entire payment procedure on our behalf.

4. Bank or Credit Card Policy:

Certain banks and credit card issuers incorporate international fees into their policies for specific types of transactions, regardless of the circumstances. It is advisable to review the terms and conditions stipulated in your bank or credit card agreement to ascertain whether international fees apply in such scenarios.

In summary, it's crucial to recognize that the specific fees and their amounts can vary based on your financial institution, the nature of the transaction, and the terms outlined in your account or credit card agreement.

For precise information concerning the international fee associated with your transaction, we recommend reaching out directly to your bank or credit card provider. They possess the capability to furnish you with detailed insights into the particular charges related to your transaction.