Best U.S. Credit Cards for Americans in France or Abroad — No FX Fees + High Rewards

Best U.S. Credit Cards for Americans Living in France or abroad (No FX Fees + High Rewards)

If you spend part of the year in France or travel internationally frequently, using the right U.S. credit cards can unlock powerful rewards, cashback, and travel perks — without paying foreign transaction fees.

I personally use my U.S. credit cards for nearly all my spending in France because they offer far better benefits than most French cards. Whether you’re a part-time expat, digital nomad, or frequent traveler, this strategy can help you maximize every euro you spend.

If you’re still setting up your finances abroad, be sure to check out my full guide:
👉 The Ultimate Expat’s Guide to Moving to France (2025 Edition)

Why Use U.S. Credit Cards in France?

• No foreign transaction (FX) fees — avoid the 2–3% surcharge that most banks add to overseas purchases and the fees charged by Wise or Revolut for money transfers

• Superior rewards & protections — earn more cashback, miles, and access travel perks like lounge entry and elite status.

• Simplified spending strategy — maintain your U.S. credit profile while spending abroad.

• Better flexibility — pay in dollars, manage balances across currencies, and integrate seamlessly with U.S. reward programs.

My Top U.S. Credit Cards for Spending in France and Overseas

Here are the cards I personally use for international spending — all with no FX fees, strong cashback or mileage earning potential, and valuable travel perks.

🛫 Alaska Airlines Summit Visa Infinite

The Alaska Airlines Summit Visa Infinite is one of the best new premium travel cards for global travelers.

Key Benefits:

• 3 miles per dollar on all international purchases and dining

• No foreign transaction fees

• Up to 3.3 miles per dollar if you’re a Bank of America client

• 100,000 bonus miles after spending $6,000 in the first 90 days

• Premium perks: Travel protections, companion fare, Alaska Lounge access, elite status boosts

💳 Annual Fee: $395

This card delivers exceptional value for anyone spending regularly abroad — and the 100K welcome bonus can go a long way toward award travel.
👉 Read my full review here: The Ultimate Credit Card for Global Travelers — Alaska Airlines Summit Visa Infinite

💼 Bank of America Premium Rewards + Preferred Rewards

If you’re part of the Bank of America Preferred Rewards program, this combo can generate elite-level cashback rates — even on everyday purchases.

How it works:
By keeping at least $100,000 in combined Bank of America and Merrill accounts, you qualify for Platinum Honors status, giving you a 75% bonus on rewards earned from eligible cards.

Your effective rates:

• 2.625% cashback on all purchases

• 3.5% cashback on travel & dining

• $95 annual fee (offset by $100 annual airline incidental credit)

With no foreign transaction fees, this card remains a smart, low-maintenance way to maximize global spending.
👉 Learn more here: Bank of America Preferred Rewards Credit Card Strategy

💳 Fidelity Rewards Visa Signature

If you prefer simplicity and zero fees, the Fidelity Rewards Visa is your best fallback card for international use.

Highlights:

• 2% unlimited cashback on all purchases

• No annual fee

• No foreign transaction fees

• Straightforward redemption options via your Fidelity account

It’s perfect for everyday use in France when you want to avoid extra costs and still earn solid returns.

How I Use My U.S. Cards While Living in France

Here’s how I manage my cards to get the best mix of flexibility, rewards, and coverage:

1. Primary overseas card: Alaska Airlines Summit Visa Infinite — 3× miles per dollar abroad.

2. Backup card: Bank of America Premium Rewards Card.

3. Payment strategy: Keep balances in USD, pay from a U.S. account, and use Revolut or Wise for transfers to France when needed. (see my guide for details).

4. Monitoring bonus offers: Periodically switch cards when special promotions appear.

Bonus Resource — Find the Best U.S. Credit Card Sign-up Bonus Offers

Looking for more top offers and welcome bonuses?
Check out my dedicated page for the latest deals here:
👉 Best U.S. Credit Card Sign-Up Bonuses and Deals

Final Thoughts

Using U.S. credit cards abroad — especially in France — can dramatically increase your rewards potential, give you better travel insurance coverage, and simplify your international financial life.

If you’re preparing to relocate or spend more time in France, make sure your cards work for you, not against you.

For more expat tips, money strategies, and banking advice, read my full guide here:
👉 The Ultimate Expat’s Guide to Moving to France (2025 Edition)