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Are you heading abroad soon? Know that you can also make contactless payments for your purchases there. It works both domestically and internationally.
ou can make contactless payments with your debit card or your smartphone. However, make sure you are well-prepared when traveling abroad. Sometimes the rules may be slightly different than in Belgium.
Febelfin lists below everything you need to know about contactless payments:
# Paying with your debit card
If you're vacationing in Europe, you don't need to take any action. When traveling outside of Europe, you may need to temporarily activate your debit card based on your chosen destination. You can do this at your bank.
When you make payments or withdraw money within the Eurozone using your debit card, it is always based on the prevailing rate in the country of origin. Outside the Eurozone, additional charges apply, even when you withdraw money from an ATM. You can refer to the fee schedule on your bank's website for this.
# Paying with your credit card
Your credit card generally works on all destinations. For a trip to the United States, you may need to activate your card. Be sure to check with your bank.
When you make payments within the Eurozone using your credit card, it is also based on the prevailing rate in the country of origin; additional charges apply outside the Eurozone. When you withdraw money from an ATM using your credit card, whether within Europe or beyond, extra charges are always incurred. You can find the list of rates on your bank's website.
# Paying with your smartphone
In Belgium, paying with your smartphone is an ideal payment method: it's fast, secure, and always available. However, don't assume that you can use your smartphone to pay everywhere and anywhere abroad.
Most mobile payment solutions (e.g., a QR code through your own bank app) work locally (in Belgium) only and are not offered internationally. Exceptions to this are Apple and Google Pay: you can use these two mobile payment solutions both here and abroad.
No matter which payment method you choose, always remain vigilant. Scammers are active even during the summer months.
Whichever payment method you choose, always remain vigilant. Scammers remain active even during the summer months.
Fully prepared? Febelfin wishes you a relaxing and above all, a safe vacation!