Using your credit card abroad

Going somewhere nice? Your Sainsbury's B@nk Credit Card is accepted around the world at retail outlets and cash machines, wherever you see the Mastercard, Visa or Maestro/Cirrus sign (depending which card type you have). You can use your card at more than 35.5 million locations worldwide.

No, you don’t need tell us you’re going to use your card abroad. It will work as normal when you’re away.

If you need help with your credit card when you’re away, here’s how you can get in touch:

Credit Card Enquiries:  
Lines are open:

8am–Midnight, Mon–Fri
8am–6pm, Sat - Sun
Phoning within the UK 08085 40 50 60
Phoning from outside the UK 00 44 131 549 8040
Lost or stolen cards:  
Lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Phoning within the UK 0800 456 1232
Phoning from outside the UK 00 44 131 549 8040
Telephone calls may be recorded for security purposes and monitored under our quality control procedures. Calls are free from a landline and from a mobile when calling from the UK.

Follow these important steps below for safe credit card use abroad:

  • If you have trouble using your card abroad, call the overseas telephone number on the back of the card
  • Take a note of your card number and your card company's 24-hour contact number, and report any lost or stolen cards as soon as possible
  • Make sure your card company has up-to-date contact details for you, including your mobile number
  • Don't let your card out of your sight − especially when you make purchases in bars or restaurants
  • Never give your PIN to anyone
  • Shield your PIN when paying with your or using a cash machine
  • When you return home, check your card statement for any unfamiliar transactions, and report them as soon as possible

Please note you cannot unlock or change your PIN using a cash machine abroad.

A 2.75% foreign exchange fee may apply every time you use your credit card abroad. Cash advances are also subject to a handling fee of 3% (minimum £3).

Any payment you make abroad will be converted into Sterling at the exchange rate determined by Visa International or Mastercard International depending on which card you have.

You can find out the currency conversion rate for Visa or Mastercard at the below links or by contacting the call centre on 08085 40 50 60

Visa - http://www.visaeurope.com/en/cardholders/exchange_rates.aspx

MasterCard - https://www.mastercard.com/global/currencyconversion/

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