Cashing a foreign check — a paper check issued by a bank outside the United States — is usually more complicated than cashing a domestic check. Processing often takes longer, fees can be higher, and many stores and check cashing services will not accept foreign checks at all.
This guide explains what a foreign check is, where you can cash or deposit one, how long it takes, common fees, and safer alternatives if you need access to your money faster.
What Is a Foreign Check?
A foreign check is a check drawn on a bank located outside the U.S. It may be written in U.S. dollars or a foreign currency. Even when the amount is listed in USD, the check still requires international verification, which is why banks treat it differently from a standard U.S. check.
Can You Cash a Foreign Check Instantly?
In most cases, no. Foreign checks are rarely eligible for instant cashing. Most banks must send the check through international clearing channels, which can take weeks. Retailers and grocery stores that cash checks typically do not accept foreign checks.
Where to Cash or Deposit a Foreign Check
Your best option is usually a bank or credit union. Dedicated check cashing stores and grocery chains typically do not accept international checks.
1) A Bank or Credit Union
Many U.S. banks allow customers to deposit foreign checks, but they often process them as collection items. This means the check must fully clear with the foreign bank before funds are released.
- You may need an existing account.
- Funds may not be available until final settlement.
- Fees may apply even if the check is rejected.
2) Banks With International Networks
Banks with global operations may have more experience handling foreign checks, but clearing times and fees still vary by country and issuing bank.
How to Deposit a Foreign Check
The exact steps depend on your bank, but the general process is similar across institutions:
- Confirm check details — Make sure the payee name matches your ID exactly.
- Ask how your bank processes foreign checks — Specifically whether it is treated as a collection.
- Bring valid identification — A government-issued photo ID is required.
- Endorse the check correctly — Sign exactly as your name appears. If unsure, see our guide to endorsing checks.
- Deposit and wait for clearance — International clearing can take time.
How Long Does a Foreign Check Take to Clear?
Foreign checks often take significantly longer than domestic checks. A common range is 1 to 6+ weeks, depending on the country of origin, issuing bank, currency, and verification requirements.
Fees Associated With Foreign Check Cashing
Foreign checks often come with multiple fees, which vary by institution:
- Foreign item or collection fee
- Currency conversion markup (if not in USD)
- Correspondent bank fees
To reduce unnecessary costs where possible, see our guide on how to avoid check cashing fees.
Common Issues to Watch For
Foreign checks come with higher risk and uncertainty than domestic checks:
- Extended holds due to international verification
- Rejection after submission, even weeks later
- Fraud risk, especially from unknown senders
Better Alternatives to a Foreign Check
If you have the option, these payment methods are usually faster and more predictable:
- International wire transfers
- Digital international money transfers
- Reissuing payment through a U.S. bank
If your check is from Canada specifically, see our detailed guide on how to cash Canadian checks in the U.S..
For situations where a foreign check cannot be processed at all, review alternatives to check cashing to find safer options.
Bottom Line
Foreign check cashing is rarely instant and often involves longer timelines and higher fees. In most cases, depositing through a bank and waiting for international clearance is the only option. When possible, requesting a wire transfer or digital payment instead of a foreign check can save time, money, and frustration.