While most travelers rely on cards and ATMs, sometimes you need to visit a bank for specific services like wire transfers, replacing lost cards, or handling larger transactions. This lesson covers essential banking vocabulary and phrases for navigating financial services in English-speaking countries.
Banks operate differently around the world, but the core services and vocabulary remain similar. Understanding banking terms helps you communicate effectively when managing money abroad.
Visiting a Bank
When you need to visit a bank branch for services:
You
Hello, I need to send a wire transfer to my home country.
Teller
Certainly. Do you have an account with us?
You
No, I am a tourist. Can I still send money?
Teller
Yes, but there will be additional fees. How much would you like to transfer?
You
About 500 dollars. What are the fees and how long will it take?
Teller
The fee is 25 dollars and it takes 2-3 business days. I will need your passport and the recipient's bank details.
Bank branch
Physical bank location
Teller / Cashier
Bank employee at the counter
Account
Your money held at the bank
Wire transfer
Electronic money transfer between banks
Transaction
Any banking operation
Business days
Weekdays when banks operate
Account Services
If you are staying longer or need local banking:
"I would like to open a savings account."
Requesting to create a new account.
"What documents do I need to open an account?"
Asking about requirements.
"Can I access online banking from abroad?"
Asking about digital access.
Checking account / Current account
For everyday transactions
Savings account
For storing money with interest
Interest rate
Money earned on deposits
Monthly statement
Summary of transactions
Deposits and Withdrawals
Basic banking transactions at the counter:
"I would like to deposit this check into my account."
Adding money via check.
"I need to withdraw 300 dollars in cash."
Taking money from your account.
"Can I get this in smaller bills, please?"
Requesting specific denominations.
Deposit
Adding money to account
Withdrawal
Taking money from account
Check / Cheque
Written order to pay
Balance
Amount in your account
Banking Tip
Banks usually have limited hours and may close early on Fridays. Check operating hours before visiting. Many services can be done online or through mobile apps, saving you time.
Card Problems
Handling issues with your bank cards:
You
My card has been blocked. I think it is because I am traveling.
Bank Staff
That is a common security measure. Can I see some identification?
You
Here is my passport. The card is from my bank back home.
Bank Staff
You will need to contact your home bank to unblock it. Would you like to use our phone?
"My card was swallowed by the ATM."
Reporting a card retained by machine.
"I need to report a lost or stolen card."
Starting the card replacement process.
"Can you issue me a temporary card?"
Asking for emergency replacement.
International Transfers
Sending money across borders requires specific information:
SWIFT code / BIC
International bank identifier
IBAN
International bank account number
Recipient
Person receiving money
Transfer fee
Cost of sending money
Exchange rate
Currency conversion rate used
Reference number
Code to track the transfer
"What information do you need for an international transfer?"
Asking about required details.
"What exchange rate will you use for the transfer?"
Understanding the conversion rate.
Fees and Charges
Understanding costs associated with banking services:
"What are the fees for this service?" - Asking about costs
"Is there a minimum balance required?" - Asking about account requirements
"Are there any hidden charges I should know about?" - Checking for unexpected fees
"Do you charge for international ATM withdrawals?" - Foreign transaction fees
Security and Verification
"I need to verify my identity for this transaction."
Understanding security requirements.
"Can I set up two-factor authentication on my account?"
Requesting additional security.
PIN (Personal Identification Number)
Secret code for card access
Signature
Your written name for verification
ID verification
Confirming your identity
Security question
Question only you can answer
Security Tip
Before traveling, notify your bank about your plans. This prevents your card from being blocked for suspicious foreign activity. Save your bank's international customer service number in your phone.
With this banking vocabulary, you can handle most financial situations while traveling. In our next lesson, we will cover sightseeing vocabulary for exploring tourist attractions.