Preparing for international travel is more convenient when you have local currency on hand before you depart. The Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC) provides a robust foreign exchange service that allows clients to order up to 75 different currencies online. This service eliminates the need for last-minute airport exchanges and provides competitive, real-time rates that you can lock in from your desktop or mobile device.
One of the standout features of CIBC's foreign cash service is the flexibility of delivery. Clients can choose to have their currency delivered securely to their home address via Canada Post, pick it up at a local CIBC banking centre, or even collect it at Toronto Pearson International Airport (Terminal 1) before their flight. With no delivery fees and a straightforward ordering process, managing your travel cash is both cost-effective and efficient.
At a Glance: CIBC Foreign Currency Details
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Available Currencies | Up to 75 currencies representing over 90 countries. |
| Delivery Options | Free home delivery, branch pickup, or Pearson Airport (Terminal 1). |
| Order Limits | Minimum $300 CAD; Maximum $2,500 CAD for home delivery. |
| Delivery Time | Typically 2 to 3 business days for most urban locations. |
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Order Cash Online
Follow this exact sequence of actions to place your foreign currency order through the CIBC digital portal:
- Navigate to the official CIBC website and select Sign In to access your Online Banking profile.
- From the main menu, select Travel and then click on Order Foreign Cash (or find it under "Order Cash Now").
- Choose your desired currency from the dropdown list and enter the amount you wish to purchase.
- Review the real-time exchange rate (held for 30 minutes) and select Add to Order.
- Choose your delivery method: Home Delivery, Banking Centre, or Airport Pickup.
- Select the CIBC account you wish to pay from, review the final summary, and click Submit Order.
Pro-Tip: Efficiency Hack: If you choose home delivery, ensure someone is available to sign for the package, as Canada Post requires a signature for security. If you miss the delivery, the cash will be held at your local post office for 5 business days before being returned to the bank, which could delay your travel preparations.
Troubleshooting Common Ordering Issues
If you encounter roadblocks while trying to order foreign currency online, look for these three common pain points:
- Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) Delays: Ordering cash is a high-security transaction. If the verification SMS is delayed, request the code via an automated voice call to ensure your 30-minute exchange rate window does not expire.
- Browser Errors: The real-time rate calculator may fail to refresh if your browser cache is full. Clear your cookies and history or use an incognito window to ensure you are seeing the most current exchange rates.
- Locked Online ID: If you enter your password incorrectly while attempting to finalize a large currency purchase, your profile may lock for your protection. Use the Forgot Password link and your debit card number to reset your access immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are there any fees for ordering foreign cash at CIBC?CIBC does not charge a separate ordering or delivery fee for foreign cash. The cost of the service is built into the competitive exchange rate provided at the time of your order.
Can non-CIBC clients order foreign currency?Yes. Non-clients can use the CIBC Foreign Cash Online guest portal at fx.cibc.com to order currency for home delivery or airport pickup, though different identification requirements may apply during the checkout process.
What happens if I don't pick up my branch order?If you choose branch pickup and do not collect your order within 10 business days of the scheduled date, the currency will be sold back to the bank at the current market rate, and your account will be credited accordingly.
