I live in Ireland and buy a significant amount of things from the UK. Its not just immediately after the Brexit vote, GBP EUR has been like a yoyo recently and has cost me a fair bit with the delay in payment processing too.

Unfortunately this issue, really is just the 'spread'

These things can be avoided by not buying foreign currency (including paying in a foreign currency) at times of economic or political uncertainty.
That means not paying for ANYTHING in Sterling for the next 2 years. The very same thing will happen when the US vote happens (Hillary in, USD higher, Trump is seen as an economic risk/change is bad in economics) and when the UK gov announces it has invoked article 50 (officially leaving Europe).

I know these things are risky... I still buy things from the UK. Hahaha (silly me) im just not upset when it doesnt work out.

BUT if you want to look in to this further, you should read up on the T&C on HOW Visa sets its rate. You would be looking for a limit they claim on the spread by say 50 base points. You already have the evidence of the actual rates offered by Visas competitors and the intrabank day rates.


If the T&C say they can use the high point of the day, you will know the outcome of your complaint. They are probably acting legally, in their own best interest.