Is the HDFC Forex card good for international travel?

It's convenient because of HDFC's familiarity, but the 3.5% forex markup makes it expensive. On a ₹1 lakh trip, you pay ₹3,500 in fees. Niyo Global offers zero markup — saving you that entire amount.

HDFC Forex Card vs Niyo Global — which is better?

Niyo Global wins on cost — zero forex markup vs HDFC's 3.5%. HDFC wins on familiarity and the ability to lock in rates. For pure savings, Niyo Global is significantly better for most travellers.

Prepaid · Visa5.5/10

HDFC Multi-Currency Forex Card

Name: HDFC Multi-Currency Forex Card Review — Forex Fees, ATM Costs & Verdict
Item: HDFC Multi-Currency Forex Card
Rating: 5.5
Author: Aayush Jain

Reviewed by Aayush JainUpdated May 2026

India's leading bank forex card — locks in exchange rates across 23 currencies for international travel.

Visit HDFC Bank

Forex fee

3.5%

ATM fee

Monthly fee

Free (issuance fee applies, typically ₹500–750)

Network

Visa

Available in

India

ATM detail: 2% fee or minimum charge on international ATM withdrawals. Cross-currency charges apply if spending in currency not loaded.

Our verdict

HDFC Forex card is one of the most popular cards among Indian travellers simply because it's from a familiar bank — but it's far from the best value. The 3.5% forex markup means on a ₹1,00,000 trip you pay ₹3,500 in hidden fees. For Indian travellers, Niyo Global or the Wise card offers significantly better rates.