HDFC Bank Forex Card Rates | 5X Travel Rewards

In an era where international travel is not just a luxury but a lifestyle, HDFC Bank has introduced a game-changing offer that aligns perfectly with the needs of the modern globetrotter. From January 1 to March 31, 2025, customers can earn 5X reward points on every load or reload of their ForexPlus cards using eligible HDFC Bank credit cards.

This initiative is more than just a promotional campaign; it’s a strategic move to enhance customer experience and loyalty. By integrating this offer, HDFC Bank not only provides financial benefits but also simplifies the complexities of currency exchange for travelers. The offer is applicable on a range of premium credit cards, including Regalia, Diners Club, and Infinia, ensuring that a broad spectrum of customers can take advantage of this opportunity. 

HDFC Bank ForexPlus Cards : Features & Benefits

Card NameKey Features
Regalia ForexPlus Card– Available in US Dollars
– Zero cross-currency conversion charges
– Waiver on ATM access fee
– Complimentary lounge access at international airports in India
– Emergency cash assistance and global support
Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card– Load up to 23 different currencies
– Online currency management
– Complimentary international SIM with talk time
– Enhanced insurance coverage
– Emergency cash delivery services
ISIC Student ForexPlus Card– Designed for students studying abroad
– Accepted as a student identity card globally
– Multiple currency loading
– Insurance cover against misuse and loss
– Complimentary international SIM with talk time
MakeMyTrip HDFC Bank ForexPlus Card– Co-branded with MakeMyTrip
– Available in 22 different currencies
– Contactless payment feature
– Online currency management
– Emergency cash delivery assistance
– Personal concierge and referral services

HDFC Forex Card Types & Charges

1. Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Chip Card

  • Card Issuance Fee: ₹500 + GST
  • Reload Fee: ₹75 + GST per currency reload
  • Cross-Currency Markup: 2% on transactions in a currency not loaded on the card
CurrencyATM Withdrawal FeeBalance Enquiry FeeDaily ATM Withdrawal Limit
USD$2.00$0.50$5,000
EUR€1.50€0.50€4,700
GBP£1.00£0.50£4,000
AUDA$2.00A$0.50A$6,800
CADC$2.00C$0.50C$6,600
JPY¥250.00¥60.00¥580,000
SGDS$2.70S$0.75S$7,000
AEDAED 7.00AED 2.00AED 18,000

Note: GST is applicable on all fees. The withdrawal limit may vary if a lower limit is set by the ATM acquiring bank.

Currency Conversion Tax (Applicable on Load, Reload, and Refund)

Transaction AmountTax Amount
Up to ₹1 lakh0.18% of the gross amount or ₹45, whichever is higher
₹1 lakh to ₹10 lakhs₹180 + 0.09% of the amount exceeding ₹1 lakh
Above ₹10 lakhs₹990 + 0.018% of the amount exceeding ₹10 lakhs

Note: GST is applicable on currency conversion and other fees as per prevailing rates.

Indicative Forex Card Rates (as of May 5, 2025)

CurrencyIndicative Rate (INR)
USD83.61
EUR94.44
GBP110.52
JPY0.5736
AUD53.51
CAD60.11
CHF100.74
SGD64.58
NZD48.47
AED22.34

Note: These rates are indicative and subject to change based on market fluctuations. The final rate applicable will be the card rate prevailing at the time of debit/credit to the account.

RBI Guidelines: Liberalised Remittance Scheme (LRS)

Annual Limit: Up to USD 250,000 per individual per financial year (April–March)

Eligibility: All resident individuals, including minors

Permitted Uses: Private visits, education, employment abroad, medical treatment, investments, gifts, donations, etc.

Note: This facility is not available to corporates, partnership firms, HUFs, trusts, etc.

How to Apply for an HDFC Forex Card

  • Existing HDFC Bank Customers: Apply through NetBanking
  • Non-Customers: Visit an HDFC Bank branch with the following documents:
  1. Filled ForexPlus Card application form
  2. Self-attested photocopy of passport
  3. Self-attested photocopy of visa or ticket (for non-customers).

Note: The card will be activated within four hours of realisation of funds.

Why This Offer Matters

The 5X rewards offer is not just about earning points; it’s about redefining the travel experience. With a minimum transaction value of ₹15,000 and a maximum of 15,000 reward points per calendar month, customers can significantly enhance their reward earnings. This translates to more savings, more perks, and a more enjoyable travel experience.

Moreover, the offer encourages the use of digital platforms for loading and reloading ForexPlus cards, promoting a seamless and secure transaction process. This aligns with the global shift towards digital banking and contactless payments, ensuring that HDFC Bank customers are always ahead of the curve.

Expert Perspectives

Financial analysts view this move as a strategic alignment with global banking trends. By offering enhanced rewards on ForexPlus card loads, HDFC Bank not only incentivizes the use of its products but also fosters customer loyalty in a competitive market. This approach is particularly effective in attracting high-value customers who prioritize convenience and value in their banking relationships.

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