Planning a trip abroad? The SBI Foreign Travel Card makes spending easy and safe. It lets you carry multiple currencies without worrying about cash or exchange rates. Whether you’re a student, tourist, or business traveller, this prepaid card ensures hassle-free payments.
With the SBI Foreign Travel Card, you can shop, withdraw cash, and reload money anytime. It works worldwide and offers better exchange rates. No hidden fees, no stress—just a simple way to manage your travel expenses! Let’s explore all the details related to the SBI Foreign Travel Card in this blog.
Table of contents
- What is the SBI Foreign Travel Card?
- Features of SBI Foreign Travel Card
- Benefits of SBI Foreign Travel Card
- Variants of SBI Foreign Travel Card
- Transaction Limits on SBI Foreign Travel Card
- Eligibility Criteria for SBI Foreign Travel Card
- How to Apply for an SBI Foreign Travel Card Online?
- How to Enable/Disable Transactions & Set Card Limits on SBI Foreign Travel Card?
- How to Set Card Limits on SBI Foreign Travel Card?
- FAQs
What is the SBI Foreign Travel Card?
The State Bank of India Foreign Travel Card or Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card is a prepaid card designed for individuals travelling abroad. It provides a convenient and secure way to manage foreign currency expenses.
The card is available in two variants: Single Currency and Multi-currency. You can load up to 9 foreign currencies, including US Dollars, British Pounds, Euros, Singapore Dollars, Australian Dollars, Canadian Dollars, Japanese Yen, Saudi Riyal, and UAE Dirhams onto the card.
The card can be used for shopping, dining, and withdrawals within SBI cash withdrawal limits at ATMs worldwide (excluding India, Nepal, and Bhutan). It is compatible with both Visa and MasterCard networks.
Users can reload the card multiple times with a minimum initial load of around USD 200 or equivalent in other currencies.
The card is chip-based and requires a 4-digit PIN for transactions at ATMs and merchant establishments. It also offers SMS/email alerts for each transaction.
Features of SBI Foreign Travel Card
The SBI Foreign Travel Card is a safe and convenient way to carry foreign currency while travelling abroad. It allows cashless transactions, ATM withdrawals, and online payments without worrying about exchange rate fluctuations. Here are its key features:
1. Global Acceptance
- Issued in partnership with VISA International and MasterCard Asia/Pacific Pte. Ltd.
- Accepted worldwide except in India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
2. Suitable for Multiple Users
- Available for students, tourists, pilgrims, and medical travellers.
- Also offered to corporate customers, including companies and government departments.
3. Load and Reload Options
- Minimum load/reload amount:
| Currency | Minimum Amount |
|---|---|
| USD | 200 |
| GBP | 120 |
| EUR | 150 |
| CAD | 200 |
| AUD | 200 |
| YEN | 15,800 |
| SAR | 750 |
| SGD | 250 |
| AED | 750 |
- Maximum load: As per RBI/LRS/FEMA regulations, up to USD 250,000 per financial year for education, medical, business, or travel purposes.
4. Secure and Easy Transactions
- Can be used at ATMs, POS machines, and online stores.
- PIN-based authentication for ATM withdrawals.
- Signature/PIN-based transactions at merchant outlets.
- VBV and CVV2 validation for safe online payments.
5. Additional Benefits
- Competitive exchange rates for better value.
- Reloadable anytime at authorized SBI branches.
- Free balance inquiry at SBI ATMs in India.
- Transaction details are available online via Visa and MasterCard portals.
- Add-on cards (up to two for VISA, one for MasterCard) for emergency use.
- 24×7 customer support for inquiries and card blocking in case of loss.
Also Read: Learn all about SBI International Debit Cards, including SBI PayPass and PayWave International debit cards.
Benefits of SBI Foreign Travel Card
The SBI Foreign Travel Card is an excellent option for travellers and international students seeking a secure and convenient way to manage their money abroad. With its multi-currency support and global acceptance, it enhances the travel experience while minimising financial risks. Here are some of the benefits of using the SBI Forex Card:
- Emergency Support: A 24/7 helpline is available for assistance in case of loss or theft of the card.
- No Annual Fees: Unlike traditional credit or debit cards, the SBI Foreign Travel Card does not charge annual or joining fees.
- Competitive Exchange Rates: The card offers favourable exchange rates compared to cash exchanges.
- Convenience: Reduces the need to carry large amounts of cash or deal with currency exchange services.
Variants of SBI Foreign Travel Card
The SBI Foreign Travel Card (SBFTC) is available on both VISA and MasterCard platforms. It comes in single-currency and multi-currency options, making it flexible for different travel needs.
1. VISA Platform
The VISA SBI Foreign Travel Card is available in two types:
Multicurrency Card: It supports 9 foreign currencies: USD, GBP, EUR, JPY, CAD, AUD, SAR, SGD, and AED. Users can load multiple currencies on a single card.
Single Currency Card: It is available in 8 foreign currencies: USD, GBP, EUR, JPY, CAD, AUD, SAR, SGD. Users can load only one currency per card.
2. MasterCard Platform
- Users can load multiple currencies on a single card.
- It is also available as a Multi-Currency Card which supports 7 foreign currencies: USD, GBP, EUR, CAD, AUD, SGD, AED.
Transaction Limits on SBI Foreign Travel Card
There are transaction limits set on the SBI Forex card. Earlier, the number and limit of transactions were less. However, a recent update from the bank enables you to make more transactions at PoS and e-commerce channels. Here are the revised transaction limits effective from 9 September 2024.
| Channel | Number of Transactions (Per Day) | Limit of Transaction (USD or equivalent) |
| ATM | 3 | 3,000 |
| PoS | 20 (Earlier it was 3) | 10,000 (Earlier it was 5,000) |
| E-commerce | 20 (Earlier it was 3) | 10,000 (Earlier it was 5,000) |
Also Read: Explore the SBI Basic Savings Account and enjoy convenient banking without the worry of maintaining a minimum balance.
State Bank Multi-currency Foreign Travel Card Fee
It is very important to check the complete schedule of charges before purchasing the Forex card. Knowing the charges will help you to transact wisely and efficiently. The State Bank Multi-currency Foreign Travel Card has the following fees:
- INR 100 for the initial load charge and purchase
- A second card associated with the same funds: INR 100
- Reload Fee: INR 50
- Fee for cash out: INR 100
- Fee for the shortfall: USD 15
- Fee for cash transactions: USD 7.50, GBP 4.00, EUR 6.00, SGD 10, AUD 9.74, CAD 10.00, and AED 30.00
- Cost of conversion: 3%
Read About: Check this blog and know all the major Differences Between Credit Card and Debit Card
Eligibility Criteria for SBI Foreign Travel Card
The SBI Foreign Travel Card is available to individuals and organizations meeting specific criteria. It is designed to cater to personal, corporate, and student travel needs while complying with FEMA regulations.
- Resident Individuals – Any Indian resident, as defined under FEMA 1999 (Section 2 V), planning to travel abroad (except Nepal and Bhutan).
- Corporate Organizations – Companies can issue cards to employees travelling abroad for official purposes, subject to KYC compliance.
- Parents/Sponsors of Students – Parents or sponsors can get the card in the student’s name for those studying abroad. It can be reloaded as per FEMA regulations and the prescribed limit.
- Foreign Nationals in India are eligible to apply, provided they meet KYC and FEMA guidelines.
Note: Please note that not all SBI branches issue the SBI Forex card. You must check the list of branches selling the SBI foreign travel card on its website.
How to Apply for an SBI Foreign Travel Card Online?
You can easily apply for an SBI Foreign Travel Card through RINB. Applying for an SBI Forex card online is a straightforward process via their dedicated portal. Submit the application form along with the attached documents. Here’s how to apply for SBI Forex card online-
- Visit the online internet banking link.
- Log in to your account. You will need to register first if you do not have an account.
- Navigate to ‘e-services’ and then ‘e-cards’.
- Click on ‘Apply for State Bank Foreign Travel Card’.
- Complete the online application form, including any required details about your desired card type and travel plans.
- Once submitted, you will receive a reference number for your application.
- Keep a printout of the completed application form.
- Gather necessary KYC documents
Alternatively, customers can download the SBI Foreign Travel Card Application Form PDF here.
Documents Required
You are required to submit a list of documents when filling out the application form for an SBI Forex Card. These documents ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and facilitate the issuance of the forex card. Here’s the list of documents required to apply for an SBI travel card-
- A signed application form
- A signed Form A2, which is a declaration form as per FEMA guidelines.
- A copy of a valid passport
- A copy of a PAN Card
- Proof of intended foreign travel, such as a visa, flight ticket, or admission letter from a foreign university
- If the address on your passport differs, provide proof of residence
How to Enable/Disable Transactions & Set Card Limits on SBI Foreign Travel Card?
Managing your SBI Foreign Travel Card is easy with the SBI Prepaid Customer Portal. You can enable or disable transactions and set card limits in just a few steps.
Steps to Enable/Disable POS, ATM, ECOM, or Contactless Transactions
- Visit the SBI Prepaid Customer Portal.
- Log in using your card account credentials.
- Navigate to SBFTC/My Task >> My Task Flow >> Enable/Disable Transaction Type.
- Use the toggle button to enable or disable POS, ATM, ECOM, or contactless transactions.
- Your changes will be saved and applied instantly to your card.
This feature helps you stay in control of your card’s usage, enhancing security and flexibility while traveling.
How to Set Card Limits on SBI Foreign Travel Card?
You can set transaction limits for ATM withdrawals, POS transactions, and e-commerce payments on your SBI Foreign Travel Card through the online portal. Follow these steps to adjust your card limits as needed.
Steps to Set Card Limit
- Visit the SBI Prepaid Customer Portal.
- Log in using your card account credentials.
- Go to My Task >> My Task Flow >> Card Limit.
- Select ATM Configuration, POS Configuration, or E-commerce Configuration based on your preference.
- Enter the number of transactions and the transaction amount, then click on Update.
- You will receive an OTP on your registered mobile number. Enter the OTP in the portal to confirm the changes.
- The new card limits will be saved and applied immediately.
This feature allows you to manage your spending and enhance security while using your card abroad.
This was all about the SBI Foreign Travel card. You may refer to the given below FAQs for more details in brief. It’s always best to double-check details related to updated rates and charges at SBI’s official website to ensure you have everything you need.
FAQs
It is a prepaid card that allows you to carry multiple foreign currencies for hassle-free spending abroad.
The card is accepted worldwide except in India, Nepal, and Bhutan for shopping, dining, and ATM withdrawals.
You can load up to 9 currencies, including USD, GBP, EUR, SGD, CAD, AUD, JPY, SAR, and AED.
Yes, it offers chip-based security, PIN authentication, and SMS/email alerts for transactions.
Yes, you can reload the card multiple times at authorized SBI branches.
You can block the card immediately through the SBI prepaid portal or by calling customer support.
Yes, you can withdraw money from ATMs abroad, but charges may apply.
You can check your balance online via SBI’s prepaid portal or through ATMs.
Yes, there are fees for issuance, reloading, cash withdrawal, and currency conversion.
You can apply online via SBI Internet Banking or visit an authorized SBI branch with the required documents.
To know about forex, education loans, the best bank accounts for students, and banking experience for global students or international money transfers, reach out to our experts at 1800572126 to help ease your study abroad experience.
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