HDFC Bank offers a range of international debit cards for convenient cash withdrawals and online purchases abroad. However, various charges apply for usage based on the card type. Besides joining and annual fees, HDFC international debit card charges include costs for ATM withdrawals abroad, cross-currency markup charges, and currency conversion fees.
You may also be charged decline fees when making transactions with insufficient balances. Knowing about the charges and limits is important to avoid piling up these charges. Various strategies also help in minimising these costs. So, let’s explore the HDFC international debit card charges and how to manage the costs.
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HDFC International Debit Card Charges
HDFC international debit card charges vary based on the type of debit card variant you have. The transaction type and service availed when swiping abroad also determine the charges on HDFC international debit cards. HDFC Bank charges a nominal annual fee for card maintenance and the service offered.
It varies based on the type of international debit card you hold and the type of account it is associated with. Usually, the annual fees under HDFC International Debit Card charges range between INR 100 and 850 + applicable taxes. Here’s an overview of the most common charges applicable-
| Type of HDFC International Debit Card | Annual Fees |
| EasyShop International Debit Card | INR 150 + applicable taxes |
| GIGA Business Debit Card | INR 250 + applicable taxes |
| Platinum Debit Card | INR 850 + applicable taxes |
| Imperia Platinum Debit Card | Free for HNW (High-net-Worth) customers |
| Millennia Debit Card | INR 500 + applicable taxes |
| MoneyBack Debit Card | INR 300 + applicable taxes |
HDFC Debit Card Forex Charges & Cross-Currency Mark-up Fees
HDFC International Debit Card charges for foreign currency transactions include a 3.5% markup fee on the transaction amount, plus applicable taxes. This fee covers the conversion of foreign currency to Indian Rupees. The transaction amount is converted using the Visa/MasterCard wholesale exchange rate at the time of the transaction or merchant settlement.
These charges are the same for most debit cards, including HDFC Millenia Debit Card international transaction charges. However, if you use an Infiniti Debit Card, a reduced cross-currency markup fee of 0.99% will apply instead of the standard 3.5%.
HDFC Debit Card ATM Withdrawal Fees
HDFC International Debit Card charges also include a withdrawal fee for cash withdrawals abroad. This is usually around INR 125 plus applicable taxes per transaction for cash withdrawals. Additionally, a balance enquiry fee of INR 25 + taxes is charged per enquiry.
For the managed segment, the cash withdrawal charges are INR 110 + application taxes on cash withdrawals abroad. Balance enquiry charges apply INR 15 + taxes per enquiry.
| Segment | ATM Cash Withdrawal Charges | Balance Enquiry Fees |
| Non-managed segment | INR 125 + applicable taxes | INR 25 + applicable taxes |
| Managed Segment | INR 110 + applicable taxes | INR 25 + applicable taxes |
Decline Charges
If a transaction is declined due to insufficient funds, you may be charged INR 25 plus applicable taxes for each failed attempt as part of HDFC International Debit Card charges. This applies to non-HDFC Bank domestic as well as international ATMs at international merchant outlets and online stores.
Currency Conversion Fees
When you make transactions in a currency other than your loaded or default currency, a currency conversion fee is charged. This additional fee accounts for the exchange rate and conversion service.
Dynamic Currency Conversion Fees
With effect from February 2025, HDFC International Debit Card charges will also charge a dynamic currency conversion fee of 1% + taxes. This applies to all foreign transactions carried out in INR at international locations via HDFC international debit cards.
Also Read: Check this blog to learn how to check HDFC Forex Card balance for simplified international travel and financial transactions.
HDFC International Debit Card vs. HDFC Forex Card vs. HDFC International Credit Card
When making international transactions, selecting the right payment method can save you significant costs. HDFC Bank offers three options: International Debit Cards, Forex Cards, and International Credit Cards. Each has unique HDFC International Debit Card charges, benefits, and limitations.
Below, we compare these options, focusing on forex charges, ATM withdrawal fees, annual costs, and suitability to help you choose the best for your international spending.
| Feature | HDFC International Debit Card | HDFC Forex Card | HDFC International Credit Card |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best For | Occasional international spending using a bank account | Frequent travelers who want to avoid forex markups | High spenders looking for rewards and better exchange rates |
| Cross-Currency Markup Fee | Linked to the available bank balance | 0% (No forex markup) since the currency is preloaded | 0% on select cards (e.g., Regalia/ Infinia), else 3.5% |
| ATM Withdrawal Fee (Abroad) | INR 125 – INR 150 + taxes per withdrawal | INR 75 – INR 100 per withdrawal | INR 300 – INR 500 per withdrawal |
| Currency Conversion Fee | 1% + GST (Dynamic Currency Conversion) | No additional conversion fees if used in the preloaded currency | Forex markup of up to 3.5% |
| Exchange Rate Used | Visa/Mastercard wholesale rate + markup | Locked-in rate at the time of loading the card | Visa/Mastercard rate (Better for large transactions) |
| Annual Fees | INR 150 – INR 850 + taxes (varies by card type) | INR 500 – INR 1,000 (one-time issuance fee) | INR 1,000 – INR 10,000 (premium cards have higher fees) |
| Spending Limit | Linked to the available bank balance | Preloaded amount in foreign currency | Based on the credit limit assigned |
| Fraud Protection | Low-Directly linked to your savings account | High-Card is not linked to a bank account | High Fraud liability cover available |
| Cashback/ Rewards | No cashback or rewards | No rewards, but you save on forex charges | Reward points, travel benefits, lounge access |
| Ideal for Long-Term Use? | No-High forex fees & markup make it costly | Yes-Best for regular international spending | Yes – Offers rewards & benefits for frequent travelers |
Key Takeaways: Which One Should You Use?
- Use HDFC Forex Card if you travel often and want to avoid forex charges entirely.
- Use an HDFC International Credit Card if you prefer rewards, travel perks, and lounge access.
- Avoid using an HDFC Debit Card for major international expenses due to high forex markup fees & withdrawal charges.
Also Read: Interested in studying abroad but a bit worried about the finances? Escalate your career to the next level with HDFC Bank personal loans for education.
Refunds & Dispute Resolution for International Transactions with HDFC
Using an HDFC International Debit Card for transactions abroad can sometimes lead to issues like overcharges, duplicate debits, or unauthorized transactions. Understanding HDFC International Debit Card charges and the dispute resolution process is crucial for quick resolution and refunds. Below is a concise guide to handle such situations effectively.
Step-by-Step Guide to Dispute Resolution
1. Identify the Issue & Collect Evidence
Before raising a dispute, review your transaction history on HDFC NetBanking or Mobile Banking. Common issues include:
- Overcharged amount compared to the billed amount.
- Failed transactions where funds were debited but not credited to the merchant.
- Duplicate charges for a single transaction.
- Unauthorized transactions.
Action: Contact the merchant first for merchant-related issues (e.g., incorrect billing). If unresolved, proceed with HDFC’s dispute process. Gather proof like receipts, merchant emails, or screenshots.
2. Contact HDFC Bank Customer Support
For prompt assistance, reach out via:
- Phone Banking: Call HDFC’s 24/7 international helpline at +91 22 6160 6161.
- Email Support: Write to HDFC customer care with transaction details and supporting documents.
- Branch Visit: Report the issue at an HDFC branch if you’re in India.
3. File a Chargeback Request
A chargeback reverses invalid transactions. To initiate:
- Dispute Form: Complete HDFC’s debit card dispute form with transaction details.
- Supporting Documents: Submit receipts, merchant correspondence, or proof of discrepancies.
- Time Limit: File within 30-120 days from the transaction date, depending on the issue.
4. Investigation & Resolution Timeline
HDFC collaborates with payment networks (Visa/Mastercard) for investigations:
- Acknowledgment: Within 7 working days.
- Investigation: Takes 45-90 days, depending on complexity.
- Temporary Credit: May be issued during investigation if the claim is valid.
- Final Resolution: Refund (if applicable) within 120 days.
5. HDFC International Debit Card Charges for Disputes
- Dispute Investigation Fees: No upfront charges for raising a dispute. If the claim is invalid, a INR 250 + taxes fee may apply.
- Currency Fluctuation: Refunded amounts may vary due to exchange rate differences between transaction and refund dates.
6. Tips to Prevent Unauthorized Transactions
Minimize risks with these precautions:
- Enable international transactions only when needed via NetBanking and disable afterward.
- Use HDFC Debit Card Control to set international transaction limits.
- Block lost/stolen cards instantly via Mobile Banking or customer care.
- Activate instant transaction alerts for real-time monitoring.
By following these steps, you can efficiently manage refunds and disputes while using your HDFC International Debit Card abroad. If you’re a frequent traveler, you might also consider using Forex Cards or Zero Forex Markup Credit Cards to avoid excessive charges and simplify dispute handling.
Tips to Minimize HDFC International Debit Card Charges
Now that we know about the HDFC International Debit Card Charges and additional fees for using international debit cards abroad, it is important to follow some practical tips to help you save on these charges. By planning smartly and making informed choices, you can minimize these expenses and manage your finances efficiently during international trips.
Follow these practical strategies to reduce fees and optimize your finances.
- Use Low-Fee or Partner ATMs
Avoid ATMs with high fees by using those within HDFC’s partner bank networks or global alliances like Visa/Mastercard. Research ATM locations in advance to minimize additional charges imposed on foreign cardholders and reduce your HDFC International Debit Card charges. - Pay in Local Currency
When making payments abroad, always select the local currency instead of Indian Rupees (INR). Choosing INR triggers dynamic currency conversion (DCC), which includes unfavorable exchange rates and hidden markups. Opting for the local currency leverages competitive Visa/Mastercard rates, lowering HDFC International Debit Card charges. - Consider Forex Cards or Zero-Markup Credit Cards
HDFC Forex cards, preloaded with foreign currency, eliminate cross-currency markup fees, offering better rates than debit cards. Alternatively, zero Forex markup credit cards provide reduced fees, rewards, or fee waivers. Compare these cost-effective alternatives to minimize HDFC International Debit Card charges before your trip.
By adopting these tips, you can significantly reduce HDFC International Debit Card charges, ensuring cost-efficient international transactions. For more details, check HDFC’s official website for detailed fee schedules.
FAQs on HDFC International Debit Card Charges
Yes, HDFC international debit cards can be used for purchases and cash withdrawals abroad. To enable international transactions, activate this feature via HDFC net banking, mobile banking, or by contacting customer care.
HDFC International debit card charges for international use are:
– Cross-currency markup Fee of 3.5% of the transaction amount, plus applicable taxes.
– ATM Withdrawal Fee of INR 125 per withdrawal, plus applicable taxes.
– Balance Enquiry Fee of INR 25 per enquiry, plus applicable taxes.
– Decline Charge of INR 25 per failed transaction due to insufficient funds, plus applicable taxes.
– Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Fee of 1% plus taxes starting February 2025.
The annual fees for HDFC international debit cards vary depending on the card type, ensuring options for different customer needs. For instance, the EasyShop International Debit Card has an annual fee of INR 150 plus taxes, while the Platinum Debit Card costs INR 850 plus taxes.
Withdrawing cash from international ATMs using an HDFC international debit card incurs a fee of INR 125 plus applicable taxes per transaction for non-managed segments. For managed segments, the fee is slightly lower at INR 110 plus taxes, offering a cost-effective option for frequent travelers.
Yes, HDFC imposes a fee for balance inquiries at international ATMs to cover processing costs. Each balance enquiry costs INR 25 plus applicable taxes, so it’s advisable to limit such transactions to manage expenses.
If an international transaction is declined due to insufficient funds, HDFC levies a charge to account for the processing attempt. The fee is INR 25 plus applicable taxes per declined transaction, which emphasizes the importance of maintaining adequate funds.
Yes, transactions made in a foreign currency using an HDFC international debit card incur a cross-currency markup fee. This fee is 3.5% of the transaction amount plus applicable taxes, applied to convert the transaction to the card’s default currency.
HDFC charges a Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) fee for foreign transactions processed in Indian Rupees (INR). This fee is set at 1% of the transaction amount plus applicable taxes, impacting transactions where merchants offer INR as a payment option.
To minimize charges, always choose the local currency over INR during transactions to avoid the 1% DCC fee plus taxes, and select ATMs with lower withdrawal fees to reduce costs. Additionally, consider using HDFC Forex cards or international credit cards, which often offer more favorable rates and lower fees for international transactions.
Enabling international transactions on your HDFC debit card is a straightforward process designed for customer convenience. You can activate this feature through HDFC net banking, mobile banking, or by contacting HDFC customer care for assistance.
HDFC does not charge specific fees for using international debit cards at merchant outlets abroad, making it convenient for shopping. However, transactions may incur a 3.5% cross-currency markup fee plus taxes and, if processed in INR, a 1% DCC fee plus taxes.
To learn more about education loans, the best bank accounts for students, forex, banking experience for global students, or international money transfers, reach out to our experts at 1800572126 to help ease your experience with studying abroad.
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