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 withdrawal 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. Here’s an overview of the most common charges applicable-
Annual Fees
HDFC Bank charges a nominal annual fee for card maintenance and 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.
| Type of HDFC International Debit Card | Annual Fees |
| EasyShop International Debit Card | Rs. 150 + applicable taxes |
| GIGA Business Debit Card | Rs. 250 + applicable taxes |
| Platinum Debit Card | Rs. 850 + applicable taxes |
| Imperia Platinum Debit Card | Free for HNW (High-net Worth) customers |
| Millennia Debit Card | Rs. 500 + applicable taxes |
| MoneyBack Debit Card | Rs. 300 + applicable taxes |
Cross-Currency Mark-up Fees
For every foreign currency transaction, HDFC International Debit Card charges include a markup fee of 3.5% of the transaction amount, along with applicable taxes. This fee compensates for the conversion of foreign currency into Indian Rupees.
The transaction amount will be converted to Indian Rupees based on the VISA/MasterCard wholesale exchange rate at the time of the transaction or when the merchant settles the payment.
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%.
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.
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.
Avoid ATMs with High Fees
When using your HDFC Bank international debit card abroad, look for ATMs that belong to networks with lower fees or none at all. Some banks may charge additional fees for foreign cardholders, which can stack up with the already applicable charges. Research beforehand to find partner banks or ATMs that minimize costs.
Select the Right Currency During Payments
While paying abroad, you may be asked whether you want to be charged in the local currency or Indian Rupees (INR). Always choose the local currency.
Opting for INR activates dynamic currency conversion (DCC), which often includes hidden mark-ups and unfavourable exchange rates. Selecting the local currency ensures that you’re charged the Visa/Mastercard exchange rate, which is typically more competitive.
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.
Choose Alternatives Like Forex Cards or International Credit Cards
HDFC Forex cards and zero Forex markup credit cards often provide better rates and lower fees than using a debit card for international transactions. Forex cards come with preloaded foreign currency, eliminating cross-currency markup fees.
Similarly, certain international credit cards offer benefits like reduced transaction charges, rewards, and even fee waivers. Before travelling, compare the costs and benefits of these options to make an informed decision.
FAQs on HDFC International Debit Card Charges
Yes, you can use an HDFC international debit card for purchases and cash withdrawals abroad. However, you need to enable international transactions on your card, which can be done through net banking, mobile banking, or by contacting HDFC customer care.
HDFC Bank charges the following fees for international use of its debit cards:
– 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 vary by card type, ranging from INR 150 for the EasyShop International Debit Card to INR 850 for the Platinum Debit Card, plus applicable taxes.
The cash withdrawal fee for HDFC international debit cards is typically INR 125, plus applicable taxes, for non-managed segments. For managed segments, it is INR 110.
Yes, HDFC charges INR 25, plus applicable taxes, for balance inquiries at international ATMs.
If a transaction is declined because of insufficient funds, a charge of INR 25, plus applicable taxes, will be applied for each failed attempt.
Yes, when making transactions in a currency other than the default currency loaded on your card, a currency conversion fee may apply.
Starting February 2025, HDFC will charge a dynamic currency conversion fee of 1%, plus taxes, on foreign transactions conducted in Indian Rupees (INR).
To minimize charges, choose local currency for transactions instead of INR, use ATMs with lower fees, and consider alternatives like Forex cards or international credit cards.
Yes, you can enable international transactions via net banking, mobile banking, or by contacting HDFC customer care.
While there are no specific fees for using the debit card at merchant outlets domestically, foreign transactions may incur cross-currency markup and dynamic conversion fees as mentioned above.
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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