10 Best Credit Cards in India For International Travel in 2024

Having the best credit card for international travel from India is essential if you travel abroad frequently. By choosing the appropriate international use credit card, you can reap rewards on foreign transactions as well as enjoy complimentary lounge access, reduced booking rates, exclusive privileges, and other benefits. These cards are typically premium or best travel credit cards from India that come with some of the following benefits -

• A low markup fee on transactions carried out in foreign currency.
• Less overhead charges
• Exclusive privileges and lounge access
• Cash withdrawal facility for emergencies
• Easy conversion to EMIs

Top Best Selling Credit Cards for International Use in 2024

For the best credit card for international travel from India, two things matter a lot - Forex Markup fee and Airport Lounge Access. Normally the forex markup fee also known as the foreign transaction markup fee is higher than 3% of the amount spent. But, we have curated the below list of best international credit cards that not only offer a lower forex markup fee but also offer other benefits like airport lounge access, rewards on spends, Cash withdrawal, conversion to EMI etc. 

Details About Best International Credit Cards 

Let’s understand in detail what all benefits come with some of the best selling international credit cards in India for travel and shopping rewards.

Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card

American Express® Platinum Travel Credit Card

IndusInd Legend Credit Card

Yes Bank Reserv Credit Card (First Exclusive Credit Card)

HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card

HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Credit Card

IDFC First Select Credit card

IDFC First Wealth Credit card

SBI Elite Credit Card

HDFC Bank Infinia Metal Edition Credit Card

Tips to Maximize the Benefits of International Credit Cards

Foreign currency transaction credit cards also known as International credit cards offer lower forex mark-up fee and higher reward rates on international transactions, which can help you save money while making transactions in foreign currencies. However, it's essential to take certain steps to maximize the benefits of these cards while traveling abroad or making foreign transactions.

• Inform Your Bank: To avoid your credit card being blocked for unusual activity, it is advisable to inform your bank or card issuer about your foreign trip. This way, they won't freeze your card if you make a large transaction from a foreign location.
• Carry Multiple Credit Cards: It's always best to carry at least two credit cards issued on different payment networks on a foreign trip. This is because some merchants may not accept credit cards issued on certain payment networks, and it's easy to exhaust your credit limit when traveling as hotels may hold a certain amount on your card to cover incidentals.

Benefits of Using an International Credit Card

• Lower Forex Mark-up Fee: Many foreign currency transaction credit cards charge a lower than usual mark-up fee on foreign currency transactions, typically ranging from 1.5% to 2%, as compared to the standard rate of 3.5%. This can lead to significant savings on foreign transactions. For instance IDFC First Wealth credit card charges a nominal 1.5% as forex markup fee, making it a great option for frequent travelers.
• Higher Reward Rate on International Transactions: Some credit cards offer a higher reward rate on international transactions despite charging the standard mark-up fee of 3.5%. 
• Additional Travel Perks: Top international travel credit cards from India, particularly premium travel cards, offer additional travel benefits and perks that can make traveling more comfortable and convenient. These perks may include complimentary access to international and domestic lounges, complimentary holiday vouchers, complimentary night stays at hotels, and many more.

How to get an International Credit Card in India?

There is no specific or different eligibility criteria to get a credit card for international travel in India. To get the best cards for international use you only need to meet below eligibility -

• You should belong to the age group 18 years to 65 years at the time of applying for the card.
• You can apply for the card either as a salaried individual or a self-employed individual.
• A credit score is one crucial criterion that has to be taken care of. A score of 750 and above will be required to get approval for the credit card.
• You can apply for the card if you are a resident Indian.

Apart from this some credit cards are invite only, for example Axis Bank Reserve credit card and HDFC Infinia credit card.

Super Premium Credit Cards for International Travel from India

By super premium we mean those cards whose annual fee is fairly costlier than other cards and of course the benefits that come with it are even more lucrative than the rest.

Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card

HSBC Premier Mastercard

If you are an existing HSBC customer with good relations with your bank then you can be eligible for this amazing HSBC Premier Mastercard credit card. 

Other Best International Credit Cards in India 2024

Apart from the above list, there are some other cards which are also preferred as they offer good value on International travel and expenses

FAQs on International Travel Credit Cards

Which Indian Credit card is best for international travel?

There are a number of cards which are fit for international travels. These cards not only charge a low markup fee on foreign transactions but also offer a number of other benefits like airport lounge access, accelerated reward points and many more. Some of these cards are - Axis Bank Magnus card, HDFC Regalia, American Express Platinum Travel Card, SBI Elite, and IDFC First Wealth card.

Can HDFC cards be used internationally?

Yes, all HDFC cards can be used internationally. But when it comes to charging a low forex markup fee, HDFC Regalia comes at the top with only 2% of the transacted amount as fee.

Can Indian credit cards be used abroad?

Yes, Indian credit cards can be used abroad provided you notify your bank prior to your travel so that no transaction gets declined.

Which are the best cards for international transactions in India?

Below are some of the best cards for international travel in India - Indusind Legend credit card, Yes Bank First Exclusive card, Axis bank Magnus credit card, SBI Elite credit card, IDFC First Select card and many more.