When you travel abroad, using your credit card is convenient — but it can also be expensive due to foreign currency markup fees. These charges, usually between 2–3.5% on every international transaction, can add up quickly.
Fortunately, HDFC Bank offers several credit cards designed specifically for international travellers, with low forex markup rates, attractive travel rewards, and even lounge access benefits.
Let’s explore the best HDFC Bank credit cards with minimal forex charges, how they work, and which one fits your travel style.
1. What Is a Forex Markup Fee?
When you swipe your Indian credit card abroad — or make an online purchase in a foreign currency — the transaction is converted to Indian rupees. Banks charge a small fee on this conversion, called the foreign exchange markup fee.
Typically, this fee ranges from 2% to 3.5% (plus GST) of the transaction amount.
For example, if you spend ₹1,00,000 abroad and your card has a 3.5% markup, you’ll pay ₹3,500 extra in fees.
Choosing a low-forex-markup credit card helps you save on every international spend, especially for frequent flyers, students studying overseas, or digital nomads.
2. Why Choose HDFC Bank for Low Forex Markup Cards?
HDFC Bank has one of the strongest travel credit card portfolios in India, offering benefits across lounge access, hotel bookings, and international transactions.
Here’s why HDFC stands out for forex-friendly travel cards:
- Multiple cards with forex markup as low as 0%–2%.
- Reward points or air miles on every foreign spend.
- Global acceptance across 150+ countries.
- Complimentary international lounge access and concierge services.
Now, let’s look at the top HDFC Bank credit cards that help you save big on international payments.
3. Best HDFC Bank Credit Cards with Low Forex Markup Fees
The Infinia is HDFC Bank’s premium flagship card, offering luxury travel privileges and one of the lowest forex markups in India.
Key Features:
- Forex Markup Fee: 2% only.
- Rewards: 5 Reward Points per ₹150 spent (≈3.3% return).
- SmartBuy Offers: Up to 10X Reward Points on international flight and hotel bookings.
- Lounge Access: Unlimited domestic and international visits for primary and add-on members.
- Annual Fee: ₹12,500 (waived off on ₹10 lakh annual spend).
Why Choose It:
The Infinia offers one of the best net returns on international spends, combining a low markup rate with strong reward earnings.
For global travellers, the Diners Club Black is another excellent low-forex option.
Key Features:
- Forex Markup Fee: 2%.
- Rewards: 5 Reward Points per ₹150 spent (≈3.3% return).
- SmartBuy Multiplier: Up to 10X Reward Points on travel spends.
- Lounge Access: Unlimited access to over 1,300 international lounges.
- Annual Fee: ₹10,000 (waived on ₹5 lakh annual spend).
Why Choose It:
Ideal for frequent international travellers who prefer Diners Club’s global acceptance and want high-value rewards with luxury travel benefits.
If you want a balance between affordability and travel perks, the Regalia Gold is a great mid-tier option.
Key Features:
- Forex Markup Fee: 2%.
- Rewards: 4 Reward Points per ₹150 spent.
- Lounge Access: 12 complimentary visits per year (6 domestic + 6 international).
- SmartBuy Benefits: Up to 5X Reward Points on flight and hotel bookings.
- Annual Fee: ₹2,500 (waived on ₹3 lakh annual spend).
Why Choose It:
Perfect for those who travel a few times a year and want good rewards with low forex fees without paying a high annual charge.
This is a slightly toned-down version of Diners Club Black but still ideal for international transactions.
Key Features:
- Forex Markup Fee: 2%.
- Rewards: 4 Reward Points per ₹150 spent.
- Lounge Access: 12 complimentary airport lounge visits annually.
- SmartBuy: Up to 10X Reward Points on international bookings.
- Annual Fee: ₹2,500 (waived on ₹3 lakh annual spend).
Why Choose It:
A strong all-rounder for travellers who want access to Diners Club’s global benefits without the premium price tag.
For millennials and young professionals who travel occasionally, the Millennia Card offers excellent cashback and decent forex benefits.
Key Features:
- Forex Markup Fee: 3.5%.
- Rewards: 5% cashback on SmartBuy (Amazon, Flipkart, etc.) and 1% on other spends.
- Lounge Access: 8 domestic visits per year.
- Annual Fee: ₹1,000 (waived on ₹1 lakh spend).
Why Choose It:
Though the forex markup is higher, it’s a great entry-level travel card with consistent rewards and cashback on digital platforms.
4. How Much Can You Save with a Low Forex Markup Card?
Let’s see a simple example:
So, with cards like Infinia or Diners Black, your reward points can actually offset the markup fee, giving you zero or even positive value on international spends.
5. Additional Travel Perks with These Cards
Apart from forex savings, HDFC’s premium travel cards include:
- Unlimited airport lounge access (domestic and international).
- Complimentary travel insurance for flight cancellations, delays, and lost baggage.
- Concierge services for travel planning, hotel bookings, or event tickets.
- Emergency overseas assistance and card replacement.
Together, these perks make HDFC’s low-forex-markup cards ideal companions for travellers seeking comfort and savings.
6. Tips to Avoid Extra Forex Charges
Even with a low-markup card, here are some smart ways to minimize costs further:
- Pay in local currency while swiping abroad — avoid DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion).
- Use cards on SmartBuy or partner portals for additional reward multipliers.
- Track SmartBuy caps monthly to maximize 10X rewards.
- Redeem reward points for travel bookings instead of vouchers for higher value.
- Monitor exchange rates and avoid making big purchases during volatile days.
7. How to Apply for HDFC Bank Travel Cards
You can apply for these cards through:
- The HDFC Bank website (Credit Cards section).
- NetBanking if you’re an existing HDFC customer.
- In-branch application for premium cards like Infinia or Diners Black (invite-only).
Eligibility usually depends on:
- Age between 21–60 years
- Monthly income above ₹1 lakh (for premium cards)
- Strong credit score (750+)
8. Final Thoughts
If you love travelling abroad — for leisure, study, or business — choosing the right credit card can save thousands in foreign exchange fees.
Among all options, HDFC Bank Infinia and Diners Club Black stand out for their 2% forex markup, unlimited lounge access, and up to 10X rewards.
For moderate travellers, the Regalia Gold or Diners Privilege cards provide excellent mid-range benefits with the same low forex rate.
Ultimately, with smart use of SmartBuy, reward redemptions, and strategic spending, HDFC Bank’s travel cards can make every international purchase — from flight tickets to coffee in Paris — more rewarding.