China has long been a fascinating destination for Indian travellers, offering a unique blend of rich cultural heritage, modern marvels, and bustling business opportunities. The official currency of China, the Chinese Yuan Renminbi (CNY or RMB), plays a central role in your travel planning. However, obtaining CNY in India is not always straightforward, as forex cards offered by Indian financial institutions often do not support the direct loading of the Chinese Yuan. This limitation can challenge Indian travellers looking for seamless financial transactions in China.

One effective workaround is to load a widely accepted currency, such as the US Dollar (USD), onto your Forex card. Once in China, you can use your card to purchase or withdraw local currency from ATMs at competitive exchange rates. This guide will explore the most suitable Forex card and how you can practice money management during your trip, making it stress-free and cost-effective.

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What are the top Forex cards for China in India?

Here is the list of the top 6 Forex cards available for Indians to visit China:

1. AtlysX Global Forex Card

2. Niyo Global Forex Card

3. HDFC Bank Multi-Currency ForexPlus Card

4. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

5. ICICI Bank Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card

6. BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card

AtlysX Global Forex Card

The AtlysX Global FX Card is a hassle-free solution for travellers, offered free to all Atlys customers with no issuance fees. You can load USD and spend it in any currency, including CNY. It provides zero markup on your first load and ensures transparent, competitive exchange rates. Perfect for frequent travellers, this card is valid for years and can be reloaded through the Atlys app, even while on the move.

• Issuance Fee: Free (For Atlys customers)

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: USD 3 per transaction

• Supported Currencies: Load USD for transactions in any currency.

• Markup Fees: No fee on the initial load; 2% markup on subsequent loads.

• Exchange Rates: Real-time exchange rates

• Customer Support: 24/7 support via the Atlys app.

Niyo Global Forex Card

The Niyo Global Card is a popular Forex card for international travellers, offering seamless transactions across 130+ currencies in over 150 countries. With zero forex markup, users can purchase abroad without incurring additional currency conversion fees, potentially saving up to 5% on each transaction.

• Issuance Fee: No fee.

• Supported Currencies: The Niyo Global Card allows users to load funds in INR and spend in over 130 currencies worldwide.

• Markup Fees: Niyo Global Cards offer zero forex markup.

• Exchange Rates: Transactions are processed at VISA exchange rates without additional markup, ensuring competitive and transparent currency conversion.

• International ATM withdrawal charge: ₹425 + GST

• Customer Support: Niyo provides 24/7 in-app live chat support to assist users with queries or issues.

BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card

BookMyForex offers a highly convenient Forex card with competitive rates and zero issuance or reload fees. It supports CNY, making it ideal for travellers to China.

• Issuance Fee: Free

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: ₹150 per transaction

• Supported Currencies: 14 currencies, including CNY

• Markup Fees: Zero markup

• Exchange Rates: Interbank rates

• Customer Support: Real-time app assistance

HDFC Bank Multi-Currency ForexPlus Card

This card supports multiple currencies, including USD, and ensures secure transactions with chip and PIN technology. It offers emergency cash assistance and travel insurance benefits.

• Issuance Fee: ₹500 + GST

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: ₹100 per transaction

• Supported Currencies: 20+ currencies, including USD

• Markup Fees: Locked-in rates with no fluctuation charges

• Exchange Rates: Fixed at the time of loading

• Customer Support: 24x7 helpline

Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

The Axis Bank Forex Card allows travellers to load multiple currencies, including USD and is accepted worldwide. It ensures peace of mind with emergency cash assistance and real-time monitoring.

• Issuance Fee: ₹300 + GST

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: USD 2 per transaction

• Supported Currencies: 16 currencies, including USD

• Markup Fees: Zero markup on spending in the loaded currency

• Exchange Rates: Locked-in at the time of load

• Customer Support: 24x7 assistance

ICICI Bank Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card

ICICI Bank’s Forex Card offers up to 15 currencies, including USD, and is equipped with contactless technology for faster transactions. Travellers benefit from comprehensive insurance and easy reload options.

• Issuance Fee: ₹499 + GST

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: USD 2 per transaction

• Supported Currencies: 15 currencies, including USD

• Markup Fees: Zero markup for transactions in loaded currencies

• Exchange Rates: Fixed at the time of load

• Customer Support: 24/7 service

What are the Benefits of Using a Forex Card in China?

Below are the benefits of using a Forex card in China:

• Convenience: Forex cards eliminate the need to carry cash while travelling abroad. They are lightweight, easy to use, and widely accepted at ATMs and merchants globally.

• Cost Savings: Forex cards often come with zero or low forex markup fees, ensuring that you save money compared to using credit/debit cards or exchanging cash at airports.

• Security: They offer a safer alternative to carrying cash, with features like PIN protection, chip technology, and transaction monitoring.

• Multi-Currency Support: Many forex cards allow loading multiple currencies, making them ideal for multi-country trips.

• Fixed Exchange Rates: Forex cards let you lock in the exchange rate when loading, protecting you from currency fluctuations.

• Reloadable Anywhere: They can be reloaded conveniently through apps or online platforms, even when you're abroad.

• Additional Benefits: Some cards offer travel insurance, lounge access, and emergency cash assistance.

How to Choose the Best Forex Card for China?

To select the best Forex card, follow the below-mentioned tips:

• Markup Fees: Look for cards with zero or minimal forex markup fees.

• Exchange Rates: Choose cards offering competitive exchange rates with no hidden charges.

• Supported Currencies: Ensure the card supports the currencies you use during your trip.

• ATM Withdrawal Fees: Compare ATM withdrawal charges to minimise additional costs.

• Reload Options: Opt for cards that can be easily reloaded online or via an app.

• Issuance and Maintenance Fees: Check for zero or low issuance and annual fees.

• Security Features: Look for advanced security measures like chip and PIN protection.

• Customer Support: A card with 24/7 customer service is crucial for quickly resolving issues.

• Validity: Cards with longer validity periods are ideal for frequent travellers.

• Additional Perks: Consider cards offering benefits like travel insurance, airport lounge access, or cashback rewards.

Conclusion:

Travelling to China as an Indian traveller can be an exciting experience, but it comes with financial challenges, particularly regarding the Chinese Yuan. Forex cards offer a seamless solution, allowing you to manage expenses efficiently and securely. You can ensure a hassle-free and cost-effective trip by choosing the right Forex card with low fees, wide currency support, and additional perks. Whether it’s the AtlysX Global Forex Card, Niyo Global Forex Card, or others mentioned, these cards cater to diverse needs, making international travel more convenient and budget-friendly.