France, a country renowned for its art, culture, fashion, and cuisine, is one of the most popular travel destinations in the world. From the iconic Eiffel Tower in Paris to the picturesque vineyards of Bordeaux, France offers countless experiences for tourists. 

The official currency of France is the Euro (EUR), which you’ll need for most transactions during your journey. While carrying cash might seem convenient, it comes with risks like theft and high exchange fees, leaving you with less to spend and more to worry about. Forex cards, on the other hand, are a modern, secure, and convenient alternative. These prepaid cards allow you to load EUR and ensure smooth, hassle-free transactions during your travel. Whether you’re dining in Lyon, shopping in Paris, or exploring the French Riviera, a Forex card is your perfect travel companion.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the best Forex cards for France trip from India, covering fees and benefits to help you make an informed choice.

Note: Since there is no expedited visa process, make sure to apply for your France visa in advance to ensure everything is in order for your trip. 

What are the Best Forex Cards for a France Trip from India?

Here’s a curated list of the top 9 Forex cards to consider for your French adventure:

1. AtlysX Multi-Currency Forex Card by IndusInd

2. DCB Niyo Global Card

3. BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card

4. Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card

5. HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card

6. Orient Exchange Forex Card

7. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

8. ICICI Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card

9. SBI Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card

Detailed Overview of Each Forex Card

1. AtlysX Multi-Currency Forex Card by IndusInd

The AtlysX Multi-Currency Forex Card is an excellent choice for travellers heading to France. With competitive rates and comprehensive customer support, it ensures seamless transactions throughout your trip.

• Currencies Supported: 14 currencies, including EUR.

• Markup Fee: Zero for the first load; a 2% markup on subsequent reloads.

• Daily ATM Withdrawal Limit: $1,000 (or equivalent).

• Daily E-Commerce and POS Spending Limit: $10,000 (or equivalent).

• Customer Support: 24/7 global assistance via the Atlys app and [email protected].

2. DCB Niyo Global Card

The DCB Niyo Global Card is a single-currency card loaded in INR that offers zero forex markup for cost-effective transactions across France. You can also easily manage the card with the Niyo app, regardless of location. 

• Currencies Supported: INR (allows spending in EUR at no cross-currency charges).

• Joining Fee: Zero.

• Markup Fee: Zero.

• Annual/Maintenance Fee: Zero.

• ATM Withdrawal Fee (international): ₹425 + GST per transaction.

3. BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card

The BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card is another great multi-currency Forex card option for your France trip. It offers competitive exchange rates and the ability to reload funds quickly through the BookMyForex portal.

• Currencies Supported: 14 currencies, including EUR.

• Issuance Fee: Zero. 

• Reload Fee: Zero.

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: EUR 1.5 per transaction.

• Balance Enquiry Fee at ATMs: EUR 1 per inquiry.

• Daily ATM Withdrawal Limit: EUR 850.

• Daily Limit for POS, E-Commerce, Cash Advance, or Cash@POS: EUR 5,500.

4. Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card

Thomas Cook’s Borderless Prepaid Card supports multiple currencies, including EUR, making it ideal for both French and multi-country European trips.

• Currencies Supported: 9 currencies, including EUR.

• Issuance fee: None.

• ATM withdrawal fee: approximately $3 or equivalent per transaction.

• Daily ATM withdrawal limit: $2000 or equivalent, depending on the currency.

5. HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card

The HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card offers locked-in rates, which shield you from currency fluctuations, making it a traveller’s favourite. The card also supports contactless payments via PayWave technology and provides 24/7 comprehensive assistance with emergency cash delivery services. 

• Currencies Supported: 22 currencies, including EUR.

• Issuance Fee: ₹500 + GST.

• Reload Fee: ₹75 + GST.

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: EUR 1.50 per transaction.

• Balance Enquiry Fee at ATMs: EUR 0.50 per inquiry.

• Daily ATM Withdrawal Limit: EUR 4,700.

6. Orient Exchange Forex Card

The Orient Exchange Forex Card is another simple, cost-effective option for travellers heading to France, offering good value for secure transactions.

• Currencies Supported: Multiple currencies, including EUR.

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: Nominal fees apply.

• Markup Fee: Zero for supported currencies.

7. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

Axis Bank’s Multi-Currency Forex Card is widely accepted in France and provides value with its low fees and lock-in exchange rates. Additionally, enjoy secure EMV transactions, 24/7 support and easy online management via Axis Bank's app.

• Currencies Supported: 16 currencies, including EUR.

• Issuance Fee: ₹300 + GST.

• Reload Fee: ₹100 + GST.

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: EUR 1.69 per withdrawal. 

• ATM Balance Enquiry Fee: EUR 0.5 per enquiry. 

• Daily ATM Withdrawal Limit: $1,000 or equivalent.

8. ICICI Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card

The ICICI Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card offers reliable service, easy reloading options, and competitive exchange rates for your Greece trip.

• Currencies Supported: 15 currencies, including EUR.

• Issuance fee: Zero.

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: EUR 1.50 per withdrawal. 

• ATM Balance Enquiry Fee: EUR 0.50 per enquiry.

• Daily ATM Withdrawal Limit: EUR 1,500. 

9. SBI Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card

The SBI Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card is one of the most budget-friendly forex cards for Indians travelling to France. It allows you to lock in currency when loading the card and is accepted at over 2 million ATMs or pay at 34.5 million Mastercard merchants worldwide. 

• Currencies Supported: 7 currencies, including EUR.

• Issuance Fee: ₹100 + GST.

• Reload Fee: ₹50 + GST.

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: EUR 1.50 per withdrawal.

• ATM balance inquiry fee: None. 

• Daily ATM Withdrawal Limit: $10,000 (or equivalent). 

How to Choose the Best Forex Card for France?

Here are some factors to consider when selecting a forex card for France:

1. Currency Support: Ensure EUR is supported to avoid conversion charges.

2. Lock-In Exchange Rate: Opt for cards that lock exchange rates when loaded.

3. Fees: Look for low or zero markup fees and nominal ATM withdrawal charges.

4. Reload Options: Choose a card that allows quick and easy online reloads.

5. Customer Support: Opt for cards with 24/7 global assistance for emergencies.

Benefits of Using a Forex Card in France

1. Cost-Effective: Lower transaction fees compared to credit or debit cards.

2. Lock-In Exchange Rate: Protects against fluctuating currency rates.

3. Security: Reduces the risk of theft or loss associated with cash.

4. Wide Acceptance: Usable at ATMs, hotels, restaurants, and shops across France.

5. Multi-Currency Use: Convenient for travellers visiting multiple European countries.

Conclusion

The AtlysX Multi-Currency Forex Card is our top recommendation for your France trip, offering competitive exchange rates and 24/7 customer support. Other options, such as the Niyo Global Card and HDFC Multicurrency ForexPlus Card, also provide excellent features for a hassle-free experience.

Select a Forex card that suits your travel requirements and enjoy a smooth and secure journey in the beautiful cities and countryside of France!