Best Forex Cards for a Spain Trip
Best Forex Cards for a Spain Trip
Spain, known for its vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and delicious cuisine, is a dream destination for travellers worldwide. Whether you’re exploring the art museums of Madrid, enjoying the beaches of Barcelona, or tasting tapas in Seville, having a reliable financial solution is crucial.
The official currency of Spain is the Euro (EUR), which you'll need for all your expenses during your trip. 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, provide a safer, more cost-effective, and convenient way to manage your finances abroad. These prepaid cards let you load EUR and enjoy seamless transactions, making your Spanish adventure stress-free.
In this blog, we’ll explore the best forex cards available in India for your Spain trip. We’ll highlight their features and fees to help you choose the perfect card for your travel needs.
Important Note: Besides the Forex card, make sure to apply for your Spain visa, which is a mandatory requirement for Indians travelling to the country.
What are the Best Forex Cards for a Spain Trip from India?
Here’s a list of the top 9 forex cards to consider for your Spanish getaway:
AtlysX Multi-Currency Forex Card by IndusInd
DCB Niyo Global Card
BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card
Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card
HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card
Orient Exchange Forex Card
Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card
ICICI Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card
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 a modern, all-in-one solution for Indian travellers visiting Spain. With excellent exchange rates and broad currency support, including EUR, it ensures hassle-free payments during your trip to Spain.
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 in Spain. Its intuitive app allows real-time tracking, reloading, and expense management.
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 Forex Card provides competitive exchange rates and the flexibility of quick reloads online, making it an excellent choice for Spanish travellers.
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, and offers unparalleled convenience, safety, and flexibility. Its global acceptance at over 35.2 million merchant establishments and access to 1.9 million MasterCard ATMs worldwide make it all the more appealing.
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 ForexPlus Card is another reliable option for your international travel. It locks in exchange rates at the time of loading, shielding you from currency fluctuations. The card also supports contactless payments via PayWave technology and provides 24/7 comprehensive assistance.
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
Next in line is the Orient Exchange Forex Card. With robust security features, online management options and global acceptance, it ensures safe and convenient transactions while travelling to Spain.
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 also widely accepted in Spain and offers excellent service. You can also lock in exchange rates when loading the card. 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 is a dependable choice for seamless transactions in EUR during your Spain trip, offering reliable service and competitive rates.
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 Spain, as it charges nominal fees and allows you to lock in currency when loading the card.
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 Spain?
Since you now know the options, here are the points of comparison to help you choose the best one from the recommendations shared above:
Currency Support: Ensure the card supports EUR to avoid conversion fees during your trip to Spain, allowing hassle-free transactions in the local currency.
Lock-In Exchange Rate: Opt for a card that locks exchange rates at the time of loading, helping you plan your expenses and avoid rate fluctuations in Spain.
Fees: Look for cards that offer low or zero forex markup fees and nominal ATM withdrawal charges to save costs while travelling across Spain.
Reload Options: Choose a card with quick and seamless online reload options so you can add funds easily while enjoying your time in Spain.
Customer Support: Opt for a provider offering 24/7 global assistance to handle emergencies like card loss or technical issues during your Spain trip.
Benefits of Using a Forex Card in Spain
If you're still unsure about using a forex card to manage your expenses in Spain, here are some key benefits to consider:
Cost-Effective: Forex cards typically offer lower transaction fees compared to credit or debit cards, helping you save money on purchases and withdrawals.
Lock-In Exchange Rate: By often locking in exchange rates at the time of loading, forex cards protect you from currency fluctuations during your trip, ensuring predictable expenses.
Security: Carrying a Forex card reduces the risks associated with carrying large amounts of cash, as they are protected by PIN and chip technology and can be easily blocked if lost or stolen.
Wide Acceptance: Forex cards are widely accepted at ATMs, hotels, restaurants, and shops across Spain, providing you with convenient access to funds wherever you go.
Multi-Currency Use: Forex cards can hold multiple currencies, making them ideal for seamless travel across borders if you're planning to explore other European countries.
Conclusion
The AtlysX Multi-Currency Forex Card is our top recommendation for your Spain trip, offering competitive exchange rates and 24/7 customer support. Other excellent options include the Niyo Global Card and HDFC Multicurrency ForexPlus Card, both of which offer features tailored to modern travellers’ needs.
Make sure to choose a Forex card that aligns with your travel requirements to enjoy a worry-free journey in the vibrant cities and serene countryside of Spain!
What is the currency of Spain?
The official currency of Spain is the Euro (EUR).
What documents are required to apply for a Forex card for Spain?
You’ll typically need a passport, visa, flight tickets, and PAN card.
Can I reload my Forex card while in Spain?
Yes, most cards allow online or app-based reloads from anywhere.
Can I withdraw cash in Spain using a Forex card?
Yes, forex cards allow cash withdrawals at ATMs.
Are there ATM withdrawal charges for using a Forex card in Spain?
Yes, depending on your card, the fees vary, but most providers usually charge a withdrawal fee.
Can I use a Forex card to shop online in Spain?
Yes, forex cards support online transactions in EUR.
What happens if I lose my Forex card in Spain?
If you lose your Forex card in Spain, report it immediately to the card issuer’s 24/7 helpline to block the card and prevent unauthorised use. You can then request a replacement or activate your backup card if issued.
Note: Many providers also offer emergency cash withdrawal services, which you can inquire about when purchasing the card.
Which Forex card offers zero markup fees?
The Niyo Global Card provides zero markup fees for foreign transactions.
Which is the best Forex card for Indians travelling to Spain?
The best options include the AtlysX Multi-Currency Forex Card by IndusInd, the DCB Niyo Global Card, and the HDFC Multi-Currency Platinum Forex Card.