Between January and October, almost 1.9 million Indians visited the US, marking a 27% increase compared to the same period last year. By the end of 2023, the total number of Indian tourist arrivals reached 1.7 million. With such a significant rise in travel, it’s evident that the USA remains one of the top international destinations for Indians. However, while planning a trip to the US, one of the most critical aspects to consider, alongside obtaining your USA tourist visa, is financial planning.

Although the US Dollar (USD) is easily available in India for conversion, carrying cash or relying solely on international credit or debit cards during your travel may not be the smartest choice. What’s the best option, then? It is a Forex card. With benefits like locked-in exchange rates, enhanced security, and the ability to manage multiple currencies on a single card, a Forex card eliminates the issues we just discussed with cash and credit cards. It’s the smartest choice for international travellers looking for convenience, safety, and cost-effectiveness.

So, to assist in currency management for your 2025 USA trip, we have listed the 7 best forex cards for your USA trip, diving into their fees, features, and why they’re perfect for international travellers. These include:

1. AtlysX Multi-Currency Forex Card 

2. HDFC Regalia ForexPlus Card 

3. ICICI Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card 

4. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card 

5. AtlysX Global Forex Card 

6. DCB Niyo Global Card 

7. SBI Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card

Let us know more about these cards. 

1. AtlysX Multi-Currency Forex Card

Official website: atlys.com/x

Fees

• Issuance fee: Zero (for all Atlys customers). 

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

• Cross-currency charges: None.

Features and Benefits

• Supports 14 currencies, including USD and EUR, eliminating the hassle of currency management for multi-destination trips.

• No hidden charges for card issuance or usage, ensuring complete transparency in costs.

• Offers advanced security controls like instant PIN changes and card freezing, ensuring complete protection against unauthorised use.

• Centralised card management through the Atlys app, streamlining everything from application to reloading and expense tracking.

• Provides real-time exchange rates in the Atlys app, helping you load your card at the most favourable rate and maximise savings.

• Round-the-clock customer support via chat, email, and a 24/7 hotline, ensuring you get assistance anytime, no matter where you are.

• Easy online application with same-day card delivery, perfect for last-minute travel plans or emergencies.

2. HDFC Regalia ForexPlus Card

Official website: hdfcbank.com

Fees

• Issuance fee: ₹1000 (+GST).

• Reload fee: ₹75 (+GST).

• Cross-currency markup fee: Zero. 

• ATM cash withdrawal fee: $4 per transaction. 

• ATM balance enquiry fee: $0.50 per transaction. 

Features and Benefits

• A single-currency USD card with zero cross-currency markup charges, so you don’t have to worry about managing multiple wallets.

• Worldwide accepted at all VISA/MasterCard merchants and online platforms, ensuring seamless usage wherever you go.

• Coverage for card misuse, accident insurance, baggage loss, and passport reconstruction, ensuring a worry-free trip.

• Pay securely and quickly with PayWave technology for transactions under a 4cm range, supported by advanced Chip & PIN security.

• Access emergency cash delivery globally in case of card loss or damage, ensuring uninterrupted access to funds.

• Track transactions, reload funds, set limits, and manage card settings conveniently using Prepaid Card NetBanking.

• Enjoy one free lounge access per quarter at international airports in India, adding comfort to your travel experience.

• Get exclusive concierge services like hotel bookings, car rentals, and medical referrals, adding a touch of luxury to your travels.

3. ICICI Multi-Currency Forex Prepaid Card

Official website: icicibank.com

Fees

• Issuance fee: No joining or annual fee.

• Cross-currency charges: 3.5% for transactions in unsupported currencies.

• ATM withdrawal fee: Up to $2 per transaction or equivalent in the loaded currency.

• Cash advance/Cash@POS transactions fee: 0.5% of the transaction amount. 

• Replacement fee: $3 if lost in India and $20 if lost outside India. 

Features and Benefits

• The card allows you to load up to 15 currencies like USD, GBP, AUD, and more, eliminating the need to worry about spending at multiple destinations.

• There are no joining or annual maintenance charges, making it a cost-effective choice for travellers.

• With 3D Secure for online payments and CHIP & PIN technology for in-store transactions, the card ensures robust protection against fraud.

• Stay worry-free with lost card/counterfeit liability protection of up to ₹5,00,000.

• Manage your card, reload funds, and check balances conveniently via the ICICI Bank portal or app.

• Make quick and secure payments with PayWave-enabled merchants without the need to swipe or insert the card.

• Access cash delivery services during your international travels in case of emergencies (subject to nominal charges).

• Enjoy discounts on flights, hotels, dining, and shopping when you use your ICICI Forex card.

• Use the remaining balance on your card at Duty-Free stores in Indian airports for last-minute purchases.

4. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

Official website: axisbank.com

Fees

• Issuance fee: ₹300 (plus GST).

• Reload/renewal fee: ₹100 (plus GST).

• Cross-currency charges: 3.5% of the transaction value for unsupported currencies.

• ATM withdrawal fee: $2.25 per transaction or equivalent in the loaded currency.

Features and Benefits

• Load and manage up to 16 major currencies like USD, GBP, EUR, and SGD on a single card, simplifying multi-destination travel.

• Reload your card online through Axis Bank’s portal or app for added convenience.

• Lock-in exchange rate and make payments using the exchange rate at which you loaded or reloaded the card, saving on currency fluctuations. Also, enjoy lowered rates on South Asian currencies.

• Equipped with EMV chip technology and PIN-based transactions, the card ensures secure ATM withdrawals and in-store purchases globally.

• Access emergency services like free domestic card replacement and TripAssist support to resolve issues during your travels.

• Earn points on transactions and redeem them for exciting offers, adding value to your card usage.

• Monitor balances, track transactions, and reload funds conveniently using the Axis Bank app or portal.

5. AtlysX Global FX Card by IndusInd

Official website: atlys.com/x

Fees

• Issuance fee: No issuance fee for all Atlys customers.

• Markup fee: There is zero markup fee for the first load of funds, and a 2% markup is charged on subsequent reloads.

• Cross-currency charges: No cross-currency charges. 

Features and Benefits

• Apply, reload, and manage the card entirely online through the Atlys app, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience.

• No hidden charges with real-time exchange rates, zero markup on the first load, and a clear 2% markup on subsequent reloads, keeping costs predictable.

• Withdraw remaining balances post-trip at the interbank rate, offering unmatched transparency and value.

• Detect suspicious activity and freeze your card immediately from the app, ensuring maximum security.

• Access round-the-clock assistance via the Atlys app, chat, email, or hotline for balance inquiries, card issues, or emergencies, ensuring a worry-free travel experience.

• Apply for the card online and enjoy same-day delivery, making it perfect for last-minute travel plans or urgent needs.

6. DCB Niyo Global Card

Official website: goniyo.com

Fees

• Issuance fee: None.

• Markup fee: Zero.

• ATM withdrawal fee: ₹425 + GST.

Features and Benefits

• Spend at real-time VISA exchange rates with no additional charges, saving up to 5% on all foreign currency transactions.

• Track spending, reload funds instantly, and view transaction history online through the Niyo app.

• Earn one complimentary international lounge pass per quarter by spending INR 50,000 outside India in the same quarter.

• The card can be used in 180+ countries for payments in 130+ currencies, eliminating the need to carry multiple currencies or cards.

• Use the remaining balance in India for domestic spending or withdrawals or for international e-commerce transactions.

• Features like PIN-based transactions, contactless payments, real-time alerts, and the ability to freeze/unfreeze your card ensure complete protection.

• Get round-the-clock assistance through in-app live chat for any card-related queries or issues.

7. SBI Multi-Currency Foreign Travel Card

Official website: sbitravelcard.com

Fees

• Issuance + initial load fee: ₹100 + GST.

• Reload fee: ₹50 + GST.

• ATM withdrawal fee: USD 1.75, £ 1.25, € 1.50, SGD 2.00, AUD 2.50, CAD 2.50, AED 6.50.

• ATM balance inquiry fee: None. 

• Cross-currency fee: 3% of the transaction amount for unsupported currencies.

Features and Benefits

• Load up to 7 currencies on a single card, eliminating the need to worry about currency management when travelling to multiple destinations.

• Withdraw local currency at over 2 million ATMs or pay at 34.5 million Mastercard merchants worldwide (except in India, Nepal, and Bhutan).

• Lock in currency values during reloads to protect against exchange rate fluctuations.

• Monitor balances and transactions and locate ATMs securely through the card’s online management platform.

• Stay carefree with the advanced chip and PIN protection security features, ensuring safer transactions wherever you travel.

• Access free card replacement and emergency cash services worldwide in case of loss or theft.

How to choose the best Forex card for your USA trip

Now that you know the top forex cards for your USA travel, it's time to choose the one that suits your needs best. Here are key factors to keep in mind when making your selection:

• Fees and charges: Compare issuance fees, reload fees, ATM withdrawal charges, and cross-currency markup fees. Opt for a card with minimal or no hidden costs. 

• Exchange rate lock: Choose a card that allows you to lock in favourable exchange rates at the time of loading to protect against currency fluctuations. 

• Emergency support: Check if the card offers global assistance, such as emergency cash replacement and free card replacement, in case of loss or theft.

• Security features: It goes without saying- look for cards with advanced security features like chip-and-PIN protection, instant card freezing, and transaction alerts.

• Online management: Ensure the card provides easy-to-use online tools for tracking balances, reloading funds, and viewing transaction history.

• Post-trip flexibility: Choose a card that allows you to withdraw or use the remaining balance for domestic transactions after your trip.

Tip: All the cards we’ve suggested above support USD, so currency compatibility won’t be an issue for your USA trip. However, it’s wise to choose a card that supports multiple currencies. This not only makes it convenient for future trips to other countries but also helps you avoid cross-currency fees, saving you money in the long run.

Forex tips for Indians travelling to the USA

• Plan your currency needs: Estimate your daily and total expenses before your trip to determine how much USD you need to load onto your Forex card. This helps you avoid frequent reloads, which could incur additional charges. 

• Be cautious of Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): While paying with your Forex card abroad, always opt to pay in the local currency (USD in the US) rather than your home currency (INR). Dynamic Currency Conversion often involves higher exchange rates and additional fees, which can significantly increase your costs.

• Use ATMs wisely: Minimise ATM withdrawal fees by withdrawing larger amounts in one transaction instead of multiple smaller ones. Ensure you use ATMs within the network recommended by your Forex card provider to avoid unnecessary charges.

• Carry a backup: Always have a secondary Forex card or some cash as a backup. In case your primary card is lost, stolen, or faces technical issues, this ensures you have uninterrupted access to funds during your trip.

• Keep emergency numbers handy: Save the helpline numbers of your Forex card provider in your phone and on a physical note. These numbers would help in reporting lost cards, seeking assistance, or resolving issues quickly, especially during emergencies.

• Check card validity: Verify your Forex card’s validity before you travel to avoid complications. Ensure it remains active for the duration of your trip and that any necessary reloads can be processed without issues, especially in time-sensitive situations.

Tip: In some USA states like Texas and Washington, tax refunds on purchases may be available for international visitors. While this is not common across the US, check official state websites or inquire with merchants for eligibility and procedures to claim tax refunds where applicable.

Conclusion

The above-mentioned forex cards, including AtlysX, HDFC Regalia, ICICI Multi-Currency, Axis Bank, and others, are excellent choices for your USA trip, offering convenience, cost-effectiveness, and advanced security. Each card is tailored to suit diverse traveller needs, ensuring smooth currency management.

With careful selection and usage, a Forex card can significantly enhance your travel experience by saving money, providing flexibility, and ensuring safety, leaving you to enjoy your USA adventure worry-free!