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Top advantages of debit cards that NRIs can enjoy

07 May 2025 by Team FinFIRST
NRI debit card
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NRIs living abroad often find it difficult to manage their finances in India—whether it's supporting their family or investing in various opportunities. To do this smoothly, having a reliable bank account back home is essential.

With an NRI banking account, you can easily handle your money through savings accounts, fixed deposits, or investments. These accounts make it simple to transfer funds, earn interest, and stay connected to your finances in India. If you choose an NRI savings account, you also get added benefits like access to a debit card for convenient spending.

Let’s understand what’s in store for you.

READ MORE

How to understand your NRI bank account statements
NRI Cross-Border Banking Regulations

Advantages of debit cards for NRIs
 

Debit cards for NRIs are not only a means for cashless transactions. They offer much more. Here’s a look at the advantages of debit cards for NRIs -

1. Global acceptance
 

NRI debit cards are designed for both domestic and international use. Whether you're in India or abroad, you can use your card for smooth, hassle-free transactions. It enables you to make payments across borders with ease, making it simple to manage your finances wherever you are in the world.

2. Forex benefits
 

If you open an NRE account, you can deposit your foreign earnings in the account and use the debit card to transact in India. Your currency gets automatically converted without you having to do so yourself.

Furthermore, debit cards allow you to transact online in India or abroad and pay in any currency.

3. Complete security
 

Worried about security features in your debit card? You don't have to be! With the right debit card, you can enjoy enhanced security features like two-factor authentication, PIN protection, lost card liability, and more. This secures the card against unauthorised usage and ensures safer transactions.

4. Expense management

Want to keep track of your NRI account expenses? Your debit card allows you to monitor your spending and ensure you remain within budget. Moreover, your debit card can also offer attractive discounts on transactions to minimise expenses and maximise savings.

5. Seamless fund access
 

When you link your debit card to your NRI account, you can easily withdraw funds domestically and internationally. This provides you with instant access to cash when you need it most. What’s more, you are not charged any interest on the amount withdrawn.

6. Complimentary insurance
 

Many debit cards offer complimentary insurance protection, which adds an extra layer of financial security and provides compensation in the event of unforeseen losses.

The underlying costs of NRI debit cards
 

While debit cards offer various advantages, there is also a cost factor to consider. Typically, debit cards are low-cost payment tools; however, some charges may depend on your usage. These charges are as follows 

  1. Joining and annual fees
  2. Forex markup fee on international transactions
  3. ATM withdrawal charges (applicable after a specified limit of free withdrawals)
  4. ATM withdrawal charges at non-bank ATMs

How to choose the best debit card?
 

Choosing the right debit card can help you maximise the benefits. So, here are some factors to consider when choosing the card -

1. Transaction limits
 

Check the daily transaction limits on the card. The higher the limit, the more flexibility you will have to access your funds.

2. Withdrawal limits
 

Know the daily ATM withdrawal limit granted with the debit card. A higher limit is recommended here, too, so that you can draw as much as you need when needed.

3. Offers
 

Check the discounts and rewards available with the debit card. A card with multiple offers is a better choice, as it can help you enhance your savings.

4. Perks and privileges
 

Keep an eye out for exclusive perks offered with the card, like complimentary insurance coverage, lounge access, reward points, and more. These perks provide additional benefits at no extra charge.

5. Charge structure
 

It is important to find a card with a low charge structure to get the maximum benefits without a considerable pocket pinch.

How to apply for an NRI debit card?
 

Here are the steps through which you can apply for and avail of an NRI debit card -

Step 1 - Choose between a Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) or Non-Resident External (NRE) account.

Step 2 - Apply for the account online by filling out the account opening form.

Step 3 - Submit the relevant documents needed for the NRI account opening process.

Step 4 - Complete the KYC formalities and get the NRI account activated.

Step 5 - Apply for the NRI debit card by paying the applicable joining fee.

Step 6 - The bank will issue the debit card, which you can activate online or at any ATM.

Once activated, you can use the debit card worldwide and enjoy the benefits that it has to offer.

Unlock maximum benefits with IDFC FIRST Bank NRI debit cards
 

IDFC FIRST Bank offers rewarding NRI debit cards that come with attractive benefits, low charges, and enhanced security measures. With IDFC FIRST Bank NRI debit cards, you can enjoy -

  1. Seamless contactless payments
  2. International acceptance with minimal forex mark-up fee
  3. Unlimited ATM transactions at any bank across India
  4. Complimentary domestic airport lounge access
  5. Higher purchase limits
  6. Higher ATM withdrawal limits
  7. Complimentary personal accident and air accident insurance coverage

Explore the range of NRI banking solutions offered by IDFC FIRST Bank and claim the advantages of debit cards the bank has to offer. Open your NRI account today and make money management contactless and rewarding. 

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.

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