International Credit Card

1. SBI Elite Credit Card

The SBI Elite Credit Card is an exclusive credit card with a range of advantages spanning various categories including travel, movies, dining, and international transactions. It is considered one of the finest credit cards for global use in India. 

• Joining Fee: ₹4,999

• Annual Fee: ₹4,999 (Reversed on spending ₹10 Lakh in a year)

 

A. Features and Benefits:

• Foreign currency markup fee: 1.99%

• 2 free domestic airport lounge visits every quarter in India

• Free membership to Priority Pass Program worth $99

• 6 free international airport lounge visits per calendar year (Max. 2 per quarter)

• Free Club Vistara, Trident Privilege, and Trident Red Tier memberships

2. RBL World Safari Credit Card 

The RBL World Safari Credit Card is primarily designed for frequent international travellers and is considered one of the top credit cards for overseas use due to its zero foreign exchange markup fee. Here are some additional particulars regarding this credit card:

• Joining Fee: ₹3,000

• Annual Fee: ₹3,000

 

A. Features and Benefits:

• No forex markup fee for foreign currency transactions

• 5 Travel Points for every ₹100 spent on travel

• 2 Travel Points for every ₹100 spent on all other transactions

• 2 free lounge visits per quarter at major Indian airports

• 2 free international lounge visits with Priority Pass membership

3. Air India SBI Signature Card

The Air India SBI Signature credit card caters to individuals who travel frequently, whether domestically or internationally. This card offers various benefits that enhance the travel experience, such as faster accumulation of reward points for flight bookings, access to domestic lounges, membership to Priority Pass, and more.

• Joining Fees - ₹4,999

• Annual Fee -₹4,999

 

A. Features and Benefits:

• Earn up to 30 reward points for every 100 spent on Air India ticket bookings through their website and mobile app.

• Get access to over 600 international airport lounges with the free Priority Pass program.

• Enjoy access to domestic airport lounges in India with the free Visa Lounge Access Program.

• Receive an anniversary gift of 5,000 points and bonus points on annual retail spends of ₹5, ₹10, and ₹20 Lakhs.

4. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card

The HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card is an excellent option if you want a card that provides advantages for dining out, travelling, or spending on entertainment. 

• Annual fee - ₹2,500

 

A. Features and Benefits:

• Zomato Gold Membership for one year

• 12 complimentary accesses per calendar year within India, which can be used at domestic and international terminals

• 5,000 reward points when you achieve annual spending of ₹8 Lakhs

• 10,000 reward points when your annual spending reaches ₹5 Lakhs.

To apply for an international credit card, you can follow these steps:

• Research available credit cards: Look for credit cards that are available for international applicants. Most major credit card issuers offer international credit cards, but it's important to check eligibility requirements and terms and conditions before applying.

• Gather necessary documents: You may need to provide credit card documents such as a valid passport, proof of income, and proof of address. Make sure you have all the necessary documents before applying.

• Apply online or in person: Depending on the credit card issuer, you may be able to apply online or in person. Follow the instructions provided by the issuer to complete your application.

• Wait for approval: After submitting your application, you will need to wait for the credit card issuer to review your application and decide whether to approve or deny your request. This process can take a few days to a few weeks.

• Activate your card: If your application is approved, you will receive your credit card in the mail. Follow the instructions provided to activate your card and start using it.

Here are some of the key features and benefits of using international credit cards:

• Wide Acceptance: One of the main benefits of international credit cards is their wide acceptance. They can be used at a large number of merchants across the world, including online and offline retailers.

• Convenience: International credit cards offer a convenient way to make payments while travelling abroad. You can use your card to make purchases, withdraw cash, and pay bills without having to carry a lot of cash.

• Rewards and Discounts: Many international credit cards come with rewards and discounts such as cashback, travel rewards, and discounts on dining, shopping, and entertainment.

• Currency Conversion: International credit cards allow you to make purchases in different currencies. They automatically convert the transaction into your local currency, saving you the hassle of currency exchange.

• Emergency Assistance: If you lose your international credit card while travelling, many card issuers offer emergency assistance services such as card replacement, cash advances, and emergency travel assistance.

• Fraud Protection: International credit cards come with advanced security features such as fraud monitoring and zero liability protection. This means that you will not be held responsible for any fraudulent transactions made on your card.

Below are details about the five best international credit cards, along with their features and charges.

Choosing the right international card can depend on your specific needs and financial situation. Here are some factors to consider:

• Accepted Locations: Look for a card that is widely accepted in the countries you plan to visit. Visa and Mastercard are generally accepted worldwide, while American Express may be less widely accepted.

• Foreign Transaction Fees: Many cards charge a fee for each transaction made in a foreign currency. Look for a card with low or no foreign transaction fees to save money on your travels.

• Rewards and Benefits: Consider a card that offers rewards or benefits that are useful for your international travel needs, such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, or bonus points for overseas spending.

• Credit Score: Depending on the type of card you are looking for, you may need a good credit score to qualify. Check your credit score and research card options that fit within your score range.

• Annual Fees: Some international cards may charge an annual fee. Determine if the benefits of the card outweigh the cost of the fee.

• Customer Service: Look for a card with good customer service and support, especially if you plan to use the card abroad.