Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Baku, the peaceful charm of Sheki, or the breathtaking Caspian Sea coastline, managing your money wisely is essential for a stress-free trip. The official currency of Azerbaijan is the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN). However, since Azerbaijan is still a lesser-known destination for Indian travellers, exchanging Indian Rupees (INR) for Manat can be challenging. Even if you find it, the exchange rates are often expensive. So, what’s the best alternative for Indian travellers? The answer is US Dollars (USD)!

Using a Forex card is one of the safest, most convenient, and cost-effective ways to handle your currency needs when travelling abroad. But with so many Forex card options available, how do you know which is best for your trip to Azerbaijan?

Don’t worry! After thorough research and feedback from frequent travellers, we’ve curated a list of the best Forex cards for Azerbaijan. 

What are the best forex cards for Azerbaijan from India?

Here’s a quick overview of the top Forex cards that can make your trip to Azerbaijan smooth and budget-friendly:

1. AtlysX Multi-Currency Card

2. HDFC Bank ForexPlus Card

3. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

4. Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Forex Card

5. Niyo Global Forex Card

6. BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card

7. HDFC Regalia ForexPlus Card

1. AtlysX Multi-Currency Card

AtlysX Multi-Currency Card is a perfect travel companion, supporting 14 currencies and offering unmatched convenience. It comes with no issuance fee, so you pay nothing upfront, and you get zero markups on your first load, meaning you can add funds at real exchange rates, making it the best Forex card for Azerbaijan. Additionally, no base currency fees allow you to spend in your trip's currency without extra charges. You can reload your card anytime instantly using the Atlys app, even while travelling. Designed to last, the card remains valid for several years, making it ideal for future trips without needing replacements. 

As India's only digital-first Forex card, it eliminates paperwork and branch visits, giving you a hassle-free, seamless experience.

• Issuance Fee: Free (For Atlys customers)

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: USD 3 / transaction

• Supported Currencies: The card supports multiple currencies, including USD, AUD, CAD, Euro, GBP, HKD, JPY, NZD, etc. 

• Markup Fees: No Fee (on the first load)

• Exchange Rates: Real-time exchange rates
  

2. HDFC Bank Multicurrency Forex Card

The HDFC Bank Multicurrency Forex Card is a reliable and convenient choice for international travellers, offering seamless transactions across multiple destinations. The card allows you to load popular currencies such as USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, JPY, AED, and more, making it suitable for multi-destination travel.

• Issuance Fee: ₹500 (One-time charge)

• Reload Fee: ₹75 per reload

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: USD 2 per transaction (may vary depending on the currency and location)

• Cross-Currency Markup: 3.5% for transactions not matching loaded currencies

3. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

The Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card is an excellent travel companion for those visiting multiple international destinations. Designed for convenience and security, it allows you to load and use up to 16 currencies like USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, SGD, AED, CHF, JPY, and more. Widely accepted at Visa/Mastercard-enabled merchant outlets, ATMs, and online platforms worldwide.

• Issuance Fee: ₹300 + GST

• Reload Fee: ₹100 + GST per reload

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: USD 2.25 per transaction (varies by currency and location)

• Balance Inquiry Charges: USD 0.50 per inquiry

• Cross-Currency Markup: 3.5% for transactions in non-loaded currencies

4. Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Forex Card

The Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Forex Card Supports 9 Major Currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, AED, AUD, CAD, SGD, CHF, and JPY, on a single card. Accepted at over 35 million merchant establishments and ATMs worldwide. While travelling, reload your card online through Thomas Cook’s website or mobile app.

• Issuance Fee: ₹150 + GST (one-time fee)

• Reload Fee: ₹100 per reload

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: USD 2 per transaction (varies based on currency and location)

• Cross-Currency Markup: 3.5% for transactions not matching the loaded currencies

5. Niyo Global Forex Card

The Niyo Global Forex Card is a modern, user-friendly travel solution for international travellers seeking convenience, security, and cost-effectiveness. You can spend in any currency without additional charges or hidden fees, making it ideal for budget-conscious travellers.

• Issuance Fee: Free

• ATM Withdrawal Charges: The first five withdrawals are free; subsequent withdrawals may incur nominal fees.

• Supported Currencies: 150+ currencies (works as a global debit card).

• Maximum Daily Limit: ₹5,00,000 or equivalent.

• Markup Fees: None (0%).

• Exchange Rates: Real-time interbank rates with no hidden charges.

6. BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card

The BookMyForex Multi-Currency Forex Card is a budget-friendly option for international travellers, allowing you to load up to 14 currencies and use it seamlessly across 150+ countries. A key highlight of this card is the ability to load foreign currency at exact interbank rates, making it one of the best forex cards in India for Azerbaijan and helping you save significantly on conversion costs.

• Issuance Fee: ₹0 (Free)

• Reload Fee: ₹0 (No charges for reloading)

• Refund Fee: ₹0 (Free refund processing)

• Cross-Currency Fee: 3.5% of the transaction value

• Inactivity Fee: ₹0 (No penalty for card inactivity)

• Cash Disbursement Fee: 2% of the transaction amount

• Replacement Card Fee (Within India): ₹250

• Replacement Card Fee (Outside India): ₹3,000

7. HDFC Regalia ForexPlus Card

The HDFC Bank Regalia ForexPlus Card is a premium single-currency forex card tailored for international travellers, offering exceptional convenience and cost-saving benefits. Loaded in USD allows you to transact in any global currency without incurring cross-currency conversion fees, even when the transaction currency differs from the loaded currency.

• Issuance Fee: ₹1,000 + applicable GST

• Reload Fee: ₹75 + applicable GST per reload

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: USD 4.00 per transaction

• Balance Inquiry Fee: USD 0.50 per inquiry

• Cross-Currency Markup Charges: Zero markup for transactions in currencies other than USD

• Card Replacement Fee: ₹100 + applicable GST

• Backup Card Fee: ₹100 + applicable GST

Key Factors in Choosing the Best Forex Card

The right Forex card is crucial for a smooth and cost-effective international trip. Here are the key factors to consider while choosing the best Forex card for Azerbaijan:

• Exchange Rates: Look for Forex cards that offer competitive and real-time exchange rates. Cards like the AtlysX Multi-Currency Card or BookMyForex Card provide rates closer to interbank rates, helping you save money.

• Zero or Low Fees: Check for hidden charges, including issuance, reload, refund, or inactivity fees. Opt for cards with zero or minimal fees, such as the Niyo Global Forex Card or the BookMyForex Card.

• Cross-Currency Markup Charges: Cards with zero markup fees allow you to spend in USD, which is the best currency to carry for Azerbaijan, without additional costs. Cards like AtlysX and Niyo Global excel in this category.

• Multi-Currency Support: If you’re travelling to multiple destinations, choose a Forex card that supports multiple currencies. Cards like Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card and Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card allow you to load multiple currencies on a single card.

• Ease of Reload: Opt for cards that can be reloaded instantly online or through a mobile app, ensuring uninterrupted usage during your travels.

• Global Acceptance: Ensure your Forex card is accepted at international ATMs, POS machines, and online transactions worldwide. Mastercard or Visa-backed cards are ideal.

• Customer Support: Access to 24/7 customer support and emergency services like card replacement or cash delivery can make all the difference in times of need.

Benefits of Using a Forex Card in Azerbaijan

Using a Forex card offers several advantages over cash or credit cards when travelling in Azerbaijan:

• Cost-Effective: Forex cards save you money by offering better exchange rates than cash or credit cards.

• Enhanced Security: Forex cards are safer than carrying large amounts of cash. Features like EMV chips, PIN protection, and real-time card lock/unlock ensure secure transactions.

• Ease of Use: Widely accepted at ATMs, POS terminals, and online platforms across Azerbaijan, especially when loaded with USD.

• Multi-Currency Support: If you're travelling beyond Azerbaijan, multi-currency Forex cards allow seamless spending in other currencies, eliminating the need for multiple cards or cash exchanges.

Conclusion

Managing your finances efficiently is essential for a smooth and stress-free trip to Azerbaijan, whether exploring Baku's vibrant streets or the serene Caspian coastline. While the Azerbaijani Manat (AZN) is the official currency, carrying US Dollars (USD) and using a Forex card ensures convenience, cost savings, and security. Choosing the right Forex card ensures you avoid hefty exchange charges, enjoy seamless transactions, and focus on creating unforgettable memories in Azerbaijan. With one of these top Forex cards in your pocket, you're all set for a worry-free and budget-friendly adventure!