Forex Cards for Philippines

Best Forex Cards for the Philippines (Reviewed)

Written By
Jyoti Bhatt
Last Updated
Jan 07, 2025
Read
7 min

Travelling to the Philippines is exciting, offering stunning beaches, vibrant culture, and delightful cuisine. The currency of the Philippines, the Philippine Peso (PHP), is integral to a seamless travel experience. However, acquiring PHP in India can be challenging due to limited availability and fluctuating exchange rates. This is where forex cards prove to be a lifesaver. While PHP may not be directly loaded onto most forex cards, travellers can use widely accepted currencies like USD for transactions and withdrawals in the Philippines.

Forex cards are safer and more convenient than carrying cash, enabling you to avoid hefty conversion charges at airports or local exchange offices. They allow you to lock in exchange rates when loading, protecting you from market fluctuations. This blog will guide you in choosing the best forex card for the Philippines, ensuring your travel is stress-free and financially efficient.


Atlys is your partner for fast and dependable Philippine e-visa service, which is delivered on time.

What are the best forex cards for the Philippines in India?

  1. AtlysX Global Forex Card

  2. HDFC Bank Multicurrency Forex Card

  3. State Bank Foreign Travel Card

  4. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

  5. ICICI Bank Travel Card

  6. Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card

  7. Yes Bank Multi-Currency Travel Card

AtlysX Global Forex Card

The AtlysX Global Forex Card is a top-tier travel card designed for ease and cost-efficiency. With no issuance fees and zero markup fees on the first load, it significantly saves travellers. Real-time exchange rates and instant reloading through a mobile app make it a seamless choice for globetrotters. It’s especially versatile, supporting all currencies without cross-currency charges, ensuring worry-free spending abroad.

  • Issuance Fee: Free (for Atlys customers only).

  • ATM Withdrawal Charges: USD 3 per transaction.

  • Supported Currencies: All currencies (USD loaded, spend in any currency with no additional charges).

  • Markup Fees: Zero fees.

  • Exchange Rates: Real-time rates for transparent transactions.

HDFC Bank Multicurrency Forex Card

The HDFC Bank Multicurrency Forex Card is a dependable option for international travellers. It supports 22 currencies, including USD, making it ideal for trips to the Philippines, where USD is widely accepted.

  • Currencies Supported: 22 currencies, including USD, GBP, and EUR.

  • ATM Withdrawals: Global withdrawals are available, and fees are applicable.

  • Daily Limit: Up to USD 5,000.

  • Markup Fee: None for preloaded currencies.

  • Application Fee: ₹500 + GST (waived on loading USD 1,000 or equivalent).

  • Reload Fee: ₹75 + GST.

  • Exchange Rate: Locked at loading.

  • Customer Support: 24/7 global assistance.

State Bank Foreign Travel Card

The State Bank Foreign Travel Card (SBFTC) is a prepaid foreign currency card designed to make international travel convenient and secure. It is an EMV-compliant chip-based card that stores encrypted and confidential information, ensuring safe transactions worldwide.

  • Currencies Supported: 9 currencies, including USD, EUR, and AUD.

  • ATM Withdrawals: These are available globally with applicable fees.

  • Daily Limit: Up to USD 10,000.

  • Markup Fee: None for preloaded currencies.

  • Application Fee: ₹100 + GST.

  • Reload Fee: ₹50 + GST.

  • Exchange Rate: Fixed at the time of loading.

  • Customer Support: 24/7 helpline available.

Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

The Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card is perfect for frequent travellers, offering support for 16 currencies, including USD. Its user-friendly features ensure a stress-free travel experience.

  • Currencies Supported: 16 currencies, including USD, EUR, and SGD.

  • ATM Withdrawals: Global accessibility; fees vary.

  • Daily Limit: Up to USD 10,000.

  • Markup Fee: None for preloaded currencies.

  • Application Fee: ₹300 + GST.

  • Reload Fee: ₹100 + GST.

  • Exchange Rate: Locked in advance.

  • Customer Support: 24/7 support via helpline and email.

ICICI Bank Travel Card

ICICI Bank Travel Card is a trusted name for seamless international payments. It supports multiple currencies and provides robust customer service, making it a preferred choice for travellers.

  • Currencies Supported: 15 currencies, including USD, GBP, and CAD.

  • ATM Withdrawals: Accessible globally with reasonable fees.

  • Daily Limit: Up to USD 10,000.

  • Markup Fee: None for preloaded currencies.

  • Application Fee: ₹150 + GST.

  • Reload Fee: ₹100 + GST.

  • Exchange Rate: Locked at loading.

  • Customer Support: Dedicated 24/7 helpline.

Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card

The Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card is designed for hassle-free international travel. SuIt supports multiple currencies and is ideal for trips to the Philippines and beyond.

  • Currencies Supported: 9 currencies, including USD, GBP, and EUR.

  • ATM Withdrawals: Fee-based global access.

  • Daily Limit: Up to USD 10,000.

  • Markup Fee: None for preloaded currencies.

  • Application Fee: ₹150 + GST.

  • Reload Fee: ₹100 + GST.

  • Exchange Rate: Fixed at the time of loading.

  • Customer Support: 24/7 worldwide assistance.

Yes Bank Multi-Currency Travel Card

The Yes Bank Multi-Currency Travel Card is a modern solution for global travellers. It supports 15 currencies and ensures seamless transactions during your journey.

  • Currencies Supported: 15 currencies, including USD, EUR, and CAD.

  • ATM Withdrawals: Global access with nominal fees.

  • Daily Limit: Up to USD 10,000.

  • Markup Fee: None for preloaded currencies.

  • Application Fee: ₹125 + GST.

  • Reload Fee: ₹75 + GST.

  • Exchange Rate: Locked at loading.

  • Customer Support: 24/7 support for queries and emergencies.

How do you choose the best Forex card in India for the Philippines?

  1. Currency Support: Ensure the card supports USD or PHP for convenient transactions.

  2. ATM Access Fees: Check withdrawal fees to minimise costs during your trip.

  3. Exchange Rate Lock-in: Opt for a card that locks in exchange rates to avoid fluctuations.

  4. Customer Support: Look for 24/7 assistance in case of emergencies.

  5. Reloading Options: Ensure easy reloading online or through mobile apps.

  6. Additional Fees: Compare application, reload, and markup fees across options.

What are the benefits of using a Forex card in the Philippines?

  1. Safety: Reduces the risk of theft compared to carrying cash.

  2. Cost-Effective: Avoids excessive currency conversion charges.

  3. Convenience: Facilitates cashless transactions and ATM withdrawals.

  4. Fixed Exchange Rates: Protects against currency fluctuations.

  5. Global Usage: Accepted at ATMs and merchant outlets worldwide.

  6. 24/7 Support: Access to emergency assistance for card-related issues.

Conclusion

Choosing the best forex card for the Philippines depends on your travel needs and budget. Each card listed above offers unique features to ensure a hassle-free trip. Comparing currencies supported, fees, and customer support can help you select the most suitable option. Remember, a Forex card saves you money and adds security and convenience to your travel experience.


How do I check my Forex card balance?


You can check your Forex card balance online, through mobile apps, or by contacting customer support.

What fees are associated with Forex cards?

Forex cards may include application fees, reload fees, ATM withdrawal fees, and markup fees for unsupported currencies.

Can I use my Forex card for online transactions?

Yes, forex cards can be used for online purchases in supported currencies.

What happens if my Forex card is lost or stolen?

Contact the card issuer’s 24/7 customer support to block the card and request a replacement.

Is the exchange rate fixed for Forex cards?

Yes, exchange rates are locked at the time of loading the card.