With its breathtaking landscapes, alpine adventures, and luxurious lifestyle, Switzerland is a dream destination for travellers. The official currency of Switzerland is the Swiss Franc (CHF), which you'll need for everything from sipping hot chocolate in Zurich to exploring the scenic trails of Interlaken. While carrying cash might seem convenient, it's risky, costly due to unfavourable exchange rates, and less secure.

Securing a Switzerland visa appointment can be challenging, but with Atlys, the process becomes quick and effortless!

Forex cards are the ultimate solution for Indian travellers heading to Switzerland. These prepaid cards allow you to load CHF and other currencies, ensuring seamless transactions without the hassle of carrying large amounts of cash or dealing with fluctuating exchange rates. Whether shopping in Geneva, dining in Lucerne, or skiing in the Alps, a good forex card makes your Swiss adventure worry-free.

This blog has compiled the best forex cards available in India for a Switzerland trip. This list will help you find the perfect card, from low fees to excellent currency support.

What Are the Best Forex Cards for a Switzerland Trip from India?

Here’s a list of the top 7 forex cards you can consider for your Switzerland journey:

1. AtlysX Multi-Currency Card

2. Niyo Global Card

3. Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card

4. HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card

5. Orient Exchange Forex Card

6. Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

7. ICICI Bank Travel Card

AtlysX Multi-Currency Card 

The AtlysX Multi-Currency Card is the ideal financial companion for your trip to Switzerland, offering support for 14 currencies with exceptional benefits. Enjoy zero issuance fees, making the card free with no upfront costs. Add funds at real exchange rates with no markup on your first load, and spend in Swiss Francs (CHF) or other supported currencies without base currency fees.

• Currencies Supported: 14 currencies, including Swiss Francs (CHF).

• Issuance Fee: Completely free for all Atlys customers.

• Cross-Currency Charges: None—spend in supported currencies without additional fees.

• Markup: Zero on the first load; only 2% on subsequent reloads.

• ATM Withdrawals: Withdraw up to $1,000 daily (or equivalent) from ATMs.

• Validity: It is usable for 5 years, making it a reliable choice for frequent travellers.

Niyo Global Card

The Niyo Global Card is perfect for tech-savvy travellers prioritising ease of use and low fees. Its app offers real-time tracking, reloading, and expense management.

• Currencies Supported: Spend seamlessly in Swiss Francs (CHF) and 130+ other currencies.

• Zero Issuance Fee: Free to obtain with an initial funding of ₹5,000 (usable post-activation).

• No Markup Fees: Enjoy transactions without extra forex charges.

• High Spending Limits: Transact up to ₹7.5 lakhs per swipe or online purchase.

• ATM Withdrawals: Withdraw up to ₹1 lakh per transaction; ₹100 + GST applies per international withdrawal.

• Extended Validity: Valid for 5 years, ideal for multiple trips to Switzerland and beyond.

Thomas Cook Borderless Prepaid Card

Thomas Cook’s Borderless Prepaid Card supports multiple currencies, making it an excellent choice for Swiss travellers exploring other European destinations.

• Currencies Supported: 9 currencies, including CHF.

• Global Acceptance: Use at over 35 million merchants and 2 million ATMs worldwide.

• Enhanced Security: Chip and PIN protection with real-time SMS and email alerts.

• Easy Reload: Reload online through Thomas Cook's platform.

• Insurance Coverage: Up to USD 10,000 against fraudulent activities.

• Contactless Payments: Supports Tap N Pay for quick transactions.

• Online Account Management: Monitor balance and statements and manage the card online.

• Emergency Assistance: Free emergency cash and card replacement services.

HDFC Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Card

The HDFC Bank Multicurrency Platinum ForexPlus Chip Card is a versatile travel companion, enabling seamless transactions across multiple countries. It supports up to 22 currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CAD, SGD, AED, JPY, and more, allowing you to load and manage multiple currencies on a single card. 

• Multi-Currency Support: Load up to 22 currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, and more.

• Global Acceptance: Use worldwide at merchants and ATMs.

• Insurance Coverage: Includes fraud, accident, and baggage loss protection.

• Emergency Assistance: Free cash and card replacement services.

• No Cross-Currency Fees: Spend without forex fees in loaded currencies.

• Fees: ₹500 issuance, $2 ATM withdrawal, 2% cross-currency markup, ₹75 reload fee.

Orient Exchange Forex Card

The Orient Exchange Forex Card is a straightforward, cost-effective option for Indian travellers heading to Switzerland.

• Currencies Supported: Load up to 14 currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, and AUD.

• Zero Issuance Fee: Obtain the card without any issuance charges.

• No Markup Fees: Load foreign currency at interbank rates without extra costs.

• ATM Withdrawals: Access cash at ATMs worldwide with minimal fees.

• POS Transactions: Free swipes at all point-of-sale terminals.

• Reload Fee: Reload remotely at no additional cost.
  

Axis Bank Multi-Currency Forex Card

Axis Bank’s Multi-Currency Forex Card is widely accepted and offers flexibility with competitive exchange rates for CHF transactions.

• Currencies Supported: Load up to 16 currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, and AUD.

• Contactless Payments: Use Visa payWave for quick, secure transactions.

• Locked-In Rates: Fixed exchange rates protect against currency fluctuations.

• Global Acceptance: Accepted at merchants and ATMs worldwide.

• Account Management: Monitor and manage your card online.

• Emergency Assistance: 24x7 TripAssist for card loss or travel emergencies.

• Insurance Coverage: Includes protection against card loss, ATM assault, and robbery.

• Fees: ₹300 issuance, ₹100 reload, $2.25 ATM withdrawal, and 3.5% cross-currency fee.

ICICI Bank Travel Card

ICICI Bank offers a range of Forex Prepaid Cards designed to provide a secure and convenient way to carry foreign currency while travelling abroad. These cards allow you to load multiple currencies onto a single card, facilitating seamless transactions across different countries without needing multiple cards or cash exchanges. 

• Currencies Supported: Load up to 15 currencies, including USD, EUR, GBP, and AUD.

• Travel Insurance: Coverage for lost travel documents, baggage delay, and card misuse.

• Transaction Fee: No charges for POS or online transactions in loaded currencies.

• Cross-Currency Fee: 3.5% + GST for non-loaded currency transactions.

• ATM Withdrawal Fee: Charges apply; refer to the schedule of charges.

• Reload Fee: Nominal fee for adding funds.

• Card Variants: Multi-Currency, Coral, Sapphiro, and Student Forex Cards.

How to Choose the Best Forex Card for Switzerland?

Here are some key factors to consider when choosing the best forex card for Switzerland:

1. Currency Support: Ensure CHF is supported to avoid conversion fees.

2. Locked Exchange Rate: Opt for a card that locks rates when you load it.

3. Fees: Look for cards with low or no markup fees and minimal ATM withdrawal charges.

4. Reload Options: Choose a card that allows easy online reloads.

5. Customer Support: Ensure the card provider offers 24/7 assistance for emergencies.

Benefits of Using a Forex Card in Switzerland

1. Cost-Effective: Lower transaction fees compared to credit or debit cards.

2. Exchange Rate Lock-In: Shields you from currency fluctuations during your trip.

3. Security: Reduces the risk of theft or loss associated with carrying cash.

4. Wide Acceptance: Usable at most ATMs, hotels, and shops in Switzerland.

5. Multi-Currency Use: Perfect for visiting neighbouring European countries.

Conclusion

Switzerland's allure, from its majestic Alps to its luxurious cities, makes it a must-visit destination. To enhance your experience, a reliable Forex card ensures financial convenience, cost-effectiveness, and security. With options like the AtlysX Multi-Currency Card, Niyo Global Card, and others, Indian travellers can enjoy seamless Swiss Francs (CHF) transactions and beyond. Choose the best Forex card for your journey to Switzerland, considering fees, ease of reloads, and comprehensive features, and make your trip hassle-free.