A debit card is a key cornerstone of today’s increasingly digital world of payments. A good debit card offers easy account management through mobile apps and online banking, facilitating better control over your finances from anywhere in the world. If you are an NRI, choosing the right debit card will help you enjoy seamless transactions and effective finance management. Rewards, benefits, global acceptance, robust security features, convenience, and card charges are the key factors to consider when choosing the right debit card for use.

Five best NRI debit cards​

You can avail debit card services on both your NRE (Non-resident External) as well as NRO (Non-resident Ordinary) accounts to utilize your funds as per your need. It is important to compare the features, benefits, and costs (fees and charges) associated with the card.

Here are the top five NRI debit cards offered by various banks in India.

NRI Debit Card

Features

ICICI Bank NRI Platinum Debit Card (VISA)

  • Daily cash withdrawal limits up to INR 1 lakh and purchase limit up to INR 2 lakhs

  • Exciting rewards and discounts on shopping, dining, hotels, lifestyle, and travel

  • Fuel surcharge waiver (in India)

  • Global access in over 200 plus countries

  • Global customer assistance services

  • Zero lost card liability if reported within 15 days

YES Prosperity Platinum NFC Debit Card (MasterCard)

  • Daily cash withdrawal limits up to INR 1 lakh and purchase limit up to INR 2 lakhs

  • Worldwide access to over 1.5 million ATMs

  • Secure contactless payment with the usage of state-of-the-art chip in card

  • Domestic lounge access

  • Exclusive discounts on dining, travel, shopping, movies and more

  • Comprehensive insurance coverage

Axis Bank Platinum Chip Debit Card (VISA)

  • Daily cash withdrawal limits up to INR 40,000 and purchase limit up to INR 2 lakhs

  • Discounts on dining

  • Personal accident insurance cover up to INR 2 lakhs

  • Emergency assistance

IndusInd Bank Visa Signature Debit Card

  • Lost card liability up to INR 3 lakhs

  • Air accident insurance up to INR 30 lakhs

  • Personal accident insurance up to INR 2 lakhs

  • Secure contactless payment

  • Purchase protection of INR 50,000

  • Cross currency markup up of 2%

HDFC Bank Easyshop Platinum Debit Card

  • Rewards and cashback on entertainment, shopping, restaurants and more

  • Daily cash withdrawal limits up to INR 1 lakh and purchase limit up to INR 5 lakhs

  • Airport lounge access

  • Comprehensive insurance coverage

  • Fuel surcharge waiver

  • Contactless payment

Note: Debit cards typically have various charges such as annual fees, international cash withdrawal charges, and cross-currency markup. It is vital to consider these costs while comparing the features and benefits of the best NRI debit card for you. Additionally, always look for a card with fraud protection features like EMV chips, 3D secure protection, and 2-factor authentication (2FA) such as One-Time Passwords (OTP), for secure transactions.

How to use your NRI debit card for transactions in India?

NRIs can use their debit card linked to NRE or NRO accounts for various domestic and international transactions to effectively manage everyday expenses. The following are the transactions that you can use an NRI debit card for in India:

  • You can use it to purchase goods and services through various online platforms.
  • You can use it for in-store shopping worldwide, including retail stores, restaurants, grocery stores, and fuel stations.
  • You can use an NRI debit card for ATM cash withdrawals.
  • You can pay utility bills such as electricity, internet, water and gas. Debit cards can also be set up for autopay facility for seamless payments.

Tips for effective management of everyday expenses

Here are a few important tips to manage everyday expenses effectively using a debit card:

  • Keep track of your expenses and debit card spending, and monitor them using a spreadsheet or expense tracking app.
  • Never disclose your debit card PIN to anyone. Ensure to report to the bank immediately if the card gets stolen or lost.
  • Keep markup fees in mind while using your debit card in different locations.
  • Regularly check your account statements for any unauthorised transactions.

Conclusion

NRI debit cards are incredibly useful for seamless online and offline transactions. Choosing a widely accepted NRI debit card across the globe with the highest security features can help you manage your finances effectively. Consider your spending habits and compare debit cards based on their features and fees to choose the right one.