What are the HDFC Bank charges for international transactions?

HDFC Bank typically charges a markup fee of 3.5% on foreign currency transactions for credit cards, along with an 18% GST on the markup. Debit card foreign transaction fees vary but usually range from 2.5% to 3.5%. Other charges may apply depending on the transaction type.

Does HDFC charge for international online payments?

Yes, HDFC charges a foreign currency markup fee on international online payments made using credit or debit cards. The exact percentage depends on the type of card you use.

How much is the forex markup fee on HDFC credit cards?

Most HDFC credit cards have a 3.5% forex markup fee, plus 18% GST on the markup amount, making the effective charge slightly higher. However, premium cards may have lower rates.

Are there any additional charges for international transactions apart from the markup fee?

Yes, apart from the forex markup fee, HDFC may charge cash withdrawal fees (for ATM withdrawals), cross-border transaction fees, and interest (if applicable). For wire transfers, SWIFT charges and intermediary bank fees may also apply.

How can I reduce HDFC international transaction fees?

To minimize costs, you can: Use low-forex-markup HDFC cards like the Infinia or Regalia. Opt for multi-currency forex cards instead of regular debit/credit cards. Choose services with better exchange rates for international transfers. For a detailed comparison of cost-saving methods, check out our full blog!

Does HDFC charge for international ATM withdrawals?

Yes, HDFC charges a cash withdrawal fee of around $2 to $4 per transaction for international ATMs, plus forex conversion fees. The ATM operator may also impose an additional fee.

What are HDFC’s wire transfer charges for sending money abroad?

HDFC's wire transfer (SWIFT) charges depend on the amount and destination. Generally, fees range from ₹500 to ₹2,000, along with forex conversion rates and intermediary bank charges. To see a detailed breakdown, visit our blog.

Is there a way to avoid HDFC’s foreign transaction fees?

You can avoid or reduce foreign transaction fees by: Using an HDFC forex card. Choosing international-friendly cards with zero forex markup. Opting for alternative remittance platforms with lower rates. Want to know the best alternatives? Read our full blog!

How can I check my HDFC foreign transaction charges?

You can check charges in your monthly statement, via the HDFC net banking portal, or by contacting customer support. The forex markup will be listed separately.

Which HDFC credit card has the lowest forex markup fees?

Premium HDFC credit cards like Infinia and Regalia offer a lower forex markup fee (2%) compared to standard cards (3.5%).

How much does HDFC charge for international transactions?

HDFC charges ₹500 for transfers up to USD 500 and ₹1,000 for amounts above that, plus 18% GST. There’s also an exchange rate markup of 2–3.5%.

What is HDFC's international transfer time?

Typically 2–3 working days, depending on when the transfer request is made and the destination country.

Does HDFC charge for inward remittance?

No, but intermediary bank fees and exchange rate markup will reduce the final credited amount.

What is the HDFC INR to USD conversion charge?

HDFC applies a markup on the mid-market rate, typically around 2–3.5%, which effectively reduces the value you receive.

What is the HDFC Bank inward remittance exchange rate today?

You can check the latest inward remittance rate on HDFC’s official forex portal.

Category – Finance

HDFC Charges for International Transactions: (2025) – Full Fee Breakdown + Alternatives

Updated On:

Mar 25, 2025

Karthik

HDFC charges for international transactions can often be confusing and filled with hidden costs. Whether you’re sending money abroad, receiving funds from overseas, or shopping online in foreign currencies, understanding how much HDFC actually charges is key to saving money and avoiding unpleasant surprises.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down all the important aspects of HDFC’s international transaction fees, including outward and inward remittance costs, conversion charges, exchange rate markups, and a detailed comparison with HOP Remit by moneyHOP, a more transparent alternative.

Receiving International Payments in HDFC Bank

Receiving money into your HDFC account is fairly straightforward. However, while HDFC does not charge direct fees for receiving money from abroad, there are indirect charges you must consider:

Charges to Be Aware of:

Intermediary Bank Fees: These are third-party fees deducted before the money reaches your account. They’re not controlled by HDFC but affect the final amount received.

Exchange Rate Markup: HDFC usually applies a 2–3.5% markup on the exchange rate offered. This “hidden cost” can reduce the value of the amount you receive.

Processing Time: Typically 2–3 working days, depending on the country of origin and intermediary banks involved.

Example: If someone sends you $1,000 and the mid-market rate is 1 USD = ₹85.73, but HDFC offers 1 USD = ₹83.16, you lose ₹2,570 just in the exchange rate difference.

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Sending Money Abroad: HDFC Outward Remittance Charges

HDFC Bank facilitates international transfers under RBI’s Liberalized Remittance Scheme (LRS). Here’s the current fee structure:

HDFC Outward Transfer Charges:

Transaction Amount	Flat Fee (INR)	GST (18%)	Total Cost (Excl. Markup)
Up to USD 500	₹500	₹90	₹590
Above USD 500	₹1,000	₹180	₹1,180

Additional 3.5% markup is applied to the exchange rate for foreign currency transactions (like transfers or card usage).

Want to know how much TCS is applied to foreign remittances? Here’s a detailed look at TCS on international money transfers.

Transfer Time:

2-3 working days if the request is made before 2:30 PM on a business day.

Transfers made post-cutoff are processed the next working day.

For a detailed look at the HDFC transfer timeline, step-by-step process, and how to track your SWIFT payment, visit our Ultimate Guide to Sending Money Abroad with HDFC.

HDFC Foreign Exchange Services: Complete Charges Table

HDFC offers several forex services, including:

Outward & inward remittances

Forex card loads

Currency cheque collections

Detailed Charges:

Service	Fees
Remittance Outward (≤ USD 500)	₹500 + GST
Remittance Outward (> USD 500)	₹1,000 + GST
Remittance Inward	No charge (intermediary fees may apply)
FCY Demand Draft Issuance	₹200–₹500 + taxes (based on amount)
FCY Cheque Collection	0.25% of value (min ₹250) + ₹50 courier
FCY Cheque Return (Cash Letter)	₹100 per cheque
FCY Cheque Return (Final Credit)	₹250 per cheque
USD Cheque	$10 per cheque
FIRC Issuance	₹200 per FIRC

In addition to the standard fees, HDFC also applies a Goods and Services Tax (GST) on the commission for currency exchanges. Below is the GST rate structure:

Amount of Currency Exchanged (ACE)	GST Rates	Minimum GST	Maximum GST
Up to ₹1 lakh	0.18% of ACE	₹45	₹180
Between ₹1 lakh and up to ₹10 lakh	₹180 + 0.09% of ACE	₹180	₹990
Above ₹10 lakh	₹990 + 0.018% of ACE	₹990	₹10,800

The Hidden Cost: HDFC’s Exchange Rate Markup

While HDFC’s flat fees may appear manageable, the real cost often lies in the exchange rate markup.

Let’s compare:

Mid-market rate: 1 USD = ₹85.73

HDFC’s rate: 1 USD = ₹83.16 (approx. 3% markup)

Loss on $1,000: ₹2,570

Multiply that across multiple transfers, and the impact becomes significant.

Looking to compare with other banks? See how ICICI Bank charges for international transactions.

HOP Remit by moneyHOP: A Smarter, Transparent Alternative

If you’re tired of hidden charges and want a faster, cheaper, and more transparent international transfer experience, HOP Remit offers a strong alternative.

Feature	HDFC Bank	HOP Remit
Exchange Rate Markup	2–3.5%	Near-zero
Transfer Fees	₹500–₹1,000 + GST	Transparent, often lower
Processing Time	2–4 days	Within 24–48 hours
Transparency	Low (hidden charges)	High (no surprises)

Bonus: HOP Remit by moneyHOP uses real-time mid-market rates, which ensures maximum value for your money.

Why pay more for international money transfers when moneyHOP is here?

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Conclusion: Don’t Let Hidden Fees Drain Your Money

HDFC Bank is undoubtedly a reliable choice for international transactions, but reliability should not come at the cost of transparency. With hidden charges like inflated exchange rate markups and third-party deductions, you could be losing thousands without even realizing it.

If you are someone who values clarity, lower fees, and faster transfers, it is time to make a smarter choice.

Switch to HOP Remit by moneyHOP, a modern alternative designed to help you send money abroad with real exchange rates, minimal fees, and complete transparency.

Why pay more when you can send smarter?