Best Zero Forex Markup Credit Cards in India (2025 Comparison)

When you often make international payments, or travel frequently abroad, on the payoff of the credit cards you might have to incur quite a number of expenses in adding forex markup fees. This is where zero forex markup credit cards enter because these cards will enable you to save 3-3.5 percent which is normally imposed by the standard cards.

The comparison of the best zero forex markup credit cards in India in 2025 and their features, annual fee, and which one is ideal to use is presented below.

What is Forex Markup Fee on Credit Cards?

Forex markup fee is an extra amount charged by banks or issuers of the card to foreign transaction of money. It is imposed between 1 to 3.5 %and it is imposed in addition to the normal currency conversion fee.

Take the case of spending $1,000 abroad, a 3.5% forex markup will cost you an extra ₹2,900 – ₹3,000.

Understanding the "Forex Markup Fee" (And Why "Zero" is Better)

Before we move into the best cards, what is a forex markup fee? Let us give a quick summary. When you transact with a normal credit or a debit card in a foreign currency, your bank does not charge you the exact mid-market ( interbank ) exchange rate. Rather, they take a percentage CA or more on top of this rate and this is their profit. This practically raises the cost of your foreign purchase to a point where it does not have to be.

A zero forex markup credit card will get rid of this supplementary percentage charge. This implies that your purchases are using the current exchange rate on Visa or Mastercard and as such, it is very near to interbank rate hence attracting substantial savings particularly on high or frequent international purchases.

Benefits of Zero Forex Markup Credit Cards

✅ Save up to 3.5% on every international transaction ✅ Ideal for frequent travellers, freelancers, exporters, importers, and students abroad ✅ Offers seamless payments without worrying about hidden fees ✅ Often come with additional travel benefits

Top 3 Zero Forex Markup Credit Cards in India – 2025

⭐ 1. Niyo Global SBM Card

Key Features:

• Forex Markup Fee: 0%
• Annual Fee: ₹0
• Type: Prepaid VISA card linked to SBM account
• Benefits: Free airport lounge access, real-time currency conversion, in-app card management
• Best For: Students, freelancers, and business travellers seeking hassle-free forex spending.

⭐ 2. RBL World Safari Credit Card

Key Features:

• Forex Markup Fee: 0%
• Annual Fee: ₹3,000 + GST (with joining benefits worth ₹3,000)
• Benefits: Complimentary lounge access, travel insurance worth ₹50 lakh, free MakeMyTrip travel voucher
• Best For: Frequent international travellers looking for both forex savings and travel perks.

⭐ 3. Axis Bank Burgundy Private Credit Card

Key Features:

• Forex Markup Fee: 0%
• Annual Fee: By invitation only (High NRV customers)
• Benefits: Unlimited global lounge access, luxury concierge, Taj Epicure membership, premium forex rates
• Best For: Ultra-HNIs seeking elite lifestyle privileges and zero forex charges.

Comparison Table: Zero Forex Markup Credit Cards

How to Choose the Right Zero Forex Markup Card?

✅ Check annual fees and assess if benefits outweigh costs ✅ Review additional travel benefits like lounge access and insurance ✅ Confirm acceptance abroad (Visa/Mastercard) ✅ Evaluate forex conversion rates as some banks add hidden spreads

Conclusion

Using zero forex markup credit cards can save you thousands annually on foreign transactions. Choose a card based on your travel frequency, benefits needed, and annual fees to optimise your global spending in 2025.

FAQs: Zero Forex Markup Credit Cards

1. What is forex markup fee on credit cards?

It is a 1%-3.5% fee charged by banks for processing international currency transactions.

2. Which credit card has the lowest forex markup fee?

Cards like Niyo Global SBM, IDFC FIRST Wealth, and RBL World Safari offer 0% forex markup fees.

3. Is zero forex markup card completely free?

While markup is 0%, some cards charge annual fees. Always check fee structures.

4. Does zero forex markup mean no currency conversion cost?

No. Conversion at interbank rates or card network rates still applies, but no extra markup is added.

5. Are forex cards better than zero markup credit cards?

Forex cards lock rates at loading; zero markup cards offer flexibility but convert at live rates.

6. Can I use zero forex markup credit cards for international online payments?

Yes, they are ideal for international e-commerce transactions and subscriptions.

7. Is Niyo Global card a credit card?

No, it is a prepaid forex card linked to a savings account with 0% markup.

8. How can I avoid forex markup fees on credit cards?

Opt for zero forex markup cards or use multi-currency forex cards for planned spends abroad.

9. Do zero forex markup cards have limits on spending?

Standard credit limits apply based on your income and bank policies.

10. Which is the best zero forex markup credit card for students?

Niyo Global SBM Card is highly recommended due to ₹0 annual fees and ease of use.