International travel has become more popular than ever, with destinations like Vietnam, Malaysia, and Thailand attracting a growing number of Indian travelers. While many people still rely on currency exchange or forex cards for overseas spending, a zero forex credit card can often be a better option.
Carrying some cash during an international trip is always a good idea, but choosing a forex card over a zero forex credit card that also offers rewards, airport lounge access, and other travel benefits may not always make sense.
Zero forex markup credit cards have been everywhere lately. Whether you’re scrolling through Instagram or X, you’ve probably come across ads promoting them. While the Scapia Credit Card is one of the most popular options and offers zero forex markup, this list focuses only on zero forex credit cards that also reward you for your spends. That means you save on forex charges while continuing to earn reward points or miles on your international transactions.
Some premium credit cards charge a small forex markup but compensate with higher reward rates or travel benefits. While those cards can still offer good value, we have not included them here. This list is dedicated to traditional zero forex credit cards that don’t charge forex markup and also reward you for your international spends.
Our Top 3 Picks for Zero Forex Credit Cards With Rewards
IDFC FIRST WOW! Black Credit Card
The IDFC FIRST WOW! Black Credit Card is one of the most unique additions to this list. Unlike traditional credit cards, it is a secured credit card issued against a fixed deposit, making it an excellent choice for first-time credit card users or anyone looking to build their credit history. Despite being an FD-backed card, it offers features that are usually seen on premium travel cards, including 0% forex markup and rewards on international spends.
While the reward rate isn’t exceptionally high, earning reward points on international transactions is still better than earning nothing at all. The card also comes with welcome benefits worth over ₹5,000, making the ₹750 + GST joining fee easy to justify.
Although the card does not offer international airport lounge access, cardholders can enjoy four complimentary domestic airport lounge visits every year by meeting the spend criteria. Combined with zero forex charges, it is one of the best entry-level travel credit cards available in India today.
BOBCARD Etihad Guest Premium Credit Card
The BOBCARD Etihad Guest Premium Credit Card is one of the newest travel credit cards in India and an excellent choice for frequent Etihad flyers. With 0% forex markup, accelerated Etihad Guest Miles, and rewards on international spends, it helps you save on overseas transactions while earning miles for future travel.
What truly makes this card stand out is the complimentary Etihad Guest Silver and Gold Tier status, benefits that can easily justify the annual fee for those who regularly fly with the airline. Cardholders also get 12 domestic and 8 international airport lounge visits every year without any spend-based conditions, making it one of the few cards to offer such generous lounge access right from the start.
If Etihad is your preferred airline, this card is an easy recommendation. Between the airline status upgrades, zero forex charges, airport lounge access, milestone rewards, and strong welcome bonus, it delivers excellent value for international travelers who want to make the most of every trip.
IDFC First Bank Mayura Credit Card
The IDFC FIRST Mayura Credit Card was once among the most rewarding premium travel credit cards in India, but after multiple devaluations, it has lost much of its appeal. That said, it still earns a place on this list because it continues to offer 0% forex markup, decent rewards on international spends, and an excellent set of travel benefits.
With generous domestic and international airport lounge access, railway lounge visits, golf privileges, and comprehensive travel insurance, the card still packs plenty of premium features. However, the ₹5,999 annual fee means it isn’t a card you should apply for without carefully evaluating whether you’ll actually use these benefits.
While the Mayura can still make sense for frequent travelers who value its lounge access and zero forex charges, it is no longer the clear recommendation it once was. Unless you can justify the annual fee and maximize its travel benefits, there are better-value alternatives available today.
Bottom Line
One thing is clear from this list: the number of credit cards in India that offer both zero forex markup and rewards is still quite limited. Most of the available options are premium or ultra-premium cards with high annual fees and stricter eligibility requirements. However, there are a few standout choices like the IDFC FIRST WOW! Black Credit Card for beginners and the BOBCARD Etihad Guest Premium Credit Card for frequent international travelers that offer excellent overall value.
Ultimately, the best credit card is the one that fits your spending habits and travel needs. Don’t apply for a card simply because it’s popular or offers zero forex charges. Consider the annual fee, reward rate, lounge access, and other benefits to see if you can genuinely recover the cost and make the most of the card.
If you’re still unsure, spend some time doing your own research, compare the available options, and choose a card that aligns with your lifestyle. A little research today can save you thousands on your future international trips.