Activate Credit Card for International Use

If you are travelling overseas, chances are that your Credit Card will not be of any use anyway. Surprised? That's because all Credit Cards are, by default, deactivated for international use. So, the first thing you need to do before embarking on a foreign trip is activate international transactions on your credit card!

You can do so easily by enabling international usage service on your credit card. If you hold an HDFC Bank Credit Card, you can activate the card for international use in various ways.

1. MyCards

MyCards is HDFC Bank's one-stop shop for managing your Credit Card. It is a mobile-based service platform where you can log in through your registered mobile number. 

• You can click here to go to MyCards.
• Enter the OTP received on your mobile. Next, enter the last four digits of your credit card and check your 'International Usage.'
• Turn On the button for international usage on the top and tap the "Update" button at the bottom of the page.
• You will need to provide an OTP to authenticate the update.

2. NetBanking

Any existing HDFC Bank customer will be all too familiar with NetBanking. You can also activate your credit card for international use here.

• Go to the NetBanking page and enter your customer ID and password,
• Go to the "Credit Card" section and expand it,
• Choose your credit card appearing in this section,
• Click on the "Customise" button appearing next to the "Limits and Restrictions" section,
• Change "International Usage" from Off to On. • Choose the channel where the confirmation OTP will be sent (phone, email or both),
• Provide the OTP to confirm the update.

3. EVA

You will find EVA, HDFC Bank's digital assistant, on your mobile app as well as the HDFC Bank website.

• Enter your registered mobile number,
• Enter the OTP received on the mobile number,
• EVA will ask for the last four digits of your credit card,
• You will find the options of 'International Transactions,' 'ATM Withdrawal Transactions,' Online E-Commerce Transactions,' 'Merchant Outlet POS Transactions,' and 'Contactless Transactions.'
• Enable these transactions and click on Proceed to confirm the update. 

4. Whatsapp

HDFC Bank is also available on WhatsApp. All you need to do is to open Chat Banking with +91-7070022222 on WhatsApp.

• Enter the last four digits of your credit card number.
• Choose the 'International Limits' option.
• You can enable the channels you want to be active during your overseas stay.
• Choose from 'ATM cash withdrawals,' 'Online (E-commerce),' 'Merchant Outlet (POS),' and 'ContactLess (TAP).'
• You can also enter the desired transaction limit in multiples of ₹1,000,
• Provide the OTP received on your registered mobile number to confirm the update.

5. Mobile Banking

To change your HDFC Bank Credit Card's international usage status, you can also log in to your HDFC Bank Mobile Banking app using your PIN or Touch ID.

• Tap on 'Menu' and select 'Cards' in the 'Pay' option.
• Choose your credit card • Expand the panel by tapping on 'Show More.'
• Tap the "Customise" button next to 'Limits and Restrictions.'
• If your card's 'International Usage' is turned off, you must turn it on.
• Choose SMS, email, or both as the channel to receive the OTP.
• Enter the OTP to authenticate the update.

Keeping international usage off is a standard precautionary measure to ensure the safety of your card usage. This protects your credit card from unauthorised usage by overseas hackers and frauds. This applies to new cardholders or ones who had cards re-issued, renewed or upgraded. As explained above, you can enable international usage at any time in a few simple steps and through any of your preferred mediums.

Looking to apply for a Credit Card? Click here to get started!

Read more here about the mistakes to avoid when swiping your Credit Card abroad.

*Terms and conditions apply. The information provided in this article is generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. Credit Card approvals at the sole discretion of HDFC Bank Limited. Credit Card approvals are subject to documentation and verification per the Bank's requirement. Interest rates are subject to change. Please check with your RM or closest bank branch for current interest rates.