Forex and currency exchange

We arrange foreign exchange through RBI-authorised dealers and full-fledged money changers, not unlicensed exchangers. You get a written rate before you pay, and currency or a loaded card delivered before your trip.

Cash or forex card?

Most travellers carry both:

A multi-currency card can hold several currencies at once, which suits trips such as Singapore and Malaysia or a Europe tour that ends in London. Our guide Money abroad: forex cards, credit cards and cash for Indian travellers and the blog post Forex cards or credit cards? A quick guide for your next trip go into more detail.

Limits and rules worth knowing

Rules can change, so we confirm the current position when you order. At the time of writing:

• Resident Indians can spend abroad within the Liberalised Remittance Scheme limit of USD 250,000 per financial year.
• Foreign currency cash for a trip is generally limited to the equivalent of USD 3,000; the rest should be on a card or other instrument.
• You must declare foreign currency on arrival in India if cash exceeds USD 5,000, or cash plus other instruments exceed USD 10,000.
• Indian residents can take up to 25,000 Indian rupees in cash out of the country.
• TCS (Tax Collected at Source) may apply to forex purchases and overseas tour packages above set thresholds. It is credited to your PAN and can be claimed against your income tax. See TCS on foreign tour packages explained in plain words.

Tips for a better rate

• Order a few days ahead rather than at the airport, where rates are usually worse.
• Avoid paying in rupees when a card machine abroad offers "dynamic currency conversion"; choose the local currency.
• Carry some small notes for the first taxi and tips on arrival.