Hey there! Mani here. When I moved back from SuperMoney in California in 2017, one of the most frustrating things wasn’t the reverse culture shock or finding good Mexican food in Bangalore.
It was getting a decent credit card.
Picture this. I’m back in India after 8 years in the US. I have a stellar credit score of 780 with American Express. Multiple US credit cards with high limits. But in India? I’m essentially starting from scratch.
My first visit to HDFC Bank was humbling. The relationship manager looked at my US credit history like it was written in alien language. “Sir, this is American credit score. Here you need to build Indian credit history.”
Build credit history? I’m 35 years old! I’ve been managing credit for 15 years!
But that’s India for you. Every NRI goes through this. Through my BackToIndia movement, I’ve helped over 4,000 families navigate this exact challenge. The good news? Banks now understand returning NRIs better. There are specific products designed for us.
Let me share everything I’ve learned about getting the right credit card as a returning NRI.
💡 Pro tip: Start your credit card applications before you physically move back. Some banks allow NRIs to apply and get approvals while still abroad.
In this article...
Why Returning NRIs Need Indian Credit Cards 🏦
When I was at Citrix in San Jose, I used my Chase Sapphire for everything. Automatic bill pays, online shopping, travel bookings. Life was simple.
Moving back to India meant losing all that convenience. My US cards worked, but the foreign transaction fees were brutal. Every Indian purchase had a 2.5% markup. Buying groceries became expensive!
But it’s not just about fees. Having an Indian credit card is crucial for several reasons.
Building Local Credit History
Your US credit score means nothing in India. Banks here use their own scoring systems. The sooner you start building Indian credit history, the better.
When we bought our house in Bangalore in 2019, having 2 years of Indian credit card history helped us get a better home loan rate. The bank saw our payment history and offered competitive terms.
Seamless Local Transactions
UPI is everywhere in India now. Street vendors, auto drivers, small shops. But credit cards are still essential for larger purchases, online shopping, and premium services.
My wife tried using her US credit card at a local electronics store. The transaction failed three times. Ended up paying cash like it was 2005.
Avoiding Forex Charges
Every time you use a foreign credit card in India, you pay foreign exchange charges. These add up quickly. I calculated we were losing ₹8,000 per month in unnecessary fees during our first six months back.
Emergency Access to Credit
Medical emergencies, travel disruptions, unexpected expenses. Having instant access to credit in local currency is invaluable.
When my mom had to be hospitalized unexpectedly in 2018, my Indian credit card covered the immediate expenses while we sorted out insurance paperwork.
💡 Reality check: Your American credit history is impressive, but it won’t help you rent an apartment or buy a car in India.
Best Credit Cards for Returning NRIs: Top Picks 🏆
After testing multiple cards over 7 years and getting feedback from thousands of families, here are my top recommendations.
Premium Category Comparison
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Forex Markup | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Infinia | ₹12,500 | 1.99% | High spenders |
| ICICI Sapphiro | ₹3,500 | 3.5% | Frequent travelers |
| Axis Atlas | ₹5,000 | 2% | Miles collectors |
HDFC Infinia has been my primary card since 2019. It’s invite only, but once you qualify, it’s phenomenal. Unlimited airport lounge access, 3.3% reward rate, and excellent customer service.
The catch? You need to spend ₹8 lakhs annually to justify the fee. But if you’re a high spender, nothing beats it.
ICICI Sapphiro was my first Indian premium card. Got it in 2018 when my credit history was minimal. The approval process was smooth, and benefits are solid.
Comes with complimentary movie tickets, lounge access, and decent reward rates. Perfect starter premium card for returning NRIs.
Axis Atlas is relatively new but impressive. Designed for people who want to earn airline miles. Great for families planning frequent travel between India and their previous countries.
Mid Range Category Winners
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Joining Bonus | Key Benefit |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Regalia Gold | ₹2,500 | ₹2,000 voucher | Movie offers |
| SBI Elite | ₹4,999 | Milestone rewards | Travel benefits |
| Kotak Royale Signature | ₹1,999 | Fuel savings | Low forex fees |
HDFC Regalia Gold offers excellent value. The annual fee is reasonable, and benefits are practical. Buy one get one movie tickets, dining discounts, fuel savings.
I got this card for my wife when she was building her credit history. Approval was quick, and she loves the movie benefits.
SBI Elite surprised me with its features. Government bank with premium card benefits. Good reward rate, travel insurance, and milestone bonuses.
The only downside? Customer service can be slow compared to private banks.
Kotak Royale Signature has the lowest forex markup among premium cards. Essential if you still travel internationally frequently.
Entry Level Options
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Eligibility | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Millennia | ₹1,000 | ₹25K income | Cashback |
| ICICI Amazon Pay | Free | NRE/NRO account | Online shopping |
| Axis Neo | ₹500 | Basic income | Zomato benefits |
HDFC Millennia is perfect for returning NRIs with modest spending. 5% cashback on online purchases, 2.5% on offline. Annual fee is waived if you spend ₹1 lakh per year.
My cousin used this as his first Indian credit card. Built good credit history and graduated to Regalia Gold within 18 months.
ICICI Amazon Pay is technically free but requires an ICICI NRE or NRO account. If you’re already banking with ICICI, it’s a no brainer.
Excellent for online shopping, especially Amazon purchases. My friend orders everything through Amazon and earns significant cashback.
Axis Neo offers unique benefits like Zomato Pro membership and dining discounts. Perfect for young professionals who eat out frequently.
💡 Strategy tip: Start with an entry level card, use it responsibly for 12-18 months, then upgrade to premium cards.
Eligibility Criteria: What Banks Really Want 📊
Getting approved for credit cards as a returning NRI involves understanding what banks are looking for. It’s different from both US applications and regular Indian applications.
Basic Requirements
Age: 21 to 65 years for most cards
Income: Varies by card, but typically ₹3-25 lakhs annually
Account: Must have NRE or NRO account with the issuing bank
Documentation: Indian address proof, income proof, PAN card
Income Documentation Challenges
This is where most returning NRIs struggle. Banks want Indian income proof, but you might still be transitioning between jobs.
Acceptable income documents:
- Salary slips from Indian employer
- Bank statements showing regular inflows
- Income tax returns filed in India
- Employment letter with salary details
What doesn’t work:
- US tax returns
- US employer salary statements
- Foreign bank statements
I faced this exact issue in 2017. Had to wait 3 months after joining my Bangalore job to get proper salary slips for credit card applications.
Credit Score Reality
Your US credit score is irrelevant. In India, you start with no credit history. Banks use this fact to either reject applications or offer secured cards.
Ways to establish credit quickly:
- Use secured credit cards initially
- Maintain high bank balances
- Pay all bills on time
- Keep credit utilization low
Banking Relationship Importance
Indian banks heavily weigh your existing relationship. Having a high balance NRE account makes credit card approval much easier.
When I applied for HDFC Infinia, my 2 year banking relationship and ₹15 lakh average balance were key factors. The bank already trusted me based on my account behavior.
Special NRI Considerations
Address proof: Most challenging for new returnees. Banks accept lease agreements, but prefer ownership documents or utility bills in your name.
Employment stability: Banks prefer returnees who have secured Indian employment. Freelancers and consultants face additional scrutiny.
Previous credit history: Some banks are now checking international credit reports, especially for applicants from US, UK, and Canada.
💡 Insider tip: Build a strong relationship with one bank first. High balance, multiple accounts, regular transactions. Then apply for credit cards with that bank.
Application Process: Step by Step Guide 🗺️
After helping thousands of families, I’ve streamlined the application process. Follow these steps for the highest approval chances.
Phase 1: Preparation (1-2 months before applying)
Step 1: Choose your primary bank Pick one bank for your primary relationship. I recommend HDFC, ICICI, or Axis based on your location and needs.
Step 2: Open NRE/NRO accounts Maintain high balances (₹5-10 lakhs minimum). Banks track your account behavior for 3-6 months before offering credit products.
Step 3: Get PAN card and Indian address Essential documentation. PAN card links to credit bureau, enabling credit score tracking.
Step 4: Secure Indian employment Banks prefer salaried employment over freelancing for returning NRIs. Employment letter is crucial documentation.
Phase 2: Documentation (2-3 weeks)
Identity proof:
- Passport with Indian visa/stamp
- PAN card
- Aadhaar card (get it made immediately after returning)
Address proof:
- Lease agreement
- Utility bills in your name
- Bank account statements
- Employer address letter
Income proof:
- Latest 3 salary slips
- Employment letter with salary details
- Bank account statements showing salary credits
- Form 16 (if available)
Phase 3: Application (1 week)
Online application: Most banks allow online applications. Upload clear, high resolution documents.
Physical verification: Banks may visit your address or ask you to visit branch for verification.
Additional documentation: Be prepared for requests for additional documents. Banks are thorough with NRI applications.
Phase 4: Approval and Activation (2-4 weeks)
Credit assessment: Banks check your account relationship, income stability, and any available credit history.
Approval communication: Most banks communicate via SMS and email. Check regularly.
Card delivery: Physical cards are usually delivered within 7-10 days of approval.
Activation: Follow bank instructions for card activation. Set up mobile banking and autopay immediately.
My Personal Application Experience
2017 – HDFC Regalia Gold (First card): Applied 4 months after returning. Required 6 documents, 2 branch visits, and 3 weeks processing. Approved with ₹1.5 lakh limit.
2018 – ICICI Sapphiro: Leveraged existing ICICI NRE account relationship. Online application, minimal documentation, approved in 10 days with ₹3 lakh limit.
2019 – HDFC Infinia: Invited by bank based on spending on Regalia Gold. Seamless upgrade process, approved within a week with ₹8 lakh limit.
Common rejection reasons I’ve seen:
- Insufficient income documentation
- Poor bank account relationship
- Address verification failures
- Recent credit inquiries from multiple banks
💡 Application tip: Apply to only one bank at a time. Multiple applications in short periods hurt your chances.
Fees and Charges: The Hidden Costs 💰
Credit card fees can add up quickly if you’re not careful. Here’s everything you need to know about the real costs.
Annual Fees Reality Check
| Fee Category | Amount Range | Waiver Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | ₹500-₹1,500 | ₹50K-₹1L annual spend |
| Mid Range | ₹2,000-₹5,000 | ₹2L-₹4L annual spend |
| Premium | ₹5,000-₹15,000 | ₹8L-₹15L annual spend |
Annual fees are just the starting point. Premium cards have high fees but can be justified if you use benefits effectively.
My HDFC Infinia has a ₹12,500 annual fee. But I earn over ₹25,000 in rewards and benefits annually. The math works for my spending pattern.
Forex Charges Breakdown
Most expensive: SBI cards (3.5% + GST)
Most reasonable: HDFC premium cards (1.99% + GST)
Zero forex: Some premium cards waive these fees
If you travel internationally even twice a year, forex charges matter significantly. I saved ₹15,000 last year by using cards with lower forex markup.
Hidden Charges to Watch
Late payment fees: ₹500-₹1,250 depending on outstanding amount
Over limit fees: ₹500-₹1,000 for exceeding credit limit
Cash advance fees: 2.5-3.5% of transaction amount
EMI processing: 1-2% of transaction value
Interest Rates
Credit card interest rates in India are brutal. 3-4% per month translates to 36-48% annually.
Never carry a balance if you can avoid it. The interest charges will wipe out any rewards earned.
Fee Optimization Strategies
Annual fee waivers: Most cards waive annual fees if you meet spending thresholds. Track your spending to hit these targets.
Multiple card strategy: Use different cards for different categories to maximize rewards and minimize fees.
Auto payment setup: Avoid late fees by setting up automatic payments for at least the minimum amount.
Corporate cards: If your employer offers corporate credit cards, they often have better fee structures.
💡 Money tip: Calculate the total cost of ownership including fees, not just the rewards. A ₹500 annual fee card might be better than a free card with poor rewards.
Maximizing Rewards and Benefits 🎁
Indian credit card rewards can be complex, but understanding them helps you maximize value.
Reward Point Systems
HDFC: 1 point = ₹0.30 (varies by redemption)
ICICI: 1 point = ₹0.25 (varies by redemption)
Axis: 1 point = ₹0.25 (varies by redemption)
Points values change based on how you redeem them. Travel redemptions typically offer better value than cash back.
Category Bonus Structure
Most cards offer bonus points for specific spending categories:
Dining: 2-5x points at restaurants
Travel: 3-10x points on flights and hotels
Online shopping: 2-5x points on e-commerce
Fuel: 1-2x points plus surcharge waivers
I track my spending across categories and use specific cards for maximum points earning.
Annual Milestones
Many cards offer bonus rewards for hitting annual spending milestones:
₹1 lakh: Extra 1,000-5,000 points
₹3 lakhs: Vouchers worth ₹2,000-₹5,000
₹5 lakhs: Flight vouchers or lounge access
Plan your spending to hit these milestones, especially for large purchases like appliances or travel.
Travel Benefits Maximization
Airport lounge access: Use this benefit regularly if you travel. Lounges save money on food and provide comfortable waiting areas.
Travel insurance: Most premium cards include travel insurance. Read the terms carefully and understand coverage limits.
Hotel partnerships: Cards often have tie ups with hotel chains offering room upgrades, late checkout, and bonus points.
My Reward Strategy
I use a 3-card system optimized for different spending:
HDFC Infinia: Dining, travel, and large purchases (3.3% return)
ICICI Amazon Pay: Online shopping and Amazon purchases (5% cashback)
SBI Elite: Fuel and utility payments (milestone bonuses)
This system maximizes rewards across all spending categories while minimizing annual fees.
Common Redemption Mistakes
Cash back redemptions: Usually offer poor value compared to travel or voucher redemptions
Point expiry: Many people lose points due to inactivity or account closure
Minimum redemption amounts: Some banks require large point balances for redemptions
💡 Rewards hack: Use points for travel bookings through bank portals. Often offers 20-30% better value than cash redemptions.
Building Credit Score as Returning NRI 📈
Your credit score journey in India starts from zero. Here’s how to build it quickly and effectively.
Understanding Indian Credit Scores
Range: 300-900 (higher is better) Good score: 750+ for best loan rates Excellent score: 800+ for premium products
Credit bureaus in India:
- CIBIL (most important)
- Equifax
- Experian
- CRIF Highmark
Timeline for Score Development
Month 1-6: No score (insufficient credit history)
Month 6-12: Initial score appears (usually 650-750)
Month 12-24: Score stabilizes based on behavior
Month 24+: Mature credit profile for best products
I got my first CIBIL score after 8 months of using my HDFC Regalia Gold card. Started at 742, which was surprisingly good for a new credit user.
Score Building Strategies
Pay on time, always: Payment history is 35% of your score. Even one late payment can drop your score significantly.
Keep utilization low: Use less than 30% of your credit limit. I target 10-15% utilization across all cards.
Maintain old accounts: Credit history length matters. Keep your first credit card active even after getting better cards.
Mix of credit: Having different types of credit (cards, loans) helps build a robust profile.
Factors That Hurt Your Score
Late payments: Biggest negative factor
High utilization: Using 80-90% of credit limit regularly
Too many inquiries: Applying for multiple cards/loans frequently
Account closures: Closing old credit accounts reduces average age
Monitoring Your Score
Free sources: Paisabazaar, BankBazaar offer free CIBIL scores
Bank apps: Most banks show your score in their mobile apps
Annual reports: You’re entitled to one free report per year from each bureau
I check my score monthly and have alerts set up for any changes.
My Score Journey
2017 (6 months): No score available
2018 (12 months): 742 – Good start with one credit card
2019 (24 months): 789 – Added home loan, maintained good payment history
2020 (36 months): 823 – Mature profile with multiple credit products
2024 (84 months): 847 – Excellent score with 7 year history
What helped most:
- Never missed a payment
- Kept utilization under 15%
- Gradually increased credit limits
- Maintained multiple credit relationships
💡 Score building tip: Set up automatic payments for credit cards. Late payment fees hurt your wallet and your score.
Common Mistakes Returning NRIs Make ❌
Seven years of helping families has shown me the same mistakes repeatedly. Learn from others’ errors.
Mistake 1: Applying to Multiple Banks Simultaneously
Wrong approach: Applying to 5 banks at once hoping someone approves
Right approach: Research thoroughly, apply to one bank, wait for decision
Multiple hard inquiries in short periods hurt your approval chances and future credit score.
Mistake 2: Expecting US Level Credit Limits
Wrong expectation: “I had a $50,000 limit in America”
Reality: Indian banks start with ₹50,000-₹2,00,000 limits initially
Your credit limits will grow over time based on your Indian credit behavior, not US history.
Mistake 3: Ignoring Banking Relationship
Wrong approach: Opening accounts with minimal balances just to get credit cards
Right approach: Building substantial relationship with 1-2 banks
Banks reward loyal customers with better products and faster approvals.
Mistake 4: Not Understanding Reward Categories
Wrong assumption: All spending earns the same rewards
Reality: Different categories earn different rates
Using wrong cards for purchases leaves money on the table.
Mistake 5: Carrying Balances for “Credit Building”
Wrong belief: Carrying small balances helps build credit
Reality: Paying in full every month is optimal for score building
Interest charges are never worth potential credit benefits.
Mistake 6: Closing First Credit Card
Wrong move: Closing your first Indian credit card after getting better cards
Right approach: Keeping old accounts open for credit history length
Closing old accounts hurts your credit score and reduces available credit.
Mistake 7: Not Tracking Spending
Wrong habit: Treating credit cards like debit cards
Right approach: Monthly spending analysis and category optimization
Tracking helps maximize rewards and avoid overspending.
Mistake 8: Ignoring Credit Score Monitoring
Wrong assumption: “Good payment behavior automatically means good score”
Reality: Regular monitoring helps catch errors and fraudulent activities
Check your score monthly and dispute any errors immediately.
My Own Mistakes
2017: Applied to HDFC and ICICI simultaneously. Both did hard inquiries, hurt my early credit building.
2018: Used wrong cards for different purchases. Lost about ₹5,000 in potential rewards.
2019: Closed my ICICI basic card after getting Sapphiro. Realized later it hurt my credit history length.
Each mistake taught me something valuable that I now share with the BackToIndia community.
💡 Mistake prevention: Start with one bank, build the relationship, understand the products, then expand strategically.
State Wise Banking Preferences 🗺️
Different cities and states have varying banking preferences. Understanding local dynamics helps choose the right bank.
Metro Cities
Mumbai: HDFC and ICICI dominate. Strong digital banking infrastructure.
Delhi: SBI has government backing, but private banks offer better service.
Bangalore: All major banks present. Tech friendly digital services.
Chennai: Strong South Indian bank presence alongside national banks.
Tier 2 Cities
Pune: Good coverage from all major banks
Hyderabad: Growing fintech hub, digital banking adoption high
Kolkata: Traditional banking strong, SBI and government banks popular
Ahmedabad: Business friendly environment, private banks preferred
Banking Infrastructure
ATM density: Private banks have better ATM networks in metros
Branch presence: Government banks have wider rural coverage
Digital services: Private banks lead in mobile banking and digital features
My Regional Observations
Bangalore (my base): HDFC and ICICI have excellent service. Axis is growing rapidly. Tech savvy customer base appreciates digital features.
Chennai (family visits): South Indian banks like Karur Vysya offer good NRI services. Competition keeps services sharp.
Mumbai (business travel): Premium banking services are top notch. Wealth management options are extensive.
💡 Location tip: Choose banks with strong local presence in your city. Better branch access, local customer service, and understanding of regional needs.
Tax Implications of Credit Card Usage 📊
Using credit cards as a returning NRI has tax implications that many people overlook.
Reward Points Taxation
Current status: Reward points worth less than ₹50,000 annually are not taxed
Above threshold: Points are considered income and taxable
Gift vouchers: Considered taxable income from day one
Track your total rewards earned across all cards to understand tax implications.
International Transaction Reporting
LRS compliance: Purchases above $250,000 annually need reporting under Liberalized Remittance Scheme
TCS charges: Tax Collected at Source applies to international spends above certain thresholds
Cash Advance Implications
Not recommended: Cash advances are expensive and don’t help credit building
Tax angle: Large cash advances might trigger income tax scrutiny
Business vs Personal Usage
Business cards: Better tax deductibility for business expenses
Personal cards: Limited tax benefits for individual usage
Documentation: Maintain clear records for business vs personal spending
My Tax Strategy
I use separate cards for business and personal expenses. Makes tax filing much simpler.
Business expenses on HDFC Business card. Personal expenses on Infinia. Clear separation helps during tax filing.
💡 Tax tip: Consult a chartered accountant familiar with NRI taxation. Credit card usage patterns can impact your tax strategy.
Future Trends: What’s Coming Next 🔮
The Indian credit card industry is evolving rapidly. Here’s what returning NRIs should expect.
Digital First Approach
Instant approvals: Some banks now offer instant digital cards
Virtual cards: For online transactions while physical card is being delivered
Mobile first: All major functions available through apps
Alternative Credit Scoring
Bank statement analysis: Using transaction data for credit assessment
Digital footprint: Social media and digital behavior influencing credit decisions
International credit: Some banks starting to consider foreign credit history
Enhanced Security
Biometric authentication: Fingerprint and face recognition for transactions
AI fraud detection: Real time transaction monitoring and fraud prevention
Dynamic CVV: Credit cards with changing security codes
Cryptocurrency Integration
Crypto purchases: Some cards now allow cryptocurrency purchases
Rewards in crypto: Experimental programs offering Bitcoin rewards
Regulatory uncertainty: RBI stance on crypto affects card features
Environmental Focus
Digital statements: Reducing paper usage
Carbon footprint tracking: Some premium cards show environmental impact
Green rewards: Bonus points for sustainable spending
My Predictions
Next 2 years: Instant approvals will become standard. International credit history will start mattering.
Next 5 years: AI will revolutionize credit assessment. Traditional documentation requirements will reduce significantly.
Next 10 years: Credit cards might become completely digital. Physical cards could disappear.
💡 Future prep: Embrace digital banking now. The future belongs to tech savvy customers who can leverage new features effectively.
Conclusion: Your Credit Card Strategy for Success 🎯
After 7 years back in India and helping thousands of NRI families, I can confidently say this: getting the right credit card as a returning NRI is completely achievable with the right strategy.
Yes, it’s frustrating to start over. Yes, Indian banking can be bureaucratic. Yes, you’ll miss the simplicity of your US credit cards initially.
But here’s what I’ve learned. Indian credit cards, when chosen wisely, offer incredible value. The rewards are generous. The benefits are practical. The convenience is improving rapidly.
My proven 3 step strategy:
Step 1: Foundation (Months 1-6) Build strong banking relationship with one major bank. Maintain high balances. Get basic credit card approved.
Step 2: Growth (Months 6-18) Use your first card responsibly. Build credit score. Apply for premium cards with the same bank.
Step 3: Optimization (Months 18+) Diversify across banks. Get category specific cards. Maximize rewards across all spending.
The cards that worked best for our family:
- HDFC Infinia: Primary card for dining, travel, large purchases
- ICICI Amazon Pay: Online shopping and e-commerce
- Axis Atlas: International travel and miles earning
What I wish I knew in 2017:
- Banking relationship matters more than credit history
- Patience pays off. Rush decisions lead to suboptimal products
- Rewards optimization requires discipline but generates real savings
For families still abroad planning to return: Start building Indian banking relationships now. Open NRE accounts. Transfer substantial funds. Begin the credit card journey while you still have foreign income stability.
For families recently returned: Focus on one bank initially. Don’t chase multiple cards simultaneously. Build your score methodically.
Remember, this is a marathon, not a sprint. The families who succeed long term are those who build sustainable credit habits, understand the system, and optimize gradually.
Your financial life in India can be as sophisticated as anywhere in the world. It just requires patience, strategy, and the willingness to learn a new system.
Welcome back home. Your credit journey starts now! 🇮🇳
💡 Final advice: The best credit card is the one that matches your spending pattern and lifestyle. Don’t chase flashy features you won’t use. Focus on practical benefits that save you money daily.
Frequently Asked Questions 🤔
1. Can I get an Indian credit card while still abroad?
Some banks allow NRIs to apply for credit cards while overseas, especially if you have existing NRE/NRO accounts. HDFC, ICICI, and Axis offer this facility, but approval depends on your account relationship and income proof.
2. How long does it take to build a good credit score in India?
Typically 12-24 months for a decent score (750+) and 24-36 months for an excellent score (800+). The key is consistent payment history and maintaining low credit utilization from day one.
3. Should I close my US credit cards after moving to India?
Not immediately. Keep your oldest US cards active with small purchases to maintain your US credit history. This helps if you travel back or need US credit for any reason.
4. What if my Indian credit card application gets rejected?
Don’t apply to multiple banks immediately. Wait 3-6 months, build your banking relationship, and try again. Consider secured credit cards as a starting point if needed.
5. Can I use my Indian credit cards internationally?
Yes, most Indian credit cards work internationally. However, forex charges apply (1.99% to 3.5% depending on the card). Premium cards typically have lower forex fees.
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