Why is my SBI card not working internationally even after enabling international payments?

After you enable international payments on SBI cards, your card should work globally. But if it’s still getting declined, here are possible reasons: - Your card doesn’t support international usage (some variants are domestic-only). - The usage limit is too low. - International usage is only enabled for one channel (e.g., online but not ATM). - The card is temporarily blocked by SBI’s risk monitoring system. Always double-check the usage settings via SBI Net Banking or the YONO app.

Can I change or set spending limits for international transactions on my SBI card?

Yes, you can set or adjust international usage limits after you enable international payments on SBI cards. Both Net Banking and the SBI YONO app let you define: - Daily international spending limits - Per-transaction limits - Usage channels (ATM, POS, eCommerce) This adds a layer of control and safety to your international transactions.

Can I disable international usage on my SBI card after enabling it?

Absolutely. Once you enable international payments on SBI cards, you can turn it off anytime via Net Banking or the YONO app. This is useful if you’re done with your international payments or want to temporarily block the feature for security reasons.

How long does it take for international usage to be activated on SBI cards?

Typically, the activation is immediate after you enable international payments on SBI cards. Once you confirm the changes through OTP (via Net Banking, app, or SMS), the feature is usually live within minutes. However, delays can occur due to server issues or system maintenance, so always test it with a small transaction first.

Do all SBI cards support international payments?

Not all cards are eligible. While most SBI debit and credit cards can be enabled for global usage, some basic or domestic-only cards cannot. Before you try to enable international payments on SBI cards, check whether your card variant supports it by visiting SBI’s official site or calling customer care.

Are there additional fees after enabling international payments on SBI cards?

Yes. International transactions come with added costs even after enabling the feature. You’ll usually pay: - An international transaction fee (3%–3.5%) - A forex conversion markup (1.5%–3.5%) - Additional GST - ATM withdrawal charges abroad These fees vary based on whether you're using a debit or credit card and the type of transaction.

Can I use my SBI card internationally without enabling this feature?

No, even if your SBI card supports global payments, it won’t work for international transactions unless you enable international payments on SBI cards first. This setting is disabled by default to protect users from unauthorized foreign charges.

Is enabling international payments a one-time process?

No, it’s not permanent. You can turn the setting on or off at any time depending on your needs. If you plan to travel again or make another international payment in the future, you’ll need to enable international payments on SBI cards again if you've disabled it in the meantime.

Which method is safest to enable international usage—Net Banking, app, or SMS?

All methods are secure when done correctly. The SBI YONO app and Net Banking give you more control over limits and channels. SMS is fast but limited. Regardless of the method, make sure your phone number is registered and avoid sharing OTPs with anyone.

How does enabling international usage on SBI cards compare with using platforms like HOP Remit?

Enabling international payments gives you access to global usage, but it comes with high fees and longer processing times when used for international transfers. On the other hand, HOP Remit by moneyHOP offers near-zero markup rates, faster delivery, and transparent pricing for sending money abroad. For larger transfers like tuition or rent, HOP Remit is a better option.

Category – Finance

Definitive 2025 Guide to Enable International Payments on SBI Cards

Updated On:

Jul 17, 2025

Karthik

So, you’ve got an SBI card in your wallet, and now you’re ready to shop from an international website, book your dream trip, or maybe even pay your university abroad. But hold on, your card’s not working outside India?

That’s because you need to enable international payments on SBI cards first. Don’t worry, though. It’s easier than it sounds. In this guide, I’ll walk you through how to do it, what fees to watch out for, and why so many people are ditching old-school methods for something faster and smarter like HOP Remit by moneyHOP.

What It Actually Means to Enable International Payments on SBI Cards?

Think of it like flipping a switch. Your SBI card may be global-ready, but unless you manually turn on international payments, it won’t work outside India. That includes everything from booking flights in foreign currency to withdrawing cash while traveling.

So, yes, you must enable international payments on SBI cards if you plan to go global with your money.

Before you enable international payments on SBI cards, make sure you’ve ticked all 5 boxes above. Now let’s walk through how to do it step by step.

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Is Your SBI Card Even Eligible?

Chances are, it is. Most SBI debit and credit cards support international usage, but you’ve got to check just to be sure. Some commonly eligible cards are:

SBI Classic International Debit Card

SBI Gold International Debit Card

SBI Signature and Elite Credit Cards

Still not sure? Quick tip Log in to Net Banking or YONO and try the steps below. If the option doesn’t show up, your card probably doesn’t support it.

Also read: SBI Bank Charges for International Transactions

How to Enable International Payments on SBI Cards?

Here’s how to turn on international transactions on your SBI card without pulling your hair out:

Option 1: Internet Banking

Log in to SBI Net Banking

Go to e-Services > ATM Card Services

Select Usage Type Change

Choose your card and set it to “International.”

Confirm with OTP, and boom, you’re done

Option 2: YONO App (Yes, it works)

Open the SBI YONO app

Tap on My Cards

Hit Manage Usage & Limits

Toggle on international usage, set your spending limit

Authenticate with OTP; that’s it

Option 3: SMS (For the minimalists)

Text this from your registered number:

SWON INTL XXXX to 9223966666

(XXXX = last 4 digits of your card)

Option 4: Old-school route

Not into tech? Walk into your SBI branch or call customer care. Just ask them to enable international payments on SBI cards linked to your account.

Also read: How To Pay University Fees In The USA From India

Don’t Skip This: Charges That Kick In After You Enable It

Okay, here’s the not-so-fun part: fees. Once you enable international payments on SBI cards, transactions abroad aren’t exactly free. Here’s what to expect:

Fee Type	SBI Debit Card	SBI Credit Card
International Transaction Fee	3% + GST	3.5% + GST
Currency Conversion Markup	1.5%–3%	Up to 3.5%
ATM Withdrawal Abroad	₹100 + 3.5% + GST	₹500 + 3.5% + GST
ATM Balance Inquiry Abroad	₹25 + GST	Not available

These charges can quietly eat into your money if you’re not paying attention, especially if you’re transferring tuition fees or covering someone’s rent abroad.

Forex Markup? Let Me Explain That in One Line

It’s basically SBI adding a little extra on top of the exchange rate. Once you enable international payments on SBI cards, you’ll notice that what you pay is higher than what you saw on Google. That’s the markup, usually between 1.5% and 3.5%.

Know more: HDFC Charges for International Transactions

Can You Actually Send Money Abroad Using SBI Cards?

Technically, yes. But honestly? It’s a bit of a process.

SBI lets you use methods like:

SWIFT Wire Transfer (involves codes and fees)

Demand Drafts (who even uses these anymore?)

Express Remit (paperwork-heavy)

It’ll cost you ₹1000–₹5000 or more per transfer, plus FX markup, and it usually takes 2 to 5 business days. For something urgent or frequent, that’s not ideal.

Here’s a Smarter Move: Use HOP Remit by moneyHOP

If you’ve ever wished there were an easier, cheaper, faster way to send money abroad, there is. It’s called HOP Remit by moneyHOP. Whether you’re sending tuition fees, living expenses, or paying for a course in Canada, this is your go-to platform.

Why People Are Making the Switch?

Send money to 60+ countries

Get near-interbank exchange rates

Pay a one-time, low fee no hidden charges

All digital, all easy: onboarding takes minutes

Most transfers complete in 12 to 48 hours

Support team that actually helps you

SBI vs HOP Remit: You Be the Judge

Feature	SBI	HOP Remit by moneyHOP
Exchange Rate	1.5%–3.5% markup	Real-time rate, almost no markup
Processing Time	2–5 business days	12–48 hours
Fee Structure	₹1000–₹5000 + extras	One low flat fee
Onboarding	Branch visits, forms	100% digital
Transparency	Often unclear	Totally upfront

Once you enable international payments on SBI cards, it works, but HOP Remit just works better.

Smart Tips for Safe Global Transactions

Keep your mobile number updated with SBI

Turn on SMS and email alerts

Set daily limits so you don’t overspend

Never share your OTP, not even with a friend

If you’re sending large amounts, use a specialist service like HOP Remit

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ZERO convenience fees
Real-time updates
Lowest exchange rates

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Final Word

If you’re planning to go global, whether it’s to shop, study, travel, or send money take five minutes and enable international payments on SBI cards. It’s a small step that opens a world of financial freedom.

But if you’re also looking for a simpler, faster, and more affordable way to send money abroad, HOP Remit by moneyHOP is worth a look. It’s built for people just like you: smart, global, and done with outdated banking methods.

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