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Wise Launches Multi-Currency Travel Card in India

  //travel-leisure.news-articles.net/content/2026/ .. aunches-multi-currency-travel-card-in-india.html
  Published in Travel and Leisure on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 16:17 GMT by newsbytesapp.com
      Locales: INDIA, UNITED KINGDOM

Mumbai, India - February 23rd, 2026 - Wise (formerly TransferWise) has today announced the official rollout of its highly anticipated multi-currency travel card to Indian residents. This launch marks a significant expansion? for the fintech giant, bringing its borderless banking solutions to one of the world's fastest-growing travel markets. The card promises to disrupt traditional methods of international spending, offering a compelling alternative to conventional travel cards and often-expensive foreign exchange services.

For years, Indian travelers have faced challenges when dealing with foreign currency. High bank fees, unfavorable exchange rates, and the inconvenience of physically exchanging currency have long been pain points. Existing travel cards, while offering some convenience, often come with hidden charges and limited currency options. Wise's card aims to address these issues directly by providing a transparent, cost-effective, and user-friendly solution.

The core functionality of the Wise multi-currency card revolves around its ability to hold and spend money in over 40 currencies. Users can easily load Indian Rupees (INR) into their Wise account via various methods, including bank transfer and debit/credit cards. From there, they can convert the INR to any of the supported currencies at the mid-market exchange rate - the 'real' exchange rate banks don't typically offer to customers - coupled with a low, transparent fee. This significantly reduces the cost of foreign exchange compared to traditional methods.

"We are thrilled to bring the Wise multi-currency card to India," stated Kristina Stojanovic, Regional Head of Wise for APAC, in a press conference earlier today. "Indian travelers are increasingly globally mobile, and we recognize the need for a smarter, more affordable way to manage their finances abroad. This card is designed to empower them to explore the world without being penalized by hidden fees and poor exchange rates."

Beyond the favorable exchange rates, the card boasts several key features. It's seamlessly integrated with the user's existing Wise account, allowing for easy management of funds and spending. Users can customize spending limits for added security and control. A crucial feature is the ability to freeze the card instantly via the Wise app if it's lost or stolen, providing peace of mind to travelers. Real-time transaction notifications keep users informed of their spending, helping them stay within budget.

The Competitive Landscape & Future Implications

The launch immediately positions Wise as a major player in the Indian travel card market. Competitors like HDFC Bank's ForexPlus Card, ICICI Bank's Travel Card, and similar offerings from other private and public sector banks will now face increased pressure to innovate and offer more competitive pricing. Analysts predict that Wise's transparent fee structure and mid-market exchange rates will force traditional institutions to re-evaluate their pricing models.

However, Wise isn't just competing with travel card providers. It's also challenging the broader foreign exchange industry, including money transfer services and traditional bank transfers. By offering a holistic solution that combines currency conversion, card payments, and account management, Wise is positioning itself as a complete financial platform for international travelers and remote workers.

The timing of the launch is also noteworthy. India's outbound tourism is experiencing a resurgence after the pandemic, with a growing middle class eager to explore the world. Furthermore, the rise of digital nomads and remote work has created a new segment of travelers who require efficient and cost-effective ways to manage their finances while on the move. Wise is well-positioned to capitalize on these trends.

Availability and Account Requirements

The Wise multi-currency travel card is currently available to all Indian residents who have an active Wise account. Potential users can sign up for a Wise account through the Wise website or mobile app. The application process requires standard KYC (Know Your Customer) documentation, including proof of identity and address.

Looking ahead, Wise plans to expand the card's functionality further, potentially adding features like rewards programs and integration with other travel services. The company is also exploring partnerships with Indian businesses to offer the card as a benefit to their employees who travel internationally.