If you’ve only got a minute,
- The DBS Multi-Currency Card combines everyday banking and overseas spending, allowing you to hold and spend in 11 foreign currencies from a single account.
- Spending directly from supported foreign currency wallets can help you avoid foreign exchange fees on eligible transactions and better manage your travel budget.
- You may already have most of what they need to get started, with everything managed conveniently through the DBS digibank app.
If you travel overseas, shop on overseas websites, or want a simpler way to manage foreign currencies from the same bank account you use every day, the DBS Multi-Currency Card is the solution for you. It is especially best for frequent or casual travellers who want to pre-exchange foreign currencies, spend overseas with no foreign exchange fees, and manage everything through the DBS digibank app.
What Is the DBS Multi-Currency Card
Is It a Separate Card or a Linked Debit Card?
The DBS Multi-Currency Card is not a separate standalone travel card. In practice, it refers to the multi-currency spending feature available when a DBS Visa Debit Card is primary linked to a compatible DBS multi-currency account, such as DBS My Account or DBS Multiplier Account.
For many DBS customers, this can be a convenient setup as they may already hold a DBS Visa Debit Card and an eligible account. Instead of applying for an additional travel card, they can simply link the appropriate account and start managing foreign currencies through the DBS digibank app.
Many customers may not realise that if they already hold a DBS Visa Debit Card and an eligible DBS multi-currency account, they can activate multi-currency spending without applying for a separate travel card.
How the Multi-Currency Feature Works
Before travelling or spending in foreign currency, you can exchange Singapore dollars (SGD) into the currency you need through your DBS multi-currency Account. When you make a purchase using your DBS Visa Debit Card, the transaction will be deducted directly from the corresponding foreign currency wallet if there is sufficient balance available. For example, if you make a purchase of JPY 1,000 in Japan and have enough Japanese yen in your account, the transaction will be debited from your JPY wallet instead of being converted from SGD at the point of purchase.
By pre-loading currencies before you travel, you can lock in exchange rates ahead of time and avoid foreign exchange fees on supported currencies. If there is an insufficient balance in the relevant foreign currency wallet, the entire transaction will be deducted from your SGD balance instead.
Supported Currencies
DBS My Account or DBS Multiplier Account gives you access to Singapore Dollar (SGD) and 11 foreign currencies. These include AUD (Australian Dollar), CAD (Canadian Dollar), EUR (Euro), HKD (Hong Kong Dollar), JPY (Japanese Yen), NZD (New Zealand Dollar), NOK (Norwegian Kroner), GBP (Sterling Pound), SEK (Swedish Kroner), THB (Thai Baht), USD (US Dollar).
While the multi-currency feature supports 11 foreign currencies for direct wallet spending, your DBS Visa Debit Card can still be used worldwide wherever Visa is accepted. The applicable currency conversion and fees will apply.
Who Is the Card Best For?
The DBS Multi-Currency Card is best suited for customers who regularly spend in foreign currencies and want a convenient way to manage their everyday banking and overseas spending from a single account.
- DBS customers who prefer managing foreign currencies and overseas spending within their existing banking relationship.
- Budget-conscious Travellers who want greater visibility and control over their foreign currency spending with zero foreign currency fees.
- Online shoppers who frequently make purchases on overseas websites in foreign currencies.
Key Benefits of the DBS Multi-Currency
Spend Overseas Without Foreign Transaction Fees
When you make a spend and have sufficient funds on any of the 11 supported foreign currencies, your transaction will be deducted directly from that wallet. This allows you to avoid foreign exchange fees and can help you better manage your overseas spending costs.
Earning Cashback and Card Privileges
DBS Visa Debit Card offers cashback on everyday transactions which include:
- 4% cashback on online food delivery
- 3% cashback on local transport (Ride-hailing, Taxis, SimplyGo)
- 2% cashback on overseas spend (excludes transactions debited from DBS Multi-Currency Account’s 11 foreign currencies)
Valid with a minimum spend of S$500 on Visa and cash withdrawals limit of S$200 and below in the same month.
Cardholders can also enjoy access to DBS card promotions and merchant deals across dining, shopping, travel and lifestyle categories. These offers are updated regularly and can provide additional savings whether you're spending locally or overseas.
Manage Everything in the DBS Digibank App
The DBS digibank app gives you visibility and control over your finances in one place. From checking balances and reviewing transactions to exchanging currencies and managing card settings, you can conveniently access your accounts and card information anytime, wherever you are.
How to Use the DBS Multi-Currency Card Overseas
Making Purchases Overseas
Using the DBS Multi-Currency Card overseas is similar to using any other credit or debit card. Simply pay with your DBS Visa Debit Card at merchants that accept Visa, whether you're shopping in stores, dining overseas or making online purchases in foreign currencies.
Pre-Loading Currencies Before a Trip
You can exchange Singapore dollars into the 11 accepted foreign currencies you expect to use during your trip with your DBS My Account or DBS Multiplier Account. This allows you to secure your preferred exchange rate ahead of time and better plan your travel budget.
You can exchange currencies through the DBS digibank app and monitor your foreign currency balances before and during your trip. If you're visiting multiple countries, you may wish to hold different currencies depending on your travel itinerary.
Enabling Overseas Usage
Before travelling, make sure your DBS Visa Debit Card is enabled for overseas card transactions and ATM withdrawals.
It's also a good idea to:
- Check if your DBS Visa Debit Card is primary-linked to your multi-currency account
- Check your overseas card spending limits
- Review your daily cash withdrawal limits
- Ensure your contact details are up to date for transaction alerts
- Familiarise yourself with card security features available in DBS digibank
- Taking a few minutes to review these settings before departure can help ensure a smoother travel experience.
Common Mistakes That Trigger Extra Fees
While the DBS Multi-Currency Card can help reduce overseas spending costs, there are a few common mistakes that may result in additional conversion charges or fees:
- Not having enough balance in the relevant foreign currency wallet before making a purchase.
- Paying in home currency (SGD) instead of the local currency when prompted by overseas merchants or payment terminals.
- Relying on overseas ATM withdrawals, which may attract ATM operator fees or other charges.
Eligibility, Minimum Balance and Account Requirements
Who Can Apply?
You can apply if you are at least 16 years old and are a Singapore Citizen, Singapore Permanent Resident, or a foreigner with a valid pass, such as an Employment Pass, S Pass, Student Pass, Dependant's Pass or Long-Term Visit Pass.
DBS My Account vs DBS Multiplier Account
You can use the DBS My Account or DBS Multiplier Account to primary link to your DBS Visa Debit Card. DBS My Account is generally suitable for customers looking for a simple multi-currency account to hold and spend in foreign currencies. DBS Multiplier Account may be a better fit for customers who want to earn bonus interest on eligible SGD balances through qualifying transactions such as salary crediting and card spend.
Minimum Balance Requirements
DBS My Account does not require a minimum balance while DBS Multiplier Account requires a minimum average daily balance of S$3,000. A S$5 monthly fall-below fee may apply if the required balance is not maintained, although the fee is currently waived for customers up to 29 years old.
Documents Needed
The exact documents required may vary depending on your nationality and residency status.
In general, applicants should be prepared to provide:
- Identification documents, such as NRIC or passport
- Proof of residential address, where applicable
- Valid employment, student or dependent pass for foreigners
- Any additional supporting documents requested by DBS during the application process
If you apply through Singpass, the application process may be faster as some information can be retrieved automatically during account opening.
How to Apply and Set Up the Card
Application Process for New Customers
If you're new to DBS, you'll first need to open an eligible DBS multi-currency account, such as DBS My Account or DBS Multiplier Account, and apply for a DBS Visa Debit Card on the DBS digibank app.
Application Process for Existing DBS Customers
If you already hold a DBS Visa Debit Card and DBS My Account or DBS Multiplier Account, primary link the card to your account. Once linked, you can start using your DBS Visa Debit Card
Activating the Card
Activation can be completed through DBS digibank and ensures your card is ready for use. You should also enable your overseas card usage settings on Payment Controls within the DBS digibank app.
Setting Up Multi-Currency Wallets
Simply exchange Singapore Dollar (SGD) into the foreign currency you wish to hold.
How the DBS Multi-Currency Card Compares to Other Multi-Currency Cards
Currency Support and Global Acceptance
When comparing multi-currency cards, it's important to look beyond the number of supported currencies. Consider whether the card can be used widely overseas, how easy it is to manage different currencies, and whether it fits naturally into your existing banking needs. The DBS Multi-Currency Card supports direct spending in 11 foreign currencies and can be used worldwide wherever Visa is accepted.
Exchange Rates and Foreign Currency Conversion
Some multi-currency cards require you to convert currencies at the point of transaction, while others allow you to exchange and hold foreign currencies in advance.
With the DBS Multi-Currency Card, you can exchange currencies ahead of time and spend directly from supported foreign currency wallets when sufficient funds are available. This gives you greater visibility over your foreign currency balances and allows you to decide when to exchange your money.
Overseas ATM Withdrawal Considerations
If you expect to withdraw cash while travelling, compare:
- Overseas ATM withdrawal fees
- Daily withdrawal limits
- Availability of fee-free or partner ATM networks
- Foreign currency conversion charges on withdrawals
While card payments are widely accepted in many destinations, ATM access may still be an important consideration depending on your travel habits and destinations.
Choosing the Right Multi-Currency Card for Your Needs
The right multi-currency card ultimately depends on your needs, whether that's managing everyday banking and overseas spending in one place, earning rewards on your purchases, accessing a wider range of currencies, or simply enjoying a more seamless travel experience.
For DBS customers, the DBS Multi-Currency Card offers a convenient way to manage foreign currency spending..
Is the DBS Multi-Currency Card Worth It?
The DBS Multi-Currency Card works best when customers pre-load the foreign currencies they intend to spend. If there is an insufficient balance in the relevant foreign currency wallet, transactions will be charged to the SGD balance instead. For customers who regularly spend in supported foreign currencies, the card is still worth it, particularly if they plan ahead and exchange currencies before travelling.
