How to Use an Online Debit Card in International Banking?11 min read

How to Use an Online Debit Card in International Banking?11 min read

Even if credit cards have always been the primary means of payment when doing business abroad and while traveling, it’s quickly being eclipsed by a debit card for both ease and convenience. 

This post explains how you can use your online debit card for international bank transfers and why it is beneficial.

Can I Use My Online Debit Card Internationally?

Yes in a nutshell – almost always, your online debit card works at home just as anywhere else. But it may require a few more steps to do so, depending on your card and bank.

In most digital banks, such as The Kingdom Bank, international payments are automatically enabled on the debit cards. Some traditional banks may still want you to manually enable this setting to protect yourself.

No matter your bank, it is always best to reach out to them before leaving home. Not only can they verify if you used your card abroad, but notifying them in advance also prevents unintentional fraud alerts.

Once enabled, you will be able to cash in local currency from overseas ATMs and use your card to make online or offline purchases in the country. 

You only have to keep an eye on the fees – some banks offer great rates abroad and some have premiums, check it out. These days, almost all online debit cards let you spend anywhere in the world with a phone call or a simple entry in your bank account settings.

Can I Make Online Purchases from International Merchants with My Debit Card?

Absolutely! Once set to make international purchases, your online debit card is as convenient for overseas e-commerce as it is for home shopping. 

You can use your card online when shopping from international sites while on holiday or even if you are currently overseas.

Here are a few steps to keep things going – Make sure the shop is accepting debit, have some cash in your bank account, and look out for the currency conversion fees on your bank. 

Make sure your card’s daily caps allow for bigger purchases online if required.

Now that you’ve got those basics covered, you’ll be able to shop securely, easily from the brands you love right from the website — whether you’re in the US or half the world away. Your debit card is what connects you to the global digital marketplace.

What are the Best Practices for Using a Debit Card Internationally?

And now that we know you can actually spend your online debit card overseas, here are some best practices to consider for safe, hassle-free overseas spending:

• Contact your bank in advance of travel plans. This is a crucial step in preventing fraud – the banks may quickly flag overseas transactions as suspicious.
• You should have multiple payment options. Debit cards are awesome but an extra credit card gives you more security and range.
• Accept small amounts of local money at ATMs. Don’t invest a lot that may easily be lost or stolen. There are also lower fees associated with smaller withdrawals.
• Stay extra careful around ATM skimmers. Thieves hack tourist attractions – keep your hand on your PIN and investigate device interference before using.
• Subscribe to your bank’s transaction alerts. Text or email alerts allow you to see suspicious activity in real-time and report it immediately.
• Take a limitless account with companies such as The Kingdom Bank. We pay ATM charges in any currency around the world for genuinely seamless travel transactions.

Good habits such as these ensure that you have safe, secure and affordable international debit card usage no matter where you go.

What is the Easiest Way to Get a Debit Card Online?

In the digital age, a new debit card can only be obtained with a couple of clicks on your smartphone. And the quick way out is via an online bank.

Using digital banks you can create an account, authenticate yourself, and get approved for a debit card without ever stopping by the branch.

You can just visit the website of any bank, such as The Kingdom Bank. Then fill out a short form with some basic details. Pass along proof of identity, such as a driver’s license, and within days a physical debit card will arrive by post to use at home or abroad.

Effortless online account opening, quicker delivery, and smartphone integration – an online bank makes obtaining a multi-purpose debit card even easier.

Best Online Bank to Open a Debit Card Account

When you’re looking for an online bank to manage your international debit card, The Kingdom Bank is one of the best options.

Some of the reasons you should be interested in us include:

• There is no withdrawal or debit card fee anywhere in the world.
• Currency account with competitive rates of exchange for 50+ currencies.
• Open a bank account quickly, online in minutes.
• Excessive daily spending and cash withdrawal limits.
• Secure security tools such as one-time passcodes guard your accounts and cards.
• The best mobile bank app for account management and payment on the go.
• Excellent live support 24 hours a day via phone, email or chat.
• We hold licenses from the most prominent financial regulators to protect your funds.

With features such as ATM fee reimburse globally, The Kingdom Bank makes international travel spending effortless. 

We’re focused on digital banking, which translates into high levels of security and ease of use. It is a superb option for anyone looking for a secure online debit card to work in any part of the world.

Debit cards online are one of the best and convenient ways to manage finances in your country as well as abroad. 

As long as you have the right online bank, such as The Kingdom Bank behind your card, cash will be on your way, shopping will be safe, and exchange of currency will be affordable wherever you go. 

 Just make sure you turn on international transactions, follow best security standards, and keep track of your account. Just by taking a few simple precautions, an online debit card can be your ideal travel companion.

So, whether you’re on a global trip, a digital nomad, or just shopping abroad from time to time, sign up for a new debit card account at The Kingdom Bank today. 

Our innovative multi-currency accounts and ATM fee reimbursements across the globe enable borderless spending.