
In India, you can exchange currency at banks, which are open from 9:30 AM to 2:30 PM, Monday to Friday, and 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM on Saturdays.
Banks like State Bank of India, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank are popular choices for currency exchange.
Some banks in India also offer currency exchange services at their ATMs, but be aware that these services often come with higher fees.
You can exchange currency at a bank's ATM for a minimum amount of ₹2,000.
Additional reading: Crypto Exchange Ban in India
How to Exchange Currency in India
You can exchange currency in India through various reliable and secure options. Banks, such as Axis Bank, offer competitive exchange rates and customer support. Axis Bank's Foreign Currency Cash is available in more than 14 currencies in a variety of denominations.
Licensed money changers, authorized by the RBI, offer a convenient alternative for foreign currency exchange. You can use their services without requiring a bank account, and they are readily available in major cities and towns across the country.
Recommended read: Does Td Bank Exchange Foreign Currency
If you prefer to exchange currency online, you can use online forex marketplaces that compare rates from various providers for the best deals. These platforms allow you to input your desired currency and collect cash from local authorized vendors.
Procedure
To exchange currency in India, you should do your research beforehand to understand the rules, exchange rates, and fees of each provider.
You can find money changers in local market neighborhoods in major cities, or at the airport for convenience.
To compare providers, create a customer account by providing personal and bank details.
Compare the provider's exchange rate to the mid-market rate to find the best option.
The online exchange process can take a few hours to even minutes, depending on the provider.
Expand your knowledge: Trading in Foreign Currency
Option 2 - How To
To exchange currency with RBI-approved money transfer companies, you can do so fully online. These companies are specialists in currency exchange, unlike banks. They offer a convenient and efficient way to exchange money.
Broaden your view: Usd Currency Exchange

First, you'll need to compare providers in India to find the cheapest and best option. This can be done by comparing exchange rates to the mid-market rate. You can create a customer account by providing personal and bank details, all online.
The transaction process is straightforward, taking a few hours to even minutes to complete. You can also compare provider's exchange rates to the mid-market rate to ensure you're getting the best deal.
You might like: Best Way to Exchange Currency in Italy
Currency Facts
India's currency is known as the rupee, and you'll often see it represented by the symbol ₹ or Rs. The currency code is INR.
Each rupee is divided into 100 paise, which is a useful fact to know when making change or calculating prices.
Rupee coins come in denominations of ₹1, ₹2, and ₹5, as well as 10, 25, and 50 paise. These coins are widely accepted and can be used for small purchases.
Rupee banknotes come in denominations of ₹5, ₹10, ₹20, ₹50, ₹100, ₹500, and ₹1000. It's worth noting that large amounts are often counted in hundreds of thousands, and are called lakhs, crores, and arabs.
Recommended read: How Often Does Currency Exchange Rate Change
Tips for Exchanging Currency
Exchanging currency in India can be a daunting task, but with the right knowledge, you can navigate it like a pro. Always have some cash on you when you arrive in India, especially in pounds, in case you can't find an ATM.
This way, you can head straight to a currency exchange without any worries. The Government of India has rules that restrict foreigners from bringing any rupees into the country, so you'll need to deal with currency exchange once you arrive.
To make your spending money go further, it's essential to shop around and compare rates. Rates can vary between banks, money changers, and airports, so it's always best to compare rates before you exchange your currency.
You can use online resources or exchange apps to compare rates and find the most favourable deals. Consider getting a Forex Card, which is a Prepaid Debit Card that you can load with foreign currency, making it a convenient way to exchange currency and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.
You might like: Currency Trading in India
It's also a good idea to carry a mix of denominations when you travel. This will make it easier to make small purchases and avoid any inconvenience. Here are some key points to consider when exchanging currency in India:
- Plan ahead and exchange your currency before travelling to save time and research for the most favourable rates.
- Use a reputable money changer authorised by the RBI to ensure you get genuine currency and avoid fraud.
- Keep your receipts for your currency exchange transactions in case you need to exchange your currency or have any problems.
- Consider getting a Forex Card for a secure and hassle-free way to carry foreign currency.
ATMs and Online Conversion
ATMs are widely used in India, but it's essential to have a backup plan as transactions may still trigger a block on your card. Make sure to inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid any issues.
You can find ATM locations using various ATM locators such as Mastercard ATM locator, Visa ATM locator, Central Bank of India ATM locator, or The State Bank of India’s SBI locator.
Indian state ATMs usually accept Mastercard and Visa, and ATMs operated by the largest banks often offer the best exchange rates.
Intriguing read: Crypto Currencies India
Withdraw Cash at ATMs
ATMs are widely available in India, but be prepared for technical issues. Make sure you have a backup plan in case your card is blocked or the ATM is out of order.
Indian state ATMs usually accept Mastercard and Visa, so it's a good idea to have one of these cards. As a general rule, ATMs operated by the largest banks offer the best exchange rates.
To find ATM locations, use one of the following ATM locators:
- Mastercard ATM locator
- Visa ATM locator
- Central Bank of India ATM locator
- The State Bank of India’s SBI locator.
It's a good idea to keep your ATM receipts, as you'll need to convert rupees back at the end of your trip. Rupees are not accepted abroad for exchange.
Online Conversion
You can exchange currency online ahead of time using Monito's comparison engine to find trusted service providers in India that will deliver cash to your door. This is a convenient option for those who want to avoid visiting physical currency exchange offices.
Several high-quality online providers exist in India to exchange foreign money for you, which can be done from the comfort of your own home on your computer or cell phone.
Online currency exchange specialists offer digital money transfer services that send you foreign currency in various forms. These services can be a great option for those who want to receive cash in their local currency.
To convert EUR to INR, you can use the exchange rate of 87.73 INR per EUR. For example, if you convert 100 EUR, you would receive 87,730 INR.
Explore further: Евро В Злотый
Banks and Transfer Services
Exchanging currency in India can be done through various banks and transfer services. Most major commercial Indian banks offer foreign currency exchange, but not all may offer the same currencies.
Some popular Indian banks and the currencies they offer for cash exchanges are HDFC Bank, Axis Bank, ICICI Bank, and State Bank of India. HDFC Bank offers 20 currencies including THB, USD, EUR, KRW, SAR, and SGD.
Banks like HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank offer a wider range of currencies for cash exchanges, but State Bank of India only offers USD, GBP, and EUR. Axis Bank offers 14 currencies including ZAR, SGD, JPY, and NZD.
Exchanging foreign currency with banks is a secure and reliable method, but it can be pricey. Foreign currency exchange is not the primary business of traditional banks, so they often have limited options for international currencies.
If you have a bank account abroad, you can consider using bank deposit services like Instarem. They cheaply transfer your foreign currency into your Indian bank account as rupees.
Explore further: Bitcoin Balance on Exchanges
Authorized RBI Partners and Online Specialists

When choosing a service provider for currency exchange in India, it's essential to go with a company authorized by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).
You can check if a company is RBI-approved by looking for a fully fledged money changers (FFMC) license.
In India, some reputable RBI-authorized companies include Unimoni, Muthoot Fincorp, and Thomas Cook.
Authorized RBI Partners
Authorized RBI Partners can be identified by checking if they have a fully fledged money changers (FFMC) license.
Unimoni, Muthoot Forex, and Thomas Cook are examples of companies in India that are authorized by the RBI.
Major towns and cities throughout India will have easy-to-find local branches of these authorized RBI partners.
Online Specialists Option 4
India has a massive market for international money transfers and foreign exchange services, making it a great place to find high-quality online providers that can exchange foreign money for you. They offer services that can be accessed from the comfort of your own home, whether on your computer or cell phone.

Several online providers exist in India that can exchange foreign currency for you, allowing you to save time and effort. You can use their services to exchange money without having to physically visit a bank or currency exchange office.
Monito's comparison engine is a great tool to find trusted service providers in India that will exchange foreign currency for you and even deliver cash to your door. This can be a convenient option for those who don't have the time or prefer not to visit a physical location.
Online providers in India offer a range of services that can suit different situations, from sending foreign currency in digital forms to delivering cash directly to your doorstep.
Exchange Rates and Fees
To get the best deal on exchanging your currency in India, it's essential to understand how exchange rates work. The formula is straightforward: Send Currency x Exchange Rate = Receive Amount.
If you're sending funds to India, the bank or remittance company will carry out the calculations, but it's good to know exactly how it works. The exchange rate is the key to getting a fair deal.
For example, if you're converting 100 Euros to INR, the exchange rate is 87.73 INR, resulting in 87,730 INR.
What Determines INR Rate?
The Indian Rupee (INR) exchange rate can be influenced by several factors. A higher rate of inflation can cause the INR to increase in value.
Market forces like supply and demand generally determine rupee rates, but the Reserve Bank of India can step in if the exchange rate begins to swing wildly. This is known as a "managed float" system.
Differences in inflation between countries can cause the value of a currency pair to change. For example, if the US has a higher inflation rate than India, the value of the US dollar (USD) will decrease relative to the INR.
The demand for foreign currency in each country can also impact the INR exchange rate. If there is a greater demand for foreign currency in India, the value of the INR will decrease.
Government debt and import/export activity can also influence the INR exchange rate. If a country has a high level of government debt, it can lead to a decrease in the value of its currency.
Here are some key factors that determine the INR exchange rate:
- Differences in inflation (how much a rupee can buy over time)
- Differences in interest rates
- Demand for foreign currency in each country
- Government debt
- Import/export activity for both countries
- The stability of each country's economy and government
Check INR Rates
To check INR rates, you'll want to use more than one currency converter to get a feel for how Indian rupees are currently trading compared to other currencies. This is because Indian rupee stats can vary from source to source.
You'll typically only need to enter the currency code for the Indian rupee, which is INR. If you're planning to conduct an exchange transaction in the future, you may want to look at an INR forecast, but keep in mind that forecasts are just predictions and may not ultimately end up reflecting actual Indian rupee prices.
India has several factors that contribute to the value of its currency, including the fact that it takes many rupees to buy a single dollar, pound, or riyal.
Here's a simple formula to understand how exchange rates work:
Send Currency x Exchange Rate = Receive Amount
For example, if you're converting 100 Euros to INR, the calculation would be:
100 EUR x 87.73 INR = 87,730 INR
This means you would receive 87,730 Indian rupees for 100 Euros, but you'd need to subtract fees, taxes, and other costs to determine the actual amount of the remittance.
A different take: Do You Need to Exchange Currency in Canada
Specific Bank Information
If you're looking to exchange currency in India, you'll want to know which banks offer the service. Most major commercial Indian banks offer foreign currency exchange, but the currencies they offer can vary.
Here's a quick rundown of some popular Indian banks and the currencies they offer:
Keep in mind that some banks may not offer the same currencies, so it's worth double-checking before you head to the bank.
HDFC: Essential Facts
HDFC has a service called HDFC Foreign Exchange in India that allows you to exchange foreign currency.
You can use HDFC Bank to exchange foreign currency in India.
HDFC Bank charges transaction fees for foreign exchange transactions.
The exchange rates at HDFC Bank are determined by market conditions.
You can send money to India using HDFC Bank's foreign exchange services.
HDFC Foreign Exchange in India has a unique way to send money to India that is mentioned in the article.
SBI: A Guide
SBI offers foreign exchange services, but be aware that you might not get the best conversion rates and can be subject to higher fees.

You can exchange foreign currency at SBI in India, but it's essential to know the transaction fees and exchange rates beforehand.
SBI Foreign Exchange in India has a unique way to send money to India, which is an awesome option to consider.
To exchange foreign currency at SBI, you'll need to check the current exchange rates and fees, which might be higher than other options.
Exchange Locations
If you're visiting India, you'll need to exchange your currency to INR at some point.
You can exchange your currency at a currency exchange office, which is usually located at airports, train stations, and major hotels.
Some popular Indian banks also offer foreign currency exchange services, but not all may offer the same currencies.
Here's a list of popular Indian banks that offer foreign currency exchange services:
It's a good idea to have some cash on you when you arrive in India, in case you can't find an ATM.
Conversion Options
You can exchange currency online ahead of time, which is a great way to avoid last-minute hassles. Use Monito's comparison engine to find trusted service providers in India that will exchange your foreign currency.
There are also service providers that will deliver cash to your door, which is super convenient. This way, you can get the currency you need without having to leave your house.
Exchanging currency online can save you time and effort, and you can even compare rates to find the best deal.
Additional reading: When Is the Best Time to Exchange Currency
Sending and Receiving
Sending and receiving money in India is a bit more complicated than just exchanging currency, but don't worry, I've got you covered.
You can send up to the Indian Rupee equivalent of $2,50,000 USD from India in a financial year under the Reserve Bank of India’s Liberalised Remittance Scheme.
To send money to India, you'll need to provide a reason for the transfer, which can be one of the following: Travel, Gifts or Donations, Supporting close relatives abroad, Travel for work, Studying abroad, Attending conferences, meetings or trainings, Going overseas for work, or Expenses for medical treatments abroad.
If you're receiving money into India, there are no limitations, especially if you're receiving the money as a gift.
Here are the two basic options for sending funds to India and converting your dollars, pounds, riyals, or other currency into rupees:
Before sending money to India, be sure to compare your best options with Wise's price comparison calculator to know if you're getting the best deal.
Send Smoothly
You can send money to India with ease using Wise, a multi-currency account that allows you to hold, send, spend, receive, and convert 40 currencies online.
Wise offers low fees and mid-market exchange rates, making it a cost-effective option for sending money abroad.
To send money to India, you can use the Wise app, which allows you to track your transactions on the go.
You can send up to the Indian Rupee equivalent of $2,50,000 USD from India in a financial year under the Reserve Bank of India's Liberalised Remittance Scheme.
Here are the categories for sending money outside India:
- Travel
- Gifts or Donations
- Supporting close relatives abroad
- Travel for work
- Studying abroad
- Attending conferences, meetings or trainings
- Going overseas for work
- Expenses for medical treatments abroad
You can also use Wise's price comparison calculator to find the best deal for sending money to India.
With Wise, you can even get an international debit card for spending in 150+ countries, including India, which automatically converts your money to the local currency at the mid-market exchange rate.
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I exchange money before I travel to India?
No, you don't need to exchange money before arriving in India, as there are plenty of money changers available at airports and in cities. Your travel company can also assist with currency exchange if needed.
Is it better to exchange money in the US or India?
Exchange money in India for more favorable rates. Compare rates before exchanging to ensure the best deal
Can you use American dollars in India?
Yes, US dollars are widely accepted in India, but it's recommended to also exchange for rupees for remote areas.
Sources
- https://www.axisbank.com/progress-with-us-articles/digital-banking/how-to-exchange-foreign-currency-in-india
- https://wise.com/gb/blog/money-and-banks-in-india
- https://wise.com/in/blog/how-to-exchange-foreign-currency-in-india
- https://www.monito.com/en/wiki/exchange-currency-in-india
- https://blog.remitly.com/currencies/best-indian-rupee-rates-guide-converting-exchange-transfer-rupees/
Featured Images: pexels.com