Before flying, please ensure you’ve enabled the usage function on your BSN Debit Card to enjoy seamless transactions when spending abroad.
Read the guide on how to activate BSN Debit card for overseas use. Please also make sure that you have activated BSN online banking so that you can access it anywhere.
BSN Debit Card Activation Before Travelling
How to activate BSN Debit Card for overseas use?
Activate BSN Debit Card via myBSN Internet Banking for overseas usage
For First-time Users:
- Click ‘Register’ on the top right corner of BSN’s home page.
- Upon successful registration, proceed to the next step.
- Done
For Existing myBSN Users:
- Log in to myBSN.
- Select ‘Manage Account’ and click ‘Debit Card’.
- Select ‘Update Overseas Transaction Status’, select ‘Debit Card’ and click ‘Next’.
- Choose between ‘Permanently Activated’, ‘Temporary Activated’ or ‘Deactivated’.
- Enter the effective date and ‘Start/End date’ then click ‘Next’.
- Click ‘Request TAC’. (Your TAC will be sent to your mobile number registered with BSN).
- Enter the TAC and click ‘Next’.
- Expect a message confirming successful Overseas Transaction update.
- Done
Activate BSN Debit Card via BSN ATM for overseas usage
- Insert your BSN Visa Debit Card.
- Select ‘PIN CHANGE / OTHERS’.
- Choose ‘MAINTENANCE’.
- Select ‘OVERSEAS TRANSACTION’.
- Opt for either ‘TEMPORARY ACTIVATION’ or ‘PERMANENT ACTIVATION’.
- Done
Just so you know, this activation is compulsory. It’s not the same as the activation of BSN Debit Card for online purchase.
What are the risks if I use my BSN Debit Card abroad?
Using your BSN (Bank Simpanan Nasional) Debit Card abroad may involve certain risks and extra charges:
- Foreign Transaction Fees: Some banks charge a fee for international transactions. Before you travel, check with BSN to see if they charge a foreign transaction fee for debit card purchases.
- Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC): Some merchants or ATMs abroad may offer to convert your transaction into your home currency. This is called DCC and it is usually not a good deal because the conversion rates are often poor.
- Fraud Risk: The risk of card fraud increases when you use your card abroad, especially if you use it at an ATM. Always keep your card in sight and never share your PIN.
- ATM Fees: Some ATMs charge a fee for withdrawals or balance inquiries. These fees can add up quickly, especially if you withdraw small amounts frequently.
- Card Blocking: For security reasons, some banks may block transactions in certain countries. Before travelling, inform BSN of your travel plans to avoid having your card blocked.
- Exchange Rate Fluctuations: The exchange rate can fluctuate between the time you make a purchase and when the transaction posts to your account, which could result in you paying more than you expected.
- Limited Merchant Acceptance: Not all merchants abroad accept debit cards, which could limit your payment options. Always have some local currency on hand as a backup.
If I have problems, how to contact BSN from abroad?
You can contact Bank Simpanan Nasional (BSN) from abroad by calling their customer service hotline at +603 2011 4343.
You can also reach them through email at [email protected].
Please remember that international calling rates may apply.