HSBC UK debit card: an overview of features, fees, and limits

Thinking of switching bank accounts, or looking for a new debit card? You’ll have a lot of choice, from traditional banks to digital money providers.

If you’re interested in a bank-issued debit card, one of the options you’re likely to come across is HSBC.

In this guide, we’ll run through everything you need to know about getting an HSBC debit card. This includes features, fees and limits, plus some info on using your new card both in the UK and abroad.

Plus, we’ll show you another option – the Wise debit card. This is a convenient and low-cost alternative to bank cards, especially if you’re planning to travel. Your Wise debit card lets you spend in the local currency in 150+ countries, for low fees and fair exchange rates.

Learn more about the Wise debit card

HSBC debit card packages in the UK

Just like other UK banks, HSBC offers a debit card as standard with most of its current accounts.

With most of these, you can expect similar features such as:

• Contactless debit card payments
• The option to use your card with digital wallets such as Apple Pay, Google Pay and Samsung Pay
• Access to online banking and the HSBC mobile banking app
• No monthly maintenance fees for current accounts

HSBC’s debit cards use the Visa payment network, which is accepted worldwide.

Now, let’s take a look at the different current account packages available below, including the key benefits and features for each.

HSBC Advance Account

The HSBC Advance Account offers easy everyday banking for people aged over 18, with no monthly fee. You’ll get an HSBC visa debit card, contactless payments and an optional arranged overdraft of at least £1,000. The account also offers additional perks, such as discounts and cashback as part of the HSBC home&Away rewards programme.¹

HSBC Premier Account

This is HSBC’s premium account for over 18s, with no monthly account fee and lots of benefits and extra services. However, to be eligible for this account, you’ll need to have an annual income of at least £75,000 and have a mortgage, investment or life insurance product with HSBC. Alternatively, savings of at least £50,000 held with HSBC.²

If you meet the requirements, you’ll get an HSBC Premier debit card and access to the home&Away rewards programme. Plus, worldwide travel insurance, an arranged overdraft, preferential terms on mortgages and savings, and access to Premier credit cards.²

HSBC Bank Account

This is an everyday bank account for over 18s, with a debit card, simple features and no monthly fee. You can manage your money via online, phone or in-branch banking, or using the HSBC mobile banking app. You can also apply for an optional arranged overdraft if you need it.⁷

As with the other accounts, the HSBC Bank Account also offers access to discounts and offers with the home&Away rewards programme.⁷

HSBC Basic Bank Account

If you don’t qualify for another current account (for example, if you have a low credit score or poor credit history), then the HSBC Basic Bank Account could be the ideal option.⁸

You’ll get access to basic banking services, including mobile banking and a contactless HSBC Visa debit card. However, you won’t be able to apply for overdrafts, credit cards or loans with this account.⁸

HSBC Bank Account Pay Monthly

The HSBC Bank Account Pay Monthly is designed for people wanting a ‘buffer’ for unarranged emergency borrowing. It offers everyday banking services, including a debit card and mobile banking. But an additional feature is a £50 buffer for unarranged borrowing to cover short-term needs. To apply, you’ll need to be over 18 and live in the UK or EU.³

Looking for a student account and debit card instead? Take a look at the dedicated HSBC student account, which includes an option for international students who’ve lived in the UK for less than 3 years. For other alternative providers, check the best UK bank accounts for international students.

How does HSBC debit card work?

The HSBC debit card works just like any other bank-issued debit card in the UK. You can use it to spend in shops or online, and withdraw cash at ATMs. It’s a contactless Visa card, so you can just tap to spend wherever contactless payments are accepted.

What’s more, all HSBC cardholders have access to the home&Away offers programme. This gives you cashback, discounts and offers on shopping, dining, travel, experiences and more, with offers changing all the time.

How to get a new UK-issued debit card from HSBC?

To get a new debit card from HSBC, you’ll first need to apply for an HSBC current account.

Before you apply for a current account, make sure you have the required information and documents to hand. You’re likely to need proof of ID, such as a driving licence or passport, along with proof of address.

Once your account is open, your new HSBC debit card will be posted to your UK address.

Already have an HSBC account but need a replacement card? For example, your card may have been lost, stolen, damaged or swallowed by an ATM. You can find full information on getting a new card here on the HSBC website.

Debit card fees for HSBC in the UK

Now to answer that all important question - how much does it actually cost to use an HSBC debit card?

Here are the key HSBC debit card fees you need to know about, including using your VISA card abroad:

As you can see, you’ll need to be careful when using your HSBC debit card abroad. If you withdraw cash or spend in a foreign currency, you’ll pay a fee of at least 2.75%. Over the course of a holiday or business trip, this can soon add up.

For a truly international and low-cost way to spend worldwide, check out the Wise debit card. It can be used in 150+ countries, and automatically converts your money to the local currency whenever you spend abroad. You’ll only pay a small transparent conversion fee, or it's free if you already have the currency in your Wise account*.

What’s more, all transactions are carried out using the fair mid-market exchange rate. So you not only get low fees on overseas spending, but great exchange rates too.

Sign up with Wise

HSBC debit card limits in the UK

As with many UK-issued debit cards, the HSBC card has a few limits you need to be aware of. For example, daily limits on spending and cash withdrawals. These could restrict how much money you can withdraw at once, or spend on your contactless card in a shop, bar or restaurant.

With HSBC, these vary depending on which current account type you have. Here are the main limits you need to know about:

Debit card limits abroad

Lastly, let’s run through some key considerations about using your HSBC card abroad.

You’ll need to check with HSBC whether there are any specific limits about withdrawing cash and spending when in another country, or if the UK limits will apply. One crucial thing to watch out for is the contactless spending limit. It’s £100 in the UK, but this may be lower in other countries. So, make sure you have your debit card PIN memorised.

And of course, you’ll need to keep a close eye on the costs when using your UK-issued debit card in another country. You’ll have the HSBC fee to pay, and you’re likely to end up with an unfavourable exchange rate. This could make it an expensive way to spend internationally.

After reading this guide, you should have all the info you need to decide if the HSBC UK debit card is right for you.

We’ve looked at the account types which offer a debit card, plus the fees and limits for using your HSBC debit card at home and away.

If you want a cheaper alternative, with low fees and the mid-market rate for all currency conversions, consider checking out the Wise debit card. It’s contactless and works worldwide, so it’s ideal for travel and everyday use.

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