BML Applies Cross-Border Transaction Fees to All Debit and Credit Cards

Bank of Maldives (BML) has applied cross-border transaction fees to all BML-issued debit and credit cards, as part of an updated fee structure effective from 2 June 2026.

According to the bank’s revised schedule of charges, cross-border transactions will now incur fees ranging between 4 per cent and 30 per cent, depending on the transaction type and processing method.

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BML stated that transactions conducted in currencies other than US dollars, or made using cards funded in Maldivian rufiyaa or linked to rufiyaa accounts, will be subject to a cross-border transaction fee of up to 10 per cent.

The bank also noted that selected merchants may attract fees of up to 30 per cent, depending on how transactions are processed.

The updated structure extends previous measures introduced last year, when the bank imposed higher fees on purchases from selected international e-commerce platforms, including Temu, Shein, Alibaba, AliExpress, Lazada and eBay. At the time, exemptions applied to certain USD-linked accounts and credit cards.

Under the revised policy, cross-border transaction fees now apply across all BML-issued cards.

The changes come as the bank continues to implement measures aimed at managing foreign exchange demand. BML has previously introduced limits on transactions to selected foreign e-commerce platforms using rufiyaa cards, citing foreign currency constraints.

Separately, the bank said it is addressing cases of declined subscription payments and has urged customers affected by failed transactions to contact the bank directly for assistance. It clarified that subscription services are not included within the foreign spending limits applied to certain transactions.

The clarification follows customer reports of failed subscription payments through mobile banking platforms, despite the bank’s indication that such services remain exempt from the spending restrictions.