How do international gift cards work?

International gift cards allow businesses to send rewards digitally across borders, which recipients can redeem locally through available options.

Can gift cards be used internationally?

Some gift cards can be used internationally, while others are limited to one retailer, one country, or one market. Whether a gift card can be used internationally depends on the provider, the retailer, the country, and the redemption setup. Note: Always check where a card can be used before purchasing or sending.

Where can international gift cards be used?

International gift cards can usually be used in the countries or markets supported by the provider. Some are valid across multiple regions, while others are restricted to selected countries or specific retailers. Availability may also depend on currency support, language support, and local redemption options. For the most up-to-date list of supported countries and redemption options, always check the provider's website.

Are international gift cards digital?

Many international gift cards are now delivered as digital gift cards or e-gift cards. This makes them easier to send by email, SMS, API, or bulk upload, especially for global teams and international reward programs.

Do international gift cards work in local currencies?

When shopping in a foreign currency, the card's loaded value automatically converts at the current exchange rate. Some international gift card solutions support local currency redemption, localized value display, or multi-currency use. Some might charge transaction fees for purchases made in a foreign currency. Others may be limited to one currency or apply restrictions depending on the market and reward type. Currency conversion can complicate the use of international gift cards, as exchange rates may affect the value of the card when used in different countries.

What is the difference between a single-brand gift card and an international gift card solution?

Retailer-specific gift cards, such as those from Amazon, Starbucks, and Airbnb, are popular for international gifting as they can be redeemed in multiple countries, often in local currencies. An international gift card solution is often broader and may give recipients access to multiple local or global options, making it more flexible for cross-border rewards and global gifting.

Are international gift cards good for employee rewards?

Yes. International gift cards are often used for employee rewards, employee recognition, milestone celebrations, holiday gifting, and other global reward programs where teams are spread across multiple countries. International gift cards are perceived to have a higher value than cash rewards, which can enhance employee motivation and satisfaction when used as incentives.

What should businesses look for in an international gift card solution?

When choosing an international gift card, consider the recipient's needs, such as their currency preferences and hobbies, to ensure the gift card will be exciting and useful for them. It's important to review applicable fees associated with international gift cards, as some distributors may charge activation or shipping fees depending on the card and the countries involved. Businesses should look at country coverage, local relevance, available brands, language support, currency handling, delivery speed, scalability, customization, integration options, recipient support, and transparent pricing. These factors affect both the sending experience and the redemption experience.

How does GoGift support international gift cards?

GoGift supports international gifting through a corporate reward solution designed for use across multiple countries. It helps businesses send rewards across borders while offering recipients locally relevant redemption options and a smoother digital experience.

International Gift Cards Explained – How They Work

Q: What are international gift cards?

International gift cards are digital or physical cards that can be used across countries, either with a specific retailer or a broader selection of brands.

World's largest gift card catalogue

Trusted by 25,000+ clients worldwide

Market leader since 2003

World's largest gift card catalogue

Trusted by 25,000+ clients worldwide

Trusted by 25,000+ corporate clients and global reward programs worldwide

GIFT CARDS CAN BE USED INTERNATIONALLY

What are international gift cards?

Many domestic gift cards are restricted to use within the country of purchase, limiting their usability abroad. Different countries also have varying regulations around expiration dates, fees and redemption policies, which can create challenges for businesses managing rewards globally.

International gift cards are designed to overcome these limitations. They include both physical and eGift cards that can be sent across countries and used by recipients in different markets. They provide convenience when delivering rewards internationally and may be tied to a specific retailer or offer access to multiple brands and redemption options, across categories such as clothes, games and more.

GoGift Global Gift Card shown on mobile and laptop screens

Cursor selecting a currency option (EUR or GBP) above The Global Gift Card mockup

1. Choose the value

Select the amount you want to send.

2. Send to recipients

Deliver rewards via email or online platforms.

3. Redeem them

Recipients use the value with available brands or services.

Types of international gift cards

International gift cards simplify global rewards by removing the need to manage local suppliers, shipping costs and currencies.

The Global Gift Card on a blue gradient background

Photo looking up at the underside of a steel truss bridge with a brick archway

Multi-brand gift cards

Access to multiple brands

Learn more

GoGift prepaid Visa/Mastercard card mockup

Sepia-toned photo of a person sitting on a ledge looking out at a city skyline across water

Retail-specific gift cards

Used with one brand (e.g. Amazon, Starbucks, Airbnb, eBay, Steam)

Learn more

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Prepaid cards

Visa / Mastercard style cards

Learn more

Secure and reliable global gifting

Sending digital cards and physical gift cards internationally is generally secure and reliable. Whether for a specific occasion or ongoing programs, solutions like The Global Gift Card support multiple payment options, including credit, and ensure funds are protected throughout the process.

‍International prepaid cards — including Visa gift cards — may offer flexibility across the world, but can come with limitations such as expiration dates or restrictions depending on where they are used, including in physical stores, online shops or apps.

With global digital gift card solutions, businesses can deliver rewards securely, giving recipients easy access to their funds and full control over how rewards are used.

Flexible Reward Options

Why businesses use international gift cards

Flexibility matters when managing rewards across multiple countries, where scalability and simplicity are key, further allowing your business to focus on core activities by simplifying reward administration.