International Spend Limit Horror by FNB

I travelled out of the country but before leaving I informed the bank,by going to the branch to have them activate international spending. I was assured all is in order and that I would have no issues using my cards. I spoke to their agent on secure chat. First day of arrival in China, i realise my International Daily Limit is only R2500, which forces me to withdraw everyday (it doesn’t even allow me to withdraw the entire amount!). Fast forward to two days later, i am unable to withdraw from my accounts because i have reached my monthly international limit, which is set at R5000. The notifications redirect me to the app and i am unable to increase this limit. I tried to use secure chat to lodge a complaint and the agent who was assisting me advised that i either call or email International Spend Limits, i try both and fail dismally with the call. For the email i get an automated response below: “ Dear Client, This auto response serves as an acknowledgement of your email received by the International Spend Limits Team. Please do not reply directly to this message.

For us to help you with your request, please have a copy of your South African identity document or a foreign passport as well as your account number. Did you know: Single Discretionary Allowance (SDA): South African clients are accorded an international spent limit called the SDA. This regulatory limit is granted by the South African Reserve Bank and is set at R1 million per calendar year (1 January – 31 December). Card Not Present (CNP): The CNP limit refers to the Bank’s regulatory limit, allowing clients to effect international transactions online using their debit/credit card. Foreign National Limits: Foreign national clients are accorded a monthly international spend limit based on income and expenses. If you need more help over and above these limits, please call +***2 (select option 1). This number is operational between 08h00 AM (CAT) and 17h00 PM (CAT), from Monday to Friday, and responses are provided within 24 business hours.”

I am currently stranded, cashless because FNB doesn’t allow me access to funds. It’s Friday today, I don’t know how FNB expects me to survive until Wednesday since Monday and Tuesday are holidays!

Thank you for your continued support.