₽Payments Bible
Card Controls

How to Enable Your UOB Card's Magnetic Stripe for Overseas Use

Turn on your UOB card's magnetic stripe for overseas ATM and in-store use in the UOB TMRW app — it's off by default for security.

SG flagSingaporeUOB1 min readUpdated 15 Jul 2026

Agent guide. Use these steps to walk the client through the process — the screenshots show exactly what they’ll see on screen.

For security, the magnetic stripe on UOB cards is disabled by default for overseas use. Chip (EMV), contactless and e-commerce still work overseas — you only need to enable the magnetic stripe if a destination requires a swipe. Do it in the UOB TMRW app and set the period of overseas use.

Before you start

  • The UOB TMRW app
  • The client's login (or Face ID / Touch ID)
  • The card to manage

💡 Tip: Chip, contactless and online purchases keep working overseas even with magstripe off — only enable magstripe if a destination needs a swipe, and set an end date. On Personal Internet Banking it's under Account Services → Manage Cards.

Frequently asked questions

Will my card work abroad without this?

Yes — chip, contactless and online transactions work overseas. Only magnetic-stripe swipe transactions need this enabled.

Why is it off by default?

Magnetic stripe is the easiest method to skim or clone, so UOB disables overseas magstripe by default.

  1. 1

    Open Accounts

    Log in to UOB TMRW and tap "Accounts".

    Open Accounts
  2. 2

    Select the card

    Select the UOB card you want to enable the magnetic stripe for.

  3. 3

    Open Manage overseas use

    Under Services, tap "Manage overseas use".

  4. 4

    Enable and set the period

    Enable the magnetic stripe, set the period of overseas use, and tap "Save".

Reference for assisting clients. Bank screens, steps and limits change often — always confirm the current process with UOB before advising the client.