Best Credit Card Offers In India: Get Instant Approval & Discounts 2024

In a world where financial flexibility is paramount, credit cards have become indispensable. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best one for your needs? Are you looking for the best rewards, lowest interest rates, or perhaps the best balance transfer options? Let's explore the top 10 credit card offers in India, each tailored to suit different needs and lifestyles.

Best Credit Card Offers: Top 10 Credit Cards

1. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card
2. SBI Card Elite
3. ICICI Bank Coral Contactless Card
4. American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card
5. Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card
6. Citibank Cashback Credit Card
7. Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card
8. Kotak Mahindra Bank Royale Signature Credit Card
9. YES FIRST Preferred Credit Card
10. IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card

1. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card

For those who travel frequently, the HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card is an excellent option because of its outstanding features and advantages. Cardholders can travel in comfort with free access to more than 1,000 airport lounges globally. Furthermore, the card offers substantial reward points for each purchase, which may be exchanged for a variety of goods and services, including products, hotel stays, and airline miles. To give travellers an additional degree of protection, the Regalia card now includes emergency foreign hospitalisation coverage and complete travel insurance.

• Joining Fee: INR 2,500 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 2,500 + GST
• Best Suited For: Frequent travelers, high spenders
• Welcome Benefits: Welcome benefits worth up to INR 2,500

2. SBI Card Elite

The SBI Card Elite is intended for people who like a little extra luxury in their daily lives. With its extensive list of premium privileges, which includes free memberships to Club Vistara and Trident Privilege, it's ideal for luxury hotel guests and frequent travelers alike. As a welcome bonus, cardholders receive e-gift certificates from well-known brands in addition to significant reward points for their purchases. To guarantee an opulent lifestyle, the card also grants access to airport lounges and exclusive savings on food and entertainment.?

• Joining Fee: INR 4,999 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 4,999 + GST
• Best Suited For: Luxury lifestyle, frequent travelers
• Welcome Benefits: Welcome e-gift voucher worth INR 5,000

3. ICICI Bank Coral Contactless Card

The ICICI Bank Coral Contactless Card is a great option for people who like to travel and have fun. Every month, it provides free cinema tickets and access to airport lounges all around India. The contactless feature makes regular transactions hassle-free by enabling speedy and safe payments. Using each purchase made using the card, users can receive points that can be exchanged for interesting prizes and vouchers. It is a well-liked option for both families and young professionals due to its extensive features.?

• Joining Fee: INR 500 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 500 + GST
• Best Suited For: Entertainment, travel
• Welcome Benefits: NA

4. American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card

For travelers who appreciate first-rate services, American Express has created the Platinum Travel Credit Card. It provides substantial incentives on travel reservations along with global access to the Priority Pass lounge network. Every year, the card also awards bonus membership rewards points that can be used for vacation and lifestyle advantages. Membership rewards points are given to cardholders as a welcome gift, adding value from the outset. With extra luxury, this card guarantees a flawless travel experience.?

• Joining Fee: INR 3,500 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 5,000 + GST
• Best Suited For: Frequent travelers
• Welcome Benefits: Welcome gift of 10,000 membership rewards points

5. Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card

The Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card is a great choice for anyone who loves to shop online, especially Flipkart customers. By providing welcome coupons and exclusive discounts on Flipkart, it enhances the value of online purchases. Every purchase made with the card earns reward points that may be exchanged for a range of goods and services. To further improve their entire purchasing experience, cardholders can take advantage of recurring specials and discounts on eating, travel, and other items.?

• Joining Fee: INR 750 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 750 + GST
• Best Suited For: Online shopping, Flipkart users
• Welcome Benefits: Welcome vouchers worth INR 1,000 from Flipkart

6. Citibank Cashback Credit Card

The Citibank Cash Back Credit Card is perfect for those who prefer cash back over reward points. It offers substantial cashback on everyday expenses like movie tickets and utility bill payments. Cardholders receive cashback directly credited to their account, making it a straightforward and valuable benefit. This card is an excellent choice for individuals who want to maximise their savings on regular expenditures without the complexity of reward point redemption.

• Joining Fee: INR 500 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 500 + GST
• Best Suited For: Cashback enthusiasts, everyday expenses
• Welcome Benefits: NA

7. Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card

For those who spend a lot on utilities and fuel, Standard Chartered offers the Super Value Titanium Credit Card. It gives rewards on phone and utility bill payments in addition to fuel purchases. The card is a well-rounded choice for daily use because it also offers reward points for other categories. Because of its generous cashback advantages, cardholders can save money on necessities, making it a sensible option for those on a tight budget.?

• Joining Fee: INR 750 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 750 + GST
• Best Suited For: Fuel and utility bill payments
• Welcome Benefits: NA

8. Kotak Mahindra Bank Royale Signature Credit Card

The Kotak Mahindra Bank Royale Signature Credit Card is designed for those who enjoy dining out and traveling. It offers complimentary movie tickets annually and rewards points for dining, travel, and international spending. The card also provides a complimentary Priority Pass membership, giving cardholders access to airport lounges worldwide. This card is perfect for those who seek luxury and rewards in their everyday spending.

• Joining Fee: INR 1,499 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 999 + GST
• Best Suited For: Dining, travel, international spends
• Welcome Benefits: NA

9. YES FIRST Preferred Credit Card

The YES FIRST Preferred Credit Card is an excellent choice for frequent domestic travelers. It offers a substantial welcome and renewal benefit in the form of reward points, along with unlimited domestic airport lounge access. The card also provides reward points for every spend, which can be redeemed for travel, lifestyle, and shopping benefits. Its focus on travel perks makes it a valuable asset for those who travel frequently within India.

• Joining Fee: INR 2,500 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 2,500 + GST
• Best Suited For: Domestic travelers
• Welcome Benefits: Welcome and renewal benefit of 15,000 reward points

10. IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card

The IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card is ideal for those who enjoy shopping and dining out, particularly on weekends. It offers enhanced reward points on weekend spending and also provides welcome gift vouchers from leading brands. The card is designed to reward lifestyle spending, making it a great choice for individuals who like to make the most of their weekends and enjoy dining and shopping experiences.

• Joining Fee: INR 2,000 + GST
• Renewal Fee: INR 2,000 + GST
• Best Suited For: Weekend spenders, shopping, dining
• Welcome Benefits: Welcome gift vouchers from leading brands

Credit Cards: Features and Benefits

1. Reward Points: Many credit cards offer reward points for every purchase, which can be redeemed for various benefits such as travel bookings, merchandise, gift vouchers, and more. The accumulation of these points can lead to significant savings and exclusive rewards over time.
2. Cashback: Cashback is a popular feature where a percentage of the amount spent is returned to the cardholder. This can be particularly beneficial for everyday expenses such as groceries, utility bills, and fuel, making it a direct way to save money on regular purchases.
3. Travel Benefits: Premium credit cards often provide extensive travel benefits, including complimentary access to airport lounges, travel insurance, and discounts on flight and hotel bookings. These features enhance the travel experience, offering comfort and convenience.
4. Lifestyle Privileges: Credit cards frequently offer lifestyle privileges like dining discounts, movie ticket offers, and access to exclusive events. These benefits cater to cardholders' entertainment and dining needs, adding value to their everyday life and special occasions.
5. Low or No Interest on Balance Transfers: Some credit cards offer low or zero interest rates on balance transfers, allowing cardholders to consolidate debt and save on interest payments. This feature can be a valuable financial tool for managing existing credit card balances more efficiently.

Best Credit Card Offers: Top 10 Credit Cards in India

1. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card

Rewards and Cashback:

• 4 reward points for every INR 150 spent.
• Reward points can be redeemed for air miles, hotel stays, and merchandise.
• Complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide.
• Travel insurance and emergency overseas hospitalisation coverage.
• Exclusive dining and lifestyle offers.

2. SBI Card Elite

Rewards and Cashback:

• 2 reward points for every INR 100 spent on groceries, dining, and departmental stores.
• 5X reward points on international spending.
• Complimentary memberships to Club Vistara and Trident Privilege.
• Free movie tickets worth INR 6,000 annually.
• Exclusive discounts on dining and entertainment.

3. ICICI Bank Coral Contactless Card

Rewards and Cashback:

• 2 reward points for every INR 100 spent on all purchases.
• 2 complimentary movie tickets per month via BookMyShow.
• 1 complimentary domestic airport lounge visit per quarter.
• Dining offers through the Culinary Treats Program.
• Points are redeemable for travel, merchandise, and gift vouchers.

4. American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card

Rewards and Cashback:

• 1 membership reward point for every INR 50 spent (except for certain spends).
• 5,000 bonus membership rewards points on first spend of INR 1,000 within 90 days of card issuance.
• 15,000 bonus membership rewards points on spending INR 1.90 lakh in a year.
• Travel vouchers worth INR 19,000 on spending INR 4 lakh in a year.
• Complimentary access to the Priority Pass lounge network.

5. Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card

Rewards and Cashback:

• 2 reward points for every INR 200 spent.
• 10% discount on Flipkart purchases.
• Additional reward points during festive sales on Flipkart.
• Welcome voucher worth INR 1,000 from Flipkart.
• Points are redeemable for a variety of products and services.

6. Citibank Cashback Credit Card

Rewards and Cashback:

• 5% cashback on movie ticket purchases.
• 5% cashback on utility bill payments made through Citibank Online Bill Pay.
• 0.5% cashback on all other spends.
• Cashback is credited directly to the account.
• No upper limit on cash-back earnings.

7. Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card

Rewards and Cashback:

• 5% cashback on fuel spending.
• 5% cashback on telephone and utility bill payments.
• 1 reward point for every INR 150 spent on other categories.
• Points are redeemable for travel, shopping, and merchandise.
• Exclusive dining and lifestyle offers.

8. Kotak Mahindra Bank Royale Signature Credit Card

Rewards and Cashback:

• 4X reward points on dining, travel, and international spending.
• 8 complimentary PVR movie tickets annually.
• Complimentary Priority Pass membership.
• Access to Kotak Privy League program with exclusive offers.
• Points are redeemable for travel, shopping, and gift vouchers.

9. YES FIRST Preferred Credit Card

Rewards and Cashback:

• 4 reward points for every INR 200 spent.
• 15,000 reward points as a welcome and renewal benefit.
• Unlimited domestic airport lounge access.
• Exclusive dining and lifestyle offers.
• Points are redeemable for travel, shopping, and lifestyle benefits.

10. IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card

Rewards and Cashback:

• 4 reward points for every INR 100 spent on weekends.
• 2 reward points for every INR 100 spent on weekdays.
• Welcome gift vouchers from leading brands.
• Points are redeemable for travel, shopping, and gift vouchers.
• Exclusive dining and lifestyle offers.

How To Earn and Redeem Credit Card Reward Points

#1. Earning Reward Points:

1. Regular Purchases: Earn points on everyday spending like groceries, fuel, and dining.
2. Bonus Categories: Utilize higher points earned on specific categories like travel or entertainment.
3. Special Promotions: Take advantage of promotional offers from your card issuer.
4. Partner Merchants: Shop with partner retailers for additional points.
5. Online Shopping: Earn extra points through the credit card's online shopping portal.

#2. Redeeming Reward Points:

1. Travel Bookings: Redeem points for flights, hotels, and vacation packages.
2. Gift Vouchers: Convert points to gift vouchers from popular brands.
3. Merchandise: Use points to purchase products from the card’s rewards catalog.
4. Statement Credit: Apply points towards your credit card bill.
5. Charity Donations: Donate your points to charitable organizations.

Credit Card Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a credit card, you generally need to meet certain eligibility criteria set by the issuing bank. The primary requirements include a minimum age, a stable income source, and a good credit score. Applicants must also provide proof of identity, address, and income. Specific eligibility criteria can vary by bank and card type, but typically include the following:

• Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
• Income: Regular and stable income, often with a minimum income requirement.
• Credit Score: A good credit score, generally above 650.
• Employment: Proof of stable employment or business income.
• Documents: Valid ID proof, address proof, and income proof (like salary slips or tax returns).

Documents Required for Credit Card Application

When applying for a credit card, you need to provide several documents to verify your identity, address, and financial stability. These documents help the bank assess your eligibility and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements. Typically, you will need:

• Identity Proof: Aadhar card, PAN card, passport, or voter ID.
• Address Proof: Utility bills, rental agreement, passport, or Aadhar card.
• Income Proof: Recent salary slips, bank statements, income tax returns, or employment letters.
• Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs, if required.
• Additional Documents: Depending on the bank, additional documents may be requested.

Credit Card Annual Fees and Charges

1. HDFC Bank Regalia Credit Card

• Annual Fee: INR 2,500 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 3,00,000 annually

2. SBI Card Elite

• Annual Fee: INR 4,999 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 10,00,000 annually

3. ICICI Bank Coral Contactless Card

• Annual Fee: INR 500 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 1,50,000 annually

4. American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card

• Annual Fee: INR 3,500 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 4,00,000 annually

5. Axis Bank Buzz Credit Card

• Annual Fee: INR 750 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 75,000 annually

6. Citibank Cashback Credit Card

• Annual Fee: INR 500 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 30,000 annually

7. Standard Chartered Super Value Titanium Credit Card

• Annual Fee: INR 750 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 60,000 annually

8. Kotak Mahindra Bank Royale Signature Credit Card

• Annual Fee: INR 1,499 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 1,00,000 annually

9. YES FIRST Preferred Credit Card

• Annual Fee: INR 2,500 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 3,00,000 annually

10. IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card

• Annual Fee: INR 2,000 + GST
• Spends for Renewal Fee Waiver: INR 2,50,000 annually

Other Fees & Charges for Credit Cards

• Interest Rates: Applied on outstanding balances if not paid in full by the due date, typically ranging from 2.5% to 3.5% per month.
• Late Payment Fee: Charged when the minimum payment is not made by the due date. This fee can range from INR 100 to INR 1,000, depending on the card issuer and outstanding amount.
• Cash Advance Fee: A fee for withdrawing cash using your credit card, usually around 2.5% to 3% of the transaction amount, with a minimum charge of INR 300 to INR 500.
• Foreign Transaction Fee: Charged for purchases made in foreign currencies, typically around 1.5% to 3.5% of the transaction amount.
• Overlimit Fee: This is applied when you exceed your credit limit, usually around 2.5% of the overlimit amount.
• Balance Transfer Fee: Charged when transferring balances from one credit card to another, generally around 1% to 2% of the transferred amount.

How To Activate Credit Cards

#1. Net Banking:

1. Log in to your bank’s net banking portal using your credentials.
2. Navigate to the credit cards section or the specific activation option.
3. Select the credit card you wish to activate.
4. Follow the prompts to verify your identity and confirm activation.
5. Once completed, your credit card will be activated.

#2. Mobile App:

1. Open your bank’s mobile banking app on your smartphone.
2. Log in with your credentials (if required).
3. Locate the credit cards section within the app.
4. Select the option to activate a new credit card or view existing cards.
5. Follow the on-screen instructions to activate your credit card offers.
6. Confirm activation to start using your card benefits.

#3. Activation Page:

1. Go to the page your bank supplied for activation (usually located on their official website).
2. Input your credit card number and CVV, along with any relevant information.
3. Use the OTP (One-Time Password) that is delivered to the email address or registered mobile number to authenticate your identity.
4. As needed, do any further verification steps.
5. Send in the request for activation.
6. Your credit card will become usable as soon as they are processed.?

Credit Cards Login/Net Banking

1. Login: Visit your bank’s official website and log in to the net banking portal using your username and password.
2. Navigate to Credit Cards: Once logged in, locate the section dedicated to credit cards or offers. This is usually found under the 'Cards' or 'Accounts' tab.
3. View Offers: Explore the available offers associated with your credit card. This includes rewards, cashback, discounts, and special promotions.
4. Redeem Rewards: Check your accumulated reward points and redeem them for various benefits such as travel bookings, merchandise, or gift vouchers.
5. Pay Bills: Manage your credit card payments conveniently through net banking. You can view your statement, make payments, and set up auto-debit options.
6. Update Information: Update personal details, contact information, or preferences related to your credit card account.
7. Security Features: Utilize security features provided by net banking, such as setting up alerts for transactions, activating/deactivating your card, and reviewing transaction history.

How To Compare Credit Cards Offers For Beginners & Choose The Best One?

Comparing credit card offers as a beginner involves understanding key features and assessing your personal financial needs. Start by identifying what matters most to you—whether it’s rewards, cashback, low interest rates, or specific perks like travel benefits or dining privileges.?

Begin by researching different credit cards available from various banks and financial institutions. Look closely at factors such as annual fees, interest rates on purchases and cash advances, reward structures, and additional fees like late payment charges.

Consider the introductory offers, such as welcome bonuses or initial reward points, which can provide immediate value. It's also crucial to evaluate the long-term benefits and costs, including renewal fees and the ease of earning and redeeming rewards.?

Websites and comparison tools can simplify this process, allowing you to compare multiple cards side by side based on your criteria. Lastly, choose a card that aligns with your spending habits and financial goals, ensuring it provides the most value while being manageable within your budget.?

By taking these steps, you can confidently select a credit card that suits your needs and enhances your financial strategy.

Conclusion:

As a novice, selecting the best credit card requires careful evaluation of a number of variables, including rewards, fees, interest rates, and individual spending patterns. You can choose a card that not only fulfils your short-term requirements but also gives long-term value by evaluating various offers and being aware of your financial priorities.?

To make sure you understand all of the perks and obligations connected with your selected card, don't forget to carefully read the terms and conditions before applying.?

FAQs:

Q1. What should I prioritise when comparing credit card offers?

Ans: Focus on factors like rewards structure, annual fees, interest rates, and any special perks that align with your spending habits and financial goals.

Q2. How can I avoid unnecessary fees with my credit card?

Ans: Stay informed about late payment charges, cash advance fees, and foreign transaction fees. Paying your balance in full each month can help avoid accruing interest.

Q3. What are introductory offers, and why are they important?

Ans: Introductory offers include bonuses like welcome rewards or initial zero-interest periods. They can provide immediate value but consider the long-term benefits beyond these initial perks.

Q4. Is it necessary to check my credit score before applying for a credit card?

Ans: Yes, a good credit score increases your chances of approval and may qualify you for better terms and rewards. Monitor your credit report regularly to ensure accuracy.