In this guide, we’ll explore the top free credit cards in India that come with no annual fees forever, allowing you to maximise your savings. Whether you are a frequent shopper, a travel enthusiast, or simply want a card that won’t add extra expenses, these lifetime free credit cards are worth a look. If you are ready to experience hassle-free rewards and convenience, let’s dive in to see which free credit card to apply for!
Best Lifetime Free Credit Cards in India
1. Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card
The Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card is a lifetime free credit card that’s ideal for Amazon shoppers, especially Amazon Prime members. As an 0 annual fee credit card, it offers unlimited cashback with no capping, making it one of India’s best lifetime-free credit cards. Prime members enjoy a substantial 5% cashback on Amazon purchases, while non-Prime users receive a solid 3% cashback.
With no joining or renewal fees, this free credit card is issued by ICICI Bank in partnership with Amazon Pay and Visa. Cashback is earned as Amazon Pay Gift Cards and automatically added to your balance, allowing you to redeem at Amazon and over 100 partner merchants. This card brings you significant savings across Amazon’s vast categories, making it a top free credit card option for loyal Amazon users.
- Joining Fee: Nil
- Annual Fee: Nil
Features and Benefits:
- Unlimited Rewards
- No Cost EMI for 3 to 6 months in Amazon.in
- 5% reward on shopping in Amazon for Amazon Prime users
- 3% reward on shopping on Amazon for normal users.
- There is no expiration date or cap on the rewards.
Also Read: Best Credit Card for Students
2. HSBC VISA Platinum Credit Card
The HSBC VISA Platinum Credit Card stands out as one of the best lifetime-free credit cards in India, offering an attractive range of rewards and premium services with no annual fees. Ideal for shopping, dining, and fuel purchases, this 0 annual fee credit card earns you 2 reward points for every ₹150 spent and allows you to convert these points into air miles with top airlines like Club Vistara and Singapore Airlines.
With this free credit card, you also get up to 5X rewards up to ₹15,000 per year on annual spending above ₹4 lakh. Plus, if you spend ₹5,000 within 30 days of card issuance, you receive ₹500 cashback. Enjoy additional perks like zero lost card liability and up to ₹3,000 annually in fuel fee discounts, making it one of the best free credit cards to apply for a rewarding, lifetime-free experience.
- Joining Fee: Nil
- Annual Fee: Nil
Features and Benefits:
- Two reward points are earned on every Rs.150 spent.
- Annual savings of up to Rs.3000 on fuel charges.
- Convert reward points into air miles with Club Vistara, Air India’s Flying Returns, Etihad Airways, British Airways and Singapore Airlines.
3. IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card
The IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card is one of the best lifetime-free credit cards in India, offering a range of high-value rewards with zero annual fees. This 0 annual fee credit card includes 3X reward points on all UPI transactions and unlimited lifetime reward points on both online and in-store purchases.
Cardholders enjoy exclusive perks like 25% off on movie tickets via Paytm, 4 complimentary railway lounge visits per quarter, and significant dining and wellness discounts—up to 20% at partner restaurants and up to 15% at health outlets.
Additionally, with benefits like a 1% fuel surcharge waiver, EMI conversion for purchases over Rs. 2,500, balance transfer from other credit cards, and substantial insurance coverage (Rs. 2 lakh for personal accidents and Rs. 25,000 for lost card liability), this credit card in India with no annual fee stands out as a top choice for anyone seeking a free credit card that delivers exceptional value year-round.
- Joining Fee: Nil
- Annual Fee: Nil
Features and Benefits:
- 3X rewards points on all UPI transactions
- Reward points are available on both online and in-store purchases.
- Unlimited Reward points
- Cashback of up to Rs.200 on the first four transactions.
- Low foreign exchange mark-up fee of 3.50% on all transactions.
Also Read: Credit Card Offers To Utilize for Shopping
4. Federal Bank Scapia Credit Card
The Federal Bank Scapia Credit Card is a top choice for those seeking a lifetime free credit card with fantastic travel perks. As one of the best lifetime free credit cards in India, it offers 20% Scapia Coins on travel bookings, including flights and hotels through the Scapia app, and 10% Scapia Coins on all other online and offline purchases. This 0 annual fee credit card in India also boasts no forex markup fees, allowing you to save even on international transactions.
Additionally, enjoy unlimited domestic airport lounge access as a milestone benefit when you spend at least Rs. 5,000 per month. With the promise of zero charges, this card may soon allow you to convert Scapia App travel spending into 3-month no-cost EMIs. If you’re looking for free credit cards in India with no annual fee, this Scapia card is an excellent choice!
- Joining Fee: Nil
- Annual Fee: Nil
Features and Benefits:
- No forex markup fee
- Lifetime free credit card.
- On spending Rs.5000 every month, you will get free Airpot lounge access.
Also Read: How to Make Money With Credit Card
5. IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card
The IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card is the best lifetime free credit card in India offering high rewards with zero annual fee. As one of the top credit cards in India without an annual fee, it provides free access to domestic airport lounges and a minimal forex markup. Cardholders enjoy guaranteed trip cancellation coverage and zero charges for annual fees.
With the Paytm app, you can get buy-one-get-one movie tickets worth up to Rs.125. For extra rewards, earn up to 10X points on eligible monthly spends and birthday purchases, plus up to 3X points on UPI transactions and 100% cashback (up to Rs.200) on the first four UPI transactions. This is an ideal free credit card to apply for anyone seeking a credit card in India with no annual fee and valuable perks.
- Joining Fee: Nil
- Annual Fee: Nil
Features and Benefits:
- Low forex markup
- Lifetime free credit card
- 100% cashback of up to Rs.20 on the first four transactions.
- 1X rewards points on paying utility bills and 3X rewards points on paying rent.
- 4 complimentary free railway lounges.
Also Read: Top 10 Business Credit Cards in India
What are the Eligibility Criteria for Lifetime Free Credit Cards?
To qualify for a Lifetime Free Credit Card—a credit card with no annual fee—you generally need to meet the following eligibility requirements, although they can vary by issuer:
- Minimum Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Residency: Typically requires Indian residency, but some issuers may allow non-residents.
- Employment Status: Applicants can be either salaried or self-employed.
- Income Verification: You need a regular, verifiable income to show the ability to repay.
- Credit Score: A good credit score is often required, with no recent major defaults like bankruptcies or severe delinquencies.
While these zero annual fee credit cards often have relaxed criteria compared to premium cards, it’s still best to check the exact requirements set by each issuer to ensure eligibility.
How to Apply for a Lifetime Free Credit Card?
To apply for a Lifetime Free Credit Card—a credit card with no annual fee—you can follow these key steps:
Research Options:
- Use comparison websites or visit the official websites of major banks to find free credit cards in India lifetime with features that suit your needs.
- Review each card’s benefits, fees, and eligibility requirements.
Check Eligibility:
- Most issuers allow you to perform a soft credit check to see if you’re eligible without affecting your credit score. Check if you meet the requirements, such as age, income, employment type, and credit score.
Choose Your Card:
- Compare different zero annual fee credit cards in India to find one that aligns with your spending habits and desired benefits.
Apply Online or In-Branch:
- Complete the application by providing necessary details like your name, address, income, and employment information.
- Submit any required documents to verify your identity and income.
Credit Check and Approval:
- The issuer will perform a hard credit check and assess your application. You’ll receive a decision, along with details on your credit limit and terms.
This straightforward process makes it easy to find and apply for the best lifetime free credit card that matches your lifestyle and spending needs.
Also Read: How to Transfer Money from Credit Card to Bank Account
Features and Benefits of Lifetime Free Credit Cards
Lifetime Free Credit Cards offer a variety of features and benefits that make them a popular choice for those looking for a credit card with no annual fee. Here are the key highlights:
- No Annual or Joining Fees: The most notable benefit is the zero annual fee credit cards in India. These cards come with no joining or renewal fees, ensuring you don’t face any hidden costs throughout the card’s lifetime.
- Cost Savings: Many of these cards waive additional fees, such as fuel transaction fees, helping you save on everyday purchases like fuel, groceries, and more.
- Wide Range of Privileges: Cardholders enjoy various perks like discounts on shopping, dining, travel, and even exclusive movie ticket offers or food delivery deals, enhancing the overall value of the card.
- Welcome Benefits: Upon signing up, you may receive attractive bonuses, including reward points, vouchers, or even subscriptions to OTT platforms, making it a great option for new cardholders.
- Low-Income Requirements: These cards often have minimal income thresholds, making them accessible to a wide range of individuals, including first-time credit card users.
- Credit Building: Using a lifetime free credit card responsibly can help build or improve your credit score. Timely payments and low credit utilization can enhance your creditworthiness, allowing you to qualify for more premium cards in the future.
- Straightforward Application: The qualification process is typically quick and simple, with relaxed eligibility criteria, which makes it easier for salaried professionals or individuals with moderate incomes to apply and get approved.
- Rewards and Cashback: Despite being the best free credit card option, many lifetime free credit cards offer rewards or cashback on your purchases, whether it’s for groceries, dining, or fuel, allowing you to earn benefits on your regular expenses.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, choosing the best lifetime-free credit cards in India can greatly benefit those seeking a hassle-free financial experience without the burden of annual fees. With options like zero annual fee credit cards in India, you can enjoy the perks of a free credit card with no hidden charges.
Whether you’re looking for the best free credit card or a credit card with no annual fee, India offers plenty of choices to suit your needs. So, don’t wait any longer – apply for a free credit card today and enjoy the convenience of lifetime free credit cards in India, all while avoiding the extra costs of an annual fee.