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ToggleThinking about getting a credit card but want to use an Indian payment network? RuPay Credit Cards might be a good fit for you! Created by the National Payments Corporation of India for Indian users, RuPay offers a secure and easy way to shop and manage your money.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about RuPay Credit Cards, including how to get one, the benefits they offer, and the different types available. We’ll also cover how to apply, who can qualify, and answer any questions you might have. Without waiting further, let’s jump right into it.
RuPay is India’s own payment network, named by combining “rupee” and “payment.” Launched in India in 2012, these cards are a domestic alternative to international credit card networks. Issued by Indian banks, RuPay cards function similarly to traditional credit cards – you can make purchases and borrow money against a credit limit, with repayment expected later.
But unlike international cards, RuPay transactions are processed within India’s own National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) network, potentially leading to faster processing and lower fees. On top of that, RuPay credit cards now work with India’s UPI system. This means you can easily pay at nearby stores without needing to swipe your card or rely on a credit card machine.
RuPay offers a range of credit cards to cater to different needs and spending habits. Here’s a breakdown of the primary types of RuPay Credit Cards:
The RuPay Classic Credit Card is an entry point into the world of RuPay credit cards, offering a balance of affordability and benefits. Targeted towards everyday spenders, it typically comes with a lower annual fee compared to premium RuPay cards. While specific rewards programs may vary depending on the issuing bank, the RuPay Classic Card generally focuses on exclusive merchant offers and discounts at partner stores and online retailers. This makes it a good option for those looking for a card to maximise savings on regular purchases without the need for high spending thresholds or complex reward structures.
Designed for those who seek more than the basic features, RuPay Platinum Credit Cards offer a range of benefits and rewards to elevate your shopping experience. These cards often come with reward points programs that can be redeemed for cashback, discounts, or travel vouchers. You might also enjoy exclusive privileges like airport lounge access, complimentary travel insurance, and special offers with partner merchants. On the security front, RuPay Platinum Cards typically feature EMV chip technology for enhanced transaction security. Overall, a RuPay Platinum Credit Card provides a well-rounded package for spenders who value convenience, rewards, and peace of mind.
Designed for a premium lifestyle, the RuPay Select Credit Card caters to those who appreciate the finer things. Cardholders enjoy a variety of exclusive benefits that go beyond rewards points. Depending on the issuing bank, these perks can include spa memberships for relaxation and rejuvenation, complimentary subscriptions to popular OTT platforms for entertainment on-demand, and comprehensive insurance coverage for peace of mind. Some banks might even offer access to exclusive golf programs, perfect for unwinding after a busy week. These are just a few examples, and the specific benefits can vary depending on the issuing bank.
The Ministry of Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME), in partnership with the National Payment Corporation of India (NPCI), launched the MSME RuPay Credit Card across India, initially as a pilot program for Udyam registered MSMEs.This card is tailored for MSMEs, enabling a range of business transactions such as digital payments, utility bill payments, and tax settlements, offering a convenient tool for managing these expenses. Additionally, the card provides benefits like airport lounge access, accident insurance coverage, air accident insurance, and coverage for baggage loss.
Here’s a step-by-step guide on How to apply for a RuPay credit card:
Visit the Website
Head over to the official website of the bank offering RuPay credit cards you’re interested in (like SBI, PNB, HDFC). You can also visit the official RuPay Card website for a general overview.
Choose Your Card
Browse the available RuPay credit card options and pick the one that best suits your needs. Consider the benefits and features offered by each card type.
Check Eligibility
Before applying, make sure you meet the eligibility criteria set by the bank. This typically includes being at least 18 years old, having a stable income, and maintaining a good credit score.
Fill Out the Application
Look for the online application form and fill it out with your personal, professional, and financial details as required. Be sure to provide accurate information.
Submit Your Documents
The application process might require you to upload specific documents like proof of identity, address, and income. Follow the bank’s instructions carefully for submission.
Here are some common document types you might need (specific requirements may vary by bank):
Optional Documents:
Wait for Approval
The bank will review your application and assess your creditworthiness. Processing times can range from a few days to a few weeks.
Receive Your Card
Once your application is verified and approved, the bank will process it and send your RuPay credit card to your registered address within a specified period (usually 10-15 business days).
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Accepting RuPay cards generally means lower transaction fees for businesses compared to international networks like Visa and Mastercard. This encourages more merchants to accept RuPay, which ultimately benefits everyone by increasing its overall acceptance.
To promote UPI usage, RuPay credit cards can be linked to UPI accounts. This allows cardholders to make UPI payments for added convenience.
RuPay cards are designed with Indian consumers in mind. They often come with benefits and rewards programs that are tailored to what Indian cardholders typically spend on. This can make them a good option if you mostly use your credit card for domestic purchases.
RuPay credit cards can be a budget-friendly option in India. Many cards come with no joining fees and some even waive annual maintenance charges if you spend a certain amount each year. Additionally, RuPay cards often have competitive interest rates compared to other options.
RuPay credit cards offer various deals and promotions to entice cardholders. These can include cashback rewards on purchases, travel benefits, and discounts with partner merchants. So, it’s always a good idea to check out the specific offers available on each card before applying.
RuPay credit cards can sometimes include insurance as a benefit. This insurance might cover things like accidental death, hospitalisation costs, or even lost card liability. However, it’s important to note that this perk isn’t available on all RuPay cards, typically only on higher-end options.
RuPay credit cards come with strong security features to help protect your money. These features include EMV chip technology, two-factor authentication (2FA), and SMS alerts for transactions. Additionally, RuPay is constantly working on adding new security features and rewards programs designed specifically for Indian users.
RuPay credit cards allow you to use a variety of banking services with a single card. This includes things like withdrawing cash at ATMs, making regular bank transactions, accessing online banking features, and even applying for other credit products. All this can be done with your RuPay card, regardless of your specific bank.
RuPay credit cards offer a variety of features that make them handy for many everyday transactions. ere are the primary uses of RuPay credit cards:
Use your RuPay credit card to pay for products and services on popular online stores. It’s a safe and convenient way to shop from the comfort of your home.
RuPay cards are widely accepted at shops across India. Whether you’re buying groceries, clothes, or electronics, simply swipe or tap your card at the checkout counter.
Pay your utility bills like electricity, water, gas, and phone with your RuPay credit card. This helps manage your monthly expenses through a single payment method.
Book flights, trains, and hotels with your RuPay credit card. You might even get perks like travel insurance, airport lounge access, or discounts on bookings.
Many RuPay cards offer exclusive discounts and deals at restaurants and other entertainment venues. You might even get cashback offers on movie tickets or other purchases.
If you need some quick cash, you can withdraw it from ATMs across India using your RuPay credit card. Keep in mind there might be interest charges on cash advances.
Large purchases can be converted into manageable monthly instalments (EMIs) with your RuPay credit card. This helps you budget for big-ticket items by spreading the cost over time.
Choosing the best RuPay credit card isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Here’s a breakdown of key factors to consider when making your pick:
What do you want most from a credit card? Cashback rewards for everyday spending? Travel perks for frequent flyers? Or maybe a low interest rate for occasional borrowing? Knowing your priorities helps narrow down options.
Take a look at your spending patterns to see where your money goes. Many RuPay cards offer rewards or benefits tailored to specific categories like groceries, fuel, or dining. Choosing a card that complements your spending habits can maximise your rewards.
Don’t forget to consider annual fees and other charges associated with the card. Weigh these costs against the potential benefits like rewards, cashback, or discounts to ensure the card offers value.
Before applying, check your credit score and see which cards you might qualify for. Cards with higher credit limits can be useful for larger expenses, while lower limits can help manage spending.
Pay attention to the interest rate, especially if you plan to carry a balance. Opt for a card with a low interest rate if you anticipate using the card for credit over time.
Explore the rewards programs offered by different cards. Cashback, travel miles, and other perks can vary. Choose a card with features that suit your lifestyle and provide benefits you’ll actually use.
Understand how you can redeem your rewards. Some cards offer flexible redemption options, while others may have limitations. Choose a card with an easy and convenient redemption process.
Be aware of the card’s grace period and billing cycle. A longer grace period gives you more time to pay your balance in full and avoid interest charges.
Some RuPay cards offer additional perks like airport lounge access, insurance coverage, or concierge services. Consider these extras if they fit with your lifestyle and travel habits.
It’s important to take a close look at the card’s terms and conditions before you apply. This includes things like late payment fees, any penalty charges, and any limitations on how you can use the card. Make sure you understand everything and feel comfortable with it before moving forward.
Check how widely RuPay cards are accepted in the places you shop and travel. While widely accepted in India, international acceptance may be limited in some areas.
Consider the quality of customer support offered by the issuing bank. A helpful and responsive customer service team can be valuable if you encounter issues with your card.
Take some time to compare RuPay credit cards offered by different banks to find the best fit for your needs. Comparison websites and tools can help you make an informed decision.
Consider talking to friends, family, or financial advisors who use RuPay cards. They may offer recommendations and insights based on their experience.
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The RuPay credit card market has seen significant growth, offering a variety of options to suit different lifestyles and spending habits. Here are some of the top-rated Best RuPay credit cards in 2024:
Kicking off our list is the Edge CSB Bank RuPay Credit Card on Jupiter, a no-frills option perfect for those seeking a free card with everyday rewards. This co-branded card boasts lifetime zero fees, including joining and annual charges. But where it truly shines is its cashback program. You can choose your preferred category – dining, shopping, or travel – and earn a flat 2% cashback on all spends within that category. Additionally, you’ll get 0.4% cashback on everything else you purchase, making it a well-rounded card for various spending habits.
For those seeking a RuPay card with travel and dining rewards, the Bank of Baroda Premier RuPay Credit Card stands out. It offers you 5X reward points on spends in these categories, translating to faster accumulation of points for redemptions. This, combined with complimentary airport lounge access every quarter, caters to individuals who enjoy a premium lifestyle and frequent travel. However, it’s important to consider the annual fee and weigh it against your spending habits to determine if the rewards program justifies the cost.
For value-conscious spenders in India, the Federal Bank RuPay Signet Credit Card offers a compelling combination of rewards and affordability. Boasting the lowest APR in its category, starting at just 5.88%, it can significantly reduce your interest charges. Additionally, the card’s “bespoke 3-2-1 rewards structure” caters to daily needs, awarding you 3x reward points on healthcare and groceries, 2x points on utility bills, and 1x points on other spending categories. This translates to bonus points on everyday essentials, while the complimentary Big Basket vouchers on quarterly spends add another layer of savings for grocery shoppers.
For budget-conscious spenders who prioritise convenience, the IDFC First Power RuPay Select Credit Card offers an attractive package. This card comes with a low annual fee (often waived with minimum spends) and avoids foreign transaction markup charges, making it a great option for those occasional international purchases. While it doesn’t have category-specific rewards programs like some rivals, it offers a baseline rewards rate on all purchases, allowing you to accumulate points for future redemptions on your favourite products.
Next up on our list is the IndianOil HDFC Bank Credit Card, a great option for drivers who frequent IndianOil petrol pumps. This co-branded card offers a fuel surcharge waiver and the chance to earn up to 50 litres of free fuel annually through its reward program. You’ll accumulate points on everyday purchases, with accelerated points earned for spending at IndianOil stations, on groceries, and for bill payments. While it does carry an annual fee, the potential fuel savings and rewards program can be particularly attractive for high-mileage drivers.
If you’re a frequent shopper at Tata Neu or a loyal customer of Tata brands, the Tata Neu Infinity HDFC Bank Credit Card might be your perfect match. This card rewards you with NeuCoins, which can be redeemed for future purchases across the Tata ecosystem, on everything from groceries at BigBasket to jewellery from Tanishq. You’ll earn a generous 5% back in NeuCoins on non-EMI transactions at Tata Neu and partner brands, making it a great way to maximise your savings within the Tata network. While it offers a lower base reward rate for non-Tata purchases, the card can still be interesting for those who frequently shop at Tata stores and can leverage the bonus NeuPass rewards for additional savings.
The ICICI Coral RuPay Credit Card is a solid option for those seeking an entry-level card with well-rounded benefits. It targets new cardholders or those building credit with a reasonable annual fee. This card offers a reward rate of 2 reward points for every ₹200 spent on most purchases, translating to good value for everyday spending. You’ll also enjoy complimentary airport and railway lounge access each quarter, along with discounts on movie tickets. While it may not have the most premium features, the ICICI Coral RuPay Credit Card strikes a good balance between affordability and valuable rewards for budget-conscious consumers.
For those seeking a feature-rich RuPay card, the PNB RuPay Select Credit Card might be a good choice. With its rewards program, you’ll earn bonus points on everyday shopping, especially on retail purchases. Beyond rewards, the card boasts complimentary access to airport lounges, cashback offers on various categories, and comprehensive insurance coverage. While there’s a minimum joining fee, the annual fee can be waived by making a transaction each quarter, making it a budget-friendly option for those who can utilise the card regularly.
If you’re looking for a RuPay card that rewards everyday spending, the HDFC MoneyBack+ RuPay Credit Card is a strong contender. It offers a flat cashback rate on all your purchases, with bonus rewards for online transactions. This card also caters to foodies with exclusive dining discounts through the Good Food Trail program and Swiggy Dineout. While it may not have category-specific rewards like some other cards, the HDFC MoneyBack+ RuPay Credit Card’s straightforward cashback approach and focus on everyday purchases make it a well-rounded option for budget-conscious spenders.
The cash withdrawal limit depends on your bank and specific card, but it’s generally lower than your spending limit
Yes, but it depends on the card. Standard RuPay cards work domestically, while RuPay Global cards function internationally.
Fees vary by bank and card type. Check with your bank for details on annual fees, cash withdrawal charges, and interest rates.
Many Indian banks offer RuPay credit cards, including SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis Bank.
Yes, you can link your RuPay credit card to a UPI app for online payments. Transaction limits apply.
Standard RuPay cards are accepted widely in India. For international use, check if it’s a RuPay Global card.
Both offer benefits. RuPay cards might have lower fees and be more widely accepted domestically, while Visa offers wider global acceptance.
UPI transactions with RuPay credit cards might incur charges depending on your bank.
Not always. Annual fees and other charges may apply depending on the bank and card variant.
Your credit limit is set by your bank based on your creditworthiness.
The interest-free period varies by bank, typically ranging from 20 to 50 days after purchase.
Contact your bank immediately to block the card and report it lost or stolen.
International transactions might be restricted on your card. Check with your bank or Netflix for supported payment methods.
Activation methods vary by bank. Usually, you can activate through internet banking, mobile banking, or by calling your bank’s customer care.
Currently, the following 16 banks support RuPay credit cards. These banks allow customers to link their RuPay credit cards on UPI for seamless transactions-
Best
Credit Cards
Fuel
Credit Cards
Premium
Credit Card
Business
Credit Card
Students
Credit Cards
Online Shopping Credit Cards
Airport Lounge Credit Cards
Book Flights Credit Cards
International Travel Credit Card
Movie Tickets Credit Cards
Rewards
Credit Cards
Lifetime Free Credit Card
Utility Bill Payment Credit Card