Credit cards have become an essential financial tool for millions of Indians, offering a range of benefits such as rewards, cashback, discounts, and more.
However, many individuals prefer credit cards that come with no annual fee, as these allow cardholders to enjoy all the privileges of credit cards without the burden of yearly charges.
In India, an increasing number of financial institutions and banks now offer credit cards that are lifetime free, meaning they come with no annual fee for life. This makes it even easier for users to make the most of their purchases without worrying about extra costs or hidden fees.
When it comes to choosing the best credit card in India, it’s important to understand the variety of benefits that come with a credit card, such as reward points, cashback, exclusive discounts, and more.
In this article, we will explore the top 10 credit cards in India with no annual fee for 2025, all of which offer zero annual fee or are lifetime free credit cards, helping you make an informed decision and get the most value for your money.
If you are looking for best credit cards in India with no annual fee, this guide will help you navigate through the top options, ensuring you find the perfect match for your spending habits and financial goals.
Key Factors to Consider Best Credit Cards in India with no Annual fee
When selecting a no-annual-fee credit card, it's essential to consider several key factors to ensure you maximize its value.
1. Rewards and Cashback Programs
Look for cards that offer high rewards, cashback, or discounts on everyday purchases such as groceries, fuel, and dining. This can help you earn more on your regular spending, turning it into valuable benefits.
2. Interest Rates and Fees
Even though a card may have no annual fee, be mindful of interest rates, late payment fees, foreign transaction fees, and cash advance charges. High interest rates or hidden fees can quickly outweigh the benefits of having no annual fee.
3. Credit Limit and Eligibility
Make sure the credit limit aligns with your needs. While no-annual-fee cards often come with lower credit limits, they can still be suitable if you're just starting with credit. Also, check the eligibility criteria, as some cards may have specific requirements.
4. Additional Benefits
Look for extra perks like travel insurance, airport lounge access, and concierge services. These added benefits can significantly enhance the value of a no-annual-fee credit card, especially if you travel frequently.
5. Customer Service and Digital Features
Ensure the card offers excellent customer service and a user-friendly mobile app for easy tracking of spending, bill payments, and rewards. Efficient digital features can improve your overall experience and convenience.
By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose a no-annual-fee credit card that offers great rewards, minimizes costs, and provides valuable benefits suited to your financial lifestyle.
Top 10 Lifetime Free Credit Cards with No Annual Fee
If you're looking for a lifetime free credit card with no annual fee, there are several excellent options available in India. These cards come with no charges for the entire duration of ownership, ensuring that you don't have to worry about annual renewals. Below are the top 10 lifetime free credit cards with no annual fee in India for 2025.
1. HDFC Bank MoneyBack Credit Card
The HDFC Bank MoneyBack Credit Card is an excellent choice for beginners. With no annual fee for the first year and the ability to earn reward points on every purchase, it offers great flexibility. Although it offers a lower reward rate compared to premium cards, the welcome points and rewards redemption options make it appealing for regular spenders.
Key Features of HDFC Bank MoneyBack Credit Card:
- No annual fee for the first year; waived off on spending ₹50,000 annually.
- Earn 2 reward points per ₹150 spent on the card.
Rewards and Benefits of HDFC Bank MoneyBack Credit Card:
- 1,000 welcome reward points on joining.
- Redeem reward points for flights, merchandise, or cashback.
Basic Eligibility Criteria of HDFC Bank MoneyBack Credit Card:
- Salaried and self-employed individuals with a good credit score.
Pros:
- Easy to use and widely accepted.
- Good for beginners.
Cons:
- Lower reward rate compared to premium cards.
2. SBI Card Unnati
The SBI Card Unnati is perfect for first-time credit card users, offering no annual fee for the first four years. It gives users reward points on all purchases and special offers on groceries and utility payments. It’s a budget-friendly card with some great benefits for new cardholders.
Key Features of SBI Card Unnati Credit Card:
- No annual fee for the first four years.
- Earn 1 reward point per ₹100 spent.
Rewards and Benefits SBI Card Unnati Credit Card:
- Welcome benefits including bonus reward points upon joining.
- Earn cashback and discounts on various categories.
Basic Eligibility Criteria SBI Card Unnati Credit Card:
- Available for individuals with a steady income and a good credit score.
Pros:
- Ideal for first-time users with no annual fee for multiple years.
- Offers additional benefits on utility bill payments and grocery shopping.
Cons:
- Limited reward points accumulation compared to premium cards.
3. ICICI Platinum Chip Card
The ICICI Platinum Chip Card offers security with its chip technology while providing reward points on purchases. It’s ideal for individuals who want a reliable, basic credit card with benefits like fuel surcharge waivers and the ability to redeem points for travel or shopping, all with no annual fee for the first year.
Key Features:
- No annual fee for the first year.
- Earn 2 reward points per ₹100 spent on eligible purchases.
Rewards and Benefits:
- Reward points can be redeemed for a wide range of products and services.
- Fuel surcharge waivers at select petrol stations.
Eligibility:
- Available for salaried and self-employed individuals with a good credit score.
Pros:
- Great security features due to the platinum chip.
- Offers flexibility in redeeming reward points for travel, shopping, or cashback.
Cons:
- Limited rewards for high-value transactions compared to other premium options.
4. Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
For those who need a credit card with instant approval and minimal documentation, the Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card is a great choice. It’s designed for first-time users and offers cashback on online purchases, though the reward rates are modest compared to premium cards.
Key Features:
- Instant approval with minimal documentation.
- No annual fee for the first year.
Rewards and Benefits:
- Cashback on online purchases.
- Exclusive offers on e-commerce sites.
Eligibility:
- Available to individuals with no credit history or a good credit score.
Pros:
- Fast approval process with simple documentation requirements.
- Ideal for first-time credit card users.
Cons:
- Limited rewards program compared to high-end cards.
5. RBL Bank Platinum Delight Credit Card
The RBL Bank Platinum Delight Credit Card is ideal for individuals who enjoy dining out and entertainment. It offers exclusive discounts at partner restaurants and movie ticket discounts, along with rewards points. It’s a versatile card with decent benefits, making it perfect for foodies and movie lovers.
Key Features:
- No annual fee for the first year.
- Earn 1 reward point per ₹100 spent on purchases.
Rewards and Benefits:
- Enjoy dining discounts at partner restaurants.
- Discounts on movie tickets and shopping.
Eligibility:
- Salaried and self-employed individuals with a good credit score.
Pros:
- Exclusive offers on dining and entertainment.
- Flexible reward redemption options.
Cons:
- Lower reward accumulation rate for general purchases.
6. Standard Chartered Smart Credit Card
The Standard Chartered Smart Credit Card provides cashback on online transactions and is a great option for those who frequently shop online. With no annual fee for the first year, it’s a budget-friendly choice for people looking to maximize rewards on digital purchases.
Key Features:
- No annual fee for the first year.
- Earn 1 reward point per ₹150 spent.
Rewards and Benefits:
- Cashback on online transactions.
- Special discounts on e-commerce platforms.
Eligibility:
- Available for individuals with a good credit score and steady income.
Pros:
- Great for online shoppers, with additional rewards for e-commerce purchases.
- Zero annual fee makes it attractive for budget-conscious users.
Cons:
- Lower reward points for offline purchases.
7. Kotak Mahindra Aqua Gold Credit Card
The Kotak Mahindra Aqua Gold Credit Card offers a good mix of rewards on all purchases and fuel surcharge waivers, making it a great option for regular drivers. With its low annual fee and a decent rewards program, this card is ideal for those seeking simplicity and practical benefits.
Key Features:
- No annual fee for the first year.
- Earn 1 reward point per ₹100 spent on purchases.
Rewards and Benefits:
- Discounts on dining and shopping.
- Fuel surcharge waivers.
Eligibility:
- Available to individuals with a good credit score.
Pros:
- Flexible rewards and benefits on regular purchases.
- Fuel surcharge waivers help reduce overall fuel costs.
Cons:
- Reward points accumulation rate is lower for certain purchases.
8. Bank of Baroda (BoB) Financial Credit Card
The Bank of Baroda Financial Credit Card offers great cashback opportunities on both online and offline spending. With no annual fee for the first year, this card is a perfect option for individuals looking for a straightforward, no-frills card with solid benefits.
Key Features:
- No annual fee for the first year.
- Earn 1.5% cashback on all purchases.
Rewards and Benefits:
- Earn cashback on purchases.
- Special offers on utility bill payments.
Eligibility:
- Available to salaried and self-employed individuals with a good credit score.
Pros:
- Straightforward cashback rewards with no complex terms.
- Good for regular and casual spenders.
Cons:
- Lower rewards for high-value purchases compared to premium cards.
9. HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card
The HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card is ideal for people who want to enjoy exclusive offers on shopping and dining. It offers a great rewards program with exclusive discounts at partner merchants, all with no annual fee for the first year.
Key Features:
- No annual fee for the first year.
- Earn 2 reward points per ₹150 spent.
Rewards and Benefits:
- Exclusive shopping and dining discounts.
- Redeem reward points for products, travel, or shopping vouchers.
Eligibility:
- Available for individuals with a good credit score.
Pros:
- Good rewards program with excellent redemption options.
- Exclusive discounts on dining and shopping.
Cons:
- Annual fee may be applicable after the first year.
10. YES Bank Credit Card
The YES Bank Credit Card offers an easy entry to the world of credit cards with no annual fee for the first year. It provides a simple and user-friendly experience, ideal for individuals seeking basic credit card benefits without extra frills.
Key Features:
- No annual fee for the first year.
- Earn 1 reward point per ₹100 spent on eligible purchases.
Rewards and Benefits:
- Earn reward points on various categories.
- Option to redeem points for travel and shopping.
Eligibility:
- Salaried and self-employed individuals with a good credit score.
Pros:
- Simple and easy-to-use card with no annual fee for the first year.
- Flexible reward redemption options.
Cons:
- Lower reward points rate for some purchases.
Comparison Table of Top 10 lifetime free Credit Cards
| Card Name |
Rewards |
Annual Fee |
Waiver |
Best For... |
| HDFC Bank MoneyBack Credit Card |
2 reward points per ₹150 spent |
No annual fee for 1st year |
Spend ₹50,000 annually |
Beginners |
| SBI Card Unnati |
1 reward point per ₹100 spent |
No annual fee for first 4 years |
NA |
First-time Credit Card users |
| ICICI Platinum Chip Card |
2 reward points per ₹100 spent |
No annual fee for 1st year |
NA |
Security and fuel benefits |
| Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card |
1% cashback on online spends |
No annual fee for 1st year |
NA |
First-time users |
| RBL Bank Platinum Delight Credit Card |
1 reward point per ₹100 spent |
No annual fee for 1st year |
NA |
Dining and entertainment enthusiasts |
| Standard Chartered Smart Credit Card |
1 reward point per ₹150 spent |
No annual fee for 1st year |
NA |
Online shoppers |
| Kotak Mahindra Aqua Gold Credit Card |
1 reward point per ₹100 spent |
No annual fee for 1st year |
NA |
Regular spenders and fuel users |
| Bank of Baroda (BoB) Financial Credit Card |
1.5% cashback on all purchases |
No annual fee for 1st year |
NA |
Simple cashback earners |
| HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card |
2 reward points per ₹150 spent |
No annual fee for 1st year |
NA |
Shopping and dining |
| YES Bank Credit Card |
1 reward point per ₹100 spent |
No annual fee for 1st year |
NA |
Simple users |
How to Choose the Best Credit Card with No Annual Fee
When selecting a top credit card in India with no annual fee, here are some factors to keep in mind:
1. Evaluate Your Spending Habits
If you're someone who spends heavily on groceries or online shopping, choose a card that offers cashback or rewards on these categories. Similarly, if you often dine out, a card with dining offers might be a better option.
2. Check for Additional Perks and Benefits
Look for cards that offer lifestyle benefits such as airport lounge access, travel discounts, or movie ticket offers. Even with no annual fee, many cards offer valuable perks that can significantly enhance your experience.
3. Understand the Eligibility Criteria
Ensure that you meet the eligibility requirements for the card you are interested in. Some cards require a higher income level or a good credit score, while others may have easier approval processes for new credit card users.
4. Look for Low or Zero Interest Rates
While annual fees may be waived, ensure that the card offers low interest rates on outstanding balances. This can help you save money in case you need to carry a balance.
Choosing the right credit card is a personal decision that depends on your spending habits and lifestyle. The top 10 lifetime-free credit cards for 2025 mentioned above offer a range of benefits, from cashbacks to travel rewards and exclusive discounts, all without the burden of an annual fee. Whether you’re looking for a card to maximize your rewards, save on fuel, or enjoy exclusive perks, there’s a card suited to your needs.
Before applying, make sure to read the terms and conditions carefully to avoid hidden charges or fees. By selecting the right card, you can enjoy all the rewards of a premium credit card without the cost. Happy spending!
FAQ - Top 10 Lifetime Free Credit Cards
1. What is a lifetime free credit card?
A lifetime free credit card is a type of credit card that doesn’t charge an annual fee for its entire lifetime. This means you won’t need to pay any recurring yearly charges, making it an attractive option for those who want to avoid extra costs while enjoying the benefits of a credit card.
2. How do lifetime free credit cards differ from regular credit cards?
Regular credit cards usually come with an annual fee that can vary based on the type of card, while lifetime free credit cards have no such charges. These cards are designed to provide basic benefits, such as reward points, cashback, and discounts, without the added financial burden of an annual fee.
3. Are lifetime free credit cards really free forever?
Yes, as long as the terms and conditions of the card remain unchanged, a lifetime free credit card will not have any annual fee for the lifetime of the cardholder. However, certain conditions may apply, such as eligibility requirements or the need to meet a minimum spend threshold for waiver of other fees.
4. What are the benefits of using a lifetime free credit card?
Lifetimes free credit cards typically offer the same benefits as regular credit cards, such as:
- Reward points for purchases
- Cashback on certain categories like groceries or fuel
- Discounts at partner stores or online platforms
- Cash withdrawals with some associated fees
- Other perks like shopping and travel protection
The major advantage is that you don’t have to pay any annual fee to enjoy these perks.
5. What are the eligibility criteria for lifetime free credit cards?
Eligibility for lifetime free credit cards depends on the bank or financial institution offering the card. Typically, you need to meet these criteria:
- Good credit score (usually above 750)
- Stable income (either salaried or self-employed)
- Age: Generally 21 years to 60 years
- Indian citizenship or residence in India
Some banks may also have additional requirements, such as a minimum income threshold or a specific spending limit to avail the no-annual-fee benefit.
6. Can I earn rewards or cashback with a lifetime free credit card?
Yes, most lifetime free credit cards come with reward programs. These rewards can be in the form of:
- Reward points for every purchase made
- Cashback for specific categories like fuel, groceries, or online shopping
- Some cards even offer welcome rewards, which can be redeemed for gifts, travel bookings, or cashback.
7. Are there any hidden charges with lifetime free credit cards?
While there’s no annual fee with these cards, there might be some other charges, such as:
- Late payment fees if you don’t pay your bills on time
- Interest charges on outstanding balances
- Cash withdrawal fees (if you use your card to withdraw cash)
- Foreign transaction fees if you use the card abroad
It’s important to read the card’s terms and conditions carefully to avoid any surprises.
8. Can I get a lifetime free credit card if I’m a first-time user?
Yes, many banks offer lifetime free credit cards to first-time credit card users. These cards are usually simple with basic benefits and have easy eligibility criteria, making them perfect for those who are new to credit cards.
9. What happens if I cancel a lifetime free credit card?
If you cancel a lifetime free credit card, you may not be charged any cancellation fee. However, ensure that you have cleared any outstanding balance before canceling. Additionally, you will lose the benefits associated with the card, such as accumulated rewards or cashback.
10. Can I upgrade my lifetime free credit card to a premium card?
Yes, in many cases, you can upgrade your lifetime free credit card to a premium card offered by the same bank, depending on your creditworthiness and spending habits. Premium cards may come with enhanced rewards programs, higher credit limits, and exclusive benefits, but they typically carry annual fees.