Credit cards have evolved into a vital financial instrument in India, providing ease, benefits, and unique advantages. But let’s be honest—no one enjoys shelling out annual fees. The good news? There are plenty of free credit cards with no annual fees that still offer fantastic benefits. Whether you want cashback, rewards, travel perks, or shopping discounts, there’s a no-cost card for you. This article breaks down the best free credit cards in India for 2025, their benefits, and how to choose the right one.
Before starting the article I want to clarify that I have divided the best credit card with no annual fees into three parts –
- True Life Time Free Credit Card – No Annual Fees Payable.
- Annual Fee Waiver – No fees payable on spending a certain amount in a year.
- Welcome Gift – Where the welcome gift cost is more than the annual fees applicable on the card.
Best Credit Cards In India 2025
1. Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card
Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card is Life Time Free Card where you need not to pay any annual fees. ICICI Amazon Pay credit card is one of the best zero annual fee credit cards in India for Amazon shoppers. You can save up to 5% on every shopping on Amazon if you are a Prime member. You will get 3% cashback as Amazon pay balance for non-prime members.
Best for – Online Shoppers and Amazon Prime Members
Key Features
- 5% cashback for Prime members on Amazon purchases
- 3% cashback for non-Prime members
- 2% cashback on partner merchants
- 1% cashback on all other transactions
- No joining or annual fees
- No cap on the cashback
- No expiry of the reward points
Fees
- Annual Fees – NIL (Life Time Free)
- Interest Rate – 3.75%
2. IDFC FIRST Classic Credit Card
The IDFC FIRST Classic credit card is a no membership fee credit card designed for newcomers. You receive incredible rewards for all your online and offline purchases with this card. This card comes with never-expiring reward points.
Best for – First Time Credit Card Users.
Key Features
- Receive exclusive 10x reward points on your birthday purchases over ₹20,000 every month.
- 3X rewards on expenses under ₹20,000 monthly
- 1X rewards on insurance payments and utility expenses
- The Reward Points can be exchanged immediately for online purchases and partner outlets. (1 Reward Point = ₹. Please provide the text you would like to have paraphrased, and I’ll be happy to help!
- Enjoy discounts of up to 20% on dining when using your IDFC FIRST Classic Credit Card.
- 1% fuel surcharge exemption (up to ₹200 each month).
- Insurance coverage valued at ₹ 2 lakhs in the event of accidental demise.
- Protection of ₹25,000 for the liability of a lost card.
Fees
- Annual Fees – NIL (Life Time Free)
- Interest Rate – 3.85%
3. ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Card
The Platinum chip credit card is an entry-level credit card provided by ICICI bank. You can gain 2 payback points for each Rs. 100 used for every retail transaction excluding fuel.
Best for – First Time Credit Card Users.
Key Features
- Receive 2 reward points for every ₹ 100 spent on retail purchases (not applicable to fuel, tax, government, and rent payments).
- Receive 1 reward point for each ₹ 100 spent on insurance and utilities.
- An extra PIN-based security feature.
- Fuel surcharge 1% waiver.
- 15% saving on dining bill at selected places
- Eligibility for this card is stringent and it is offered to eligible corporates only.
Fees
- Annual Fees – NIL (Life Time Free)
- Interest Rate – 3.40%
4. Standard Chartered Platinum Reward Credit Card
Standard Chartered Platinum Reward Credit card is one of the best free credit cards. This card offers 5x reward benefits.
Best for – Rewards
Key Features
- Earn 5x reward points for every ₹ 150 spent on dining outlets and on fuel.
- Get 1x reward points spent at every other category.
- 1000 reward points on the first transaction of a credit card.
- Additional 500 reward points for registering online banking.
- No Documents are required.
- Contactless credit card for faster checkout.
Fees
- Annual Fees – NIL (Life Time Free)
- Interest Rate – 3.75%
5. SBI Simply Save Credit Card
SBI Simply Save is yet another excellent no-cost credit card. This card has an annual fee. The charge may be waived if your yearly expenditure is ₹ 100000 or more.
Best for – New Credit Card Users
Key Features
- Receive 1 Reward Point for every ₹ 150 that you expend with the SimplySAVE SBI Card
- Utilize your Reward Points to settle the remaining amount on your credit card or exchange for a variety of gifts.
- Withdraw cash from more than 1 million Visa or MasterCard ATMs worldwide.
- Auto utility bill payment.
Fees
- Annual Fees – ₹ 499 (Spend Based Reversal)
- Interest Rate – 3.50%
How to Choose the Right No Annual Fee Credit Card?
Here’s what to consider when selecting a free credit card:
1. Spending Habits
- Do you shop online frequently? Go for Amazon Pay ICICI or Flipkart Axis.
- Love cashback? HSBC Cashback Card is your best bet.
2. Rewards and Cashback
- Compare the reward structures and cashback percentages.
- Ensure your spending aligns with the reward categories.
3. Additional Perks
- Look for travel, dining, or fuel benefits that match your lifestyle.
- Check if the card offers free lounge access, fuel waivers, or discounts.
4. Terms and Conditions
- Some “free” cards waive annual fees only if you meet spending criteria.
- Read the fine print to avoid hidden charges.
Pros and Cons of No Annual Fee Credit Cards
Pros:
- Zero cost, so you’re not paying to use your credit card.
- Earn rewards, cashback, and perks without fees.
- Great for beginners looking to build credit.
Cons:
- Fewer premium benefits compared to paid cards.
- Some may have lower credit limits.
- Spending conditions may apply to maintain “free” status.
How to Apply for a No Annual Fee Credit Card in India
Eligibility Criteria:
- Age: 18+ years
- Indian resident
- Minimum income requirement (varies by card)
- Good credit score preferred
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the official website of the issuing bank.
- Check eligibility and required documents.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Submit necessary documents (ID proof, income proof, etc.).
- Wait for approval and receive your card.
Final Thoughts
A free credit card is a fantastic way to enjoy the benefits of credit without unnecessary costs. Whether you prefer cashback, rewards, or online shopping perks, there’s a perfect no-fee card for you. Choose wisely based on your spending habits, and enjoy the financial freedom these cards offer!
FAQs
1. Are free credit cards really free?
Yes, these cards don’t charge an annual fee. However, ensure you meet spending conditions if required.
2. Will I still get rewards with a free credit card?
Absolutely! Many free cards offer cashback, reward points, and shopping perks.
3. Can I apply for multiple no-fee credit cards?
Yes, but applying for too many can impact your credit score.
4. What’s the best no-fee card for online shopping?
Amazon Pay ICICI and Flipkart Axis are top choices for online shoppers.
5. Do these cards offer airport lounge access?
Some free cards do, but access may be limited compared to premium cards.
6. Can I upgrade my free credit card later?
Yes, many banks allow you to upgrade to a premium version over time.
7. Do I need a high credit score to get a free credit card?
Not necessarily. Some cards are beginner-friendly, but a good credit score helps.
8. How do banks make money if the card is free?
Banks earn from merchant fees and interest on unpaid balances.
9. Is there a catch with no annual fee cards?
Not really, but always check for spending conditions to keep them free.
10. Which is the best free credit card in India for 2025?
It depends on your needs—Amazon Pay ICICI is great for online shopping, HSBC Cashback for general spending, and IDFC FIRST Millennia for beginners.
