Complete Overview of IDFC FIRST Bank Credit Cards | Apkacyber

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Introduction

IDFC FIRST Bank, formed through the merger of IDFC Bank and Capital First, has rapidly established itself as a competitive player in India’s banking and credit card space. It offers a series of credit cards tailored to different user segments—from first-time credit card holders to seasoned travelers and lifestyle enthusiasts. One of the bank’s most appealing features is the lifetime-free model across its range of cards, along with several value-added services.

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Common Features Across All IDFC FIRST Credit Cards

Despite the differences between the card variants, IDFC FIRST Bank ensures a consistent experience across most of its credit cards. Key features common to all include:

  • Lifetime-Free Structure: No joining or annual fees.

  • Non-Expiring Reward Points: Points earned don’t expire, unlike with many other banks.

  • Railway Lounge Access: Users can enjoy up to 4 complimentary railway lounge visits every quarter.

  • Roadside Assistance (RSA): Complimentary RSA services worth around ₹1,400.

  • Insurance Coverage: Includes accident coverage and protection against lost card liability.

  • Fuel Surcharge Waiver: 1% waiver on fuel transactions, usually with a monthly cap.

These features are designed to ensure that cardholders enjoy long-term value without worrying about recurring fees or restrictive usage conditions.

Detailed Review of IDFC FIRST Credit Card Variants

1. IDFC FIRST Classic Credit Card

Key Highlights:

  • Rewards: Earn 3X points on offline purchases, 6X on online transactions, and 10X on birthday spends and transactions above ₹20,000 per month.

  • Welcome Perks: ₹500 gift voucher upon meeting spend criteria within 90 days; 5% cashback on first EMI transaction.

  • Add-Ons: Discounts on dining (20%), movies (25% up to ₹100), and wellness services.

  • Insurance: ₹2 lakh personal accident cover and ₹25,000 lost card protection.

  • APR: Interest rates range from ~9% to 43% annually.

Best Suited For: First-time credit card users and everyday spenders who want essential perks without paying any fees.

2. IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card

An upgraded version of the Classic, the Millennia card offers improved features aimed at tech-savvy and mobile-first users.

Key Benefits:

  • Similar reward tiers (3X, 6X, 10X) as the Classic card.

  • Welcome bonuses include a ₹500 voucher and ₹1,000 cashback on EMI conversions.

  • Interest-Free ATM Withdrawals: No interest charged on cash advances until the payment due date.

  • Standard insurance and lounge access benefits included.

Best For: Users who make frequent online purchases or EMI conversions and prefer flexible cash usage.

3. IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card

This is the bank’s premium offering designed for professionals and travelers.

Features:

  • Enhanced Rewards: Earn 3X to 10X points depending on spend thresholds and special occasions.

  • Lounge Access: Complimentary access to both railway and select airport lounges.

  • Travel Insurance: Includes domestic travel insurance, air accident coverage up to ₹1 crore, and accident cover of ₹5 lakh.

  • Exclusive Privileges: Concierge services, golf access, wellness discounts, and lifestyle assistance.

  • No Fees: Maintains the lifetime-free model despite premium features.

Ideal For: Regular travelers and lifestyle enthusiasts looking for high-end perks without annual charges.

Indusind Credit Card

4. IDFC FIRST SWYP Credit Card

Designed for younger customers and digital natives, SWYP is built around milestone rewards and app usage.

Benefits:

  • Milestone-based reward points (200–1,000 points) depending on monthly spends.

  • Welcome perks include Lenskart membership, EaseMyTrip vouchers, and Times Prime subscription.

  • Compatible with UPI (charges apply).

  • Railway lounge access and Paytm movie offers.

Great For: Millennials and Gen Z users who rely on digital payments and spend regularly on entertainment and shopping.

5. IDFC FIRST Power Credit Card

This card is customized for motorists and frequent highway users.

Highlights:

  • Fuel savings of up to 5%, with 1% fuel surcharge waiver.

  • Additional points on UPI transactions and FASTag recharges.

  • Welcome rewards valued around ₹2,250.

  • Interest-free ATM withdrawals for 45 days.

  • Includes insurance, lounge access, and roadside assistance.

Perfect For: Car owners and frequent road travelers who want consistent savings on fuel and vehicle-related expenses.

Reward Program and Redemption

One of the most attractive aspects of IDFC FIRST credit cards is their reward system:

  • Earning Points:

    • Offline purchases: 3X (approx. 0.75%)

    • Online spends: 6X (approx. 1.5%)

    • High-value or birthday purchases: 10X (approx. 2.5%)

  • Redemption Options:

    • Instant Pay-by-Points at e-commerce or POS terminals.

    • Gift vouchers and statement credit.

    • Reward points never expire.

    • Some variants charge a redemption fee (₹99 + GST).

Tip: Spend strategically around your birthday or in high-spend months to unlock the highest return on rewards.

axis credit card

Expert Tips to Maximize Benefits

  1. Target Spend Thresholds: Aim to spend ₹20,000+ monthly to activate higher reward tiers.

  2. Use Lounge Benefits: Use quarterly lounge visits—especially useful for frequent rail/air travelers.

  3. Redeem Wisely: Use points at checkout to avoid redemption fees or delays.

  4. Monitor Forex Charges: Forex transactions may carry hidden markups despite “0% forex” claims.

  5. Utilize EMI and Cash Advance Offers: Especially beneficial with Millennia and Select cards.

User Feedback and Reviews

Positive Reviews:

  • Highly rated for reward flexibility and no expiry policy.

  • Good for users new to credit cards, with minimal charges and helpful features.

  • The app interface and UPI integration are considered modern and user-friendly.

Negative Points:

  • Some users have reported inconsistencies in forex charges.

  • Occasional issues with card approval and KYC delays.

  • Basic offline rewards (3X) are relatively lower than some competitors.

Pros and Cons Summary

Advantages Limitations
Lifetime-free cards Limited offline rewards
Non-expiring points Redemption fees for some cards
Airport & railway lounge access Customer service delays reported
Fuel & travel-specific savings Inconsistent forex markup claims
Attractive milestone rewards UPI charges on certain variants

Who Should Consider Applying?

  • New Credit Card Users: Classic or Millennia is ideal due to zero fees and beginner-friendly rewards.

  • Frequent Travelers: Select card is best for lounge access and travel protection.

  • Drivers and Highway Commuters: Power card delivers substantial fuel and FASTag savings.

  • Young Adults: SWYP provides entertainment perks and digital convenience.

Final Thoughts

IDFC FIRST Bank’s credit card offerings strike a unique balance between value and functionality. With no joining or annual fees, and perks like lounge access, milestone-based rewards, and robust travel protections, these cards are suitable for almost every user type. Although some drawbacks exist—like modest base rewards or occasional redemption fees—the overall value proposition remains strong.

Choosing the right card depends on your lifestyle: pick Classic for all-round utility, Select for travel, SWYP for youthful digital users, or Power if you’re on the road often.

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