← Part of ICICI Credit Cards in India
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card is a super-premium offering designed for high-income individuals and frequent travelers in India, providing extensive lifestyle and travel benefits. As of 2026, IT offers unlimited lounge access, golf privileges, and up to 15% dining discounts across 2,500+ restaurants (Source: ICICI Bank). The card comes with an annual fee of ₹12,000, which can be waived on annual spends of ₹10 lakh.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Card Name | ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card |
| Card Type | Super-premium Lifestyle & Travel Credit Card |
| Target Audience | High-income individuals, high-spenders, frequent domestic and international travelers |
| Annual Fee (Emeralde Credit Card) | ₹12,000 (waived on ₹10 lakh annual spend) |
| Monthly Fee Option (Emeralde Credit Card) | ₹1,000 (waived on specific monthly spends of ₹1,000) |
| Joining Fee (Emeralde Private Metal Card) | ₹12,499 + GST (as of 2026) |
| Annual Fee (Emeralde Private Metal Card) | ₹12,499 (as of 2026) |
| Minimum Age Eligibility | 21 years |
| Maximum Age Eligibility | 65 years |
| Minimum Annual Income (Salaried) | ₹1,50,000 |
| Minimum Annual Income (Self-Employed) | ₹18,00,000 |
| Automatic Eligibility | All ICICI Bank Global Private Client customers |
| Application Method | Online via ICICI Bank website, In-person at any ICICI Bank branch |
| Emeralde Private Metal Card Application | Invite-only (contact relationship manager) |
| Unlimited Lounge Access | Domestic & International (for primary cardholder) |
| Golf Privileges | Up to 4 complimentary rounds/lessons per month (on ₹50,000 retail spend in previous month) |
| Movie Offers (BookMyShow) | Complimentary tickets on ₹25,000+ spend in preceding quarter (effective Apr 1, 2026) |
| Dining Discounts | Up to 15% at 2,500+ partner restaurants via Culinary Treats Programme |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | 1% waiver up to ₹4,000 per month at any fuel station in India |
| Concierge Services | 24×7 assistance for travel, dining, and entertainment bookings |
| Personal Air Accident Insurance | Coverage of ₹3 crore |
| Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Fee | 2.00% (for Emeralde, Emeralde Private, and Metal variants) |
| Add-on Cards | Up to 3 complimentary add-on cards (Emeralde Private Metal) |
| Reward Points (Emeralde Private Metal) | 6 ICICI Reward Points per ₹200 spent on retail (3% flat reward rate) |
| Reward Points Validity (Emeralde Private Metal) | Up to 3 years from date of receipt |
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card, including its metal variant, offers a full suite of premium benefits, making IT a strong contender for individuals seeking luxury travel, dining, and lifestyle privileges in 2026.
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in India: Types, Categories & Key Components Explained
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card portfolio in India includes three main variants as of 2026: the standard Emeralde Credit Card, the invite-only Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card, and the co-branded Emirates Skywards Emeralde Credit Card. Each variant targets specific high-spending customer segments with distinct features and benefits, from unlimited lounge access to accelerated reward points.
| Type/Category | Details | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card | A super-premium credit card designed for high-income individuals seeking full lifestyle benefits. | Unlimited international and domestic lounge access for the primary cardholder; up to 4 complimentary golf rounds per month (on ₹50,000 retail spend in previous month); shopping voucher from TATA CLiQ worth ₹5,000 (American Express Cardholders only); movie/event ticket offers (spend ₹25,000+ in preceding quarter from April 1, 2026). |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card | An invite-only, flagship luxury credit card from ICICI Bank, catering to ultra-high-net-worth individuals and high-spenders. | Unlimited complimentary domestic and international lounge access for primary and add-on cardholders (via Priority Pass); unlimited golf rounds/lessons; 6 ICICI reward points on every ₹100 spent; 1:1 redemption ratio for reward points (up to ₹1 per point) redeemable against products, travel, movie vouchers, or transfer to Air India Maharaja Club; Taj Epicure & EazyDiner Prime memberships. |
| Emirates Skywards ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card | A premium co-branded credit card specifically designed for frequent Emirates airline flyers. | Unlimited complimentary domestic and international lounge visits (including spa visits at select airports via Dreamfolks Pass); 2 Emirates Skyward miles on every ₹100 spent on international and domestic transactions; 10,000 Skywards miles on joining; Silver Tier membership benefits; movie/event ticket offers (spend ₹25,000+ in preceding quarter from April 1, 2026). |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (American Express) | A variant of the standard Emeralde Credit Card, specifically for American Express network users. | TATA CLiQ shopping voucher worth ₹5,000 as a welcome benefit; all other standard Emeralde benefits apply. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Monthly Fee Option) | The standard Emeralde Credit Card offering an alternative fee structure. | Monthly fee of ₹1,000, waived off on spends of ₹1,000 in the preceding month, instead of an annual fee. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Annual Fee Option) | The standard Emeralde Credit Card with a traditional annual fee structure. | Annual fee of ₹12,000, waived off on spends of ₹10 lakh in a year. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card (Add-on Cards) | Additional cards for family members of the primary Emeralde Private Metal cardholder. | Up to 3 complimentary add-on cards available, extending premium benefits to family members. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Eligibility – Salaried) | Criteria for salaried individuals to apply for the standard Emeralde Credit Card. | Minimum annual income requirement of ₹1,50,000. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Eligibility – Self-Employed) | Criteria for self-employed individuals to apply for the standard Emeralde Credit Card. | Minimum annual income requirement of ₹18,00,000. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Eligibility – Existing Customers) | Special eligibility for existing ICICI Bank clients. | All ICICI Bank Global Private Client customers are automatically eligible. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Age Eligibility) | Age criteria for applicants of the standard Emeralde Credit Card. | Applicants must be between 21 and 65 years of age. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Credit Score) | Recommended CIBIL score for optimal approval and benefits. | A CIBIL score of 750+ is generally recommended for approval and better terms. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card (Application Method) | How to obtain the Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card. | This card is invite-only; direct applications are not accepted. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Reward Points – Base) | Standard earning rate for the standard Emeralde Credit Card. | Up to 4 reward points per ₹100 spent on retail transactions. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card (Reward Points – Base) | Standard earning rate for the Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card. | 6 ICICI reward points on every ₹100 spent on retail transactions. |
| Emirates Skywards ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Reward Miles) | Earning rate for Skywards Miles on the co-branded card. | 2 Emirates Skyward miles on every ₹100 spent on both international and domestic transactions. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Fuel Surcharge Waiver) | Benefit for fuel purchases across India. | 1% fuel surcharge waiver, capped at ₹4,000 per month, at any fuel station. |
| ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card (Dining Discounts) | Privileges under the ICICI Bank Culinary Treats Programme. | Minimum 15% discount on dining bills at 2,500+ partner restaurants across India. |
The ICICI Bank Emeralde series offers distinct advantages tailored to different high-spending profiles, with the Emeralde Private Metal Card providing the most exclusive benefits and rewards for ultra-premium users.
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in India: Key Statistics & Data Points for 2026
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card offers premium benefits for high-spending individuals in India, with an annual fee of ₹12,000 or a monthly fee of ₹1,000 (waivable on specific spends). As of 2026, cardholders can access unlimited domestic and international airport lounges and receive up to 4 complimentary golf rounds monthly based on spending.
| Metric | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum Age for Application | 21 years | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Maximum Age for Application | 65 years | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Minimum Annual Income (Salaried) | ₹1,50,000 | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Minimum Annual Income (Self-Employed) | ₹18,00,000 | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Annual Fee (Emeralde Credit Card) | ₹12,000 | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Monthly Fee (Emeralde Credit Card) | ₹1,000 (waived on spends of ₹1,00,000) | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Annual Fee Waiver Condition (Emeralde Credit Card) | Spend ₹10 lakh in a year | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Joining Fee (Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card) | ₹12,499 + GST | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Annual Fee (Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card) | ₹12,499 | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Fee (effective Jan 15, 2026) | 2.00% | ICICI Bank Official Communication |
| Reward Points on Retail Spends (Emeralde Private Metal) | 6 points per ₹200 spent | ICICI Bank Official Communication |
| Reward Points CAP on Transportation Spends (effective Feb 1, 2026) | ₹20,000 per month | ICICI Bank Official Communication |
| BookMyShow Complimentary Ticket Eligibility (effective Apr 1, 2026) | Spend ₹25,000+ in preceding spends quarter | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Complimentary Golf Rounds (Emeralde Credit Card) | Up to 4 per month (on ₹50,000 spend in previous month) | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | 1% (up to ₹4,000 per transaction) | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Dining Discounts (Culinary Treats Programme) | Minimum 15% at 2,500+ restaurants | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Personal Air Accident Insurance Coverage | ₹3 crore | ICICI Bank Official Website |
| Add-on Cards (Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card) | Up to 3 complimentary | ICICI Bank Official Website |
The Emeralde Credit Card’s fee structure offers flexibility with monthly or annual payment options, both with significant waiver conditions for active users. The card’s benefits are designed for frequent travelers and high-spenders, providing substantial value in lounge access, golf, and dining.
How ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in India Works: Process, Steps & Key Details
Applying for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in 2026 involves meeting specific age and income criteria, with existing ICICI Bank Global Private Client customers automatically eligible. The application process can be completed online or at an ICICI Bank branch, requiring standard identity, address, and income proofs.
The Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card, however, is an invite-only offering, requiring contact with an ICICI Bank relationship manager to check eligibility.
- Eligibility Criteria: Applicants must be Indian citizens aged 21 to 65 years. Salaried individuals need a minimum annual income of ₹1,50,000, while self-employed individuals require an annual income of ₹18,00,000.
- Credit Score Requirement: A CIBIL score of 750 or higher is generally preferred for approval and to secure the best terms for the Emeralde Credit Card.
- Documents Required: documents include proof of identity (Passport, Aadhaar, PAN card), proof of address (Utility bill, rental agreement), and income proof (Latest salary slips, income tax returns, Form 16).
- Application Method (Emeralde Credit Card): You can apply for the standard Emeralde Credit Card online through the ICICI Bank website or by visiting any ICICI Bank branch in person.
- Application Method (Emeralde Private Metal Card): The Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is invite-only; direct online or offline applications are not accepted. Eligibility is determined by an ICICI Bank relationship manager.
- Add-on Cards: Primary cardholders of the ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card can avail up to 3 complimentary add-on cards for family members over 18 years of age.
- Existing Customer Advantage: All existing ICICI Bank Global Private Client customers are automatically eligible for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card.
- Credit Limit Discretion: The final credit limit for the Emeralde Credit Card is determined at the bank’s discretion, based on the applicant’s financial profile and credit history.
Understanding these specific requirements and application methods is for individuals looking to acquire the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in 2026.
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in India: Benefits, Advantages & Why Students Choose IT
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card offers premium lifestyle benefits, including unlimited lounge access and significant dining discounts. As of 2026, cardholders can enjoy up to 15% off at over 2,500 restaurants across India via the Culinary Treats Programme (Source: ICICI Bank).
This card targets high-income individuals seeking extensive travel, wellness, and entertainment privileges.
- Unlimited Lounge Access: Primary cardholders receive unlimited complimentary access to both domestic and international airport lounges, a key benefit for frequent travelers in 2026.
- Golf Privileges: Cardholders can avail up to four complimentary golf rounds or lessons per month, provided they spend ₹50,000 on retail purchases in the preceding calendar month.
- Dining Discounts: The card provides discounts of up to 15% on dining bills at select fine dining restaurants nationwide through the ICICI Bank Culinary Treats Programme.
- Fuel Surcharge Waiver: A 1% fuel surcharge waiver is applicable on fuel purchases at any station in India, capped at ₹4,000 per transaction.
- Concierge Services: Extensive 24×7 concierge services are available, assisting with hotel and restaurant reservations, flight bookings, and car rentals.
- Reward Points: The Emeralde Credit Card offers up to 4 reward points for every ₹100 spent, which can be redeemed for various benefits.
- BookMyShow Offers: Starting April 1, 2026, cardholders spending ₹25,000 or more in the preceding quarter can get complimentary movie or event tickets via BookMyShow.
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card provides a full suite of premium benefits designed for a luxurious lifestyle in 2026.
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in India: Vs Alternatives: Which Option is Best?
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card offers premium benefits like unlimited lounge access and up to 4 golf rounds monthly, catering to high-spending individuals. Its annual fee of ₹12,000 can be waived with ₹10 lakh annual spending, making IT competitive against other luxury cards in India as of 2026.
| Feature | ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card | ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Card | Emirates Skywards ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card |
|---|---|---|---|
| Card Type | Super-premium Credit Card | Flagship Luxury Credit Card | Co-branded Premium Travel Card |
| Joining Fee | Not applicable (monthly/annual fee structure) | ₹12,499 + GST (as of 2026) | Not specified |
| Annual Fee | ₹12,000 (waived on ₹10 lakh annual spend) | ₹12,499 (as of 2026) | No annual fee waiver |
| Monthly Fee Option | ₹1,000 (waived on ₹1,000 monthly spend) | Not applicable | Not applicable |
| Reward Points Earning | Up to 4 reward points per ₹100 spent | 6 ICICI reward points on every ₹100 spent (3% reward rate) | 2 Emirates Skyward miles per ₹100 spent (international & domestic) |
| Reward Points Redemption | ₹1 per point via iShop (flights/hotels/vouchers), ₹0.25 for statement credit | 1 RP = ₹1 (products, travel, vouchers); 1:1 transfer to Air India Maharaja Club | Redeem for award flights, upgrades, travel bookings via Emirates |
| Lounge Access | Unlimited international and domestic lounge access for primary cardholder | Unlimited complimentary domestic and international lounge access for primary and add-on cardholders (via Priority Pass) | Unlimited complimentary domestic and international lounge visits (via Dreamfolks Pass) |
| Golf Benefits | 1 round/lesson for every ₹50,000 spent (max 4 rounds/month) | Unlimited rounds or lessons of golf | Not specified |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | 1% waiver up to ₹4,000 at any fuel station in India | Not specified | Not specified |
| Dining Privileges | Up to 15% discount at select fine dining restaurants | Not specified | Not specified |
| Forex Markup Fee | 2.00% (as of 2026) | 2.00% (as of 2026) | Not specified |
| Add-on Cards | Not specified | Up to 3 complimentary add-on cards | Not specified |
The Emeralde Private Metal Card offers a higher reward rate and unlimited golf, positioning IT above the standard Emeralde variant for ultra-premium users, while the Emirates Skywards card targets frequent Emirates flyers with airline-specific miles.
Common Misconceptions About ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in India
Many users misunderstand the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card’s benefits and eligibility, particularly its fee structure and lounge access rules for 2026. The card offers both annual and monthly fee options, with waivers based on specific spending thresholds.
Here are common misconceptions about the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card:
- Misconception 1: Unlimited Lounge Access for All Cardholders. Only the primary cardholder receives unlimited international and domestic lounge access. Add-on cardholders do not automatically get the same unlimited access.
- Misconception 2: Fixed Annual Fee Without Waiver Options. The annual fee of ₹12,000 for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card can be waived if you spend ₹10 lakh in a year. A monthly fee option of ₹1,000 is also available, waived on spends of ₹1,000.
- Misconception 3: Direct Application for Emeralde Private Metal Card. The ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is an invite-only product. You cannot apply for IT directly online or at a branch; eligibility is determined by an ICICI Bank relationship manager.
- Misconception 4: Golf Privileges are Unconditional. Complimentary golf rounds on the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card require a minimum retail spend of ₹50,000 in the previous calendar month. A maximum of 4 rounds can be availed monthly.
- Misconception 5: Movie Ticket Offers Apply Automatically. As of April 1, 2026, to receive complimentary movie tickets via BookMyShow, you must spend ₹25,000 or more on your Emeralde Credit Card within the preceding spends quarter.
Understanding these specific conditions helps cardholders maximize the value of their ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in 2026.
What to Do Next: Actionable Steps
Applying for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in 2026 involves meeting specific income and age criteria. Salaried individuals need a minimum annual income of ₹1,50,000, while self-employed individuals require ₹18,00,000 annually.
The application process can be completed online via the ICICI Bank website or in person at any branch, with existing ICICI Bank Global Private Client customers automatically eligible.
- Verify Eligibility: Confirm you are an Indian national citizen, aged 21-65 years, and meet the minimum annual income of ₹1,50,000 for salaried or ₹18,00,000 for self-employed individuals.
- Gather Documents: Prepare identity proof (Passport, Aadhaar, PAN card), address proof (Utility bill, rental agreement), and income proof (latest salary slips, income tax returns, Form 16).
- Choose Application Method: Apply directly through the ICICI Bank official website or visit your nearest ICICI Bank branch for assistance.
- Understand Fees: Be aware of the annual fee of ₹12,000, which can be waived if you spend ₹10 lakh in a year, or the monthly fee of ₹1,000, waived on spends of ₹1,000.
- Review Card Benefits: Familiarize yourself with benefits like unlimited domestic and international lounge access, up to 4 complimentary golf rounds monthly (based on ₹50,000 spend in the previous month), and a 1% fuel surcharge waiver up to ₹4,000.
- Consider Emeralde Private Metal: If you are an existing ICICI Bank Global Private Client, inquire about the invite-only Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card through your relationship manager for d benefits.
Key Takeaways
- The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card requires a minimum annual income of ₹1,50,000 for salaried or ₹18,00,000 for self-employed applicants in 2026.
- Cardholders can access unlimited domestic and international airport lounges, and up to 4 complimentary golf rounds monthly based on previous month’s spending.
- The annual fee of ₹12,000 can be waived with annual spends of ₹10 lakh, or a monthly fee of ₹1,000 applies, waived on ₹1,000 spends.
Check your eligibility and apply for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card on the official ICICI Bank website or at a branch.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the eligibility criteria for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in 2026?
To apply for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card in 2026, you must be between 21 and 65 years of age. Applicants generally need a strong credit history and a high income, as this is a premium card. ICICI Bank assesses eligibility based on CIBIL score and financial stability.
What are the annual fees for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card?
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card typically has an annual fee, which can also be paid as a monthly fee of ₹1,000. This monthly fee is waived if you spend ₹1 lakh or more in the preceding month. Verify the exact fee structure with ICICI Bank as of your application date.
Does the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card offer complimentary lounge access?
Yes, the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card provides unlimited complimentary lounge access for the primary cardholder at both domestic and international airports. You simply need to swipe your Emeralde Credit Card to avail this benefit. Supplementary cardholders may have different access terms.
What are the reward points for the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card?
ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Cardholders can earn up to 4 reward points for every ₹100 spent on retail purchases. These points can be redeemed for various benefits, including travel bookings and shopping vouchers through the iShop platform. The value of reward points varies by redemption option.
How can I get complimentary movie tickets with the Emeralde Credit Card in 2026?
Starting April 1, 2026, to get complimentary movie/event tickets via BookMyShow with your Emeralde Credit Card, you must spend ₹25,000 or more in the preceding calendar quarter. This benefit applies to both the standard and Emirates Skywards Emeralde variants. Ensure your card was applied for before November 15, 2024, for specific legacy terms.
What golf benefits does the ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card offer?
As an Emeralde Credit Cardholder, you are eligible for one complimentary round or lesson of golf for every ₹50,000 spent on retail purchases in the previous calendar month. You can avail a maximum of four rounds per month. Bookings are made through the Golftripz website using your registered email ID.
Are there any changes to ICICI Bank credit card rules in 2026?
Yes, ICICI Bank has revised some credit card rules effective January 15, 2026, and February 2026, impacting fees, reward structures, and benefit eligibility. For example, movie ticket benefits now require a minimum spend of ₹25,000 per quarter starting April 1, 2026. Always check the latest terms on the ICICI Bank website.
Disclaimer: This article is general information, not financial advice. Interest rates, fees, and eligibility change frequently. Verify current details with the lender or regulator (RBI / SEBI / IRDAI) before deciding.