Best PNB Credit Cards 2026: Features, Benefits & Eligibility in India

As of October 2025, Punjab National Bank (PNB) serves over 6.6 lakh active credit card customers across India. PNB, established in 1895, is the…

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As of October 2025, Punjab National Bank (PNB) serves over 6.6 lakh active credit card customers across India. PNB, established in 1895, is the second-largest public sector bank after SBI, offering various credit card options. Choosing the right PNB credit card depends on your spending habits and specific needs.

Rank Card Name Key Benefit Joining Fee (₹) Annual Fee (₹) Reward Rate
1 PNB RuPay Select Credit Card Premium perks, rewards, lounge access Not specified 750 + GST 2 reward points for every ₹100 spent (1 RP = ₹0.50, Effective cashback rate = 1%)
2 PNB RuPay Platinum Credit Card Reward points, insurance cover, lounge access Not specified Not specified Reward point benefits
3 PNB Patanjali RuPay Select Credit Card 5-7% additional cashback at Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. Not specified Not specified 5-7% additional cashback at Patanjali
4 PNB Global Platinum Credit Card Secure transactions, savings, privileges Not specified 500 + GST Not specified
5 PNB EMT RuPay Platinum Credit Card More value from everyday spending, widely accepted Not specified Not specified Not specified
6 PNB Global Gold Credit Card Cashless and tension-free shopping Not specified Not specified Not specified
7 PNB Rakshak Rupay Card Suitable for defense personnel Not specified Not specified Not specified
8 PNB RuPay Millennial Credit Card Reward points, offers for young users Not specified Not specified Not specified

PNB credit cards offer various benefits, from cashback on specific brands to airport lounge access, catering to diverse customer needs. Always verify current fees and reward structures directly with PNB.

PNB Credit Card Comparison

Punjab National Bank (PNB) offers a range of credit cards tailored for diverse spending needs in India. As of 2026, popular options include the PNB RuPay Select, PNB RuPay Platinum, and the co-branded PNB Patanjali Select cards. These cards provide varying benefits, from reward points to lounge access and specific cashback offers.

Feature PNB RuPay Select PNB RuPay Platinum PNB Patanjali Select
Joining Fee ₹500 Zero ₹500
Annual Fee ₹750 (waivable on minimum one retail transaction per quarter) Zero (waivable if card used once per quarter) Not specified
Welcome Benefit 300 bonus Reward Points Not specified Not specified
Reward Points Earning 2 reward points for every ₹100 spent 1 reward point for every ₹100 spent 2X reward points on every retail transaction
Reward Point Value 1 RP = ₹0.50 (Effective cashback rate = 1%) 1 RP = ₹0.50 (Effective cashback rate = 0.5%) Not specified
Cashback on Patanjali Products Not applicable (available on co-branded variant) 5% to 7% additional cashback on recharge using PNB-Patanjali credit card 5-7% additional cashback at Patanjali Ayurved Ltd. For Patanjali Swadeshi Samridhi card customers on recharge
Lounge Access Complimentary lounge access at airports Lounge access at select airports Complimentary lounge access every year
Insurance Coverage Not specified Insurance cover full insurance coverage
Cash Advance Fees 2.5% or a minimum of ₹500 2.5% or a minimum of ₹500 2.5% or a minimum of ₹500
Late Payment Fees ₹200 to ₹750 ₹200 to ₹750 ₹200 to ₹750
Finance Charge (Monthly) 2.95% 2.95% 2.95%

The PNB RuPay Select card offers a higher reward point earning rate and complimentary airport lounge access, making IT suitable for frequent travelers. The PNB Patanjali Select card provides significant cashback on Patanjali products, appealing to specific consumer segments.

PNB Credit Card Rewards & Cashback

PNB credit cards offer reward points on most spends, with 1 reward point typically valued at ₹0.25 as of September 1, 2024. The PNB RuPay Select Credit Card provides the highest effective cashback rate at 1%, earning 2 reward points for every ₹100 spent.

Card Name Reward Points per Rs 100 Reward Point Value (Rs) Effective Cashback Rate Redemption Options
PNB RuPay Select Credit Card 2 0.50 1% Cashback (statement credit), Vouchers, Bookings, JP Miles (Jet Airways)
PNB Global Platinum Credit Card 1 0.50 0.5% Cashback, Gift items, E-vouchers, JP Miles (Jet Airways)
PNB Global Gold Card 1 0.25 (w.e.f. 01/09/2024) 0.25% Cashback, Gift items, E-vouchers, JP Miles (Jet Airways)
PNB Global Classic Card 1 0.25 (w.e.f. 01/09/2024) 0.25% Cashback, Gift items, E-vouchers, JP Miles (Jet Airways)
PNB Patanjali RuPay Select Credit Card 2 0.50 1% (general), 2% (transactions > ₹2500 at Patanjali stores, max ₹50/transaction), 5-7% (additional cashback on Patanjali Swadeshi Samridhi card recharges) Cashback, Vouchers, Bookings
PNB RuPay Platinum Credit Card 1 0.50 0.5% Cashback, Vouchers, Bookings

Cardholders can redeem accumulated reward points for various options, including cashback, gift items, e-vouchers, and even JP Miles for travel.

PNB Credit Card Eligibility

Meeting specific eligibility criteria is to qualify for a PNB credit card in 2026. Applicants generally need to be between 21 and 70 years old, with a minimum annual income ranging from ₹1 lakh to ₹7.5 lakh depending on the card variant.

A strong CIBIL score, typically 750 or above, significantly improves approval chances and access to better card features.

Criteria Salaried Individuals Self-Employed Individuals
Age 21-70 years 21-70 years
Minimum Age for Add-on Card 18 years 18 years
Minimum Annual Income (Classic Card) ₹1 lakh ₹1 lakh
Minimum Annual Income (Gold Card) ₹2.5 lakhs ₹2.5 lakhs
Minimum Annual Income (Entry-level cards) ₹2.5 lakh ₹2.5 lakh
Minimum Annual Income (Higher-tier cards) Up to ₹7.5 lakh Up to ₹7.5 lakh
Credit Score 750 or above (generally recommended) 750 or above (generally recommended)
Educational Qualification 10th grade pass 10th grade pass
Income Stability Regular and stable source of income Regular and stable source of income

PNB assesses income stability and credit history to determine card suitability, with processing typically taking up to 21 working days.

PNB Credit Card Fees & Charges

Understanding the fees and charges associated with PNB credit cards is for effective financial planning. As of 2026, PNB credit cards typically include joining fees, annual fees, and cash advance charges, which can impact the overall cost of ownership.

Most PNB credit cards, like the Global Gold and RuPay Select, levy a joining fee of ₹300-500 plus GST, along with similar annual fees. However, some cards offer annual fee waivers based on spending thresholds or usage patterns.

Charge Type PNB Global Gold PNB RuPay Select PNB Patanjali Select
Joining Fee ₹300 + GST ₹500 + GST ₹500 + GST
Annual Fee ₹300 + GST ₹500 + GST ₹500 + GST
Cash Advance Fees 2.5% or minimum ₹500 (whichever is higher) 2.5% or minimum ₹500 (whichever is higher) 2.5% or minimum ₹500 (whichever is higher)
Late Payment Fees ₹200 to ₹750 ₹200 to ₹750 ₹200 to ₹750
Foreign Transaction Fee 3.5% 3.5% 3.5%
Card Replacement Fee ₹300 ₹300 ₹300
Finance Charge (Interest Rate) 3.40% per month (40.8% p.a.) 3.40% per month (40.8% p.a.) 3.40% per month (40.8% p.a.)
PIN Replacement Fee ₹50 per card ₹50 per card ₹50 per card

The finance charge, or interest rate, on PNB credit cards stands at 3.40% per month, translating to an annual rate of 40.8% on outstanding balances.

How to Apply for PNB Credit Card

Applying for a PNB credit card involves a straightforward process, typically completed online or at a bank branch. The bank assesses applications based on income eligibility, credit history, and age criteria.

The entire application and approval process usually takes about 21 working days. Applicants must meet the minimum age of 21 years and have an annual income of at least ₹80,000.

  • Online Application: Visit the official PNB credit card portal or a trusted financial aggregator website. Fill out the application form with personal, financial, and employment details.
  • Document Submission: Upload scanned copies of required documents, including identity proof (Aadhaar, PAN), address proof (utility bill, passport), and income proof (salary slips, bank statements, ITR).
  • Branch Visit: Alternatively, visit your nearest PNB branch to collect an application form. Fill IT out manually and submit IT along with physical copies of all necessary documents.
  • Eligibility Check: PNB evaluates your application against criteria like age (21-65 years), minimum annual income (starting from ₹80,000), and CIBIL score.
  • Verification Process: The bank conducts a verification process, which may include a CIBIL check and physical verification of documents or address.
  • Card Issuance: Upon successful verification and approval, your PNB credit card will be dispatched to your registered address within the stipulated processing time.

Selecting the right PNB credit card depends on your spending habits and financial requirements, with options like the PNB RuPay Select Credit Card offering 1% effective cashback.

PNB Credit Card Activation & Management

Activating your PNB credit card is a straightforward process, enabling access to its features and benefits. PNB offers multiple channels for card activation, including mobile banking and SMS, ensuring convenience for cardholders.

Managing your PNB credit card effectively involves understanding payment options and customer support channels. PNB has over 6.6 lakh active credit card customers nationwide as of October 2025.

  • Card Activation: Activate your new PNB credit card using the bank’s mobile banking app. This digital method provides instant activation for immediate use.
  • SMS Activation: Alternatively, send an SMS to 7092200200 with “ACTIV ” to activate your card.
  • PIN Generation: For the PNB Global Gold Credit Card, replacing a lost PIN incurs a charge of ₹50 per card. Ensure secure PIN management.
  • Payment Options: PNB credit card bills can be paid through various modes, including online banking, NEFT, RTGS, and cheque payments at branches.
  • Customer Support: PNB provides dedicated customer support for credit card queries, accessible via phone banking or by visiting any of its over 10,000 branches across India.

Understanding these activation and management processes helps cardholders maximize their PNB credit card experience.

Key Takeaways

  • PNB credit cards can be activated via mobile banking or SMS to 7092200200.
  • PNB has a substantial customer base with over 6.6 lakh active credit card users as of October 2025.
  • Charges for services like PIN replacement (₹50 for PNB Global Gold) are applicable, the importance of fee awareness.

For detailed instructions and to manage your PNB credit card, visit the official PNB Credit Card Portal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which PNB credit card is best for rewards in 2026?

The PNB RuPay Select Credit Card offers strong reward points and lifestyle benefits, making IT a top choice for rewards. IT provides access to RuPay Platinum privileges, including airport lounge access and discounts on travel bookings. This card is well-suited for users seeking value from their everyday spending.

What are the eligibility criteria for a PNB credit card?

To be eligible for a PNB credit card, applicants typically need to be Indian residents aged 21 to 65 years. A stable monthly income, usually above ₹20,000, and a CIBIL score of 700 or higher are generally required. Specific income and credit score requirements can vary by card variant.

How can I activate my PNB credit card?

You can activate your PNB credit card through the bank’s mobile banking app or via SMS banking. To activate by SMS, send ‘ACTIV ‘ to 7092200200. This process ensures your card is ready for use after issuance.

What are the common fees for PNB credit cards?

PNB credit cards typically have an annual fee, which can range from ₹250 to ₹1,000, though some cards offer fee waivers based on spending. Other common charges include interest on outstanding balances (around 2.5% to 3.5% per month) and cash advance fees. Always check the specific card’s fee structure before applying.

Does PNB offer credit cards for defence personnel?

Yes, Punjab National Bank offers specialized credit cards like the PNB Rakshak RuPay card tailored for defence personnel. These cards often come with unique benefits and features designed to meet the specific needs of service members. Eligibility and benefits for these cards are distinct from general-purpose cards.

Can I get airport lounge access with a PNB credit card?

Certain PNB credit cards, such as the PNB RuPay Select Credit Card, offer complimentary airport lounge access. These privileges are part of the RuPay Platinum benefits associated with specific card variants. Cardholders should verify the lounge access terms and conditions for their specific card.

How do I apply for a PNB credit card online?

You can apply for a PNB credit card online by visiting the official PNB credit card portal or a partner aggregator website. You will need to fill out an application form and submit necessary documents like identity proof, address proof, and income proof. The bank will then process your application based on eligibility.


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) before deciding.