In today’s fast-paced financial landscape, credit cards have become more than just plastic for swiping. They are powerful tools for rewards, savings, and financial flexibility—especially when they come from a trusted name like HDFC Bank. If you’re wondering which is the best HDFC credit card that fits your lifestyle, spending pattern, and financial goals, you’re in the right place.
Whether you’re a frequent traveler, a shopping enthusiast, or a business owner, HDFC offers a wide array of credit cards, each packed with exclusive benefits. In this guide, we’ll break down everything from card categories, features, and reward systems to eligibility and how to apply.
HDFC Card Categories: Find the perfect fit for your needs
HDFC Bank structures its credit card portfolio to cater to a wide spectrum of users. Here’s a breakdown of the primary categories:
- Premium & Super Premium Cards: Ideal for high spenders and frequent travelers, offering luxury benefits like unlimited lounge access and high reward rates.
Examples: HDFC Infinia, Diners Club Black, Regalia Gold.
- Shopping & Cashback Cards: Perfect for those who shop online or offline regularly, these cards offer cashback or accelerated reward points on popular platforms.
Examples: HDFC Millennia, Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card, MoneyBack.
- Travel & Airline Cards: Designed for travelers, these cards offer benefits like free flight tickets, hotel status, and travel insurance.
Examples: Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Credit Card, 6E Rewards XL Indigo HDFC Card.
- Fuel & Utility Cards: Targeted at users who want savings on fuel and utility bills. Example: IndianOil HDFC Credit Card.
- Co-branded & Lifestyle Cards: These partner with brands (like Tata Neu) or offer lifestyle perks such as dining discounts and entertainment offers.
- Business and Corporate Cards: Made for entrepreneurs and corporates who want expense tracking, better cash flow, and employee expense management.
Example: Business Ragalia, Corporate Platinum.
Top HDFC Card Features That Make Them Stand Out
When it comes to features, HDFC doesn’t hold back. Each card is crafted to bring maximum value to its user.
- Reward Points & Cashback: Earn points or cashback on every eligible transaction, redeemable for vouchers, air miles, or statement credit.
- Airport Lounge Access: Many cards offer complimentary access to domestic and international lounges, a must for frequent travelers.
- Welcome & Milestone Benefits: Enjoy bonuses on joining and additional rewards when you cross specific annual or quarterly spend thresholds.
- SmartEMI Facility: Convert large purchases into easy EMIs with flexible repayment options.
- Contactless & UPI Payments: Make tap-and-go payments or link your RuPay credit card to UPI apps for seamless transactions.
- Insurance Coverage: Select cards offer complimentary insurance for air accidents, emergency hospitalization, and lost card liability..
- Add-on Cards: Request lifetime free secondary cards for family members.
- Foreign Currency Markup: Competitive rates on international transactions, especially on premium cards.
- Easy Management: Track and control spends via NetBanking or the HDFC Mobile Banking app.
Reward Points System
HDFC Bank’s reward points ecosystem is one of the most robust in India, tailored to maximize value across different spending categories.
- Earning Points: Points are earned on every eligible spend, with accelerated rewards on partner merchants, online shopping, dining, and travel.
- Sample Earning Rates:
- HDFC Diners Club Black: 5 points per ₹150 spent (base rate), up to 10X on SmartBuy.
- HDFC Regalia/Regalia Gold: 4 points per ₹150 spent, 5X on select brands.
- HDFC Freedom: 1 point per ₹150 spent, with spend-based bonuses.
- MoneyBack+: 10X CashPoints on select e-commerce platforms.
- Redemption Options: Points can be redeemed for gift vouchers, air miles, merchandise, or even to pay off outstanding card dues.
- Special Offers: Look for limited-time promotions offering higher reward rates or exclusive redemption deals.
- Validity: Points are valid for 2 years in most cases—make sure to redeem them before they expire!
Eligibility Criteria and How to Apply for HDFC Credit Cards
Before you apply for your ideal card, here’s what you need to know.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: 21–60 years (salaried) / 21–65 years (self-employed)
- Income: Minimum net income of ₹15,000 per month (varies by card)
- Credit Score: 700+ preferred
- Employment: Salaried or self-employed with a stable income
- Nationality and Residency: Indian nationals, residents or NRIs.
Documents Required
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar, PAN Card
- Address Proof: Utility bill, passport
- Income Proof: Salary slips, bank statements, or ITR.
Application Process
- Choose Your Card: Match your spending habits and lifestyle with the card’s benefits.
- Apply Online or Offline: Submit your application through the HDFC website, at a branch, or via select ATMs.
- Document Submission: Upload or provide the necessary documents for verification.
- Approval & Activation: Once approved, your card is dispatched. Activate it using the provided PIN and start using your card.
Table: Top HDFC Credit Cards (2025)
Card Name | Category | Joining Fee | Key Benefits |
HDFC Infinia Credit Card (Metal) | Super Premium | ₹12,500 | Unlimited lounge access, 10X rewards on travel/shopping |
Diners Club Black Metal Edition | Premium | ₹10,000 | Unlimited lounge, 5 points/₹150, 10X on SmartBuy, memberships |
Regalia Gold Credit Card | Premium | ₹2,500 | 5X points on select brands, 4 points/₹150, travel benefits |
Tata Neu Infinity HDFC Card | Co-branded | ₹1499 | Up to 10% value-back on Tata Neu, Priority Pass lounge access |
HDFC Millennia Credit Card | Cashback | ₹1000 | 5% cashback on Amazon, Flipkart, Zomato, etc. |
Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card | Co-branded | ₹500 | 10% cashback on Swiggy, 5% on other online spends |
MoneyBack+ Credit Card | Cashback | ₹500 | 10X CashPoints on Flipkart, Amazon, 5X on EMI at select merchants |
Marriott Bonvoy HDFC Credit Card | Travel | ₹3000 | Silver Elite status, 4X MB Points, 12 lounge visits/year |
6E Rewards XL Indigo HDFC Card | Airline | ₹1500 | Free IndiGo flight, 5% value-back on IndiGo |
IndianOil HDFC Credit Card | Fuel | ₹500 | Up to 6% savings on fuel, 5% on groceries and bill payments |
Human Touch: Which HDFC Credit Card Is Best for You?
With so many options, the best HDFC credit card truly depends on your lifestyle. If you’re a frequent flyer, the Infinia or Diners Club Black offers unmatched luxury and travel perks. Online shoppers and foodies will love the Millennia or Swiggy HDFC cards for their generous cashback. If you want a well-rounded card with premium features, Regalia Gold is a perennial favorite. And for those just starting out or looking for value, MoneyBack+ and Freedom cards provide solid rewards with minimal fees.
Before you apply, reflect on your spending habits and priorities. Do you want to maximize travel rewards, save on daily expenses, or enjoy exclusive lifestyle privileges? HDFC Bank’s diverse lineup ensures there’s a perfect match for everyone.
In summary, the best HDFC credit card is the one that fits your unique needs and helps you get more out of every rupee you spend. Take your time, compare features, and choose wisely—you’ll thank yourself every time you swipe.
FAQs: Best HDFC Credit Cards
1. Which is the best HDFC credit card for cashback?
The HDFC Millennia Credit Card is excellent for cashback lovers, offering 5% cashback on top merchants like Amazon, Flipkart, and Swiggy.
2. What credit score is needed for HDFC credit cards?
A credit score above 700 increases your chances of approval, especially for premium cards.
3. Can I apply for multiple HDFC cards?
Yes, depending on your credit profile, HDFC allows users to hold more than one card, but eligibility rules apply.
4. Are there any lifetime free HDFC credit cards?
Yes, cards like the MoneyBack+ and IndianOil HDFC Credit Card sometimes come with lifetime free offers during promotions.
5. How can I check HDFC credit card reward points?
You can check your points via NetBanking, MyCards mobile app, or monthly e-statements.