The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card, launched in September 2017, the bank’s most premium offering in India, tailored for High Net-worth Individuals (HNIs). IT delivers a 3.33% value-back across diverse spending categories, rivaling top-tier cards like HDFC Diners Club Black and HDFC Infinia. Cardholders also benefit from a low 2% forex markup fee and access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide.
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Card Type | Premium Credit Card (most premium offering from Standard Chartered Bank in India) |
| Reward Rate | 5 reward points per ₹150 spent on retail transactions (equivalent to 3.33% value-back) |
| Reward Point Value | ₹1 per reward point (redeemable via Standard Chartered 360° rewards portal) |
| Forex Markup Fee | 2% + GST (lower than many premium cards in India, applicable to international online/POS/ATM transactions) |
| Cashback on Duty-Free Spends | 5% (up to ₹1,000 per statement cycle) |
| Airport Lounge Access | Access to 1,000+ airport lounges worldwide with complimentary Priority Pass membership. 1 complimentary international lounge visit/month if spending more than ₹20,000 in the previous month. 4 complimentary domestic lounge visits per calendar quarter (Mastercard Network). |
| Golf Benefits | 1 complimentary golf game and 1 complimentary coaching session per month across 20 premier golf courses in India (up to 12 complimentary rounds annually). Access to 150 golf courses worldwide. |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | 1% at all petrol pumps across India (maximum ₹1,000 per month) |
| EMI Conversion | Convert purchases over ₹2,000 into EMIs with tenures from 3 to 60 months |
| Loan on Credit Card | Dial-a-loan facility for up to ₹10 Lakh with tenures from 12 to 60 months |
| Dining Discounts | Up to 25% discount at 250+ restaurants across India via the Good Life programme |
| Insurance Coverage | Travel and Air Accident Cover up to $200K; Medical Travel Insurance up to $25K |
| Rent Payment Processing Fee | 1% of transaction amount + applicable taxes (effective April 2, 2023) |
| Reward Points on Select Categories | 3 reward points on every ₹150 spent on Utilities, Supermarkets, Insurance, Property management, Schools & Government payments (effective April 2, 2023) |
| Card Variants | Previously offered in Visa Infinite and MasterCard World variants; Visa Infinite variant discontinued. |
The card’s full features, from global lounge access to golf privileges and a competitive forex rate, cater to the lifestyle needs of affluent Indian consumers. Its strong reward structure and travel benefits position IT as a leading choice in the premium credit card segment for 2026.
Ultimate Card: Rewards & Benefits
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offers a 3.33% value-back on most spending categories, positioning IT against premium cards like HDFC Diners Club Black. Cardholders receive 5 reward points for every ₹150 spent, with each point valued at ₹1 for redemption on the bank’s portal (as of 2026).
| Benefit Category | Details | Value/Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Reward Points | Earn reward points on all retail purchases, redeemable via the Standard Chartered 360° Rewards program. | 5 reward points per ₹150 spent (₹1 per point value) |
| Reward Points (Select Categories) | Earn points on Utilities, Supermarkets, Insurance, Property management, Schools & Government payments (effective April 2, 2023). | 3 reward points per ₹150 spent |
| Reward Rate (Overall) | Effective value-back on general spending. | 3.33% (previously); 2% (current, post-downgrade) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | Low forex markup fee for international online spends, overseas POS transactions, and foreign ATM usage. | 2% + GST (as of 2026) |
| International Airport Lounge Access | Complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide with Priority Pass membership. | 1 complimentary visit per month (requires ₹20,000+ spend in previous month) |
| Domestic Airport Lounge Access | Complimentary access to domestic airport lounges across India via the Mastercard Network. | 4 complimentary visits per calendar quarter |
| Golf Benefits | Complimentary golf games and coaching sessions at premier golf courses in India and worldwide. | 1 complimentary game per month, 1 complimentary coaching session per month (up to 12 rounds annually across 20 Indian, 150 worldwide courses) |
| Cashback (Duty-Free) | Cashback on purchases made at duty-free stores. | 5% cashback (up to ₹1,000 per statement cycle) |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | Waiver on fuel surcharge at all petrol pumps across India. | 1% fuel surcharge waiver (maximum ₹1,000 per month) |
| Insurance Benefits | full travel insurance coverage. | Complimentary Air Accident Cover (up to $200K), Medical Travel Insurance (up to $25K) |
| EMI Conversion | Option to convert large credit card purchases into equated monthly installments. | Convert spends above ₹2,000 into EMIs (tenure 3 to 60 months) |
| Loan on Credit Card | Access to pre-approved loan offers against the credit card. | Dial-a-loan up to ₹10 lakh (tenure 12 to 60 months) |
| Dining & Lifestyle Offers | Exclusive discounts and offers across various categories. | Up to 25% discount at 250+ restaurants across India via the Good Life programme |
| Rent Payment Processing Fee | Fee for transactions made on third-party rent payment platforms (effective April 2, 2023). | 1% of transaction amount + applicable taxes |
The card’s strong reward structure and travel-centric benefits make IT suitable for high-net-worth individuals who frequently travel and spend internationally.
Ultimate Card: Fees & Charges 2026
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card carries an annual fee of ₹5,000 plus GST, with a joining fee of ₹5,000. Its foreign currency markup fee is 2% plus GST, which is lower than many other premium cards in India.
| Metric | Value (Rs) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | ₹5,000 | Plus applicable GST |
| Joining Fee | ₹5,000 | Plus applicable GST |
| Yearly Renewal Fee | ₹5,000 | Plus ₹900 GST, waived on spends of ₹50,000+ in previous year |
| Foreign Currency Markup Fee | 2% + GST | Applicable on international transactions (as of 2026) |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 2% | Lower than the average 3.5% charged by many cards |
| Interest Rate (Monthly) | 3.75% pm | Annualized to 45.00% APR for all Standard Chartered Credit Cards |
| Overlimit Fee | ₹500 | Or 2.5% of the over limit amount, whichever is higher, per instance |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | 1% | Maximum waiver of ₹1,000 per month at all petrol pumps across India |
| Rental Payment Processing Fee | 1% + applicable taxes | Effective 2 April 2023 for rental payments via third-party platforms |
| Cashback on Duty-Free Spends | 5% | Up to ₹1,000 per statement cycle |
Cardholders should review the detailed terms and conditions on the Standard Chartered Bank website for the most current fee structure and any potential changes for 2026.
Ultimate Card: Eligibility & Application
Applying for the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card in 2026 requires meeting specific income and documentation criteria. Both salaried and self-employed individuals can apply, provided they demonstrate a stable monthly income.
The application process is primarily online, involving a credit score check and a Video KYC (VKYC) for verification.
- Income Criteria: Applicants must have a stable monthly income, though a specific minimum threshold is not publicly disclosed by the bank as of 2026.
- Employment Status: The card is available to both salaried employees and self-employed professionals in India.
- Age Requirement: Typically, applicants must be between 21 and 65 years of age to be eligible for credit cards in India.
- Credit Score: A strong CIBIL score, generally above 750, significantly improves the chances of approval for this premium card.
- Proof of Identity: Required documents include PAN Card, Aadhaar card, Driver’s License, Passport, or Voter’s ID.
- Proof of Address: Utility bills (electricity, phone), Aadhaar card, or Passport serve as valid address proofs.
- Proof of Income: Latest salary slips, bank statements (for salaried), or income tax returns (for self-employed) are necessary.
- Application Steps: Visit the Standard Chartered website, to the ‘Credit Cards’ section, select ‘Ultimate Credit Card’, click ‘Apply Now’, fill the online form, and upload the required documents.
The bank conducts an internal credit assessment, including a check with credit bureaus like Experian, TransUnion, and Equifax, before approving the application.
Ultimate Card: Travel & Lifestyle Perks
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offers extensive travel and lifestyle benefits, including access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide as of 2026. Cardholders also receive up to 12 complimentary golf rounds annually at premier courses in India.
These perks cater to high-net-worth individuals who frequently travel and seek premium lifestyle experiences.
- Airport Lounge Access: The card provides complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges globally through a Priority Pass membership. This includes 4 complimentary domestic lounge visits per calendar quarter in India.
- International Lounge Visits: Cardholders receive 1 complimentary international airport lounge visit per month, provided they spend over ₹20,000 in the previous month.
- Golf Privileges: Enjoy 1 complimentary golf game and 1 complimentary coaching session per month at 20 premier golf courses in India and 150 worldwide.
- Foreign Transaction Fee: A low forex markup fee of 2% + GST applies to international transactions, which is competitive among premium cards in India as of 2026.
- Duty-Free Cashback: Get 5% cashback on duty-free purchases, capped at ₹1,000 per statement cycle.
- Fuel Surcharge Waiver: A 1% fuel surcharge waiver is available at all petrol pumps across India, with a maximum waiver of ₹1,000 per month.
- Dining Discounts: Access up to 25% discounts at over 250 partner restaurants across India through the Standard Chartered Good Life programme.
These benefits position the Ultimate Card as a strong option for frequent travelers and those seeking a luxurious lifestyle in India.
Ultimate Card Vs. HDFC Infinia/Diners Black
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offers a 3.33% value-back across spending categories, comparable to premium cards like HDFC Diners Club Black and HDFC Infinia. IT features a lower forex markup fee of 2% + GST, making IT suitable for international travel, unlike some competitor cards with higher charges.
While HDFC Infinia and Diners Black offer unlimited global lounge access, the SC Ultimate card provides 1 complimentary international visit per month with Priority Pass, subject to a minimum spend of ₹20,000 in the previous month.
| Feature | SC Ultimate | HDFC Infinia | HDFC Diners Black |
|---|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | ₹5,000 | ₹12,500 + GST | ₹10,000 + GST |
| Reward Rate (Value-back) | 3.33% (5 reward points per ₹150 spent) | 3.33% (5 reward points per ₹150 spent) | 3.33% (5 reward points per ₹150 spent) |
| Forex Markup Fee | 2% + GST | 2% | 2% |
| International Lounge Access | 1 complimentary visit/month with Priority Pass (spend-based: >₹20,000 in previous month) | Unlimited global lounge access via Priority Pass | Unlimited global lounge access |
| Domestic Lounge Access | 4 complimentary visits per calendar quarter (Mastercard Network) | Unlimited domestic lounge access | Unlimited domestic lounge access |
| Golf Benefits | 1 complimentary game and 1 coaching session per month (up to 12 rounds annually) | Complimentary golf games | Complimentary golf games |
| Duty-Free Cashback | 5% (up to ₹1,000 per statement cycle) | Not specified | Not specified |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | 1% (maximum ₹1,000 per month) | 1% (maximum ₹500 per statement cycle) | 1% (maximum ₹1,000 per statement cycle) |
| Eligibility | Targeted at HNIs, stable monthly income | Invitation-only, high income, existing HDFC relationship, credit limit around ₹10 lakh | Easier approvals, existing HDFC customers with ₹5 lakh+ limit, minimum income ₹2.5 lakh per month |
The Standard Chartered Ultimate card positions itself as a strong contender in the premium segment, particularly for frequent international travelers due to its competitive forex markup and golf benefits.
Ultimate Card: Pros & Cons
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offers a strong reward structure and travel benefits, making IT suitable for high-net-worth individuals in India. IT provides a 3.33% value-back across most spending categories, comparable to other premium cards as of 2026 (Source: Paisabazaar.com).
- Low Forex Markup: The card features a 2% + GST forex markup fee, which is lower than the average 3.5% charged by many other premium cards in India, beneficial for international transactions.
- High Reward Rate: Cardholders earn 5 reward points for every ₹150 spent on retail transactions, with each point valued at ₹1 when redeemed through the bank’s rewards portal.
- Extensive Lounge Access: IT includes complimentary Priority Pass membership, offering access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide, with one international visit per month if the previous month’s spend exceeds ₹20,000.
- Golf Privileges: Members receive one complimentary golf game and one coaching session per month at over 20 premier golf courses in India and 150 worldwide.
- Duty-Free Cashback: The card provides 5% cashback on duty-free purchases, capped at ₹1,000 per statement cycle, benefits for frequent international travelers.
While offering significant benefits, the card carries an annual fee of ₹5,000, which is waived only on annual spends of ₹50,000 or more.
Ultimate Card: Important Information
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card, launched in September 2017, is the bank’s most premium offering in India. IT targets High Net-worth Individuals (HNIs) seeking an elite lifestyle with extensive travel and luxury benefits.
- The card offers a low 2% + GST forex markup fee for international transactions, significantly lower than the average 3.5% charged by many other premium cards (as of 2026).
- Cardholders receive 5% cashback on duty-free spends, capped at ₹1,000 per statement cycle, savings on international travel.
- The card provides access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide through a complimentary Priority Pass membership, with 1 complimentary international lounge visit per month if the cardholder spends over ₹20,000 in the previous month.
- Golf enthusiasts benefit from 1 complimentary game and 1 complimentary coaching session per month at over 20 premier golf courses in India and 150 worldwide, totaling up to 12 complimentary rounds annually.
- Purchases above ₹2,000 can be converted into EMIs with tenures ranging from 3 to 60 months, offering financial flexibility.
- A loan on credit card facility, known as ‘Dial-a-loan’, allows cardholders to avail up to ₹10 lakh with tenures between 12 and 60 months.
Key Takeaways
- The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offers a competitive 2% + GST forex markup, making IT suitable for frequent international travelers.
- Cardholders can access over 1,000 airport lounges globally and enjoy up to 12 complimentary golf rounds annually.
- The card provides financial flexibility through EMI conversions for purchases over ₹2,000 and a ‘Dial-a-loan’ facility up to ₹10 lakh.
For detailed eligibility criteria and to apply, visit the official Standard Chartered Bank website.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are the key benefits of the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card in India?
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offers a 3.33% value-back on most spending categories, making IT competitive with other premium cards. Cardholders receive 5% cashback on duty-free purchases, capped at ₹1,000 per statement cycle. IT also provides up to 12 complimentary golf games annually at premier courses across India.
What is the annual fee for the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card in 2026?
As of 2026, the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card carries an annual fee of ₹5,000. This fee provides access to premium benefits like high reward rates, low forex markup, and golf privileges. Always confirm the latest fee structure directly with Standard Chartered Bank.
Does the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offer airport lounge access?
Yes, the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card provides complimentary access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide. This benefit both domestic and international travel for cardholders. The lounge access program rewards frequent spenders with additional complimentary visits.
What is the forex markup fee for the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card?
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card charges a low forex markup fee of 2% plus GST for international transactions. This rate is competitive among premium credit cards in India, making IT suitable for frequent overseas travelers. Many other premium cards typically charge 3.5% or more.
How do I redeem reward points earned on the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card?
You can redeem reward points through Standard Chartered Bank’s 360° rewards portal. Points can be exchanged for products, vouchers, or other options available in the online catalogue. Each reward point is generally valued at ₹1 for redemption purposes.
What are the golf benefits offered by the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card?
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offers one complimentary golf game per month at premier golf courses in India. This benefit allows cardholders up to 12 free golf rounds annually. IT also includes access to golf coaching sessions, its appeal for golf enthusiasts.
What is the reward rate on the Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card?
The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offers 5 reward points for every ₹150 spent on most categories. This translates to a 3.33% value-back, placing IT among top premium cards like HDFC Diners Club Black. Reward points can be redeemed via the 360° rewards program.
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.