Times Black ICICI Credit Card 2026: Benefits, Fees & Eligibility in India

The Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card, a super-premium metal card, offers extensive luxury and travel benefits for high-spending individuals in India.…

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The Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card, a super-premium metal card, offers extensive luxury and travel benefits for high-spending individuals in India. Launched in partnership with Times Internet Ltd. And Visa, IT features a 1.49% forex markup fee, significantly lower than the typical 3%-3.5% on many other Indian credit cards as of January 2026.

Parameter Details
Card Type Super-premium metal credit card
Issuing Bank ICICI Bank in association with Times Internet Ltd. And Visa
Annual Fee (2026) ₹20,000 + GST (waived on spending over ₹25 lakh in the preceding year)
Joining Fee (2026) ₹20,000 + GST
Forex Markup Fee (effective Jan 15, 2026) 1.49% (lower than typical 3%-3.5% on other cards)
Dynamic Currency Conversion Fee 1.49%
Target User Segment High-earning individuals with frequent domestic/international travel, appreciation for fine dining, events, and shopping
Lounge Access Unlimited access to 1300+ domestic and international airport lounges for primary and add-on card members
Air Accident Insurance Cover (2026) ₹1.4 lakh
Refund on Flight/Hotel Cancellation (2026) Up to ₹12,000
Domestic Rewards Rate (2026) 2% on retail transactions
International Rewards Rate (2026) 2.5% on international spending
Reward Points CAP (Govt. Transactions) 5,000 RP
Fuel Surcharge Waiver 1% (max ₹4,000 per transaction at HPCL pumps)
ICICI Bank Culinary Treats Programme 15% savings at 2,500+ restaurants in India
WeWork Day Passes/Airport Transfers (on ₹5 lakh spend) Available (from Thumby Aviation, Avis, or Indian Travel House)
Klook International Experiences (on ₹2 lakh spend) Worth ₹10,000
Times Black Mobility Wallet Credit (on ₹5 lakh spend) 10,000 points worth ₹10,000
Avis Car Rental Discounts 25–35%
TATA CLiQ Luxury Gift Card (value) ₹10,000
Complimentary EaseMyTrip Voucher ₹10,000
Minimum Age Eligibility 21 years (Indian citizen)
Maximum Age Eligibility 60 years
Minimum Monthly Income (Salaried) ₹2,00,000

This card is designed for users seeking premium lifestyle and travel benefits, offering a competitive forex markup and extensive lounge access for both primary and add-on cardholders.

Times Black ICICI: Key Benefits

The Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card offers a full suite of benefits for ultra-HNI customers, including unlimited airport lounge access to over 1300 lounges globally and a reduced forex markup of 1.49% on international spending. Cardholders can also receive up to ₹12,000 in waivers for domestic flight and hotel cancellation charges, travel flexibility.

Benefit Category Details Key Feature
Travel & Lounge Access Unlimited access to both domestic and international airport lounges for primary and add-on card members. Unlimited Airport Lounge Access (1300+ Lounges worldwide)
Travel & Lounge Access No cancellation charges on domestic flight and hotel bookings, up to ₹12,000. Domestic Flight & Hotel Cancellation Waiver
Travel & Lounge Access Airport transfers from Thumby Aviation, Avis, or Indian Travel House on spends of ₹5 lakh. Complimentary Airport Transfers
Travel & Lounge Access Low foreign currency conversion (forex) markup fee of 1.49% on overseas purchases, lower than typical 3%-3.5% on other cards. Reduced Forex Markup (1.49%)
Rewards & Earnings Earn 2% reward points on domestic transactions (Insurance, utilities, education & government payments) and 2.5% on international transactions. Accelerated Reward Points (2% Domestic, 2.5% International)
Rewards & Earnings Welcome benefits include a TATA CLiQ Luxury Gift Card worth ₹10,000 and Klook’s international experiences worth ₹10,000. Welcome Benefits (Luxury Vouchers)
Rewards & Earnings Milestone vouchers for lifestyle, travel, and events, with potential value up to ₹50,000. Milestone Benefits & Vouchers
Lifestyle & Concierge 24×7 expert concierge service for itineraries and bookings, available both domestically and internationally. 24×7 Concierge Services
Lifestyle & Concierge Exclusive access to modern events, including ET Awards, and curated dining experiences hosted by celebrity chefs. Exclusive Event Access & Dining Experiences
Lifestyle & Concierge Complimentary luxury stay gift card as a welcome benefit and upon renewal. Luxury Stay Gift Card
Mobility & Travel Times Black Mobility Wallet credited with 10,000 points (worth ₹10,000) on spends of ₹5 lakh. Times Black Mobility Wallet Credit
Insurance & Security Air accident insurance cover of ₹1.4 lakh (as of 2026). Air Accident Insurance Cover
Shopping & Discounts Exclusive gold discount, a unique benefit for cardholders. Exclusive Gold Discount
Shopping & Discounts Refund of flight and hotel cancellation charges up to ₹12,000. Cancellation Charge Refund

These benefits position the Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card as a premium choice for individuals seeking extensive travel, lifestyle, and reward advantages in 2026.

Times Black ICICI: Fees & Charges 2026

The Times Black ICICI Bank Credit Card carries a joining fee of ₹20,000 + GST, with an identical annual renewal fee. Cardholders can waive the annual fee by spending over ₹25 lakh in the preceding year.

Metric Value (₹) Details (as of 2026)
Joining Fee 20,000 + GST One-time fee upon card issuance.
Annual/Renewal Fee 20,000 + GST Charged annually; waived if spend criteria met.
Annual Fee Waiver Criteria Spend ₹25 lakh Spend this amount in the preceding anniversary year to waive the next year’s fee.
Foreign Currency Conversion (Forex) Markup Fee 1.49% Applied to all international transactions (POS, online, or abroad).
Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) Fee 1.49% Applicable on international spends where DCC is offered (effective January 15, 2026).
Fee on Gaming Platforms 2% Charged on transactions made on gaming platforms (effective January 15, 2026).
Fee on Large Wallet Loads 1% Applicable on wallet loads of ₹5,000 or more (effective January 15, 2026).
Cash Payment Fee at ICICI Branches 150 per transaction For credit card bill payments made in cash at bank branches (effective January 15, 2026).
One-time Fee for New Add-on Cards (Emeralde Metal) 3,500 For new add-on cards issued on or after January 15, 2026, for ICICI Bank Emeralde Metal Credit Card holders.
Fuel Surcharge Waiver 1% Waiver on fuel transactions, subject to limits.
Late Payment Fee (example for ₹3,400 missed payment) Up to 12,000 Varies based on the outstanding amount; this is for a specific example.
Convenience Fee (e.g., AGV, Flipkart) 2.95% Charged on specific merchant transactions.

The card’s 1.49% forex markup is notably lower than the 3-3.5% charged by many other premium Indian credit cards, making IT competitive for international usage.

Applying for Times Black ICICI Card

Applying for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card involves a straightforward digital process, primarily through Video KYC. This method requires applicants to verify their identity using official documents like PAN and Aadhaar cards. ICICI Bank aims to deliver approved cards within 21 working days.

  1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you are an Indian citizen aged 21 to 60 years. A minimum monthly income of ₹1.7 lakh (salaried) is required for eligibility.
  2. Online Application: Visit the official ICICI Bank website or the Times Black dedicated portal to begin your application.
  3. Fill Application Form: Provide accurate personal, financial, and employment details as requested in the online form.
  4. Video KYC Initiation: An ICICI Bank representative will contact you to complete the Video KYC process. This is a mandatory step for verification.
  5. Document Verification: During the Video KYC, you must show your original PAN Card and Aadhaar Card. You may also need a blank white paper and pen for a live signature.
  6. Answer Basic Questions: The bank representative will ask a few basic questions to confirm your identity and application details.
  7. Aadhaar Authentication: Complete Aadhaar authentication via an OTP sent by UIDAI to your registered mobile number.
  8. PIN Generation: After successful application and approval, generate your credit card PIN using the iMobile app, internet banking portal, or IVR system.

The Video KYC process is available 24/7 and can be resumed within 72 hours if interrupted, allowing for flexible completion from any location within India.

Times Black ICICI: Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card in 2026, applicants must be Indian citizens aged 21 to 60 years. ICICI Bank requires a minimum monthly income of ₹2 lakh for salaried individuals, reflecting the card’s premium positioning.

Meeting these specific criteria is for approval, along with a strong credit history.

  • Age Requirement: Applicants must be Indian citizens, with a minimum age of 21 years and a maximum age of 60 years.
  • Income Threshold (Salaried): Salaried individuals need a minimum monthly income of ₹1.7 lakh to ₹2 lakh, demonstrating substantial earning capacity.
  • Citizenship: Only Indian citizens are eligible to apply for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card.
  • Credit Profile: A strong credit profile and CIBIL score are , as the card targets high-earning individuals with responsible financial habits.
  • KYC Verification: The application process includes a video-based KYC (Know Your Customer) verification, requiring a PAN Card and Aadhaar Card.
  • Document Submission: During Video KYC, applicants must show their original PAN card and may need to provide a live signature on a blank white paper.
  • Aadhaar Authentication: Aadhaar authentication via an OTP, triggered by UIDAI, is a mandatory step in the digital verification process.

These eligibility requirements ensure the card is extended to individuals who can fully use its premium benefits and manage its associated financial commitments.

Times Black ICICI vs HDFC Diners Club Black

The Times Black ICICI Credit Card and HDFC Diners Club Black are both super-premium metal credit cards in India, targeting high-spending individuals with a focus on luxury travel, dining, and lifestyle benefits. As of 2026, the Times Black ICICI card features a 1.49% forex markup, lower than the typical 3-3.5% on many Indian cards, while the HDFC Diners Club Black offers up to 33% rewards on Smartbuy portal purchases.

Feature Times Black ICICI HDFC Diners Club Black
Card Type Metal Credit Card (Visa Infinite) Metal Credit Card (Diners Club)
Joining Fee ₹20,000 + GST Not explicitly stated, but positioned as an affordable entry point
Annual Fee Waiver Spend over ₹25 lakh before renewal year Not explicitly stated, but offers valuable membership benefits
Forex Markup Fee 1.49% Low forex mark-up fee
Lounge Access Unlimited domestic and international airport lounge access (primary and add-on card members) Complimentary international lounge access (primary and add-on members)
Reward Focus Accelerated rewards on dining, hotels, flights, online spends; higher discounts, good reward value on dining and travel 3.33% across all spends, up to 33% on Smartbuy portal purchases; point-to-mile conversion and redemption at 1:1 ratio
Unique Benefits Exclusive 1.25% off on MMTC-PAMP gold coins and bars (online), Zomato Gold membership, milestone vouchers (worth ₹50,000) Club Marriott Membership, 6 complimentary golf games per quarter
Acceptance Visa Infinite (wide acceptance) Diners Club (potential acceptance issues)
Minimum Income (Salaried) ₹2,00,000 per month ₹1,70,000 per month

While both cards offer significant premium benefits, the Times Black ICICI card provides a lower forex markup and specific gold discounts, whereas the HDFC Diners Club Black excels with higher reward rates on its Smartbuy portal and golf privileges.

Times Black ICICI: Common Questions

The Times Black ICICI Credit Card targets ultra-high-net-worth individuals, offering premium benefits for travel, dining, and lifestyle. This metal card, co-branded with Times Internet Ltd. And Visa, requires a minimum monthly income of ₹1.7 lakh for salaried applicants.

Here are common questions about the Times Black ICICI Credit Card:

  • What is the minimum income for eligibility? Salaried individuals need a minimum monthly income of ₹1.7 lakh to qualify for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card.
  • What is the forex markup fee? The card charges a 1.49% foreign currency conversion markup fee on international transactions, which is lower than the typical 3%-3.5% on many other Indian credit cards.
  • Are there any new fee changes for 2026? As of January 15, 2026, ICICI Bank revised rules for rewards, benefits, and fees across its credit card offerings. This includes new charges like a 2% fee on gaming platforms and a 1% fee on large wallet loads.
  • What are the welcome benefits? Welcome benefits include a complimentary luxury stay gift card and access to Klook’s international experiences worth ₹10,000 upon spending ₹2 lakh.
  • Does IT offer airport lounge access? Yes, the card provides unlimited access to over 1300 airport lounges across India and overseas for both primary and add-on card members.

The Times Black ICICI Credit Card is designed for high-spending individuals who frequently travel and seek exclusive lifestyle privileges.

Times Black ICICI: Important Updates 2026

ICICI Bank implemented new rules for its credit card offerings, including the Times Black ICICI Credit Card, effective January 15, 2026. These changes impact reward points, BookMyShow benefits, and various transaction fees for cardholders.

  • Fee Revisions: A one-time fee of ₹3,500 applies for new add-on cards issued on or after January 15, 2026, specifically for ICICI Bank Emeralde Metal Credit Card holders.
  • Reward Point Changes: Revisions to reward point earnings are effective from January 15, 2026, affecting how points are accumulated on various transactions.
  • BookMyShow Benefits: Complimentary movie benefits offered via BookMyShow on select ICICI Bank credit cards, including Instant Platinum cards, were discontinued from February 1, 2026.
  • Transaction Fees: New charges for specific transaction types and revised rates for foreign currency spends became effective January 15, 2026.
  • Forex Markup: The Times Black ICICI Credit Card maintains a foreign currency conversion markup fee of 1.49%, which is lower than the typical 3%-3.5% on many other Indian credit cards (as of 2026).
  • Annual Fee Waiver: The annual fee of ₹20,000 + GST can still be waived for the subsequent year by spending over ₹25 lakh in the preceding anniversary year.

Cardholders should review the updated terms and conditions from ICICI Bank to understand the full impact of these changes on their Times Black IC ICICI Credit Card benefits and charges for 2026.

Key Takeaways

  • ICICI Bank introduced significant changes to its credit card rules, including for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card, effective January 15, 2026, impacting rewards and fees.
  • Complimentary BookMyShow movie benefits were discontinued for select ICICI Bank cards from February 1, 2026.
  • The Times Black ICICI Credit Card maintains a competitive 1.49% forex markup fee and offers an annual fee waiver for spends exceeding ₹25 lakh.

For the most current details on the Times Black ICICI Credit Card’s benefits, fees, and eligibility, verify directly with ICICI Bank’s official website.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the annual fee for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card in 2026?

The Times Black ICICI Credit Card carries an annual fee of ₹20,000 plus GST as of 2026. This fee can be waived for the subsequent year if your annual spending on the card exceeds ₹25 lakh.

What are the eligibility criteria for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card?

To be eligible for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card, you must be an Indian citizen aged 21 years or above. Salaried applicants need a minimum monthly income of ₹2,00,000, demonstrating a strong earning capacity.

Does the Times Black ICICI Credit Card offer airport lounge access?

Yes, the Times Black ICICI Credit Card provides unlimited access to both domestic and international airport lounges. This is a key benefit for cardholders who travel frequently.

What is the video KYC process for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card?

The video KYC process involves an ICICI Bank representative calling you to verify your identity. You will need to show your original PAN card and Aadhaar card and answer a few basic questions during this call.

What are the key travel benefits of the Times Black ICICI Credit Card?

The card offers benefits like no cancellation charges on domestic flight and hotel bookings, up to ₹12,000, and an Air Accident Insurance cover. You can also get WeWork day passes or airport transfers on spends of ₹5 lakh.

How do I redeem milestone benefits with the Times Black ICICI Credit Card?

Milestone benefits for the Times Black ICICI Credit Card can be accessed through the dedicated Times Black app. These benefits are available for six months from the date ICICI Bank notifies you of your eligibility.

Is the Times Black ICICI Credit Card a metal card?

Yes, the Times Black ICICI Credit Card is a premium metal card, co-branded with Times Internet Ltd. IT is crafted from a rare metal alloy, offering a luxurious feel and exclusive status.


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.