HDFC Bank Credit Cards in India: Everything You Need to Know

HDFC Bank is one of India’s largest private banks, offering credit cards that suit almost everyone, from first-timers getting started to frequent travelers who live for airport lounges. 

They’ve got fuel cards, shopping cards, secured cards, and even heavy metal ones with premium benefits. Everything operates under RBI’s guidelines and depends on eligibility, documentation, and, of course, responsible usage. Visit HDFC Bank’s official page for more details.

Best Credit Cards by HDFC Bank

I’ve seen people get obsessed with the reward charts of INFINIA or Diners Club, but remember, these premium cards demand both higher spend and fee commitments. 

For most average earners or young professionals, options like Millenia or Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card strike a better balance between value and day-to-day utility. Here are the best cards by HDFC Bank: 

HDFC Bank Credit Card Features & Benefits

What draws people to HDFC Bank's credit card portfolio is its variety. You’ll find everything from welcome vouchers and dining discounts to lounge access and concierge support, depending on the tier you pick. 

Premium cards offer luxury travel credits and global benefits, while entry-level cards focus more on cashback and practical savings. Irrespective of the card tier, here are the top benefits of having an HDFC Credit Card: 

• Rewards & Cashback programmes: Earn rewards or cashback on shopping, dining, travel, and more. 
• SmartEMI option: Convert large spends into easy EMIs instantly.
• Airport lounge access: Free domestic and international lounges depending on your card, spending history, and eligibility. 
• Welcome / milestone vouchers and bonuses: Gift cards or bonus points for meeting spend thresholds.
• Enhanced security & control: Manage international, contactless, or online usage in real time via NetBanking, WhatsApp, or EVA. Learn how.

Top HDFC Bank Credit Card Reviews

From community feedback and my circle’s experience, most users love HDFC for strong lifestyle rewards and easy integration with shopping partners. 

INFINIA and Diners Black stand out for airport lounges and international perks. However, some folks find the annual fees steep and the rewards not always applicable to every spending category.

Another complaint is recent changes in reward policies, especially concerning rent payments and wallet loads. 

Secured Credit Cards: Card Against FD by HDFC Bank

Not everyone has income proof or a long credit history, and that’s okay. If you’re just starting, HDFC’s Credit Card against Fixed Deposit (FD) is a brilliant solution. You create an FD (minimum ₹15,000), and the card limit is set around 90–100% of that amount. 

The FD keeps earning interest while you build credit history. I’ve recommended this path to many young earners in my town: it’s a safe and responsible first step.

HDFC Bank Credit Card Rewards, Cashback & Offers

• Redeem reward points for vouchers, air miles, or statement credits.
• Cashback or fuel points on co-branded cards like the IndianOil HDFC Card.
• Merchant deals with partners like Swiggy, Zomato, and BookMyShow, offering special cashbacks or discounts.
• Fee waivers, milestone bonuses, and welcome gifts for achieving spend goals.

Eligibility Criteria for Applying to An HDFC Credit Card

• Indian citizens or NRIs with valid ID and address proof.
• Minimum age 18 or 21 years depending on card; upper limit varies.
• Salaried or self-employed with regular income (thresholds differ by card). 
• A good CIBIL score (ideally above 700) and no major loan defaults.

Documents Required for Applying to an HDFC Credit Card

• Identity proof: Aadhaar, Passport, Driving License, or Voter ID.
• Address proof: government-issued document or latest utility bill.
• Income proof: Salary slips, ITR, or recent bank statements.
• PAN card is mandatory.
• For Credit Card against FD: FD certificate and account details.

How to Apply for an HDFC Bank Credit Card? 

• Online: Visit the official HDFC Bank credit card page, check eligibility, choose a card, upload docs, complete KYC, and wait for approval.
• Branch: Submit the form and documents physically; staff will help with verification and KYC.
• Premium or metal cards may require invites or a history of spending with the bank.

Check HDFC Credit Card Application Status Online

Once you’ve applied, track progress on the Track Credit Card Status page using your registered mobile number and reference ID, or ask through customer care.

Card Activation Rules for HDFC Credit Cards

According to official documents, credit card activation must be done within 30 days (plus 7-day grace). You can activate through online or POS usage, NetBanking, WhatsApp (“Manage my Credit Card”), or IVR services. Skip activation for too long, and the bank might close the card automatically.

Login / NetBanking Access for HDFC Credit Card

• New users without HDFC accounts can use the credit card portal with their card details to create login credentials.
• Existing HDFC customers can manage cards directly from the “Pay » Cards” section in NetBanking or Mobile Banking apps.
• Some cards, like HDFC Swiggy Credit Cards, have a mycards.hdfc.bank.in portal which you can login directly via your mobile number even if you don’t have an HDFC Banking Relationship

HDFC Bank Credit Card Customer Care Details

For lost or blocked cards, credit limit queries, or changes, reach HDFC Bank’s customer care through phone, NetBanking, MyCards portal, or even via WhatsApp. Branch visits remain welcome for in-person queries, something I still appreciate in smaller towns.

• Customer Care Number (for Indian Customers): 18001600 / 18002600 ​​​​​​​
• Customer Care (For Users Travelling Out of India): +912261606160
• WhatsApp Chat: https://wa.me/+917070022222?text=Hey 
• More Details: https://www.hdfc.bank.in/contact-us/customer-care 

Recent Devaluations & Discontinuations by HDFC Bank

Starting July 1, 2025, HDFC revised its fee and reward structure. Rent payments, wallet loads, and gaming spends no longer earn rewards. 

Lounge access rules also changed from June 10, 2025. These shifts affect heavy users but shouldn’t worry moderate spenders. 

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HDFC Credit Card: Domestic Lounge Access Updates

Cards like Regalia, Infinia, and Diners Club Black include generous domestic and international lounge access: sometimes unlimited for premium variants. In my case, even two complimentary visits per quarter feels like a small luxury during travel from smaller hubs.

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FAQs about HDFC Bank Credit Cards

1. What minimum income is required?

Premium metal cards often need ₹2.5–3 lakh monthly income, while entry-level cards work for lower ranges. Always good to check official pages for more information about the eligibility of a particular credit card. [Check Here]

2. Can I get a card without income proof?

Yes. Apply for a Credit Card against FD where your deposit acts as collateral.

3. How long does approval take?

Instant to a few business days depending on your documents. Invitation-based or metal cards might take longer.

4. How to avoid annual fees?

Meet the annual spend limit for waivers or promo offers. Always check your specific card’s milestone benefits.

5. Are reward points valid forever?

No, they expire as per the card’s individual rewards program rules: always redeem early.

Our Take on HDFC Credit Cards in India

HDFC remains one of the most reliable credit card issuers in India, suitable for beginners as well as credit card experts, alike. 

Their systems are strong, their customer service is reliable, and the ecosystem of offers stays relevant. 

If you’re just starting out, the FD-based card is a smart way to build credit quietly. For salaried folks with routine spends, Millenia or Regalia Gold adds value without drama. And if you’re deep into travel and can manage higher fees, Infinia or Diners Club Black will spoil you with comfort.