HSBC Credit Cards in India: All you need to know

HSBC India offers cards that cater to a variety of spending personalities, from premium travelers to everyday spenders. You’ll find options loaded with reward points, complimentary airport lounges, travel insurance, dining & travel deals, and varying annual or renewal fees. Eligibility depends on income, residency, and documentation, but overall the bank positions itself for professionals who prefer a refined rewards structure.

The Best HSBC Credit Cards Right Now

Here are the cards that dominate user discussions and practical benefits in 2025:

Features & Benefits That Actually Matter

I’ve noticed that each HSBC card has a defined identity. The Premier and Taj cards are designed for high net-worth individuals or those who value global comfort. Cards like Live+ or Visa Platinum serve those of us who enjoy clear cashback and manageable thresholds.

• Low Forex Markup: The Premier Card charges just 0.99% on international spending—huge plus for anyone who pays in USD or EUR often.

• Global + Domestic Lounge Access: Premier offers unlimited access; the Taj Card lets you enjoy 12 visits a year including access to Taj Club Lounges.

• Luxury Hotel Privileges: The Taj Card carries elite hospitality experience—upgrades, exclusive spa discounts, and even room upgrades at IHCL properties.

• Reward Accelerators: Both Premier and TravelOne offer up to 12× reward points for travel spends with airline and hotel transfer partners (Source).

• Everyday Cashback: Live+ card gives 10% cashback on grocery, dining, and food delivery up to a monthly cap, while Visa Platinum remains no-fee and decent for occasional purchases. 

What Users Say About HSBC Cards

Most HSBC credit card reviews circle reward competitiveness, redemption value, and lounge access quality. 

Many existing users praise how transparent HSBC’s communication is, especially around application status updates and points clarity. Some, including myself, find the app interface refreshingly minimal compared to others who overcomplicate simple features.

Does HSBC offer Cards Against FD? 

Unlike many other banks, HSBC does not offer a Credit Card against a Fixed Deposit in India right now. So, if you’re a new-to-credit user or someone rebuilding your score, you might need to explore secured options elsewhere or talk to your branch manager for options. 

Rewards, Cashback & Ongoing Offers

• The HSBC Rewards Marketplace launched in May 2025 with 20,000+ redemption options across flights, hotels, and vouchers (Source).
• Limited-time bonuses on foreign currency spends, dining discounts via EazyDiner, and electronics brand offers continue to rotate (Source).
• Taj Card’s special privileges include NeuPass Platinum tier and access to IHCL luxuries; honestly, impressive if this aligns with your lifestyle. 

Eligibility Criteria for HSBC Bank Credit Cards

The basic application requirements haven’t changed much. You must be between 18–65 years, have a stable income, and maintain a clean credit history. For the high-end cards like Taj, the bar is much higher: ₹40 lakh for salaried and ₹60 lakh for self-employed individuals. Live+ and Visa Platinum start around ₹4 lakh annual income, which makes them accessible to many first-time cardholders. 

Residency & City Availability

Most cards are open to Indian residents; however, the Taj card is currently restricted to select metro cities. Non-resident Indians who maintain HSBC India accounts may also apply.

Documents Required

• Photo ID: PAN, Passport, or Driver’s License
• Address Proof: Aadhaar, lease agreement, or utility bill
• Income Proof: salary slips or ITR/Form 16
• Passport size photograph & age proof
• Extra documentation for Taj or Premier cards may include professional or financial verification.

How to Apply for an HSBC Bank Credit Card? 

1. Visit the HSBC India website and compare cards.
2. Choose the card and hit “Apply Now.” You can also request a callback.
3. Fill in your personal and income details carefully.
4. Upload required documents; some require originals verified by an HSBC official.
5. Complete KYC or Video KYC.
6. Approval typically takes 7 business days and the card is delivered within another week.

Tracking Your HSBC Credit Card Application

You’ll receive SMS updates through each step, but you can always call HSBC’s PhoneBanking numbers or use online portals to check the status. 

My advice: keep all application numbers handy, especially if you’re applying for premium variants like Taj or Premier.

Activation Process

• Activate through HSBC India Mobile App → Manage Cards → Activate.
• OR activate via ATM or any PIN-based transaction.
• Optional: Call phone banking if you face issues.

Managing Your Account: HSBC NetBanking

Once activated, you can log in via mobile app or desktop to manage limits, view statements, redeem rewards, or apply for add-on cards. I personally like how redemption options are integrated directly into the rewards section without redirecting pages.

HSBC Bank Credit Card: Customer Care Details

Need help? Call 1800-267-3456 or 1800-121-2208. For Taj cardholders, special concierge lines via IHCL are available.

Recent Changes & News

• HSBC introduced the Taj Credit Card in late 2024 in partnership with IHCL (Source).
• Premier Card upgraded with reduced forex markup and improved lounge access.
• Rewards Marketplace for instant redemptions launched May 2025.

Domestic Lounge Access for HSBC Bank Credit Cards

Premier and Taj users can count on strong global and domestic lounge support. 

Live+ gives 4 free domestic lounge visits yearly. Some users have noted mixed experiences with Visa Platinum lounge acceptance. So, always check participating lounges before your trip. 

Check this free lounge access tool to check availability in India

FAQs About HSBC Credit Cards

1. What makes the HSBC Premier Card worth it?

The 0.99% forex markup alone makes it great for international travelers. Add lounge access and generous rewards and it's positioned for serious global users.

2. Can you get an annual fee waiver?

Yes, on the Premier if you maintain Premier banking status. The Taj card usually doesn’t waive fees due to its elite segment pricing.

3. How are reward points redeemed?

You can redeem them via HSBC Rewards Marketplace. HSBC promises instant redemptions, transfer partners, vouchers, air miles and hotels. No expiry for Premier points.

4. What’s required for Taj Card eligibility?

Age 25–75, income of ₹40–60 lakhs, residency in select metros, and all standard ID/income proofs.

5. How long does delivery and activation take?

Typically 7 days for approval + 7 days for delivery. Activation via app or ATM is quick, taking barely a minute.

A Personal Take on HSBC Credit Cards in India

If you’re like me—someone who values reliability over luxury hype, the HSBC Live+ or Visa Platinum are great entry cards. Cashback feels tangible and rewards redemption doesn’t feel like a homework project. 

But if your travel calendar is heavy or your income justifies premium comfort, Premier or Taj can make a real difference, especially with the new reduced forex markup and global lounge tie-ups.

My advice: pick a card that matches how you actually spend, not how you wish you spent. HSBC’s ecosystem feels built for clarity: solid rewards, no hidden gimmicks. And that makes it one of the few foreign banks still worth exploring in India’s busy credit card scene.