If you are looking for the best way to save money and earn rewards, lifetime free credit cards are a great option. They give you the benefits of a credit card without the burden of annual fees. Whether you are new to credit or looking to manage your loans better, a good credit card can help.
In this article, we will discuss the top 10 lifetime free credit cards in India that offer best rewards, cashback, and benefits in 2025. This guide is written in simple English to help you choose the best credit card for your needs.
What is a Lifetime Free Credit Card?
A lifetime free credit card means there is no annual or renewal fee ever. You do not have to pay anything to keep the card active. These cards are perfect for those who want to enjoy credit card benefits without paying extra fees every year.
Why Choose a Lifetime Free Credit Card?
Here are a few reasons why these cards are useful:
- No annual charges – You save money every year.
- Good for first-time users – Build your credit score without fees.
- Reward points and cashback – Get more value for your spending.
- Travel and shopping offers – Many cards offer exciting discounts.
Top 10 Lifetime Free Credit Cards in India (2025)
1. IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹0 for life
- Rewards: 3X to 10X reward points on online and offline spending
- Key Benefits: No expiry on reward points, free railway lounge access, fuel surcharge waiver
- Best For: Millennials, online shoppers, salaried employees
This is one of the most popular lifetime free cards with excellent rewards. You can use it for daily expenses and earn good points.
2. Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹0
- Rewards: 5% cashback for Prime members, 3% for non-Prime users
- Key Benefits: Direct cashback to Amazon Pay balance, fuel surcharge waiver
- Best For: Amazon shoppers, Prime members, online users
This card is great if you shop frequently on Amazon. The cashback is automatic and useful.
3. Axis Bank MY ZONE Easy Credit Card (Lifetime Free Offer)
- Annual Fee: ₹0 under lifetime free offer campaigns
- Rewards: 4 EDGE points per ₹200 spent
- Key Benefits: Free SonyLiv subscription, dining discounts, and fuel surcharge waiver
- Best For: Entertainment lovers and young professionals
Check for ongoing Axis Bank promotions for the lifetime free offer.
4. ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card – Visa
- Annual Fee: ₹0
- Rewards: 2 Payback points per ₹100 spent
- Key Benefits: Fuel surcharge waiver, easy EMI options
- Best For: Regular users and beginners
A simple card for first-time credit card users with reliable features.
5. AU Bank Altura Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹0
- Rewards: 2 reward points per ₹100 spent online, 1 point offline
- Key Benefits: 2 complimentary airport lounge visits per year, fuel waiver
- Best For: Frequent travelers, budget users
It offers travel benefits even though it is lifetime free.
6. SBI Unnati Credit Card
- Annual Fee: Free for the first 4 years
- Rewards: 1 reward point per ₹100 spent
- Key Benefits: Available without credit history, suitable for beginners
- Best For: New credit users and students
It helps build a credit score while offering decent rewards.
7. HSBC Visa Platinum Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹0 (on request or via promo offers)
- Rewards: Up to 5X reward points on online shopping and dining
- Key Benefits: Introductory offers like cashback, discounts, and lounge access
- Best For: Premium users and frequent shoppers
A powerful card when lifetime free promotions are available.
8. Bank of Baroda (BoB) Easy Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹0
- Rewards: 1 reward point per ₹100 spent
- Key Benefits: EMI conversion at POS, fuel waiver, flexible usage
- Best For: People looking for bank-backed cards
It is a trusted card by a public sector bank with simple benefits.
9. IndusInd Bank Platinum Aura Edge Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹0 for select users
- Rewards: 4x reward points in selected categories like shopping and travel
- Key Benefits: Reward flexibility, fuel surcharge waiver
- Best For: Salaried professionals and experienced credit card users
Look for IndusInd’s free lifetime offer while applying.
10. Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹0
- Rewards: 1 reward point per ₹100 spent
- Key Benefits: Can be applied against FD, fuel waiver, no income proof needed
- Best For: Students, housewives, people with no credit history
It’s a secured card backed by a fixed deposit, making it easy to get.
How to Choose the Right Lifetime Free Credit Card?
Here are a few tips:
- Check for rewards – Choose cards that give rewards for the type of spending you do (e.g., online shopping, fuel, dining).
- No hidden charges – Read the terms carefully to avoid hidden fees.
- Eligibility – Choose cards that match your income and credit history.
- Additional benefits – Look for cards with lounge access, EMI options, and insurance.
- Bank reputation – Go with banks that offer good customer service.
Documents Required to Apply
Most banks will ask for the following:
- Aadhar Card or PAN Card
- Salary Slip or Income Proof
- Address Proof
- Recent Passport Size Photo
Some cards like Kotak 811 can be issued against an FD with minimal documentation.
FAQs – Top Lifetime Free Credit Cards in India
1. Are these credit cards really free for life?
Yes, the cards listed above are lifetime free or offered with no annual fee under specific promotions. Always read the terms before applying.
2. Do I need a good credit score to apply?
Not always. Some cards like SBI Unnati or Kotak 811 can be issued without a credit history.
3. Can I get rewards with lifetime free cards?
Yes, most of these cards offer reward points, cashback, or discounts on shopping, fuel, and dining.
4. What is the best lifetime free card for online shopping?
The Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card is great for Amazon users. The IDFC FIRST Millennia Card also gives high reward points on online spends.
5. How can I apply for these credit cards?
You can apply online through the bank’s website or visit a nearby branch. Keep your documents ready for fast approval.
6. Do these cards help improve my credit score?
Yes, using them properly (like paying on time) helps build and improve your credit score.
7. Are there any hidden charges?
There are no annual fees, but you should still check for late payment charges, cash advance fees, or foreign transaction fees.
Final Thoughts
A lifetime free credit card is a smart way to manage your spending and enjoy rewards without paying yearly fees. Whether you’re a student, salaried employee, or a small business owner, the above list has a card that fits your needs. Always spend wisely, pay on time, and enjoy the credit benefits responsibly.