Best Credit Cards with Maximum Joining Bonuses in India – 2025
Sign up. Swipe. Score big. Here's how to make your credit card work from Day 1.
Why settle for a plain vanilla card when you can get one that pays you back from the start? In 2025, credit card issuers in India are going all out with generous joining bonuses — from Amazon vouchers to travel credits and cashback rewards. We’ve handpicked the best cards with powerful sign-up perks and welcome gifts so you can earn ₹1,000 to ₹12,500 just for applying.
Top Credit Cards with the Highest Joining Bonuses – 2025
1. Axis Magnus Credit Card
- Joining Bonus: Vouchers worth ₹12,500 on activation
- Unlimited lounge access (domestic + international)
- 12 EDGE reward points per ₹200 + 5X on travel
- Annual Fee: ₹12,500 (waived on ₹25L spend)
2. SBI Elite Credit Card
- Joining Bonus: ₹5,000 worth welcome gift vouchers (Yatra, Amazon, etc.)
- 6 domestic + 6 international lounge visits/year
- Club Vistara Silver + Trident membership
- Annual Fee: ₹4,999
3. IDFC FIRST Power Credit Card
- Joining Bonus: ₹500 welcome cashback
- Fuel, grocery, utility cashback + EMI offers
- Movie BOGO & voucher redemption options
- Annual Fee: ₹500
4. AU LIT Credit Card
- Joining Bonus: Feature-based welcome rewards
- Quarterly lounge, OTT, and shopping benefits
- Custom packs with up to 10X rewards
- Annual Fee: ₹0
5. Federal Scapia Credit Card
- Joining Bonus: App-based rewards on activation
- Unlimited lounge access (milestone based)
- 10% rewards + zero forex markup
- Annual Fee: ₹0
Comparison Table: Joining Bonus Credit Cards
| Card | Joining Bonus | Annual Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Axis Magnus | ₹12,500 vouchers | ₹12,500 | Luxury travelers |
| SBI Elite | ₹5,000 gift vouchers | ₹4,999 | Premium value seekers |
| IDFC Power | ₹500 cashback | ₹500 | Everyday expenses |
| AU LIT | Custom welcome perks | ₹0 | Custom rewards |
| Federal Scapia | App-based travel perks | ₹0 | Frequent flyers |
FAQs – Joining Bonus Credit Cards
Which credit card offers the best joining bonus in India?
The Axis Magnus Credit Card offers a ₹12,500 welcome gift and is one of the top premium cards for 2025.
Is it worth paying a high annual fee for joining perks?
Yes, if you use travel, lounge, and milestone benefits. Even a ₹4,999 fee is worth it for vouchers, OTT, or international perks.
Are there joining bonuses on free cards?
Yes, AU LIT and Scapia offer welcome rewards, lounge passes, and travel credits at zero annual cost.
When is the joining bonus credited?
Usually after card activation or a minimum spend (₹1,000–₹5,000) within 30–90 days.
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