Best Zero Annual Fee Credit Cards in India – 2025
Say goodbye to annual charges and hello to perks, cashback, and rewards—all for ₹0 💳
Most credit cards in India silently eat into your wallet with annual charges you never really notice—until it’s too late. But not anymore. Whether you’re a first-time user or simply looking to maximize your savings, these zero annual fee credit cards are built to help you save and earn, without any hidden fees. From cashback to OTT perks, here are the best lifetime free credit cards in India you can get in 2025.
If you’re someone who wants to enjoy credit card benefits without worrying about yearly charges, then zero annual fee credit cards are your best bet. These cards offer many of the same features as high-end credit cards—rewards, lounge access, zero forex markup—without eating into your savings. They’re especially perfect for students, beginners, and budget-conscious users looking to build credit and earn perks.
In 2025, the Indian credit card landscape has matured rapidly with a surge in user-friendly offerings. Fintechs and traditional banks are now introducing smart cards that cater to digital-first lifestyles. You no longer need a ₹10L income or a premium relationship to get decent benefits. In fact, with cards like Scapia and IDFC FIRST WOW, all you need is a smartphone and basic KYC documents.
Top 3 Zero Annual Fee Credit Cards
1. Federal Bank Scapia Credit Card
- ✅ Lifetime Free
- ✅ 10% rewards on all spends via Scapia App
- ✅ Unlimited airport lounge access (milestone-based)
- ✅ Zero forex markup
- Best for: Frequent travelers & digital-first users
2. AU LIT Credit Card
- ✅ Lifetime Free
- ✅ Customize your card with OTT, lounge, fuel & shopping packs
- ✅ Up to 10X rewards based on features selected
- Best for: Personalization lovers & OTT users
3. IDFC FIRST WOW Credit Card
- ✅ FD-backed secured card (₹20K FD)
- ✅ Zero annual fee forever
- ✅ 4X reward points on every ₹1 spent
- ✅ Zero forex markup + ATM withdrawal facility
- Best for: Beginners & students without income proof
Comparison Table
| Card | Annual Fee | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Federal Scapia | ₹0 | 10% app rewards, lounge access, no forex fee | Travel & app spenders |
| AU LIT | ₹0 | Customize perks, OTT, lounge, up to 10X rewards | Entertainment + Flexibility |
| IDFC FIRST WOW | ₹0 (FD-backed) | 4X rewards, zero forex, ATM access | New users / No income proof |
Eligibility Criteria
- Minimum age: 18 years
- Aadhaar and PAN card mandatory
- FD requirement (only for IDFC WOW)
- No income proof needed for Scapia and WOW
Scapia, for example, is gaining major traction among Gen Z travelers and tech-savvy professionals. Its app-based system, milestone lounge access, and 10% flat rewards have made it a disruptor. The best part? It doesn’t charge an annual fee—ever. This kind of value was unthinkable just a few years ago.
Similarly, the AU LIT Credit Card is changing the game for entertainment lovers. Want OTT subscriptions, gym access, or fuel rewards? You pick the features you want every quarter, making it one of the most customizable credit cards in the country. And again, it’s lifetime free.
Let’s not forget secured cards like the IDFC FIRST WOW. While technically backed by a fixed deposit, it brings incredible benefits for users without an income source. Whether you're a student, freelancer, or someone starting out, this card helps you build credit with no fees, 4X rewards, and zero forex charges. Plus, it’s accepted everywhere.
So, what makes a zero annual fee credit card worth having? It's the long-term savings and no-maintenance peace of mind. Even if you use them sparingly, you won’t lose out on fees. Combine that with offers on dining, shopping, fuel, and travel, and these cards quickly become a must-have in your financial toolkit.
Many of these cards also support UPI integration and allow easy EMI conversions—features typically seen in paid cards. This makes them ideal for those looking to finance purchases without paying 35-40% annual interest. And since there's no annual renewal stress, you're more likely to retain and use them long-term, which also helps improve your credit score stability.
How to Apply?
Click the “Apply Now” links above to access instant online application forms. Use eKYC, FD, or PAN + Aadhaar to get started in under 5 minutes.
FAQs: Zero Annual Fee Credit Cards
Are zero annual fee credit cards really free?
Yes, zero annual fee credit cards like AU LIT and Scapia do not charge any joining or renewal fees. Just ensure you meet minimum spend milestones if applicable.
Do free cards come with rewards?
Absolutely! Many lifetime free cards now offer cashback, reward points, lounge access, and OTT subscriptions.
Which free credit card is best for students?
The IDFC FIRST WOW is ideal for students since it requires no income and is backed by a fixed deposit.
Can I apply for multiple zero fee credit cards?
Yes, if your CIBIL score and profile support it. However, avoid applying for too many at once.
Are there any hidden charges?
There are no hidden annual fees, but always check for interest rates, late payment charges, and foreign markup where applicable.
Still confused? Use our Credit Card Matcher Tool to find your perfect card in under 60 seconds.
