Best Credit Cards in India with No Annual Fee in 2025: Smart Choices for Smart Spenders
In today's digital world, credit cards have become more than just a payment tool. They offer convenience, rewards, cashback, and help build your credit score when used wisely. But while many people want to enjoy these benefits, they are often held back by the fear of annual fees. If you’re one of them, here’s some good news. In 2025, several top banks in India offer credit cards with zero annual fees, making it easier for you to enjoy the perks without worrying about extra costs.
This blog is your complete guide to the best no-annual-fee credit cards in India in 2025. Whether you are a student, a salaried employee, a freelancer, or a homemaker looking for smart financial tools, this list will help you choose a card that suits your lifestyle.
Let’s start by understanding why no-annual-fee cards are a great choice for first-time or budget-conscious users. These cards don’t charge any yearly maintenance cost, which means you get access to credit, offers, and rewards at no extra price. This makes them perfect for building credit history or managing monthly expenses without any hidden burden.
One of the top choices in 2025 is the IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card. This card is popular among youngsters and salaried professionals. It comes with zero annual and joining fees and offers rewards on every spend, including online shopping and travel bookings. Another benefit is that the reward points never expire, making it easy for users to save and redeem them anytime. The card also provides interest-free cash withdrawals for up to 48 days, which is a rare feature in this segment
Another excellent option is the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card. If you are someone who shops frequently on Amazon, this card can be your best friend. It charges no annual or joining fee and offers guaranteed cashback on all Amazon purchases. Prime members enjoy even higher cashback rates. Since this card is directly linked to your Amazon Pay wallet, you can easily redeem the cashback while shopping online. It also gives fuel surcharge waivers and dining discounts, making it suitable for daily use.
The Axis Bank My Zone Easy Credit Card has also entered the no-annual-fee segment in 2025. With features like discounts on movie tickets, dining benefits, and reward points on every swipe, this card appeals to young professionals and students alike. One key attraction is the Buy One Get One free movie ticket offer every month, which is ideal for entertainment lovers. While the card comes with a joining fee, it is waived off entirely if you spend a minimum amount in the first few months.
If you are new to credit or don’t have a credit score yet, the AU Bank Altura Credit Card is a great pick. It comes with no annual fee and is designed for beginners. You earn cashback on retail purchases, fuel surcharge waivers, and milestone benefits when you spend a certain amount in a year. AU Bank also provides excellent customer service and an easy-to-use app that helps you track your spending and manage your bills efficiently.
For students or low-income individuals, the ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card is worth considering. This lifetime-free card focuses on safety and basic rewards. It is equipped with an embedded chip that adds an extra layer of security. You earn points on everyday purchases and get fuel surcharge waivers across petrol pumps in India. It is ideal for building a credit history and maintaining financial discipline.
The SBI Card Unnati is another hidden gem. Launched with the aim of promoting financial inclusion, this card has no annual fee for the first four years. All you need is a fixed deposit with SBI to apply. You get basic reward points on grocery and utility purchases and enjoy all the benefits of being an SBI cardholder. After the four-year period, you can choose to continue with a minimal fee or upgrade to a different SBI card.
If you are looking for a card with easy approval and good offers, the HDFC Freedom Credit Card deserves a mention. While it usually comes with an annual fee, the bank often runs promotional campaigns where the fee is waived off for the first year. You can continue to enjoy it free if you meet the minimum spend requirement. It offers bonus reward points on grocery shopping, bill payments, and online orders.
Another upcoming contender in 2025 is the OneCard. This new-age credit card offers a completely digital experience with zero joining and annual charges. You can manage everything through a mobile app, including card limits, rewards, and EMI options. It is especially popular among tech-savvy users who prefer minimal paperwork and fast approvals. The card also allows you to choose your own rewards categories, making it flexible for every type of spender.
Choosing the right no-annual-fee credit card depends on your personal spending habits. If you are an online shopper, go for Amazon Pay ICICI or OneCard. If you travel often or love movies, then Axis My Zone or IDFC Millennia is a better pick. For beginners, SBI Unnati or ICICI Platinum Chip provides a simple and safe entry into the world of credit.
In conclusion, having a credit card with no annual fee in 2025 is no longer a dream. With banks becoming more consumer-friendly and competitive, the options are better than ever. You can now enjoy rewards, cashback, and other privileges without paying anything extra each year. It's a win-win for smart spenders who know how to use credit wisely. Start exploring your options today and choose the card that matches your needs. Your financial freedom is just a swipe away.
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