The HSBC Premier Credit Card has steadily earned its place among India’s most sophisticated premium cards, known for its exclusivity, global reach, and refined design. Positioned just below the flagship HSBC Privé Credit Card, it caters exclusively to HSBC Premier Banking clients, individuals who maintain a Total Relationship Value (TRV) of ₹40 lakh or more, or draw a monthly salary exceeding ₹3 lakh. This card isn’t just about spending; it’s about experiencing a tier of financial luxury reserved for a select few.
One of the standout aspects of the HSBC Premier Credit Card is its unique fee structure. Unlike most premium credit cards that charge recurring annual fees, HSBC offers this card free of annual charges as long as you retain your Premier relationship with the bank. For new users, there’s a one-time joining fee of ₹12,000, which is complemented by a welcome bonus of 20,000 Reward Points, a compelling start for high-value customers who qualify.
Global travellers particularly appreciate the card’s low foreign exchange markup of just 0.99%, one of the lowest among premium Indian credit cards. Combined with unlimited international lounge access and seamless worldwide acceptance through the Mastercard World Elite platform, it positions HSBC Premier as a preferred companion for frequent flyers and global professionals.
Key Benefits of HSBC Premier Credit Card
The HSBC Premier Credit Card offers luxury, global access, and special perks for high-net-worth individuals. Each feature is designed to fit the lifestyle of HSBC Premier clients, offering convenience, comfort while traveling, and top-notch experiences.
Unlimited Airport Lounge Access Worldwide
One of the best benefits of this card is the unlimited airport lounge access for the primary cardholder. Through the Mastercard World Elite program, users can access over 1,400 lounges worldwide, including major airports in India. If you are traveling with family or colleagues, HSBC allows up to eight free guest visits each year at international lounges, ensuring comfort during your trips.
Low 0.99% Foreign Exchange Mark-up
Frequent international travelers will appreciate the 0.99% forex mark-up. This is much lower than the 3.5% to 3.99% usually charged by other premium cards, making overseas spending much more cost-effective. Whether shopping in Paris, paying for a business dinner in Singapore, or booking a stay in Dubai, this card reduces conversion charges, delivering real savings on global transactions.
20,000 Bonus Reward Points (Limited-Time Offer)
As part of its 2025 update, HSBC is offering a limited-time welcome bonus of 20,000 Reward Points, available until 31 October 2025. This applies to new cardholders who pay the ₹12,000 joining fee and make their first purchase within 30 days of activation. You can redeem these points for travel bookings, Apple products, or transfer them to major airline and hotel partners.
Global Rewards & Transfer Partners
HSBC Premier Reward Points never expire, allowing users to collect and use them whenever they want. With the latest update, points can now transfer to 20 loyalty programs, including 15 airlines and 5 hotels. This makes redemption simpler for travelers. The whole process is managed through the HSBC India Mobile Banking App, providing an easy, modern interface for reward management.
Expanded Lifestyle Privileges
In 2025, HSBC has expand its lifestyle offerings by adding new premium brand partnerships. Cardholders now enjoy airport meet-and-greet services, luxury airport transfers, and special discounts at top brands like Apple and Samsung. With partners like DreamFolks and Adani One, customers benefit from enhanced airport and travel experiences, including chauffeur services and fast-track check-ins.
Dining and Entertainment Offers
HSBC enhances its dining options through partnerships with platforms like EazyDiner and Dineout. Cardholders can enjoy discounts of up to 30% at fine dining restaurants in major cities, along with complimentary dining vouchers and exclusive events for Premier customers.
Fuel and Daily Spending Convenience
For daily use, the card offers a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on transactions between ₹400 and ₹4,000 at all fuel stations across India. This makes it a practical choice not just for international use but also for significant domestic expenses.
Annual Fee Waiver with Premier Status
Unlike other luxury cards with high renewal fees, the HSBC Premier Credit Card is free for life as long as the cardholder maintains the HSBC Premier relationship through minimum TRV, salary credit, or mortgage criteria. This feature gives it a unique advantage in the premium category, where most similar cards charge annual fees of ₹10,000 or more.
Reward Points and Redemption
The HSBC Premier Credit Card offers a straightforward rewards system. You earn 3 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent, and your points do not expire. This makes it a great choice for high-value, long-term users.
Starting in April 2025, HSBC updated its rewards policy:
- No points are earned for fuel, rent, education, or wallet loads.
- Points for insurance, utility, and government payments are capped at ₹1 lakh per month.
- Other spending still earns the usual 3 points per ₹100.
Redemption is now fully digital through the HSBC India Mobile Banking app. Users can redeem or transfer points instantly. The program features a 1:1 transfer ratio to 20 global partners, which includes 15 airlines and 5 hotels. High-value redemptions for Apple products are also available. This makes the program one of the most travel-friendly options among Indian premium cards.
HSBC Premier Credit Card Fees
The HSBC Premier Credit Card balances exclusivity and value. The joining fee of ₹12,000 is reasonable given its range of luxury travel and lifestyle benefits. The foreign exchange markup of only 0.99% is among the lowest in the premium card category. Most importantly, keeping your HSBC Premier banking relationship means the card is free for life after the first year, which sets it apart in this market.
HSBC Premier Credit Card Review
The HSBC Premier Credit Card is notable for its strong reward structure and flexibility in redeeming rewards globally. This makes it a great choice for frequent travelers and high-spending professionals. The card provides 3 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent, and the conversion rates to leading airline and hotel partners are attractive, ensuring good value.
However, the ₹12,000 joining fee and the need to maintain an HSBC Premier banking relationship make it less reachable for average users. The bank does waive the annual fee for those who keep this relationship, but the eligibility requirements, such as a high Total Relationship Value (TRV), exclude most middle-class customers.
On the positive side, the 20,000 welcome Reward Points help cover the initial joining cost. With a low 0.99% foreign currency markup and unlimited access to domestic and international lounges, the card is an appealing choice for those who travel often or spend around the world.
The HSBC Premier Credit Card offers great value for wealthy individuals who can meet its strict eligibility requirements. Its low foreign transaction fee, broad lounge access, and strong rewards program make it a top pick for frequent travelers and big spenders. However, for the typical middle-class consumer, the costs and eligibility criteria may make it less practical. For those wanting premium benefits without the high entry hurdles, the HSBC Platinum Credit Card is an appealing option that balances value and accessibility.
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