AU Bank Traverse Credit Card
Card Overview
The AU Bank Traverse Credit Card is a premium travel and lifestyle card made specially for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Since there are very few credit cards in India designed only for NRIs, this card stands out. It offers useful benefits for international spending, such as a low forex markup to save on foreign transactions, access to international airport lounges, milestone rewards, and travel perks like Meet & Assist services and airport spa visits. These features make overseas travel and spending more comfortable.
Designed exclusively for NRIs, the AU Traverse Credit Card supports a global lifestyle with ease. It gives access to premium lifestyle benefits and rewards wherever you travel. The card focuses on simplicity, comfort, and convenience, helping NRIs manage their international expenses smoothly while enjoying added travel and lifestyle privileges.
Card Details
- Premium Credit Card: Designed for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) with travel, lifestyle, and international spending benefits.
- Reward Points: Earn points on all spends – 4 points/₹100 on international, 2 points/₹100 on domestic, and 1 point/₹100 on insurance, utilities, and telecom.
- Low Forex Markup: 0.99% on overseas transactions to save on international spending.
- Welcome & Milestone Rewards: You get a ₹5,000 MakeMyTrip voucher when you activate the card. If you spend ₹10,00,000 in a year, you’ll receive a ₹10,000 Taj voucher. The annual fee is also waived if your yearly spending reaches ₹6,00,000.
- Complimentary Lounge Access: 8 domestic and 8 international lounges per year (up to 2 per quarter; max 4 international per quarter via Priority Pass).
- Travel Privileges: Meet & Assist VIP airport check-ins (4 per year, 1 per quarter) and Airport Spa access (1 per quarter).
- Duty-Free & Cashback Offers: If you spend ₹10,000 or more at duty-free stores in a month, you will receive ₹500 cashback.
- Fuel Surcharge Waiver: 1% waiver on fuel transactions of ₹400–5,000 (up to ₹250 per statement cycle).
- Cash Withdrawal: No fees on cash withdrawals (interest applies).
- Global Lifestyle & Convenience: Combines luxury, travel, and practical benefits for easier international spending.
Features & Benefits
AU Bank Traverse Credit Card: Premium Travel and Lifestyle Card for NRIs
The AU Bank Traverse Credit Card is a premium travel and lifestyle card designed exclusively for Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). While India offers many high-end credit cards, there are very few that cater specifically to the international spending needs of NRIs. The Traverse Credit Card provides global benefits, rewards, and travel privileges to make international spending easier and more rewarding.
Annual Fee and Welcome Benefits
The card comes with a joining and annual fee of ₹4,999 plus GST. The renewal fee is the same but can be waived if the cardholder spends ₹6,00,000 or more in a year. New cardholders receive a MakeMyTrip voucher worth ₹5,000 if the card is activated within 30 days of issuance, offering an immediate travel benefit.
Reward Points on Spending
The card allows NRIs to earn reward points on different types of transactions:
- International spends: 4 points per ₹100 (~1%)
- Domestic spends: 2 points per ₹100 (~0.5%)
- Insurance, utility, and telecom bills: 1 point per ₹100 (~0.25%), capped at 100 points per transaction
Cardholders can earn up to 25,000 reward points per statement cycle. Each point is valued at approximately ₹0.25 and can be redeemed through the AU Rewardz Portal. A minimum of 200 points is required for redemption, with up to 10 redemption transactions allowed per day and a maximum value of ₹3,00,000 within 24 hours.
Milestone Rewards
Cardholders spending ₹10,00,000 in a year receive a Taj Hotels voucher worth ₹10,000. This milestone benefit provides an additional 1% reward rate on top of regular reward points, encouraging high-value spending.
Airport Lounge Access
The card provides four complimentary lounge visits per calendar quarter, including two domestic and two international visits. Domestic lounge access requires a minimum spend of ₹20,000 in a quarter. Additional lounge visits incur a fee of $35+tax per visit.
| Type | Lounge Provider | Visits per Quarter | Total Annual Visits |
|---|---|---|---|
| International | Priority Pass | 2 | 8 |
| Domestic | DreamFolks | 2 | 8 |
Travel and Lifestyle Benefits
- Low Forex Markup: International transactions attract a 0.99% forex markup, reducing costs for overseas spending.
- Duty-Free Cashback: Earn ₹500 cashback each month on duty-free purchases of ₹10,000 or more.
- Meet & Assist Service: Four complimentary services per year provide VIP assistance with airport check-in, security, and other formalities.
- Airport Spa Access: Four complimentary spa visits per year let you relax before your flight.
NRI Customer Support
AU Small Finance Bank provides dedicated support for NRI cardholders to address queries quickly:
- Phone: 0141-7141100
- Email: NRIservices@aubank.in
- 24-Hour Helpline: 1800 1200 1500
AU Bank Traverse Credit Card Review
The AU Bank Traverse Credit Card is designed to meet the needs of NRIs who require a reliable credit card for international spending. Enjoy low foreign exchange fees, earn reward points on all spends, get milestone bonuses, access airport lounges, and enjoy travel perks like Meet & Assist and spa visits, all in one card. For NRIs seeking a card that balances global spending with travel privileges, the Traverse Credit Card is a strong option. It is also recommended to compare it with other NRI-focused credit cards such as Yes Bank RESERV, Yes SELECT NRI Card, and Kotak NRI Royale Signature Credit Card to choose the best fit.
Pros/Cons
Note: Interest will apply on cash withdrawals.
Reality Check Feedback
What should you consider before applying for a credit card in India?
Key Considerations Before Applying for a Credit Card in India:
- Eligibility Criteria: Ensure you meet the eligibility requirements, which typically include age, income, credit score, and employment status as defined by the issuing bank or financial institution.
- Credit Score: A strong credit score can significantly improve your chances of approval and result in more favorable terms, such as lower interest rates or higher credit limits. Verify that your credit score is healthy before applying.
- Interest Rates and Fees: Compare the annual percentage rates (APR), processing fees, late payment penalties, and foreign transaction charges associated with various cards. These costs can vary widely and impact the overall value of the card.
- Rewards and Benefits: Evaluate the rewards, cashback, discounts, or other perks offered by the card to ensure they align with your spending patterns. Some cards may provide better benefits in specific categories, such as travel, shopping, or dining.
- Credit Limit: Review the credit limit offered by the card to ensure it meets your financial needs. Avoid applying for cards with excessive limits if you are concerned about managing debt, as this can lead to higher interest charges.
- Repayment Terms: Understand the repayment structure, including the minimum payment amount, payment due dates, and any associated penalties. Being clear about these terms can help you manage payments effectively and avoid interest buildup.
- Card Type and Features: Choose a card type that matches your specific needs—whether standard, premium, or specialized cards like those offering travel rewards or dining privileges. Ensure the features of the card align with your lifestyle and spending habits.
- Bank’s Reputation: Opt for a financial institution with a proven reputation for customer service and transparency. Consider researching customer reviews and assessing their support channels to ensure reliable service.
- Hidden Charges: Be aware of any hidden fees, including annual fees, balance transfer charges, foreign transaction fees, or cash withdrawal charges. These can add up over time and affect the overall cost-effectiveness of the card.
- Credit Utilization: Maintain a balance within your credit limit to avoid high credit utilization ratios, which can negatively impact your credit score. Responsible use of credit is essential for maintaining financial health.
- Long-Term Financial Plans: Consider how the credit card fits into your overall financial strategy. Avoid accumulating unnecessary debt and choose a card that supports your long-term financial goals without adding financial strain.
- What is the annual fee and can it be waived?
The card costs ₹4,999 + GST per year. You can get the fee waived if you spend ₹6,00,000 or more in a year.
- How do I earn reward points and is there a limit?
You earn points on all spending: 4 points per ₹100 on international purchases, 2 points per ₹100 on domestic spends, and 1 point per ₹100 on bills like insurance, utilities, and telecom (up to 100 points per transaction). You can earn up to 25,000 points per month.
- Are there milestone rewards?
Yes, if you spend ₹10,00,000 in a year, you receive a Taj Hotels voucher worth ₹10,000, giving extra reward value on top of your regular points.
- How many lounge visits do I get?
The card gives 8 domestic and 8 international lounge visits per year (2 per quarter for each). Domestic lounge access is free if you spend ₹20,000 in a calendar quarter. Extra visits cost $35 + taxes each.
- Are there any travel perks?
You get 4 Meet & Assist services and 4 airport spa visits per year, making travel smoother and more relaxing.
- What is the forex markup fee?
The card charges only 0.99% on foreign transactions, making international spending cheaper.
- Do I get any cashback?
Yes, you can earn ₹500 cashback every month on duty-free purchases of ₹10,000 or more.
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