Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card
The Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card is a premium card made for people who want luxury benefits and travel perks. You earn 1.5% rewards on spending in India and double points on spending abroad. These rewards come as Axis Bank Edge Reward Points. Along with this, the card gives free access to airport lounges (both in India and internationally), memberships at top hotels like ITC, Accor, and Marriott, dining benefits through EazyDiner Prime, and concierge services to help with bookings and reservations.
Even though the card has seen some changes in its features over time, it’s still one of the best options for travelers. One big plus is that add-on cardholders and a few guests also get free lounge access, which most other premium cards don’t offer. One downside is that converting points to air miles isn’t very rewarding, but the overall reward rate is still very high. For example, if you spend ₹15,000 on regular things like shopping or travel, you can earn 1,125 points.
Rewards and Benefits
Fees & Charges
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.
Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card – Key Features and Advantages
The Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card is a premium offering designed for frequent travelers and lifestyle enthusiasts. It combines high reward points with exclusive privileges, travel benefits, dining discounts, insurance coverage, and luxury experiences, making it one of the most sought-after credit cards in India.
Reward Points and Redemption
The card allows you to earn 15 EDGE Reward Points for every ₹200 spent domestically and double points on international spending, offering a reward rate of 1.5% on domestic and 3% on international transactions. Points can be redeemed for vouchers, products, or converted into airline and hotel loyalty points at a 5:2 ratio. Annual redemption is capped at 5,00,000 points per Customer ID. This makes it easy to get value from your everyday spending and international trips.
Welcome Rewards
New cardholders receive 15,000 EDGE Reward Points upon card activation. These points can be used instantly for vouchers, products, or transferred to travel and hotel loyalty programs, giving you a head start on rewards.
Travel Benefits
The card provides unlimited airport lounge access at domestic airports and select international lounges through Priority Pass membership. Travelers also enjoy exclusive hotel offers, including 15% discounts at Oberoi Hotels and Resorts, complimentary third-night stays, and 50% off suites. At Postcard Hotels in Goa, cardholders benefit from anytime check-in/checkout, 15% off room rates, and lifestyle consultations.
Hotel and Membership Privileges
Cardholders receive complimentary memberships to premium hotel loyalty programs:
- Club ITC Culinaire Membership: Includes a free third-night stay (2+1 nights), discounts on suite tariffs, Green Points on food and beverages, and additional exclusive perks.
- Accorplus Membership: Offers room upgrades, up to 50% off on dining, complimentary lunch buffets at Accor hotels in India, and two complimentary night stays across Asia Pacific.
- Club Marriott Asia Pacific Membership: Provides up to 20% discount on food and beverages and best available hotel rates in India, with weekend benefits across Asia Pacific.
Dining and Entertainment
Cardholders enjoy BookMyShow BOGO offers on movie and non-movie tickets, up to ₹500 on movies and ₹1,000 on non-movie tickets. A complimentary EazyDiner Prime membership provides up to 25% off at premium restaurants nationwide. Additionally, the Dining Delights program offers up to 20% discount at over 4,000 partner restaurants across India.
Lifestyle and Experiences
Axis Bank Reserve cardholders have access to curated experiences through ExtraOrdinary Weekends, including sailing, golf, private chef sessions, and unique travel tours. Golf enthusiasts receive 50 complimentary rounds annually at select premium golf courses in India.
Health and Wellness Benefits
The card offers a range of health and wellness services, including:
- Weljii Health Programs: Complimentary first consultation and 25% discount on coaching plans.
- Second Medical Opinion: Access to international specialists for a second opinion.
- Health Packages and Tests: Discounts at Dr. Pathlabs and Metropolis.
- Global Medical Assistance: Available worldwide through Axis Bank’s concierge service.
Insurance Coverage
The card includes comprehensive insurance benefits: purchase protection up to ₹2 lakh, baggage or document loss/delay up to USD 500, and credit shield coverage of ₹5 lakh.
Fuel Surcharge Waiver
Cardholders receive a 1% waiver on fuel transactions between ₹400–₹4,000 (max ₹400 per statement cycle). EDGE points are earned for transactions outside this range.
Fees and Charges
The annual fee for the Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card is ₹50,000, which can be waived with an annual spend of ₹35 lakh. Interest rate on unpaid balances is 3% per month (42.5% annually). A low foreign currency mark-up of 1.5% applies to international transactions, and cash withdrawals have no additional fee.
Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card Review
The Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card is a super-premium credit card with extensive travel, dining, and lifestyle benefits. Its high reward points, complimentary hotel memberships, curated experiences, golf privileges, and comprehensive insurance make it an ideal choice for frequent travelers and luxury lifestyle seekers. Compared to other premium cards like American Express Platinum or Yes Private, it offers a well-rounded package for earning rewards, enjoying luxury services, and accessing personalized experiences.
Does the Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card charge for cash withdrawals?
No, you can withdraw cash for free—there are no cash advance charges.
Is this card good for international use?
Yes, it’s great for global use. You get 2X reward points and a low 1.5% foreign currency markup.
What are the entertainment benefits on BookMyShow?
You can get one free movie ticket (up to ₹500) and one non-movie ticket (up to ₹1,000), up to 5 times per month.
Can the ₹50,000 annual fee be waived?
Yes, if you spend ₹35 lakhs or more in a year, the renewal fee is waived.
What's the interest rate on this card?
The monthly interest rate is 3%, which equals about 42.58% annually.
How can I increase the credit limit on my card?
Just call customer care. Make sure you’ve used the card responsibly and have a good credit score.
Is the Axis Reserve Credit Card a metal card?
Yes, it’s a premium metal card.
How do I use the free concierge service?
Call 1800 103 4962 to access the concierge support.
What restaurant discount do I get with EazyDiner?
You get 25% off up to ₹800 at selected restaurants through the free membership.
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