ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card
The ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card is a premium credit card with many luxury benefits. It costs ₹12,499 + GST to join and comes in a metal design. The card gives you free access to airport lounges (in India and abroad), free golf games, and movie tickets worth ₹1,500 every month on BookMyShow. As a welcome gift, you get 12,500 reward points, a free 1-year Taj Epicure membership, and an EazyDiner Prime membership that renews every year. You earn 6 reward points for every ₹200 spent, which gives you about 3% value back.
This is ICICI Bank’s top-level credit card and is great for people who travel often or spend a lot. You also get flight vouchers from EaseMyTrip when you reach certain spending limits, along with travel insurance and purchase protection. The card charges only 2% extra on foreign currency spends, which is lower than most cards. If you cancel a flight or ticket booked with this card, you can get up to ₹12,000 back (twice a year). Unlike many cards, this ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card also gives rewards on spending like rent, insurance, and utility bills. Overall, it's a great card for people who want luxury features and rewards on most of their spending.
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.
What kind of airport lounge access do I get with this card?
With the ICICI Bank Emeralde Private Metal Credit Card, you can enjoy unlimited access to domestic airport lounges across India. It also comes with a Priority Pass that gives you access to international lounges. Both the main cardholder and any add-on members can use this benefit.
What do I get when I spend a big amount on this card?
If you spend ₹8 lakhs or more in a year using this card, ICICI Bank gives you two flight vouchers worth ₹3,000 each through EaseMyTrip, as a reward for reaching the spending milestone.
What kind of welcome gifts do I receive?
When you get the card and pay the joining fee, you’ll receive 12,500 reward points, a free one-night stay with the Taj Epicure membership, and a one-year free EazyDiner Prime membership. These benefits make the card quite valuable from the start.
Can I cancel hotel or flight bookings without paying extra?
Yes, if you book travel or hotel stays using this card, you can cancel them without paying any cancellation fee. Plus, you can get a refund of up to ₹12,000 per year for cancellations, limited to two times a year.
What rewards do I earn when I spend using the card?
You earn 6 reward points for every ₹200 you spend on most purchases. The reward rate is roughly 3%, which is quite good for a premium credit card.
How do I contact ICICI Bank for card-related help?
If you have any questions or need help with your card, you can reach ICICI Bank customer care by calling 1800 1080.
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