Punjab National Bank Credit Cards – Find the Best Card for Cashback, Travel, Shopping & Everyday Spending
Punjab National Bank (PNB) Credit Cards are designed to meet the needs of different types of users, whether you shop online, travel frequently, make UPI payments, or want to earn rewards on your everyday spending. The card portfolio includes cashback, travel benefits, airport lounge access, fuel savings, lifestyle privileges, and RuPay UPI-enabled credit cards, making it suitable for both first-time cardholders and premium customers.
Instead of choosing a credit card based only on its annual fee or welcome offer, compare its rewards, features, eligibility, and spending categories to find the option that offers the best long-term value. This guide covers everything you need to know about Punjab National Bank Credit Cards, including the best cards, key features, reward programs, fees and charges, and RatingOK expert recommendations to help you choose the right credit card.
Punjab National Bank (PNB) Credit Cards Comparison
| Credit Card | Best For | Joining / Annual Fee | Key Benefits | Lounge Access | Reward Program | RatingOK Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PNB Visa Signature Credit Card | Premium lifestyle & travel | ₹2,500 / ₹2,500 | Premium rewards, concierge service, insurance and travel privileges | Domestic & International | Reward Points | ★★★★★ |
| PNB RuPay Select Credit Card | Travel & lifestyle | ₹500 / Nil* | 2X reward points, airport lounge access, concierge service | Domestic & International | Reward Points | ★★★★★ |
| PNB RuPay Platinum Credit Card | Everyday spending | Nil* / Nil* | Reward points, cashback offers, insurance cover and merchant discounts | Domestic & International | Reward Points | ★★★★☆ |
| PNB RuPay Millennial Credit Card | Young professionals | ₹500 / ₹500 | Rewards on online shopping, dining and entertainment | No | Reward Points | ★★★★☆ |
| PNB Visa Platinum Credit Card | Shopping & rewards | ₹500 / ₹500 | Reward points, fuel surcharge waiver and insurance benefits | Domestic | Reward Points | ★★★★☆ |
| PNB Visa Gold Credit Card | Regular spending | ₹300 / ₹300 | Reward points on retail purchases and EMI facility | No | Reward Points | ★★★☆☆ |
| PNB Visa Classic Credit Card | First-time credit card users | ₹250 / ₹250 | Basic rewards, easy EMI conversion and fuel surcharge waiver | No | Reward Points | ★★★☆☆ |
| PNB Patanjali RuPay Select Card | Patanjali shoppers | ₹500 / Nil* | Extra cashback at Patanjali stores, 2X rewards and lounge access | Domestic & International | Reward Points | ★★★★☆ |
| PNB Rakshak RuPay Select Card | Defence personnel | Nil / Nil* | Exclusive benefits for defence personnel, rewards and lounge access | Domestic & International | Reward Points | ★★★★★ |
| PNB Wave & Pay Credit Card | Contactless payments | Varies | Tap-and-pay transactions with reward points and security features | No | Reward Points | ★★★☆☆ |
*Annual fee waiver is generally available if the card is used at least once every quarter, as per PNB's terms.
Why Choose Punjab National Bank Credit Cards?
Punjab National Bank offers a well-balanced portfolio of credit cards designed for different types of customers. Whether you're applying for your first credit card or looking for a premium travel card, PNB provides options that combine affordability with practical benefits.
Key Benefits Include
- Reward points on eligible retail transactions
- Complimentary airport lounge access on select cards
- RuPay credit cards with UPI payment support
- Fuel surcharge waiver at participating fuel stations
- Contactless Tap & Pay technology
- EMI conversion on eligible purchases
- Premium travel and lifestyle benefits
- Merchant discounts and seasonal offers
- Worldwide acceptance on Visa, RuPay and JCB variants
- Advanced security with EMV chip and OTP authentication
Many Punjab National Bank credit cards also offer milestone benefits, allowing cardholders to unlock additional rewards or fee waivers after reaching eligible annual spending thresholds.
RatingOK Internal Reality Check Score
The RatingOK Reality Check Score is an independent editorial assessment that evaluates Punjab National Bank Credit Cards based on overall value, reward potential, annual fee, travel benefits, customer suitability, approval difficulty, and long-term usability.
| Credit Card | Best For | Reality Check Score |
|---|---|---|
| PNB Luxura Credit Card | Premium Lifestyle | ⭐ 9.5/10 |
| PNB Visa Signature Credit Card | Travel & Premium Rewards | ⭐ 9.3/10 |
| PNB RuPay Select Credit Card | Overall Value | ⭐ 9.2/10 |
| PNB RuPay Platinum Credit Card | Everyday Spending & UPI | ⭐ 9.0/10 |
| PNB Visa Platinum Credit Card | Shopping | ⭐ 8.8/10 |
| PNB JCB Global Credit Card | International Travel | ⭐ 8.7/10 |
| PNB Patanjali Credit Card | Household Spending | ⭐ 8.5/10 |
| PNB Global Gold Credit Card | Everyday Use | ⭐ 8.3/10 |
| PNB Global Classic Credit Card | Beginners | ⭐ 8.1/10 |
Rating Methodology: Our ratings are based on several important factors to help you choose the right credit card. We evaluate Rewards & Value (25%), Annual Fee & Overall Cost (20%), Lifestyle Benefits (20%), Travel Benefits (15%), Ease of Approval (10%), and Overall Value for Money (10%) to provide a fair and unbiased assessment of each card.
Disclaimer: These scores are independently prepared by the RatingOK editorial team for comparison purposes and are not official ratings from Punjab National Bank. Scores are reviewed periodically based on publicly available card features and benefits.
Which Punjab National Bank Credit Card Should You Choose?
Choosing the right credit card depends on your monthly spending habits rather than simply selecting the card with the highest reward rate or lowest annual fee.
Choose a Cashback & Everyday Spending Card If:
- You frequently shop online.
- You pay utility bills using your credit card.
- You want consistent rewards on daily expenses.
- You prefer an affordable annual fee.
Recommended Card: PNB RuPay Platinum Credit Card
Choose a Premium Lifestyle Card If:
- You spend significantly on shopping and dining.
- You enjoy premium lifestyle privileges.
- You want better reward earnings.
- Airport lounge access is important.
Recommended Card: PNB RuPay Select Credit Card
Choose a Travel Credit Card If:
- You travel frequently within India or internationally.
- Airport lounge access matters.
- You spend regularly on hotels and flights.
- You prefer travel-related privileges.
Recommended Card: PNB Luxura Credit Card or PNB Visa Signature Credit Card
Choose a UPI Credit Card If:
- You regularly scan QR codes for payments.
- You prefer using UPI instead of cash.
- You want to earn rewards on eligible UPI transactions.
Recommended Card: PNB RuPay Platinum Credit Card
Choose an Entry-Level Credit Card If:
- This is your first credit card.
- You want to build your credit history.
- You prefer low annual fees.
- Your spending is moderate.
Recommended Card: PNB Global Classic Credit Card
Selecting a credit card that matches your lifestyle will generally provide better long-term value than choosing one solely because of its introductory offer or premium branding.
Quick Comparison
| Category | Best Punjab National Bank Credit Card |
|---|---|
| Best Overall | PNB RuPay Select Credit Card |
| Best Premium Card | PNB Luxura Credit Card |
| Best Travel Card | PNB Visa Signature Credit Card |
| Best UPI Credit Card | PNB RuPay Platinum Credit Card |
| Best Shopping Card | PNB Visa Platinum Credit Card |
| Best International Card | PNB JCB Global Credit Card |
| Best Everyday Spending Card | PNB Global Gold Credit Card |
| Best Entry-Level Card | PNB Global Classic Credit Card |
| Best Value for Money | PNB RuPay Select Credit Card |
Understanding Reward Points
Reward points are one of the biggest advantages of using a Punjab National Bank Credit Card responsibly. Most eligible retail transactions earn reward points, although the earning rate varies depending on the selected credit card and spending category. Premium credit cards generally offer accelerated rewards compared to entry-level cards, helping cardholders earn more value from their regular spending.
You can typically earn reward points on eligible transactions such as:
- Online shopping
- Grocery purchases
- Dining
- Department stores
- Travel bookings
- Utility bill payments
- Lifestyle purchases
- Retail spending at eligible merchants
However, certain transactions may not earn reward points, depending on the card variant and the bank's terms and conditions. These may include cash withdrawals, interest charges, EMI conversions, government-related payments, wallet loading, and other excluded transactions.
Understanding how your selected credit card earns reward points can help you maximize your overall returns and choose the right card for your spending pattern.
Reward Redemption Options
Accumulated reward points can usually be redeemed through Punjab National Bank's designated rewards platform. The available redemption options may vary depending on the credit card variant and the applicable reward program.
Common redemption options include:
- Shopping vouchers
- Gift cards
- Electronics and gadgets
- Home appliances
- Lifestyle products
- Travel bookings
- Hotel reservations
- Merchandise
- Special promotional offers
Before redeeming your reward points, always review the applicable redemption value, minimum redemption requirement, expiry period, and any processing charges that may apply.
RatingOK Tip: Redeem your reward points before they expire and keep an eye on limited-time promotional offers, as they often provide better value than standard redemptions.
Types of Punjab National Bank Credit Cards
PNB offers cards for different needs. Here’s a simple overview:
| Card Name | Ideal for | Key Benefits |
|---|---|---|
| Global Classic | Beginners/students | Low fee, rewards on groceries & fuel |
| Global Gold | Regular Spenders | Extra rewards on daily spends |
| Global Platinum | Premium Users | Higher rewards, lounge access, insurance |
| RuPay Select | Domestic Travel | Lounge access, travel insurance |
| RuPay Platinum | Frequent Travelers | Airport lounge, shopping perks |
| RuPay Millennial | Young Users | Fitness, shopping, and travel offers |
| Business Card | Business Owners | High credit limit, easy record-keeping |
Example: A small business owner in Mumbai can use the PNB Business Card to pay suppliers and manage expenses without carrying cash.
Major Benefits of Punjab National Bank Credit Cards
Punjab National Bank Credit Cards are designed to provide value across different spending categories, including shopping, travel, dining, fuel, and everyday expenses. While benefits vary depending on the selected card, many PNB credit cards offer rewards, savings, and lifestyle privileges that can help cardholders maximize the value of their purchases.
Cashback Benefits
Although most Punjab National Bank Credit Cards primarily offer reward points instead of direct cashback, selected cards and promotional campaigns may provide cashback on eligible purchases. Depending on the card variant, customers may receive savings on online shopping, merchant offers, or seasonal promotions.
Cashback benefits can help reduce your overall spending while making everyday purchases more rewarding.
Airport Lounge Access
Select Punjab National Bank Credit Cards provide complimentary airport lounge access, allowing eligible cardholders to enjoy a more comfortable travel experience before their flight.
Depending on the card variant, lounge benefits may include:
- Comfortable seating
- Complimentary snacks and beverages
- Wi-Fi access
- Charging stations
- Business facilities
- Newspapers and magazines
Some cards may require meeting quarterly or annual spending conditions to continue enjoying complimentary lounge access. Always check the latest eligibility criteria before travelling.
Travel Benefits
Travel-focused Punjab National Bank Credit Cards offer additional benefits that make domestic and international travel more convenient. Based on your credit card, you may get:
- Airport lounge access
- Travel-related reward points
- Hotel offers
- Dining privileges
- International acceptance
- Insurance benefits on eligible cards
Frequent travellers can maximize these benefits by using their credit card for flight bookings, hotel reservations, and travel-related purchases.
Fuel Benefits
Many Punjab National Bank Credit Cards provide a fuel surcharge waiver at participating fuel stations. This benefit helps reduce fuel costs for customers who regularly travel by car or two-wheeler.
Depending on the selected credit card, additional reward points or promotional fuel offers may also be available on eligible transactions.
Entertainment Benefits
Punjab National Bank frequently partners with merchants to provide entertainment and lifestyle offers for eligible credit cardholders. Depending on the card and ongoing promotions, users may receive discounts on movie tickets, dining, shopping, and other lifestyle experiences.
These offers are updated periodically, so checking the latest merchant promotions before making a purchase can help you save more.
RuPay UPI Benefits
PNB RuPay Credit Cards support UPI payments through compatible UPI applications, allowing customers to make QR-code payments directly using their credit card.
Key advantages include:
- Easy QR-code payments
- Reward points on eligible UPI transactions
- Convenient digital payments
- Reduced dependence on cash
- Secure payment experience
This feature is especially beneficial for users who frequently make small-value payments through UPI and want to earn rewards on their everyday spending.
RatingOK Expert Advice
Expert Opinion: Don't choose a Punjab National Bank Credit Card simply because it offers premium branding or a welcome benefit. Instead, select a card that matches your monthly spending pattern. If you frequently use UPI, a RuPay Credit Card can provide better value. Regular travellers should prioritize cards with airport lounge access and travel benefits, while shoppers should look for cards offering higher reward points on retail spending.
Eligibility Criteria
Punjab National Bank offers a wide range of credit cards for salaried individuals, self-employed professionals, business owners, and existing PNB customers. While the exact eligibility requirements may vary depending on the credit card variant, applicants generally need to meet the bank's basic age, income, and creditworthiness criteria.
General Eligibility Requirements
- Must be an Indian resident or meet the bank's eligibility requirements.
- Should be either salaried, self-employed, or a business owner with a stable source of income.
- Must satisfy the minimum age requirement specified for the selected credit card.
- Should have a satisfactory credit history and repayment record.
- Must meet the income criteria applicable to the chosen credit card.
Meeting the eligibility criteria does not mean your application will be approved. Punjab National Bank evaluates each application based on factors such as income, credit score, repayment history, existing liabilities, and internal policies.
Recommended Credit Score
| Credit Score | Approval Possibility |
|---|---|
| 750 and Above | Excellent |
| 700 – 749 | Good |
| 650 – 699 | Average |
| Below 650 | May Require Additional Evaluation |
RatingOK Tip: Maintaining a credit score of 750 or above can improve your chances of approval and may help you qualify for higher credit limits and premium credit cards.
Documents Required
| Document Category | Accepted Documents |
|---|---|
| Identity Proof | Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Voter ID |
| Address Proof | Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Utility Bill, Bank Account Statement |
| Income Proof (Salaried) | Latest Salary Slips, Bank Statements, Form 16 (where applicable) |
| Income Proof (Self-Employed) | Latest Income Tax Returns (ITR), Business Proof, Bank Statements, Financial Statements (if applicable) |
Note: Punjab National Bank may ask for additional documents depending on the selected credit card, employment profile, income, or credit history.
Steps to Apply for a Punjab National Bank Credit Card
Applying for a Punjab National Bank Credit Card is a straightforward process. Customers can apply online or visit a nearby PNB branch for offline assistance.
Apply Online
- Visit the official Punjab National Bank website.
- Navigate to the Credit Cards section.
- Compare the available credit cards.
- Choose the card that suits your needs best.
- Click on the Apply Now option.
- Fill in the online application form.
- Upload the required documents.
- Complete identity verification, if required.
- Submit the application.
Apply Offline
- Visit your nearest Punjab National Bank branch.
- Request a Credit Card Application Form.
- Choose the appropriate credit card.
- Submit the completed application along with the required documents.
- The bank will verify your details and process the application.
Application Review Process
After receiving the application, Punjab National Bank reviews various factors before making an approval decision.
The evaluation generally includes:
- Identity verification
- Income verification
- Employment verification
- Credit bureau check
- Existing loan and repayment history
- Internal risk assessment
If the application satisfies the bank's eligibility criteria and internal policies, the credit card is approved and dispatched to the registered communication address.
How to Check Application Status
Applicants can usually track their credit card application status using one of the following methods:
- Official Punjab National Bank website
- Customer Care
- Nearest PNB branch
- Internet Banking (where applicable)
Keeping your application reference number handy can help you check the status more quickly.
Common Fees & Charges
Before applying for a Punjab National Bank Credit Card, it's important to understand the various fees and charges associated with card usage. These charges may vary depending on the selected credit card variant. Reviewing the applicable fee schedule can help you avoid unnecessary costs and manage your credit card more efficiently.
| Fee Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Joining Fee | Applicable on selected credit card variants. |
| Annual Fee | Charged annually unless waived based on eligible spending. |
| Finance Charges | Applicable if the total outstanding amount is not paid by the due date. |
| Cash Withdrawal Fee | Charged when using the credit card to withdraw cash from an ATM. |
| Foreign Currency Markup | Applicable on eligible international transactions. |
| Late Payment Charges | Applicable if the minimum amount due is not paid before the due date. |
| Overlimit Charges | May apply if the credit limit is exceeded. |
| Card Replacement Fee | Applicable for replacement of lost or damaged cards. |
| Duplicate Statement Charges | Applicable where duplicate physical statements are requested. |
Note: Fees and charges are subject to change. Always refer to the latest Schedule of Charges provided by Punjab National Bank before applying for a credit card.
Tips to Maximize Your Credit Card Benefits
Using your Punjab National Bank Credit Card wisely can help you earn more rewards, improve your credit score, and reduce unnecessary charges. Following a few simple practices can significantly increase the overall value you receive from your credit card.
- Pay your total outstanding amount before the due date to avoid finance charges.
- Use your credit card regularly for eligible retail transactions to earn reward points.
- Choose a credit card that matches your spending habits instead of focusing only on welcome offers.
- Keep track of your reward points and use them before they expire.
- Use RuPay Credit Cards for eligible UPI payments to maximize everyday rewards.
- Monitor merchant offers and seasonal promotions throughout the year.
- Avoid frequent cash withdrawals, as they generally attract higher charges.
- Keep your credit utilization ratio within a reasonable limit to maintain a healthy credit score.
- Enable transaction alerts for better security and spending control.
- Review your monthly credit card statement to identify unauthorized transactions or unnecessary charges.
RatingOK Expert Tip: A credit card delivers the best value when you pay your bills in full every month and use it primarily for planned expenses rather than impulse purchases.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Wide range of credit cards for different customer needs. | Some premium benefits are available only on selected cards. |
| RuPay Credit Cards support UPI payments. | Reward earning rates differ across card variants. |
| Airport lounge access on eligible cards. | Certain benefits may require minimum spending conditions. |
| Reward points on eligible retail transactions. | Cash withdrawals attract additional charges and interest. |
| Fuel surcharge waiver on participating fuel stations. | International benefits depend on the payment network and card type. |
| Contactless payment technology. | Some reward categories may have exclusions. |
| EMI conversion facility on eligible purchases. | Reward redemption options may vary by credit card. |
| Worldwide acceptance on Visa, RuPay and JCB variants. | Joining and annual fees differ across the portfolio. |
Customer Support & Service
Punjab National Bank offers multiple customer support channels to assist credit cardholders with card-related queries, billing concerns, card blocking, application status, and other services.
Customers can typically access support through:
- Customer Care Helpline
- Nearest Punjab National Bank Branch
- Official Website
- Internet Banking
- Mobile Banking
- Email Support
For security reasons, customers should immediately report a lost or stolen credit card through the bank's official customer support channels to prevent unauthorized transactions.
RatingOK Expert Verdict
The PNB RuPay Select Credit Card stands out as the best overall choice for most users because of its combination of reward points, lifestyle privileges, airport lounge access, and UPI compatibility. Customers seeking premium travel benefits may find the PNB Luxura Credit Card or PNB Visa Signature Credit Card more suitable, while beginners looking for a simple and affordable option can consider the PNB Global Classic Credit Card.
Before submitting your application, compare the annual fee, reward structure, lounge access benefits, eligibility criteria, and spending requirements to select the credit card that best matches your financial goals. Choosing the right credit card based on your spending habits will help you maximize rewards while keeping overall costs under control.
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Frequently Asked Questions
- Who can apply for a PNB credit card?
Anyone aged 21–70 with a stable income (salaried or self-employed) can apply. For secured or add-on cards, the minimum age is 18.
- How can I apply for a PNB credit card?
You can apply online through the PNB website or apps like PNB SARAL and PNB One. Alternatively, visit a nearby branch to submit the application form.
- What documents are required?
You need a PAN card and one address proof, such as Aadhar, voter ID, passport, or driving license. Submit self-attested copies along with your application.
- Can I get a card without a job?
Yes, by applying for a secured credit card. Deposit a fixed amount in the bank, and it becomes your credit limit.
- How do I activate my PNB credit card?
Activate it through the mobile banking app or send an SMS:
ACTIV <last 6 digits of card> <DOB in ddmmyyyy> to 7092200200.- How much credit limit can I get?
The limit depends on your card type, income, and credit profile. It usually ranges from Rs. 10,000 to Rs. 15,00,000.
- Is it possible to take out cash using my card?
Yes, up to 20% of your credit limit. A single transaction cannot exceed 50% of your available cash limit.
- How long is the interest-free period?
You get 20–50 days interest-free on purchases if the previous month’s dues are cleared. ATM cash withdrawals do not have this benefit.
- What is the interest rate?
Currently, it’s 2.95% per month on a reducing balance (APR 35.89%). Rates may change at the bank’s discretion.
- Are there any fees?
Yes, some cards have joining and annual fees. Certain cards may waive fees if you meet annual spending targets. Add-on cards are free except for the RuPay Millennial card (Rs. 399).
- Which cards provide airport lounge access?
PNB RuPay Select, RuPay Platinum, RuPay Millennial, PNB Rakshak, Visa Signature, and EaseMyTrip RuPay Platinum cards offer lounge access.
- How can I check my card balance?
Check your latest statement, use the PNB mobile app, or call customer care.
- How do I redeem reward points?
Call customer care at 1800 1800. 1 point = Rs. 0.25. Points can be used for movies, hotels, and other services. No fees are charged for redemption.
- What should I do if my card is lost or stolen?
Call 1800-180-2345 or 0120-4616200 immediately to block your card.
- How can I close my PNB credit card?
Send an SMS: DEACTIV <last 6 digits of card> <DOB in ddmmyyyy> to 7092200200 or contact customer care.