HSBC Premier Credit Card Review
The HSBC Premier Credit Card is available only to HSBC Premier banking customers. It is one of the best Indian cards for international travel, with a 0.99% forex markup, unlimited lounge access and points that transfer 1:1 to airline and hotel programmes.
The ₹12,000 joining fee is charged; the ₹20,000 renewal fee is waived as long as you keep your Premier status.
- 0.99% forex markup with no conditions
- Unlimited lounge access for the cardholder plus 8 international guest visits
- Points never expire and transfer 1:1 to airline and hotel partners
- 20,000 welcome points
- Up to 12X points on hotels, flights and car rentals via Travel with Points
- Only for HSBC Premier customers (high relationship balance or salary)
- ₹12,000 joining fee is charged
- Must apply at a branch
- No points on fuel
- Base earn rate of 3 points per ₹100 is moderate
Fees and charges
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Joining fee | ₹12,000 + GST, charged after activation |
| Renewal fee | ₹20,000 + GST, waived for qualifying Premier customers |
| Forex markup | 0.99% |
| Fuel surcharge waiver | 1% on ₹400–₹4,000 |
Rewards: how the card earns
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Base earn | 3 reward points per ₹100 |
| Travel with Points | Up to 12X on hotels, flights and car rentals |
| Welcome | 20,000 points |
| Transfers | 1:1 to airline and hotel partners in the HSBC app |
| Validity | Points never expire |
What earns nothing
Fuel spends earn no points.
Other benefits
| Benefit | Detail |
|---|---|
| Lounge access | Unlimited domestic and international for the cardholder, plus 8 international guest visits |
| Travel insurance | International travel insurance |
| Fraud cover | Lost-card and fraud cover up to ₹3 lakh |
| Lifestyle | BookMyShow buy-one-get-one, EazyDiner 30% off (up to ₹1,500), golf privileges |
| Fuel | 1% surcharge waiver on ₹400–₹4,000 |
Eligibility
Issuer
HSBC India
Who
Existing HSBC Premier customers
Premier criteria
₹50 lakh average quarterly relationship balance, or ₹3 lakh net monthly salary credit, or (from 1 Jan 2026) a ₹1.15 crore mortgage with ₹50 lakh balance within 12 months
Apply via
HSBC branch
Who this card is for
- Good fit: HSBC Premier customers who travel abroad and want a low forex markup and unlimited lounges.
- Skip if: you do not meet HSBC Premier criteria — the card is not available otherwise.
Alternatives worth comparing
- HSBC Premier banking explained
- Best premium cards
- Best zero-forex-markup cards
- Best premium banking programmes
Final verdict
One of the best travel cards in India for those who qualify: a 0.99% forex markup, unlimited lounges and flexible, non-expiring points. The catch is the entry ticket — HSBC Premier status and a ₹12,000 joining fee.
Frequently asked questions
Who can get the HSBC Premier credit card?
Only HSBC Premier banking customers, who must meet HSBC’s balance, salary or mortgage criteria.
Is the joining fee waived?
No. The ₹12,000 joining fee is charged after activation. The ₹20,000 renewal fee is waived for qualifying Premier customers.
What is the forex markup?
0.99%.
Do the points expire?
No. HSBC Premier points never expire.
How many lounge visits do I get?
Unlimited domestic and international visits for the cardholder, plus 8 international guest visits.
Last verified: October 2026, against HSBC India’s Premier credit card page and tariff schedule. Card terms change often; confirm the current fees and reward rules on the issuer’s website before you apply. All fees are plus 18% GST.