Credit Card Rules Changing from April 1: Major Benefits to be Discontinued for SBI, IDFC First Bank Cardholders

Many credit card rules are set to change from April 1, 2025, impacting customers of SBI Card and IDFC First Bank. Significant modifications will be made to the Club Vistara co-branded credit cards, resulting in the discontinuation of milestone ticket vouchers and renewal benefits. Cardholders need to be aware of these upcoming changes to plan their finances accordingly.

Changes in IDFC First Bank Credit Cards

IDFC First Bank has informed its Club Vistara IDFC First Credit Card holders about the discontinuation of milestone benefits after March 31, 2025. However, customers will still be able to earn Maharaja Points until March 31, 2026, before the card is completely phased out.

• Discontinued Benefits:

  • Club Vistara Silver Membership will no longer be provided.

  • The free voucher, which included one premium economy ticket and one class upgrade, will be discontinued.

  • Milestone vouchers for premium economy tickets will no longer be issued.

  • Customers renewing their cards after March 31, 2025, will receive a one-year waiver on the annual charge.

Changes in SBI Card Credit Cards

SBI Card has also announced major changes to the Club Vistara SBI Credit Card and Club Vistara SBI PRIME Credit Card.

• Discontinued Benefits:

  • Economy and premium economy ticket vouchers will no longer be available from April 1, 2025.

  • Club Vistara SBI Credit Card will stop milestone benefits for annual spending thresholds of Rs 1.25 lakh, Rs 2.5 lakh, and Rs 5 lakh.

  • Club Vistara SBI PRIME Credit Card will no longer offer premium economy ticket vouchers.

• Annual Charges:

  • The annual fee for the base Club Vistara SBI Credit Card will remain at Rs 1,499.

  • The Club Vistara SBI PRIME Credit Card will have an annual charge of Rs 2,999, with an option for a fee waiver under specific conditions.

Impact on Cardholders

These changes will significantly reduce the benefits previously associated with these credit cards. Customers relying on milestone ticket vouchers and other travel-related perks should consider alternative options or credit cards offering similar benefits.

With these modifications taking effect from April 1, 2025, cardholders must assess their financial plans and explore other credit card options to ensure they continue receiving the best possible rewards and benefits.