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Credit Card

A lifetime-free credit card with instant approval? Yes, it’s real

Key Takeaways

  • A credit card with instant approval offers quick access to credit, with easy eligibility criteria and minimal verification delays.
  • A lifetime-free credit card helps users save money by eliminating annual and joining fees.
  • IDFC FIRST Bank offers lifetime-free credit cards with instant approval and multiple benefits, including up to 10x rewards, cashback, insurance, lifestyle perks, and more.
  • Choosing the right card depends on individual needs, whether it's for travel perks, shopping rewards, or everyday savings.
06 May 2025 by Team FinFIRST

Applying for a credit card can be tedious—rejections, hidden fees, and confusing eligibility rules make it feel like banks set the rules against you. When past credit issues or unclear policies stand in the way, gaining financial flexibility seems impossible. That’s where a lifetime-free credit card with instant approval changes the game.

A lifetime-free credit card removes the burden of annual fees, making credit more accessible without extra costs. Institutions like IDFC FIRST Bank further simplify the process with minimal documentation and expedited approvals. This ensures that those seeking a fresh financial start can get a credit card with instant approval without the usual roadblocks.

Understanding lifetime-free credit cards
 

A lifetime-free credit card provides access to credit without the burden of annual or joining fees, making it a cost-effective option. Unlike standard credit cards, these remain free for life without requiring minimum spending or meeting specific conditions. Many banks now offer such cards, often with quick approval processes to simplify access to credit.

  1. No annual or joining fees – A credit card with zero annual fee ensures you don’t pay maintenance charges just to keep the card active.

  2. Instant approval for convenience – Many banks offer these credit cards with instant approval processes, making it easier for applicants to qualify.

  3. No hidden costs – Some assume lifetime-free cards come with hidden fees elsewhere, but reputable banks maintain transparency.

IDFC FIRST Bank is among the institutions offering lifetime-free credit cards with instant approval. Options like the FIRST Classic, FIRST Select, FIRST Wealth, and FIRST Millennia cater to different financial needs.

Benefits of a lifetime-free credit card
 

A lifetime-free credit card offers financial flexibility without the recurring cost of an annual fee. Many banks provide these cards with additional benefits, making them a practical choice for different spending needs.

  1. Cost savings – A credit card with zero annual fee eliminates unnecessary expenses, allowing users to enjoy credit without maintenance charges.
  2. Rewards and cashback – Many lifetime-free credit cards offer reward points, cashback on transactions, and discounts on shopping, dining, and travel.
  3. Lifestyle perks – Some cards offer additional benefits, such as airport lounge access, dining discounts, or entertainment offers, which enhance everyday experiences.
  4. Interest-free period – You can benefit from an extended interest-free credit period, helping you manage expenses better.
  5. Instant access to credit – A credit card with instant approval gives applicants quick access to funds without lengthy waiting periods.

IDFC FIRST Bank Lifetime-free Credit Cards compared
 

IDFC FIRST Bank offers a range of lifetime-free credit cards, each designed to cater to different financial needs. The table below highlights the key benefits of these cards, helping you choose the one that best aligns with your spending habits and lifestyle.

 

Feature

FIRST Classic

FIRST Select

FIRST Wealth

FIRST Millennia

Joining fee

₹0

₹0

₹0

₹0

Annual fee

₹0

₹0

₹0

₹0

Joining benefits

●      ₹500 gift voucher

●      Up to ₹1,000 cashback on first EMI

●      ₹500 gift voucher

●      Up to ₹1,000 cashback on first EMI

●      ₹500 gift voucher

●      Up to ₹1,000 cashback on first EMI

●      ₹500 gift voucher

●      Up to ₹1,000 cashback on first EMI

Reward points

●      10X (for spends above ₹20,000 & birthdays)

●      3X (up to ₹20,000)

●      1X (utilities & insurance)

●      Never-expiring

●      10X (for spends above ₹20,000 & birthdays)

●      3X (up to ₹20,000)

●      1X (utilities & insurance)

●      Never-expiring

●      10X (for spends above ₹20,000 & birthdays)

●      3X (up to ₹20,000)

●      1X (utilities & insurance)

●      Never-expiring

●      10X (for incremental spends above ₹20,000 & birthdays; applicable on all lifetime-free cards)

●      3X (up to ₹20,000)

●      1X (utilities & insurance)

●      Never-expiring

Interest rates

From 8.5% p.a.

From 8.5% p.a.

From 8.5% p.a.

From 8.5% p.a.

Cash withdrawals

Interest-free for 45 days (₹199 + GST fee)

Interest-free for 45 days (₹199 + GST fee)

Interest-free for 45 days (₹199 + GST fee)

Interest-free for 45 days (₹199 + GST fee)

Forex markup

3.5%

1.99%

1.5%

3.5%

Airport lounge Access

NA

2 visits/quarter to domestic airport lounges (on ₹20,000+ spend in previous month)

2 visits/quarter to domestic airport lounges and spa, and 2 visits/quarter to international airport lounges (on ₹20,000+ spend in previous month)

NA

Railway lounge access

4 visits/quarter

4 visits/quarter (on ₹20,000+ spend in previous month)

4 visits/quarter (on ₹20,000+ spend in previous month)

Four visits/quarter

Trip cancellation cover

NA

₹10,000

₹10,000

NA

Golf privileges

NA

NA

Yes; up to 2 visits/month (on ₹20,000+ spend in a statement cycle)

NA

Movie benefits

25% off (up to ₹100 via Zomato, once/month)

Buy-1-Get-1 movie ticket (up to ₹125 via District by Zomato, twice/month)

Buy-1-Get-1 movie ticket (up to ₹125 via District by Zomato, twice/month)

25% off (up to ₹100 via District by Zomato, once/month)

Fuel surcharge waiver

1% waiver

1% waiver

1% waiver

1% waiver

Merchant offers

300+ brands

300+ brands

300+ brands

300+ brands

Roadside assistance

Yes (₹1,399 value)

Yes (24X7)

Yes (24X7)

 Yes (₹1,399 value)

Accident & lost card cover

Yes

Yes

Yes

Yes

 

A lifetime-free credit card with instant approval removes financial barriers, making it a smart choice if you’re seeking savings and convenience. IDFC FIRST Bank offers multiple options tailored to different spending habits and lifestyle needs.

Eligibility criteria for instant credit card approval
 

Getting a credit card with instant approval is easier when you meet basic eligibility requirements. While different banks may have specific criteria, most look at key financial factors before approving an application.

  1. Credit score – A good credit score increases approval chances, but some banks offer instant credit card approval online even to those with limited credit history.
  2. Income level – Banks assess income to ensure applicants can manage credit responsibly. Higher-income applicants may qualify for premium cards.
  3. Employment type – Salaried professionals and self-employed individuals with a steady and sufficient income are more likely to be approved.
  4. Banking history – Maintaining a savings or salary account, or having a positive financial relationship with the issuing bank, can improve eligibility.

IDFC FIRST Bank offers lifetime-free credit cards with minimal eligibility barriers, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants. The table below outlines the specific criteria for each card.

Eligibility criteria

FIRST Millennia

FIRST Classic

FIRST Select

FIRST Wealth

Minimum annual income

₹3 lakhs

₹3 lakhs

₹12 lakhs

₹36 lakhs

Minimum age

18 years

Residency

Indian resident

Employment type

Salaried or self-employed

 

Meeting the right criteria ensures a smooth application process and increases the chances of getting immediate credit card access without delays.

free credit card

Required documentation for a seamless application

Applying for a credit card with instant approval typically requires minimal documentation; however, having the necessary paperwork ready can expedite the process. Most banks, including IDFC FIRST Bank, require –

  1. Proof of identity – Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, or voter ID.
  2. Proof of address – Utility bills, rental agreements, or bank passbook.
  3. Proof of income – Salary slips, bank statements, or ITR documents for self-employed applicants.

For instant and online credit card approval, keeping digital copies of these documents ensures faster processing. Submitting accurate details prevents delays and increases the chances of securing a credit card with instant approval, hassle-free.

How to apply online for instant approval
 

Applying for a credit card with instant approval is a quick and hassle-free process with IDFC FIRST Bank. The online application is completely paperless and requires minimal effort. Follow these simple steps to apply –

Step 1 – Visit the official website

Visit the IDFC FIRST Bank website and navigate to the ‘Credit Card’ section.

Step 2 – Choose your card and apply

Under the selected lifetime-free credit card, click ‘Apply Now.

Step 3 – Verify your mobile number

Enter the one-time password (OTP) sent to your registered mobile number to proceed.

Step 4 – Fill in the digital form

Provide personal details, employment type, and income information.

Step 5 – Give consent and submit

Review the details and agree to proceed with the application.

Step 6 – Get instant approval

You will receive an immediate credit card digitally via the IDFC FIRST Bank Mobile Banking App. The physical card will be delivered within 4-5 working days.

Ensuring all information is accurate can improve the chances of instant credit card approval online, reducing delays in the process.

Find your perfect lifetime-free credit card with instant approval

Not sure which lifetime-free credit card suits you best? Here’s a quick guide to help you decide –

1. Are you looking for a simple rewards card with everyday benefits?

Apply for the FIRST Classic Credit Card.

2. Do you travel frequently and want domestic airport lounge access?

Apply for the FIRST Select Credit Card.

3. Want premium perks like international airport lounge access and low forex fees?

Apply for the FIRST Wealth Credit Card.

4. Are you a young professional looking for exciting brand offers?

Apply for the FIRST Millennia Credit Card.

Choose the right card and enjoy the benefits of a lifetime-free credit card with instant approval today!

What to check before applying
 

Before applying for a credit card with instant approval, it’s important to review key details to avoid unexpected charges and maximise benefits.

  1. Interest rates and charges – While a lifetime-free credit card has no annual fees, other costs like late payment fees and cash withdrawal charges may apply.
  2. Hidden fees and forex markup – Always check for additional charges, such as foreign transaction fees, especially if you travel frequently.
  3. Reward programs and cashback – Compare how points are earned and redeemed. Some cards offer accelerated rewards for specific spending categories.
  4. EMI and repayment flexibility – If you plan to convert purchases into EMIs, check the interest rates and tenure options.
  5. Approval terms – Some banks offer instant credit card approval online, but approvals still depend on eligibility and verification.

IDFC FIRST Bank's lifetime-free credit cards offer transparent terms, competitive reward programs, and seamless approvals, making them a reliable choice for hassle-free credit access.

Conclusion
 

Opting for a credit card with instant approval can simplify access to credit while offering valuable benefits. A lifetime-free credit card eliminates annual fees, making it a cost-effective option for everyday spending and lifestyle perks.

IDFC FIRST Bank offers a seamless and instant and online credit card approval process, ensuring quick access to a card that matches your financial needs. Whether you want rewards, travel perks, or cashback, there’s always a suitable option. Compare all options, find your pick, and experience the ease of a credit card with instant approval without hidden costs or lengthy wait times.

 

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.

The features, benefits and offers mentioned in the article are applicable as on the day of publication of this blog and is subject to change without notice. The contents herein are also subject to other product specific terms and conditions and any third party terms and conditions, as applicable. Please refer our website www.idfcfirstbank.com for latest updates.