Can a NRI hold an Indian credit card?
William Jenkins
Updated on February 07, 2026
Yes, most banks in India offer credit cards to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs). Credit cards issued to NRIs facilitate purchases in India as well as in foreign countries (although transactions in foreign currencies could mean you’ll be charged additional fees for the service).
Can NRI have credit cards?
NRI Credit Cards are very similar to regular credit cards in the way they operate. NRIs can use such credit cards to make travel bookings, purchases, online payments, bill payments, etc.
Can Indian credit card be used in USA?
If you have a Visa credit card from India, it is likely set up in Rupees, which is the official currency in India. Even if you spend money on the card in another country, your statement will be in Rupees. As long as that credit card has the Visa logo on it, you will be able to use it for purchases in the United States.
Is it illegal for NRI to have savings?
As per the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA) guidelines, an NRI cannot have a savings account in his or her name in India. You must convert all your savings (money earned abroad) to a Non-Resident External Account (NRE) or Non-Resident Ordinary (NRO) account.
Can I have 2 NRI accounts?
In short, Yes, you can open more than one NRI account with the different bank in India. You can even open a different type of NRI accounts e.g. NRE, NRO and FCNR with the same bank e.g. HDFC bank or ICICI bank.
Which bank gives credit card to NRI?
Best Credit Cards for NRIs
| Credit Card | Best For | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| ICICI Bank NRI Coral Credit Card | Lounge Access, Movies, Dining | Rs.500 |
| Kotak NRI Royale Signature Credit Card | Online Shopping, Rewards | Rs.1000 |
| Axis Neo Credit Card | Movies and Online Shopping | Rs.250 |
| HDFC Regalia Credit Card | International Airport Lounge Access | Rs. 2,500 |
Can NRI apply for SBI credit card?
Resident Indian (family member or dependent or beneficiary or any acquaintance of NRIs in India) can apply for this card. Applicant has to fill an application and needs to submit it in SBI branch along with one Identity and Address proof for KYC purposes. click here to download NRI Family Card application.
Can a non resident Indian get a credit card in India?
Check your Eligibility! Various banks in India are providing credit cards to Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) keeping in mind their financial needs. NRI Credit Cards allows individuals to easily make payments when they are abroad or in India. Such credit cards are provided to Indians who have settled abroad.
What can you do with NRI credit card in India?
NRIs will be allowed to spend on travel, luxury, as well as buy items when they are in India or abroad. The payments for these transactions can also be completed in Indian rupee just like a normal credit card. NRI Credit Cards cannot be used to buy racing tickets, sweepstakes ticket purchases, lottery ticket purchases, etc.
Which is the best bank account for NRIs?
Here is a list of best bank accounts for NRIs. This is the tricky part. But generally, the best bet to get a credit card is when you are in India on vacation. Assuming that your NRE/NRO accounts have been active and you have a transaction history to show, get to a bank as soon as you land in India, so you can get started with the formalities.
Can a NRI card be used to buy lottery tickets?
NRI Credit Cards cannot be used to buy racing tickets, sweepstakes ticket purchases, lottery ticket purchases, etc. The rules of the credit card will be provided by the bank at the time of issuance of the card.
