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Are you an Indian student eager to manage your money wisely while enjoying exclusive perks? American Express Cards could be your perfect financial companion! Renowned worldwide for premium services, American Express offers a variety of credit cards in India that blend convenience, exciting rewards, and lifestyle benefits.
In this blog, we’ll dive into what American Express Cards are. List of cards, what makes them special, explore their standout features, and show how they can elevate your student life. Let’s get started!
Table of contents
- What Are American Express Cards?
- Why Pick American Express Cards?
- List of Best American Express Cards
- Features of American Express Cards
- Eligibility Criteria for American Express Card
- How to Apply for American Express Cards?
- How to Maximise Amex Card Benefits
- Charges With American Express Cards
- FAQs on American Express Cards
What Are American Express Cards?
American Express Cards are premium financial tools provided by a globally trusted company, delivering credit and charge card options loaded with benefits. Since entering India in 1993, Amex has offered cards tailored to diverse needs—whether you’re shopping online, traveling, or dining with friends.
Amex credit cards for international students provide a smart way to build financial habits while unlocking rewards that match their lifestyle.
Why Pick American Express Cards?
Wondering why American Express Cards stand out for students? It’s all about their unique credit card benefits! From generous rewards programs to travel perks and excellent customer support, Amex cards add value to every transaction.
Whether you’re ordering study materials online, grabbing a meal, or planning a budget-friendly trip, these foreign credit cards ensure you get more from every spend, making them a top choice for savvy students and individuals.
Also Read: What is a Forex Card?: Types, Benefits & How to Choose
List of Best American Express Cards
American Express offers several cards in India, but some are especially student-friendly. Here’s a look at the top American Express cards, their annual fees, and their features:
| Card Name | Annual Fee | Highlights |
| American Express SmartEarn™ Credit Card | INR 495 + taxes (first year); waived in the second year with INR 40,000 spent annually | Earn 10X Membership Rewards Points on Amazon, Flipkart, and Uber. Get 5X points on Swiggy and BookMyShow. 500 bonus points after first spend. |
| American Express Membership Rewards® Credit Card | INR 1,000 + taxes (first year); INR 4,500 + taxes (second year, waived fully with INR 1,50,000 spent or 50% off for INR 90,000–INR 1,49,999) | 1 point per INR 50 spent (except fuel, utilities, and insurance). 4,000 welcome points, 5,000 renewal points. Redeem for Amazon vouchers, gadgets, or luxury items! |
| American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card | INR 3,500 + taxes (first year); INR 5,000 + taxes (second year) | Spend INR 1.9 lakh annually to earn 15,000 points (worth INR 4,500 in vouchers). 8 free airport lounge visits annually. |
| American Express Platinum Card (Charge Card) | INR 60,000 + taxes annually | Premium lifestyle card with unlimited lounge access (domestic + international), hotel memberships, concierge services, luxury travel perks, and 24K+ reward points yearly. |
Features of American Express Cards
What makes Amex cards a game-changer for Indians? It’s the incredible features that turn everyday spending into exciting rewards! From a top-notch rewards program to travel perks and secure payments, the Amex forex card for international students comes with lots of benefits.
Let’s explore some best features of American Express cards:
- Rewards Program: Earn points on every purchase that never expire (while your card stays active). Redeem them for vouchers, travel, or bill payments.
- Contactless Convenience: Tap to pay for transactions under INR 5,000—fast and secure for small buys like snacks or stationery.
- Safety First: Lost your card? Report it within 3 days, and you’re not liable for fraud, keeping your finances secure.
- Round-the-Clock Support: Need help? Call Amex’s 24/7 helpline (e.g., 1800-419-1255 for Platinum users) anytime.
- Flexible Payments: Convert big spends, like a new phone, into easy EMIs without stress.
Eligibility Criteria for American Express Card
Whether you’re a student with a part-time gig or relying on family support, Amex offers options for many. Check out the simple eligibility criteria for American Express cards to make these financial tools yours easily:
- Age: Be 18 or older.
- Nationality: Live in India permanently (cards are issued in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, etc.).
- Earnings: Earn at least INR 4.5 lakh annually (or qualify via family support as a supplementary cardholder).
- Credit History: Have a good credit history.
Students with part-time income or parental backing can often apply—check eligibility online!
How to Apply for American Express Cards?
The application process for obtaining Amex Cards is straightforward, requiring only a few simple steps to secure your card. Below is a concise guide to assist you in acquiring an American Express Card with ease and without any hassle:
- Head to the official American Express India website.
- Browse cards and hit “Apply Now” on your favorite.
- Enter your details (name, income, address, etc.).
- Submit ID, address, and income proof.
- Wait for approval—typically within 15 days.
How to Maximise Amex Card Benefits
From earning extra rewards to enjoying travel perks, a few smart moves can unlock the full potential of your card. Dive into these practical tips to make the most of your American Express card with these tips:
- Monitor Spending: Use the Amex app to track transactions and stay on budget.
- Boost Rewards: Shop with partners like Amazon or Uber for extra points.
- Pay Promptly: Clear dues monthly to skip interest charges.
- Grab Offers: Explore Amex’s exclusive deals on dining, shopping, and travel.
Also Read: SBI Personal Loan: List of Loans, Interest Rates & More
Charges With American Express Cards
As an Indian student considering Amex Cards, knowing the fees and costs involved is essential for making informed financial decisions. American Express, or Amex, provides premium credit and charge cards packed with advantages like rewards, travel benefits, and exclusive privileges. However, these perks come with certain charges. Let’s explore the key costs tied to American Express Cards in India to help you decide if they align with your budget and lifestyle.
Annual Membership Fees for American Express Cards
Each American Express Card carries an annual fee, which depends on the card’s features. Here’s a snapshot:
- SmartEarn™ Credit Card: INR 495 + taxes for the first year, then INR 495 + taxes annually (waived if you spend INR 40,000 the prior year)—a budget-friendly pick for students.
- Membership Rewards® Credit Card: INR 1,000 + taxes initially, rising to INR 4,500 + taxes from year two (waived fully with INR 1,50,000 in yearly spends).
- Platinum Travel Credit Card: INR 3,500 + taxes in year one, then INR 5,000 + taxes.
- Platinum Charge Card: INR 66,000 + taxes yearly, offering elite benefits.
With an 18% GST added, the Platinum Charge Card totals INR 77,880 annually. For students, it’s worth assessing if the perks match the fee based on their spending patterns.
Interest Rates on American Express Cards
Failing to clear your full balance each month triggers interest charges on American Express credit cards. The standard rate hovers at 3.6% per month (around 43.2% annually), escalating to 3.99% monthly after three missed payments in a year.
For example, an unpaid INR 10,000 could rack up INR 360 in monthly interest. Charge cards, such as the Platinum or Gold, demand full repayment per cycle, avoiding interest unless you opt into a payment plan. Pay on time to keep costs down!
Cash Withdrawal Fees on American Express Cards
Using your American Express Card to withdraw cash at ATMs incurs a fee of 3.5% of the amount (minimum INR 250), plus immediate interest at 3.6% monthly until repaid. Withdrawing INR 5,000, for instance, adds an INR 250 fee and ongoing interest. Students should reserve this option for emergencies, as the expenses pile up quickly.
Overseas Transaction Fees with Amex Cards
Love shopping on global websites or traveling abroad? American Express Cards apply a 3.5% markup on foreign currency purchases. Spending USD 100 (roughly INR 8,400) adds INR 294 in fees after conversion to rupees. This makes international use costlier, so consider if your card’s travel rewards balance out this expense.
Penalties for Late Payments with Amex Cards
If you miss your payment due date, American Express levies late fees based on your balance:
- INR 300 for dues between INR 1,000 and INR 10,000.
- INR 700 for INR 10,001 to INR 20,000.
- INR 1,000 for amounts above INR 20,000.
Interest at 3.6% monthly also applies. Avoid these charges by setting payment alerts via the Amex app.
Add-On Card Fees with American Express
Adding a family member to your Amex Card involves fees for supplementary cards. The Platinum Charge Card includes free add-ons, while the SmartEarn Credit Card charges INR 495 + taxes per supplementary card annually. This lets you share benefits like lounge access, but plan for the extra cost.
For Indian students, American Express Cards deliver more than just convenience—they’re a ticket to smarter money management and exciting rewards. Whether you choose the affordable SmartEarn or the travel-ready Platinum Travel card, Amex helps you stretch every rupee.
FAQs on American Express Cards
American Express Cards are premium credit and charge cards offered by American Express, a globally trusted financial company. These cards come with exciting rewards, travel perks, and lifestyle benefits. In India, Amex provides a range of cards to match different needs and spending habits.
Yes, Amex Cards are great for students who want to manage their money smartly and enjoy added perks. Cards like SmartEarn™ offer low fees and high rewards on everyday spending. Plus, students can apply as supplementary cardholders with family support.
Most Amex cards require a minimum annual income of INR 4.5 lakh. However, students with part-time jobs or family backing can still be eligible. You can also apply for an add-on card if a family member already owns an Amex card.
To be eligible for an American Express card in India, you must:
– Be at least 18 years old.
– Be a resident of India, with cards available in cities like Mumbai, Delhi, Bangalore, etc.
– Have a minimum annual income of INR 4.5 lakh.
(Students with part-time income or those supported by family may also qualify as supplementary cardholders.)
– Maintain a good credit history.
An American Express card acts as a credit or charge card that allows you to:
– Make purchases in stores and online.
– Earn rewards points on spending that can be redeemed for vouchers, travel, or merchandise.
– Enjoy travel perks, like airport lounge access and hotel memberships.
– Get access to exclusive deals, concierge services, and 24/7 customer support.
– Make contactless payments and even split large purchases into EMIs.
Not necessarily, entry-level cards like the SmartEarn™ Credit Card are more accessible, especially for young professionals and students with part-time income. Also, individuals with family support acting as co-applicants or guarantors can get American Express cards easily.
The American Express SmartEarn™ Credit Card is perfect for beginners due to its low annual fee and generous reward program. You earn 10X points on Amazon, Flipkart, and Uber, making it ideal for everyday use. It’s a budget-friendly option for students and young professionals.
A credit card lets you carry forward a balance with interest, while a charge card must be paid off in full each month. Charge cards, like the Platinum Card, offer elite travel and lifestyle benefits. They are better suited for high-spending users looking for luxury perks.
To apply, visit the official Amex India website, pick your card, and click on “Apply Now.” Fill in your details and upload income and ID proof. Once submitted, approval usually takes up to 15 working days.
Yes, Amex Cards are accepted worldwide, making them great for travel and online shopping abroad. But a 3.5% foreign transaction fee applies to non-INR purchases. Consider this cost when using your card internationally.
Yes, Amex cards reward you for spending—typically 1 point for every INR 50 spent. Some cards offer higher points for specific categories like travel, shopping, or food delivery. These points can be redeemed for vouchers, gadgets, or travel bookings.
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