IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card Review: Detailed 2026 Update
- Quick Verdict
- Card at a Glance
- Fees & Welcome Benefits
- Reward Point System Explained
- Travel & Lounge Benefits
- Milestone Benefits & Fee Waivers
- Pros & Cons
- Who Should Get This Card?
- Final Conclusion
Quick Verdict
Is it good? Yes, the IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card is a solid choice for those looking for a lifetime free card with decent rewards.
Reward rate? The card offers a reward rate of 0.6% to 2% depending on the transaction type.
Best for? It’s best for individuals who frequently travel domestically and want access to airport and railway lounges.
Card at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | Lifetime Free |
| Joining Fee | Lifetime Free |
| Reward Rate | 0.6% – 2% on spends |
| Welcome Benefit | 500 INR voucher on spending >=15,000 INR within 90 days |
| Lounge Access | Domestic: 4 per quarter, International: None |
Fees & Welcome Benefits
The IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card comes with no joining or annual fees, making it a great option for those who want to avoid extra costs. The welcome benefit is a 500 INR voucher, which you can earn by spending 15,000 INR within the first 90 days of getting the card. This is a nice incentive to start using your card right away.
Reward Point System Explained
The reward point system is where things get interesting. You can earn rewards based on your spending categories. Here’s a breakdown:
| Transaction Type | Reward Rate |
|---|---|
| Online Shopping | 2% |
| Dining | 1.5% |
| Utility Bills | 1% |
| Other Transactions | 0.6% |
While the reward rates are decent, it’s important to note that there are restrictions on how you can redeem these points. The redemption fee is 117 INR, which can be a bit of a bummer.
Travel & Lounge Benefits
Travel enthusiasts will appreciate the lounge access benefits. You get access to 4 domestic lounges per quarter, which can be used at both airports and railway stations. However, there’s no international lounge access, which is a downside for frequent flyers.
In our experience, the domestic lounge access is a great perk, especially if you travel often within India. It allows you to relax before your flight or train journey, making your travel experience more enjoyable.
Milestone Benefits & Fee Waivers
While the IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card doesn’t have specific milestone benefits, the lack of annual fees is a significant advantage. You won’t have to worry about meeting spending targets to waive fees, which is a relief for many users.
Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lifetime Free with no joining or annual fees | Recent devaluation reduced card’s credibility |
| Complimentary Roadside Assistance Service | Rewards program has many restrictions |
| Access to both airport and railway lounges | No international lounge access |
| Lower revolving interest rate compared to other banks | Limited usability compared to lucrative cashback cards |
| Decent rewards for high spends | Low reward rate (0.5%) |
| BOGO movie offer | High spend criteria for lounge access (20,000 INR) |
Who Should Get This Card?
This card is ideal for individuals who want a lifetime free credit card without the hassle of annual fees. It’s also great for those who travel domestically and want lounge access. However, if you’re looking for high rewards on every spend, you might want to consider other options like the IDFC FIRST Classic Credit Card Review or the IDFC FIRST Wealth Credit Card Review.
Final Conclusion
In conclusion, the IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card Review shows that this card has its strengths and weaknesses. It’s a good choice for those who want a no-fee card with some travel benefits. However, the recent devaluation and limited rewards may not appeal to everyone. If you frequently use platforms like Swiggy, Zomato, or Amazon.in, you might find better value in cashback cards. Ultimately, it’s about finding the right fit for your spending habits.
For more information, you can check the official IDFC FIRST Bank page or visit CardExpert for detailed comparisons.