Credit cards have become an essential part of modern financial planning, offering convenience, rewards, and a powerful tool for building credit history. Among India’s top credit card issuers, HDFC Bank stands out due to its wide range of card options, attractive benefits, and robust customer service. Whether you’re a first-time applicant or someone looking to upgrade your credit card, understanding the process and eligibility criteria can significantly increase your chances of getting credit card approval from HDFC Bank.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying for and getting approved for an HDFC Bank credit card, including eligibility criteria, required documents, tips for approval, and more.
1. Understanding HDFC Bank’s Credit Card Offerings
Before you apply for an HDFC credit card, it’s important to know the types of cards the bank offers. HDFC has a variety of cards that cater to different spending patterns, income levels, and lifestyle needs:
Popular Categories of HDFC Credit Cards:
- Shopping Cards (e.g., HDFC Millennia, MoneyBack)
- Travel Cards (e.g., HDFC Regalia, Diners ClubMiles)
- Premium Cards (e.g., Infinia, Diners Black)
- Fuel Cards (e.g., IndianOil HDFC Bank Credit Card)
- Cashback Cards (e.g., Millennia, Freedom Credit Card)
- Business Cards (for self-employed and business professionals)
Each card has unique benefits, fees, and eligibility criteria. Choosing the right card based on your spending habits increases your approval chances.
2. Eligibility Criteria for HDFC Credit Card
HDFC Bank has set specific eligibility conditions depending on the card you apply for. However, some general criteria apply across most card types.
Basic Eligibility:
- Age: 21 to 60 years (salaried), 21 to 65 years (self-employed)
- Income: Minimum monthly income of ₹15,000 (for basic cards); higher income needed for premium cards
- Credit Score: CIBIL score of 750 or above is highly recommended
- Employment: Stable income source—either salaried or self-employed
Additional Factors Considered:
- Existing relationship with HDFC Bank (savings account, loans, FD, etc.)
- Geographic location (availability of card services)
- Internal credit scoring system of HDFC Bank
3. Documents Required for HDFC Credit Card Application
To process your credit card application, HDFC Bank requires you to submit certain documents. Keeping them ready will speed up the process.
Documents List:
- Identity Proof (any one):
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport
- PAN Card
- Voter ID
- Driving License
- Address Proof (any one):
- Aadhaar Card
- Utility Bill (not older than 3 months)
- Rental agreement
- Passport
- Income Proof:
- Salaried: Latest 3 months’ salary slips + bank statement
- Self-employed: ITR of last 1-2 years, business financials, bank statement
- PAN Card – Mandatory for all applicants
- Photograph – Passport-size color photo (in offline applications)
4. How to Apply for an HDFC Bank Credit Card
HDFC Bank offers multiple ways to apply for a credit card. Choose the one that’s most convenient for you:
a) Online Application:
- Visit the official HDFC Bank credit card page.
- Select the credit card you want.
- Click on “Apply Now.”
- Fill in personal and income details.
- Upload the necessary documents.
- Submit the form.
Once submitted, you’ll get an application ID and receive regular updates via SMS/email.
b) Mobile Banking App:
- Open the HDFC Bank app.
- Go to “Cards” → “Credit Cards.”
- Choose your card and follow the instructions to apply.
c) Through NetBanking:
- If you’re an existing HDFC customer:
- Log in to NetBanking
- Navigate to “Cards” → “Apply for Credit Card”
- Select from the pre-approved offers (if available)
d) Offline via Branch:
- Visit the nearest HDFC Bank branch.
- Meet with a banking representative.
- Fill in the form and submit documents.
5. Factors That Influence HDFC Bank Credit Card Approval
HDFC Bank evaluates your application based on a mix of external and internal criteria. Here are the main factors that affect approval:
a) Credit Score:
- A high credit score (750+) significantly boosts approval chances.
- Low scores can lead to rejection or reduced credit limit.
b) Income Level:
- Cards have different income eligibility; premium cards require higher monthly income.
- HDFC will cross-verify your income through documents and bank statements.
c) Existing Debt:
- If you already have multiple loans or EMIs, it might lower your chances.
- A high debt-to-income ratio is a red flag for lenders.
d) Bank Relationship:
- Existing customers with savings accounts, FDs, or loans often receive pre-approved credit card offers.
- A healthy banking history is a strong positive.
e) Occupation Stability:
- Salaried employees with reputed companies or government jobs are preferred.
- Self-employed applicants need to show consistent income through ITRs.
f) Location:
- Some cards are not available in all cities.
- Your geographic location may affect eligibility and delivery timelines.
6. Tips to Get Quick Credit Card Approval from HDFC Bank
✅ Choose the Right Card:
Don’t apply for premium cards unless your income and credit profile match the requirements.
✅ Maintain a Healthy Credit Score:
Pay all EMIs, credit card bills, and loan dues on time. Check your CIBIL score before applying.
✅ Apply through HDFC Relationship:
If you have a savings or salary account, apply via NetBanking or mobile app to unlock pre-approved offers.
✅ Provide Complete and Correct Details:
Mistakes or inconsistencies in your application can lead to rejection. Double-check your details before submitting.
✅ Submit All Documents:
Incomplete documentation is a common reason for application rejection. Upload/submit everything in one go.
✅ Avoid Multiple Applications:
Do not apply for multiple credit cards across different banks at the same time. It harms your credit score.
7. What Happens After You Apply?
After submission, here’s what you can expect in the processing journey:
Application Processing Timeline:
- Initial screening: 1-2 business days
- Verification call: You might get a call to verify details
- Document check & credit score evaluation: 2-4 working days
- Final decision & dispatch: Total 5–10 working days
How to Check Status:
- Visit HDFC Bank’s credit card application status page
- Enter your mobile number and application ID/reference number
- Or check status via NetBanking (for existing customers)
8. What to Do if Your Application is Rejected?
Credit card rejections are disappointing but not final. Here’s how to handle it:
Steps After Rejection:
- Check the Reason: You may get an SMS or email stating the reason. If not, call HDFC customer care.
- Improve Credit Score: If low credit score is the reason, pay off debts and wait 3–6 months before reapplying.
- Increase Income Documentation: Show proof of additional income like rent, dividends, freelance earnings.
- Apply for a Different Card: Choose a basic card with easier eligibility.
- Consider FD-backed Cards: HDFC offers secured credit cards against fixed deposits (like HDFC MoneyBack+ Secured).
9. Best HDFC Credit Cards for Easy Approval
If you’re just starting or have a moderate credit profile, these cards are relatively easier to get:
✔ HDFC MoneyBack+ Credit Card
- Minimum income: ₹15,000/month
- Good for cashback on daily spends
✔ HDFC Millennia Credit Card
- Minimum income: ₹25,000/month
- Offers 5% cashback on Amazon, Flipkart, and more
✔ HDFC Freedom Card
- Minimum income: ₹15,000/month
- Comes with cashback and rewards on essentials
✔ HDFC EasyEMI Card
- Designed for easy EMI conversion
- Ideal for salaried people starting with credit
10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I get an HDFC credit card without a salary slip?
Yes, if you’re self-employed or have other income proof (like ITR or business income), you can still apply.
Q2: Is it possible to get a credit card without a CIBIL score?
Yes. HDFC Bank may offer a secured credit card (FD-based) if you don’t have a credit history.
Q3: How much time does HDFC take to approve a credit card?
Typically, 5–10 working days from the date of application.
Q4: Can students apply for an HDFC credit card?
Not directly, unless they have a source of income or apply for a secured credit card with an FD.
Q5: Will HDFC give me a credit card if I have an existing loan?
Yes, but your debt-to-income ratio and repayment history will be assessed.
Conclusion
Getting a credit card from HDFC Bank can be simple and rewarding—if you’re well-prepared. From choosing the right card and ensuring eligibility to submitting complete documents and maintaining a good credit score, every step counts. By following the advice in this guide, you can significantly increase your chances of getting approved.
And even if you’re not eligible today, take the necessary steps—like improving your credit score or opening a fixed deposit—to build your way up. HDFC Bank also frequently offers pre-approved cards to existing customers, so maintaining a good relationship with the bank is always a smart move.
