Debit Card
A debit card is a secure and convenient payment tool linked to your bank account, allowing you to make purchases online and offline, withdraw cash from ATMs, and use contactless payments without carrying cash. It provides access to the funds in your savings or current account and often includes additional benefits such as reward points, cashback, fuel surcharge waivers, airport lounge access, merchant discounts, and basic insurance coverage. Here, you can explore the top debit cards in India along with their key features, limits, fees, and benefits to help you choose the right one for your needs.
Best Debit Cards in India for November 2025
Debit cards are available in multiple variants, each offering different features and benefits to match your spending habits. Below is a curated list of some of the best debit cards in India from leading banks, helping you compare their features, rewards, limits and charges so you can choose the one that fits your financial needs.
| ATM/Debit Cards | Daily ATM Limit | Daily Shopping Limit | Best Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Easyshop Platinum Debit Card | Rs. 1 Lakh | Rs. 5 Lakh | Earn 1 cashback point on every Rs. 200 spent |
| ICICI Coral Debit Card | Rs. 1 Lakh | Rs. 5 Lakh | Get 2 reward points on every Rs. 200 spent |
| HDFC Millennia Debit Card | Rs. 50,000 | Rs. 3.5 Lakh | 2.5% cashback points on all online spends |
| SBI IOCL Debit Card | Up to Rs. 40,000 | Up to Rs. 2 Lakh | Up to 6 reward points for every Rs. 200 spent on IOCL (Indian Oil) outlets |
| Axis Bank Platinum RuPay Debit Card | Rs. 40,000 | Up to Rs. 2 Lakh | Enjoy Airport lounge access, Dining discounts via Dining Delights Program |
| SBI Platinum International Debit Card | Up to Rs. 1 Lakh | Up to Rs. 2 Lakh | Avail 2 reward points per Rs. 200 spent |
| Kotak 811 #Dream Different Debit Card | Rs. 25,000 | Up to Rs. 1 Lakh | Discounts and cashbacks offer on popular brands |
| SBI Global International Debit Card | Up to Rs. 40,000 | Up to Rs. 75,000 | Get 2 reward points for every Rs. 200 spent |
Note: The debit card information listed above is updated as of November 2025 and reflects the maximum shopping limits offered by each card.
Features and Benefits of a Debit/ATM Card
A Debit/ATM card offers a convenient, secure, and versatile way to access your money. Depending on the card type issued by your bank, you can use it for domestic as well as international transactions. Below are some of the major features and advantages:
Alternate to Carrying Cash
A debit card functions directly through your bank account, making it a safer and more convenient option than carrying cash. It lowers the chances of theft, loss, or misuse since the funds are securely stored in your account.
Instant Access to Funds
With thousands of ATMs available across cities and towns, you can withdraw cash instantly whenever needed. This provides flexibility and ensures you always have quick access to your money.
No Interest or EMI Charges
Debit cards work on a simple principle—spend only what you have in your account. Since the money is deducted instantly, there are no interest charges, late fees, or EMI burdens that come with credit cards.
Easy and Contactless Payments
Most modern debit cards support contactless payments, allowing smooth and faster transactions at POS terminals. Whether shopping online or making offline purchases, payments become easier and more secure.
Rewards and Offers
Many debit cards come with rewarding features such as cashback, reward points, dining offers, fuel surcharge waivers, and even airport lounge access depending on the card variant. This enhances the overall value of your daily spending.
Convenient for Travel
Debit/ATM cards are lightweight, simple to handle, and much safer than carrying bundles of cash or cheque books. They are widely accepted at ATMs and merchant outlets globally, making them ideal for frequent travelers.
Easy Expense Tracking
Banks send instant SMS and email notifications for every transaction, helping you monitor your spending in real time. This makes budget planning and financial tracking much easier.
Eligibility Criteria for a Debit Card
Banks issue debit cards to individuals who meet certain basic requirements. These criteria may vary slightly across institutions, but the standard eligibility guidelines are listed below:
Citizenship Requirement
The applicant must be an Indian citizen to apply for a debit card through any Indian bank.
Minimum Age
Most banks require applicants to be at least 15 years old. Some banks may offer special debit cards for minors under supervised accounts.
Existing Bank Account
To obtain a debit card, you must hold an active savings or current account with the issuing bank. The card is linked directly to this account for transactions.
KYC Compliance
Applicants must complete the bank’s Know Your Customer (KYC) process. This typically includes submitting valid identity proof, address proof, and recent photographs as per regulatory norms.
Minimum Balance Requirement
Many banks require account holders to maintain a specific minimum balance in their savings or current account. The limit may vary depending on the account type and bank policy.
Documents Required for a Debit Card
To apply for a debit card, banks usually rely on the documents already submitted while opening a savings or current account. In most cases, no additional paperwork is needed. As long as your Know Your Customer (KYC) verification is completed, you can easily receive a debit card from your bank. Below are the standard documents required:
PAN Card
A PAN card is commonly requested during KYC. If you do not have one, Form 16 or Form 60 may be required depending on the bank’s policy.
Identity and Address Proof
You need to provide valid documents for both identity and residential verification. Accepted proofs generally include:
Passport
Driving Licence
Voter ID Card
Aadhaar Card (as per bank policy)
These documents help the bank verify your identity and ensure compliance with regulatory guidelines during the issuance of your debit card.
Top 10 Debit Cards Offering Airport Lounge Access in India
Several premium debit cards in India offer complimentary airport lounge access, making travel more comfortable and rewarding. Below is a list of some of the best debit cards that provide lounge visits each year. The access count mentioned applies to domestic lounges on a calendar-year basis, and benefits are usually subject to minimum spend requirements set by the bank.
HDFC Bank Infiniti Debit Card – 16 domestic lounge visits per year
ICICI Bank Sapphiro Debit Card – 16 domestic lounge visits per year
IDFC FIRST Wealth Debit Card – 12 domestic lounge visits per year
Axis Bank Burgundy Debit Card – 12 domestic lounge visits per year
Axis Bank Wealth Debit Card – 12 domestic lounge visits per year
Bank of Baroda EaseMyTrip Debit Card – 8 domestic lounge visits per year
HDFC Bank EasyShop Platinum Debit Card – 8 domestic lounge visits per year
ICICI Bank Coral Paywave Debit Card – 8 domestic lounge visits per year
IDFC FIRST Visa Signature Debit Card – 8 domestic lounge visits per year
ICICI Bank Platinum Debit Card – 8 domestic lounge visits per year
Additional perks:
IDFC FIRST Wealth Debit Card also provides 8 complimentary international lounge visits annually.
Bank of Baroda EaseMyTrip Debit Card offers 2 complimentary international lounge visits each year.
How Does a Debit Card Work?
A debit card is directly linked to your savings or current account. Every time you make a purchase, withdraw cash, or conduct an online transaction, the amount is instantly deducted from the available balance in your bank account. Below is a simple explanation of how a debit/ATM card works across different platforms:
Using a Debit Card at ATMs
Insert or swipe your debit card at the ATM machine
Select your preferred language
Choose your account type (Savings or Current)
Select the desired service such as cash withdrawal, mini-statement, or balance enquiry
Enter your 4-digit PIN
Enter the withdrawal amount
Confirm the transaction and collect your cash and receipt (if required)
Using a Debit Card at POS (Point-of-Sale) Terminals
Tap (for contactless), swipe, or insert your debit card into the merchant’s card machine
The cashier enters the payable amount
Verify the amount and enter your 4-digit PIN
The payment is processed and approved instantly
Using a Debit Card for Online Payments
Visit a trusted and secure website or app
Enter your debit card number, cardholder name, expiry date, and CVV
Confirm the payment by entering the OTP sent to your registered mobile number
Once verified, the transaction is completed and the amount is debited immediately
Debit Card Fees and Charges
Banks may apply various fees and service charges on debit cards depending on the card type, issuing bank, and usage pattern. Below is a detailed explanation of the most common charges associated with debit/ATM cards:
Annual Maintenance Charge (AMC)
Banks levy an annual fee for maintaining and providing debit card services. The charges typically range from Rs. 100 to Rs. 1,000 per year, depending on the card variant. Some banks offer zero AMC on salary account debit cards or basic savings accounts.
Card Replacement Fee
If your debit card is lost, stolen, or damaged, the bank may charge a replacement fee.
Some banks, like HDFC Bank, may waive the fee in cases of physical damage but charge around Rs. 200 for lost cards.
Other banks, such as SBI, may charge between Rs. 100 and Rs. 300 depending on the card type.
PIN Regeneration or Duplicate PIN Charge
If you forget your PIN, most banks allow you to regenerate your ATM PIN free of cost through net banking, mobile apps, ATMs, or SMS services.
Cash Withdrawal Charges
Withdrawals made from your own bank’s ATM are usually free up to a certain monthly limit. Banks also permit a limited number of free transactions at other banks’ ATMs. After exceeding this limit, charges apply—commonly around Rs. 23 per additional transaction. These include both financial and non-financial transactions (like balance inquiry).
International Transaction Charges
When you use your debit card abroad, banks apply fees such as:
Cross-currency markup (up to 3.5% of the transaction value)
ATM withdrawal charges
Balance inquiry fees
These charges vary based on the bank’s policies and the network (Visa, Mastercard, RuPay).
Point-of-Sale (POS) Terminal Fees
Payments made at POS terminals within India are generally free of cost. However:
Fuel purchases may attract a surcharge of around 1%
Many banks provide full or partial waiver of fuel surcharge when using specific debit cards at select fuel outlets
Pros & Cons of Debit Card
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| No debt incurred, as you use your own funds | Fewer features, rewards and benefits in comparison to credit cards |
| No interest charges | Does not give additional purchasing power over and above the funds in your account |
| Easy to avail for ATM withdrawals and Shopping | Limited milestone/welcome/renewal benefits |
| Limited fee & charges | Does not help in building credit score |
| Fast approval process | Inability to have disposable cash in the account |
Pros & Cons of Debit Card
Using a debit card safely is essential to protect your money and prevent fraud. Here are some important practices every debit card user should follow:
Do’s
Report Loss Immediately
If your debit card is lost or stolen, inform your bank right away. Quick reporting helps block the card and prevents unauthorized transactions.
Monitor SMS and Email Alerts
Keep an eye on the transaction alerts sent by your bank. This helps you spot any suspicious or unrecognized activity instantly.
Authenticate Every Transaction
Always complete transactions by entering your PIN, OTP, or signature as required. Avoid handing your card to anyone during the payment process.
Enable Transaction Alerts
Activate SMS and email notifications for all card transactions. These alerts help you stay updated on every debit card spend.
Review Your Account Statements Regularly
Check your monthly bank statements to ensure all transactions are accurate and accounted for. This helps identify errors or discrepancies early.
Don’ts
Do Not Share Your PIN
Never share your debit card PIN through calls, messages, social media, or emails. Memorize your PIN and avoid writing it down where others can access it.
Avoid Unsafe Websites
Do not use your debit card on insecure or unknown online platforms. Always ensure the website has verified security features such as HTTPS, secure payment gateways, and multi-factor authentication.
Do Not Damage the Card
Avoid exposing your debit card to sharp objects, strong magnetic fields, or extreme conditions. The magnetic stripe or chip can get damaged, making the card unusable.
Comparison between Debit Card and Credit Card
| Debit Card | Credit Card |
|---|---|
| Linked to your bank account | Borrowed funds from credit card issuer |
| Debit card is offered along with your salary/current/savings account | Credit Card can be applied even without holding a bank account with the issuer |
| Spends up to account balance in your bank account | Spends as per the assigned credit limit |
| No interest charged | Interest charged on the unpaid balance |
| Transactions deducted immediately from your bank account | Option of Pay later; monthly bill with minimum amount due and interest |
| No monthly payment required | Monthly payment due as per the monthly repayment cycle |
| No impact on credit score, as its your own money | Impacts your credit score, depending upon your timely repayments |
| Limited rewards and cashback benefits | Extensive rewards and cashback, lounge access, travel miles, insurance, and exclusive offers |
| EMI facility is limited, as per the vendor-bank agreement | Credit Cards offer EMI facility on transactions above Rs. 1,000, in general |
| Debit card offer higher cash withdrawal limits | Credit cards offer cash withdrawal at higher costs |
FAQs
What is a Debit Card?
A debit card is a payment instrument issued by your bank that lets you access money directly from your savings or current account. You can use it for ATM withdrawals, online shopping, in-store purchases, contactless payments, automatic bill payments, and international transactions depending on your card type.
Can I get a debit card for free?
Yes, most banks provide a basic debit card or salary account debit card with zero joining and annual fees. Premium debit cards may come with higher charges but offer additional benefits.
What are the benefits of using a debit card?
A debit card offers instant access to your bank funds, ATM withdrawals, quick payments at stores, secure online transactions, contactless payments, and domestic and international usability. Some cards also provide cashback, rewards, and airport lounge access.
What types of debit cards are offered by banks in India?
Banks issue debit cards based on payment networks such as Visa, Mastercard, and RuPay. These cards may be contactless, virtual, premium, student-oriented, or government-sponsored. Visa and Mastercard are accepted globally, while RuPay cards are mainly used within India and select partnered countries.
What are the components of a debit card?
A debit card typically includes the cardholder’s name, 16-digit card number, EMV chip, CVV, issue and expiry date, magnetic stripe, hologram, and payment network logo. These elements help verify identity, authorize transactions, and enhance security.
How do I apply for a Debit/ATM card online?
You can apply through your bank’s website, mobile banking app, or by opening a new savings, current, or salary account. For upgrades or replacements, you can contact your bank directly through customer care or branch visit.
How do I activate my debit card?
You can activate your card via mobile banking, net banking, phone banking, or by making a PIN setup transaction at an ATM. Some banks also allow activation through SMS instructions.
What is CVV on a debit card?
The CVV (Card Verification Value) is a 3-digit or 4-digit security code printed on your debit card. It is required for online purchases and helps prevent unauthorized use of your card details.
Can I use my debit card for airport lounge access?
Yes, certain premium debit cards offer complimentary lounge access at domestic and international airports. Popular options include HDFC Bank Infiniti, ICICI Bank Sapphiro, IDFC FIRST Wealth, Axis Burgundy, and Bank of Baroda EaseMyTrip Debit Card. Lounge visits are usually subject to minimum spending conditions.
How can I check if my debit card has lounge access?
You can review your card’s features on the bank’s website, mobile app, or in the welcome kit provided with your debit card. You can also call customer support for confirmation.
How do I check my debit card EMI eligibility?
To check debit card EMI availability, contact your bank’s customer care or refer to the EMI section on the bank’s app or website. Only select banks provide debit card EMI on eligible transactions.
What benefits can I get from a debit card?
Debit cards offer ATM withdrawals, high transaction limits, free ATM usage (within limits), online/offline payments, and access to your bank balance anytime. Many cards also include cashback, reward points, lounge visits, fuel surcharge relief, insurance cover, and partner discounts.
What should I do if my debit card is lost or stolen?
Report the loss immediately to your bank through customer care, mobile banking, net banking, or branch visit. Request card blocking to prevent unauthorized use. Many banks also offer SMS or missed-call services for instant card blocking.
How can I protect my debit card from fraud?
Use secure ATMs, enable SMS/email alerts, disable international transactions when not needed, and never share your PIN or CVV. Avoid writing your PIN on paper or saving it in unsecured places.
What is a Virtual Debit Card?
A virtual debit card is a digital version of your physical debit card, created for online payments and in-app transactions. It usually has lower spending limits and can be managed through your bank’s mobile app.
Which banks offer virtual debit cards?
Major Indian banks like SBI, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Axis Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, PNB, and Yes Bank offer virtual debit cards to encourage safe digital payments.
What is Debit Card Tokenization?
Tokenization replaces your actual debit card number with a unique token during online transactions. This prevents merchants from storing your real card details, enhancing security. This system is mandatory as per RBI rules from October 1, 2022.
How do I get my debit card token?
When making a payment on websites or apps like Amazon, Myntra, Zomato, etc., enter your card details and select “Save card as per RBI guidelines.” After verifying the OTP, a unique token is created and stored instead of your real card number.
Are Debit Cards and ATM Cards the same?
Not exactly. An ATM card is used mainly for withdrawing cash or checking balance at ATMs. A debit card does everything an ATM card does plus enables online shopping, POS payments, contactless transactions, and more. All debit cards work as ATM cards, but not all ATM cards function as debit cards.
Should I choose a debit card or a credit card?
Choose a debit card if you prefer spending only from your available bank balance. Choose a credit card if you want to build credit, earn higher rewards, and need short-term borrowing. Your choice depends on your spending habits and financial needs.
Why is my debit card not working?
Common reasons include insufficient balance, reaching your daily withdrawal limit, entering the wrong PIN, using a damaged card, or having an inactive or blocked bank account.