Vistara Co-branded Credit Card Changes: What IDFC & SBI Users Must Know!

Co-branded credit cards have become a game-changer for frequent travelers, offering exclusive perks such as complimentary lounge access, reward points, and travel insurance. One of the most popular choices for aviation enthusiasts has been the Vistara co-branded credit cards issued by IDFC First Bank and SBI Card. However, recent changes in their benefits and reward structures have left many cardholders wondering if they should continue using these cards or explore alternatives.

If you are an existing cardholder or considering getting a Vistara co-branded credit card, this article will break down all the announced modifications, how they impact users, and what alternatives you can consider.

Why Are These Changes Happening?

Credit card companies frequently revise their benefits and reward structures based on changing customer behavior, market trends, and business strategies. With evolving travel habits post-pandemic and increasing competition in the credit card industry, both IDFC First Bank and SBI Card have made adjustments to their Vistara co-branded credit card offerings.

While some modifications may enhance customer experience, others might reduce the value cardholders previously enjoyed. Understanding these changes will help you make an informed decision about whether to retain, downgrade, or upgrade your card.

Key Changes in Vistara Co-branded Credit Cards

1. Modifications in Reward Points Accrual

Previously, Vistara co-branded credit cards offered generous Club Vistara (CV) Points on various spending categories, allowing users to accumulate miles quickly and redeem them for flight tickets. However, the new structure alters the reward rates, making it slightly harder to earn CV Points.

For instance:

• Certain spending categories that earlier offered 4-6 CV Points per ₹200 spent may now offer lower points.
• A cap may be introduced on the number of CV Points earned per billing cycle to prevent excessive accumulation.
• Bonus points on milestone spends may be reduced or restricted to specific transactions.

This means that if you were relying on your Vistara credit card to earn free flights quickly, you may need to rethink your spending patterns.

2. Lounge Access and Travel Perks Adjustments

One of the biggest attractions of these co-branded credit cards was the complimentary domestic and international lounge access. Under the revised policy:

• The number of free domestic lounge visits per year may be reduced or tied to annual spending limits.
• Complimentary Priority Pass lounge access (for select cardholders) may now have limitations on international visits.
• Air ticket discounts or upgrades might come with revised terms, making them less attractive than before.

Frequent flyers who rely on lounge benefits should check whether the revised terms still align with their travel needs.

3. Increased Joining and Renewal Fees

Credit card issuers periodically revise their annual fees based on market demand and added benefits. Recent changes suggest:

• An increase in the joining fee and annual renewal fee, especially for premium versions of the Vistara co-branded cards.
• Some cards that previously offered fee waivers on annual spends might now have a higher spending threshold to qualify for the waiver.

If you’re someone who maintains this credit card just for the travel perks, it’s important to compare whether the revised fees justify the benefits you actually use.

4. Changes in Insurance and Forex Markup Fees

Many premium credit cards provide travel insurance coverage, including protection for lost baggage, flight cancellations, and emergency medical expenses. The new updates might:

• Introduce stricter claim conditions on existing insurance coverage.
• Revise forex markup fees for international transactions, potentially making the card more expensive for foreign travel.

For users who travel abroad frequently, a higher forex markup fee could significantly increase transaction costs.

Should You Continue Using the Vistara Co-branded Credit Card?

With these changes in place, the big question is – should you keep using the Vistara credit card? The answer depends on how much you use the card for travel-related benefits and whether the revised rewards still suit your spending habits.

• If you frequently travel with Vistara and still find value in the CV Points, lounge access, and ticket upgrades, you might choose to retain the card despite the changes.
• If you primarily use the card for everyday expenses and rely on the reward points system, you may want to compare other travel or cashback credit cards with better reward structures.
• If the increased fees and reduced benefits outweigh the perks you actually use, it may be time to consider an alternative credit card.

Best Alternatives to Vistara Co-branded Credit Cards

If you are considering switching, here are a few alternative credit cards that might suit your needs:

1. Axis Vistara Credit Card – Offers similar Club Vistara benefits with different fee structures.

2. HDFC Diners Club Privilege – Provides strong travel perks with a good balance of lounge access and rewards.

3. Amex Platinum Travel Card – Ideal for frequent travelers with excellent travel insurance coverage.

4. SBI Elite Card – While not co-branded with Vistara, it provides strong travel perks, including international lounge access.

Before making a switch, check the fine print, especially on rewards, fees, and lounge access, to ensure the new card aligns with your spending habits.

Final Thoughts

Credit card benefits evolve over time, and it’s essential to stay informed about any changes that impact your financial planning. If you currently hold an IDFC First Bank or SBI Vistara Co-branded Credit Card, make sure to review your monthly expenses and travel habits to determine whether the revised terms still align with your needs.

For frequent Vistara flyers, the card may still be useful, but for those who rely on it for general spending and occasional travel perks, it may be worth exploring other options. Stay updated with your bank’s official announcements to ensure you’re maximizing your benefits while minimizing unnecessary costs.