IDFC First WOW Review 2026
Last reviewed:
Quick verdict
Arguably the best lifetime-free rewards card available in India right now. 10X points across all spending categories with never-expiring points is an exceptional deal. The 6 domestic plus 2 international lounge visits at zero annual fee make this a no-brainer first card for anyone.
Pros
- Lifetime free — no joining or annual fee
- Airport lounge access: 6 domestic + 2 international per year
- Welcome benefit: 500 reward points on first spend
- Accessible eligibility — minimum income around ₹15,000/month
Cons
- 3.5% + GST forex markup makes it expensive abroad
- Interest of 3.49% per month (41.88% p.a.) if you carry a balance
Key benefits
- No annual or joining fee ever
- 10X reward points on all categories
- 6 domestic + 2 international lounge visits
- Never expiring reward points
Fees & charges at a glance
| Joining Fee | Nil |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | Lifetime Free |
| Rewards | 10X reward points on every spend category |
| Welcome Benefit | 500 reward points on first spend |
| Lounge Access | 6 domestic + 2 international per year |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | 1% waiver on ₹400-₹5,000 txns |
| Foreign Txn Fee | 3.5% + GST |
| Interest Rate | 3.49% per month (41.88% p.a.) |
| Credit Limit | ₹25,000 - ₹5,00,000 |
| Add-On Card Fee | Free |
| Min Income | ₹15,000/month |
| Network | Visa |
| Contactless | Yes |
| EMI Conversion | Yes |
Who should get this card?
The IDFC First WOW is best suited for all-round rewards. It is a rewards card on the Visa network, and IDFC First Bank generally looks for a minimum income of ₹15,000/month. If your spending matches its reward categories (10x reward points on every spend category), the card can pay for its annual fee of Lifetime Free. If not, a lifetime-free card may give you better net value.
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IDFC First WOW: frequently asked questions
What is the annual fee of the IDFC First WOW?
The IDFC First WOW has a joining fee of Nil and an annual fee of Lifetime Free. Since it is lifetime free, you never pay a renewal fee.
What rewards does the IDFC First WOW give?
10X reward points on every spend category. No annual or joining fee ever. 10X reward points on all categories.
Does the IDFC First WOW offer airport lounge access?
Yes. The IDFC First WOW offers 6 domestic + 2 international per year. Lounge programmes are often linked to a minimum spend in the previous quarter, so confirm the current rule with IDFC First Bank.
What is the eligibility and minimum income for the IDFC First WOW?
IDFC First Bank typically requires a minimum income of ₹15,000/month for the IDFC First WOW, along with a good credit score (750+ improves approval chances), age of 21 or above, and valid KYC documents (PAN and Aadhaar).
What is the interest rate on the IDFC First WOW?
The IDFC First WOW charges 3.49% per month (41.88% p.a.) on unpaid balances. Interest is avoided completely if you pay the full statement amount by the due date every month.
What is the forex markup on the IDFC First WOW?
The foreign currency markup on the IDFC First WOW is 3.5% + GST. Cards with a 2% or lower markup are better for frequent international travel and foreign-currency online shopping.
Can I link the IDFC First WOW to UPI?
No. The IDFC First WOW runs on the Visa network. Only RuPay credit cards can be linked to UPI in India at present.
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