ICICI Bank
ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card
This is an invite only card
Top Benefits
Get welcome vouchers worth over ₹13,000
from top brands like Tata CLiQ, EazyDiner, Da Milano, EaseMyTrip and Croma
Enjoy 2 complimentary international lounge visits
every year and 4 complimentary domestic lounge visits every quarter, plus air accident insurance cover of up to ₹3 crore
Best For
Dining
Utility Bills
If you are looking for a premium lifestyle credit card that rewards your travel and daily expenses whil...
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If you are looking for a premium lifestyle credit card that rewards your travel and daily expenses whil...
If you are looking for a premium lifestyle credit card that rewards your travel and daily expenses while offering luxurious perks, the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card might be exactly what you need. Available across Visa, Mastercard, and RuPay networks, this card caters to high-spending individuals who want substantial value back on international transactions, complimentary golf rounds, and excellent lounge access. With a generous welcome package worth over Rs. 13,000, it sets a strong tone right from activation.
This card targets frequent international travelers, golf enthusiasts, and individuals who want a mix of premium lifestyle benefits. Unlike entry-level cashback cards, the ICICI Sapphiro focuses on high-end rewards, giving you 4 reward points for every Rs. 100 spent internationally. Whether you are booking flights abroad, dining out using EazyDiner vouchers, or catching a movie on BookMyShow, this card provides consistent value across multiple categories.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
Is the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card lifetime free?
No, it is not lifetime free. The card comes with a joining fee of Rs. 6,500 and an annual fee of Rs. 3,500, though the annual fee can be waived by meeting specific spending targets.
Who should apply for the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card?
This card is ideal for high-income earners who frequently travel internationally, enjoy playing golf, and want premium welcome benefits. It suits individuals who can comfortably spend Rs. 6 lakh annually to get the renewal fee waived.
What makes this card different from standard credit cards?
It offers premium lifestyle benefits like complimentary international and domestic airport lounge access, up to 4 free golf rounds every month, and a substantial welcome voucher package worth over Rs. 13,000, which you rarely find on basic credit cards.
Is this a good card for beginners?
No, the ICICI Sapphiro is a premium card with strict income criteria (Rs. 75,000 monthly salary) and high fees. It is best suited for experienced credit card users with established, high-spending habits.
Expert Review
In my experience reviewing premium credit cards, the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card creates a very strong first impression. The Rs. 13,000+ welcome package completely justifies the steep Rs. 6,500 joining fee, making the first year incredibly rewarding. The twin benefits of 4 free golf rounds a month and the BookMyShow BOGO offer make it a heavy hitter for lifestyle and entertainment seekers.
However, the card does have a notable flaw. The standard domestic reward rate (2 points per Rs. 100, effectively 0.50% return) is quite weak for a card charging a Rs. 3,500 annual fee. Furthermore, the 3.5% forex markup is high considering it targets international travelers; many competitor travel cards offer 2% or lower markups.
Overall, I recommend the ICICI Sapphiro to high-income individuals who will actually use the golf rounds, maximize the movie discounts, and comfortably hit the Rs. 6 lakh waiver target. If you are just looking for raw reward points on domestic shopping, there are better options available.
Joining / Annual Fee
Joining Fees
₹7,670 ( ₹6500 + GST )
Annual Fees
₹4,130 ( ₹3500 + GST )
Premium cards come with premium pricing, and the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is no exception. Understa...
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Premium cards come with premium pricing, and the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is no exception. Understa...
Premium cards come with premium pricing, and the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is no exception. Understanding the fee structure and how to avoid the renewal fee is crucial to maximizing the value of this card.
The card charges a one-time joining fee of Rs. 6,500 (plus applicable GST). This fee is charged at the time of card issuance as per the bank's policy. While this sounds steep, remember that paying this fee unlocks the welcome benefit vouchers worth over Rs. 13,000, which effectively covers the cost of joining if you use the vouchers.
From the second year onward, the bank charges an annual fee of Rs. 3,500 (plus applicable GST). This fee is charged every year. However, ICICI Bank provides a straightforward way to get this waived. The annual fee is waived if you spend Rs. 6 lakh or more in the preceding anniversary year.
To hit the Rs. 6 lakh waiver target, you need to spend an average of Rs. 50,000 per month on your card. If you use the card for all your daily needs—groceries, dining, utility bills, shopping, and a couple of international trips or flight bookings a year—reaching Rs. 50,000 a month is highly achievable for someone earning the required Rs. 75,000 monthly salary.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the joining fees for this card?
The one-time joining fee is Rs. 6,500 plus applicable GST, charged at the time of card issuance.
Is the joining fee one-time or recurring?
The joining fee is a one-time charge. From the second year onwards, the annual fee applies.
Can the joining fee be waived?
There is no standard waiver for the joining fee, but it is offset by the Rs. 13,000+ welcome vouchers you receive upon payment.
What is the annual or renewal fee?
From the second year onwards, an annual fee of Rs. 3,500 plus GST is charged to your account.
Is there an annual fee waiver option?
Yes, the annual fee of Rs. 3,500 is waived if you spend Rs. 6 lakh or more in the previous anniversary year.
What is the spending requirement for the annual fee waiver?
You need to spend Rs. 6 lakh annually. This breaks down to roughly Rs. 50,000 per month in card spends to secure the waiver.
What happens if I don't meet the fee waiver spending requirement?
If you fail to spend Rs. 6 lakh in a year, the Rs. 3,500 annual fee plus GST will be charged to your next credit card statement.
How can I get this card lifetime free?
Relationship managers often provide lifetime free offers for alumni of premier institutes or top-tier corporate salary account holders based on current bank policies.
Eligibility
Age
Criteria*
21-65 years
Salary
Criteria*
9LPA
Credit
Rating*
720+
New to credit
allowed
No
Existing Bank
Customer Allowed
Yes
Before applying for the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card, you must meet strict age and income requirements....
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Before applying for the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card, you must meet strict age and income requirements....
Before applying for the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card, you must meet strict age and income requirements. This card is targeted at established professionals and business owners, so the income threshold is relatively high.
The minimum age to apply as a primary cardholder is 21 years, and the maximum age allowed at the time of application is 65 years. This age bracket applies to both salaried employees and self-employed individuals.
Income is the most critical factor. For salaried individuals, the bank requires a minimum monthly income of Rs. 75,000. This translates to an annual salary of Rs. 9 lakh. If you earn Rs. 80,000 a month after taxes, you comfortably meet this requirement.
For self-employed applicants, such as freelancers, consultants, or business owners, the requirement is an annual income of Rs. 9 lakh. You will need to show this through your Income Tax Returns (ITR).
Lastly, an excellent credit history is mandatory. You need a minimum CRIF/CIBIL credit score of 720 to be considered for approval. A score of 720 or above shows the bank that you have a reliable track record of repaying previous loans or credit card bills on time.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
What is the minimum age to apply for this card?
The primary applicant must be at least 21 years old to apply for the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card.
What is the maximum age limit for the primary cardholder?
The upper age limit for eligibility is 65 years at the time of application.
What is the minimum salary required for salaried applicants?
Salaried individuals need a minimum monthly income of Rs. 75,000. That equals an annual income requirement of Rs. 9 lakh.
What is the minimum annual income for self-employed applicants?
Self-employed professionals and business owners must demonstrate an annual income of at least Rs. 9 lakh.
Can self-employed individuals apply for this card?
Yes, self-employed professionals can apply as long as they meet the age criteria (21-65 years) and the Rs. 9 lakh annual income requirement.
What credit score (CIBIL/CRIF) is needed for approval?
A minimum CRIF or CIBIL credit score of 720 is required for approval.
Will my application be rejected if my credit score is below the requirement?
Yes, a credit score below 720 significantly increases the chances of rejection, as this is a premium card requiring a strong credit history.
Do I need to have an existing account with ICICI Bank?
An existing bank account is not mandatory, though having a salary account with ICICI Bank often leads to a faster approval process.
All Card Benefits
- Earn 4 reward points per ₹100 spent internationally
- Earn 2 reward points per ₹100 spent domestically
- Earn 1 reward point per ₹100 spent on utilities and insurance.
- Get 4,000 reward points on ₹4 lakh spend & 2,000 for every additional ₹1 lakh spend
Welcome Benefits
The ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card greets you with a massive welcome package worth over...
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Welcome Benefits The ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card greets you with a massive welcome package worth over...
Welcome Benefits
The ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card greets you with a massive welcome package worth over Rs. 13,000. Once you pay the joining fee and activate your card, you receive vouchers from top brands including Tata CLiQ, EazyDiner, Da Milano, EaseMyTrip, and Croma. For instance, if you plan to upgrade a home appliance or book a domestic flight soon after getting the card, these vouchers can immediately offset the Rs. 6,500 joining fee, essentially giving you double the value back right at the start.
Reward Points Structure
The core of the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is its solid reward points program. You earn 4 reward points for every Rs. 100 spent on international transactions, making it highly lucrative for foreign travel. For domestic spends, you earn 2 reward points per Rs. 100. Utility and insurance payments earn 1 reward point per Rs. 100.
Let us look at a practical example. If you spend Rs. 50,000 on a hotel booking in Dubai, you will earn 2,000 reward points. If you spend Rs. 30,000 on domestic shopping, you earn 600 reward points. Since 1 reward point equals Rs. 0.25, those combined 2,600 points give you a value of Rs. 650.
Additionally, the card offers milestone benefits. You get 4,000 bonus reward points when your annual spending reaches Rs. 4 lakh. After that, for every additional Rs. 1 lakh spent in that year, you get another 2,000 reward points. If you spend Rs. 6 lakh in a year, you get 4,000 points (for the Rs. 4 lakh mark) plus 4,000 points (for the next Rs. 2 lakh), totaling 8,000 bonus points worth Rs. 2,000.
Airport Lounge Benefits
Frequent flyers will appreciate the lounge access on this card. You get 2 complimentary international airport lounge visits per year. For domestic travel, you get 4 complimentary domestic lounge visits per quarter. However, the domestic lounge access is conditional: you must spend at least Rs. 75,000 in the previous calendar quarter to unlock the 4 visits for the current quarter.
For example, to enjoy domestic lounge access in April, May, and June, you need to spend Rs. 75,000 or more between January and March. If a standard lounge visit costs Rs. 1,500, maxing out your domestic visits (16 per year) saves you Rs. 24,000 annually.
Movie and Entertainment Benefits
If you love catching the latest movies in theaters, the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card offers a great BookMyShow Buy One Get One (BOGO) deal. Twice a month, when you buy one movie ticket on BookMyShow, you get up to Rs. 500 off on the second ticket.
If you use this benefit twice a month and claim the full Rs. 500 discount each time, you save Rs. 1,000 monthly. Over a year, that translates to Rs. 12,000 in pure savings on entertainment, which easily justifies the annual fee.
Golf Benefits
A standout premium feature of the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is its golf privilege. You get up to 4 complimentary golf rounds every month. If you are an avid golfer, you know that green fees can range from Rs. 2,000 to Rs. 5,000 per round. Utilizing just two free rounds a month could save you roughly Rs. 6,000 monthly, or Rs. 72,000 a year.
Dining Benefits
Dining benefits come bundled primarily within the welcome package. You receive EazyDiner welcome vouchers as part of the initial Rs. 13,000+ reward pack. You can use these vouchers to get significant discounts at premium partner restaurants across the country.
Insurance Benefits
The ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card provides robust insurance coverage. You get air accident insurance cover up to Rs. 3 crore, providing immense peace of mind during your travels. Additionally, if you opt for the RuPay variant of the card, you get a personal accident insurance cover of Rs. 2 lakh.
Fuel Surcharge Waiver
You receive a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on fuel transactions up to Rs. 4,000 per transaction at all fuel pumps across India. If you spend Rs. 4,000 on petrol, you save Rs. 40 on the surcharge. Keep in mind that fuel spends do not earn reward points, but the surcharge waiver helps reduce the extra cost of tanking up.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
How do I qualify for the welcome bonus?
You qualify for the Rs. 13,000+ welcome package after successful card issuance, payment of the joining fee, and meeting the initial activation criteria. Vouchers are typically delivered to your registered mobile number and email within 30 to 45 days of fee payment.
What brands are included in the welcome vouchers?
The welcome package includes vouchers from Tata CLiQ, EazyDiner, Da Milano, EaseMyTrip, and Croma.
Do I get welcome benefits every year?
No, the welcome vouchers are a one-time benefit provided when you first join and pay the Rs. 6,500 joining fee.
What is the total value of the welcome benefits?
The combined value of the welcome vouchers from all participating brands is over Rs. 13,000.
What is the standard reward rate on domestic spends?
You earn 2 reward points for every Rs. 100 spent domestically. This effectively means you get a 0.50% return on everyday domestic purchases.
How many reward points do I earn on international spends?
You earn 4 reward points for every Rs. 100 spent internationally, giving you an effective return rate of 1% on foreign transactions.
What is the value of 1 reward point in rupees?
Each reward point on the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is valued at Rs. 0.25. Therefore, 4 points equal Rs. 1.
Do utility bills earn reward points?
Yes, but at a lower rate. You earn 1 reward point for every Rs. 100 spent on utility and insurance payments.
Are there any milestone bonus points?
Yes, you receive 4,000 bonus reward points upon spending Rs. 4 lakh in a year. You also get an additional 2,000 points for every subsequent Rs. 1 lakh spent.
What transactions are excluded from earning rewards?
Transactions like fuel spends, EMI conversions, wallet loads, cash advances, rent payments, government transactions, education spends, and jewelry purchases do not earn any reward points.
Is there a cap on the milestone points I can earn?
There is no official cap on the milestone bonus reward points you can earn per anniversary year, allowing you to maximize benefits as your annual spending increases.
Do I earn points on fuel purchases?
No, fuel spends are explicitly excluded from the reward points program on this card.
Do I earn points on wallet top-ups?
No, loading money into mobile wallets does not earn any reward points.
How many international lounge visits do I get?
You get 2 complimentary international airport lounge visits every year.
How many domestic lounge visits are allowed?
You can avail up to 4 complimentary domestic airport lounge visits per quarter, totaling 16 visits a year.
Is domestic lounge access unconditional?
No, it requires spending. You must spend Rs. 75,000 in the preceding calendar quarter to activate your 4 domestic lounge visits for the next quarter.
Can my guests use my complimentary lounge visits?
Complimentary lounge visits are restricted to the primary cardholder only. Guests will be charged at the prevailing lounge rates.
Do I get railway lounge benefits with this card?
No, this card does not offer any complimentary railway lounge access.
What is the movie ticket offer on this card?
You can buy one movie ticket and get up to Rs. 500 off on the second ticket through BookMyShow.
How many times can I use the movie offer?
You can use the BookMyShow BOGO offer twice every month.
Is the discount valid on all movie formats?
The discount is valid for all standard 2D and 3D movie ticket formats available across theaters listed on BookMyShow.
What happens if the second ticket costs more than Rs. 500?
You will get a maximum discount of Rs. 500. Any remaining amount for the second ticket must be paid using your ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card.
How many free golf rounds do I get?
You can enjoy up to 4 complimentary golf rounds every month with this card.
Are there spending criteria to unlock the golf rounds?
You must spend a minimum of Rs. 50,000 in the previous calendar month on your card to qualify for the complimentary golf rounds in the following month.
Can I bring a guest to play golf for free?
Complimentary golf rounds apply only to the primary cardholder. Guests are required to pay the standard green fees applicable at the respective golf course.
How do I book a complimentary golf round?
Reserve your tee times through the official ICICI Bank Golf Concierge portal or by calling the dedicated premium concierge desk number found in your card welcome kit.
What dining benefits does this card offer?
The card offers dining benefits through EazyDiner welcome vouchers included in the Rs. 13,000+ welcome pack.
Do I get ongoing dining discounts year-round?
You receive exclusive year-round savings of up to 15% at over 2,500 partner restaurants across India through the ICICI Culinary Treats program.
Can I use the EazyDiner vouchers at any restaurant?
The vouchers can be used at restaurants that are part of the EazyDiner network according to the voucher terms.
Do food delivery apps earn extra rewards?
No, food delivery apps earn the standard domestic rate of 2 reward points per Rs. 100 spent.
What is the air accident insurance coverage amount?
The card provides a massive air accident insurance cover of up to Rs. 3 crore.
Does the card offer personal accident insurance?
Yes, but specifically for the RuPay variant, which includes a personal accident insurance cover of Rs. 2 lakh.
Do I need to buy tickets with the card to get air accident coverage?
Yes, the air accident insurance coverage is active only when the flight tickets are purchased using the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card.
Is there coverage for lost luggage or flight delays?
The card provides comprehensive travel insurance covering lost baggage up to $500 and flight delays beyond 12 hours.
What is the fuel surcharge waiver percentage?
You get a 1% fuel surcharge waiver on your fuel purchases.
Is there a maximum transaction limit for the fuel waiver?
Yes, the waiver is applicable on fuel transactions up to Rs. 4,000 per transaction.
Can I get the waiver at any petrol pump?
Yes, the 1% fuel surcharge waiver is valid at all fuel pumps across India.
Do I earn reward points along with the surcharge waiver?
No, fuel spends are excluded from the reward points program. You only get the surcharge waiver.
Milestone Benefits
4000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹0)
Spend ₹4,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹5,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹6,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹7,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹8,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹9,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹10,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹11,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹12,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹13,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹14,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹15,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹16,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹17,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹18,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹19,00,000 in 365 days
2000 reward points(Worth ~ ₹2,000)
Spend ₹20,00,000 in 365 days
How to Redeem Rewards & Cashback?
Rewards Conversion Rate
1 Reward Point = ₹0.25
Redemption Options
- Health & Beauty
- Travel & Luggage
- Shopping Voucher
- Home Appliance
- Electronics
- Fashion & Lifestyle
To check redemption catalogue
Earning points on the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is only half the journey; redeeming them effectively...
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Earning points on the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is only half the journey; redeeming them effectively...
Earning points on the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is only half the journey; redeeming them effectively is where you realize the value. ICICI Bank provides a dedicated rewards portal to manage your points.
The redemption process is straightforward. You log into the ICICI Rewards portal (https://www.rewards.icicibank.com/portal/) using your net banking or iMobile app credentials. Once logged in, you can browse through an extensive redemption catalogue.
You can redeem your accumulated points across several categories, including Health & Beauty, Travel & Luggage, Shopping Vouchers, Home Appliances, Electronics, and Fashion & Lifestyle.
The conversion rate is fixed: 1 Reward Point is equal to Rs. 0.25. Let us look at a practical example. Suppose you have accumulated 20,000 reward points from your international travels and domestic shopping. At a value of Rs. 0.25 per point, your points are worth Rs. 5,000. You can go to the portal and claim a Rs. 5,000 shopping voucher for your favorite fashion brand or buy a home appliance worth that exact amount.
Keep in mind that every time you place a redemption request, the bank charges a reward redemption handling fee of Rs. 99 plus applicable GST. Therefore, it is smarter to accumulate a large number of points and redeem them all at once rather than making multiple small redemptions.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
How do I redeem the reward points I have earned?
Log into your account via the iMobile app or net banking, navigate to the rewards section, and access the ICICI Rewards portal (https://www.rewards.icicibank.com/portal/) to choose your redemption items.
What can I redeem my reward points for?
You can redeem points for products in Health & Beauty, Travel & Luggage, Home Appliances, Electronics, Fashion & Lifestyle, or choose Shopping Vouchers.
What is the value I get when I redeem reward points?
Each reward point is worth Rs. 0.25. For example, 4,000 points will give you Rs. 1,000 worth of value against vouchers or products.
Is there a fee for redeeming my rewards?
Yes, a reward redemption handling fee of Rs. 99 plus applicable GST is charged for every redemption request you make.
Is there a minimum points balance needed before I can redeem?
You need a minimum balance of 2,000 reward points to begin redeeming for vouchers or merchandise in the catalogue.
Do my reward points expire?
Reward points earned on the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card are valid for 3 years from the date of accumulation.
Bank Exclusions
You will not earn points / cashback on spends in the following categories
For Points / Cashback Earnings
Fuel Spends
EMI Spends
Wallet Loads
Cash Advances
Payment Of Outstanding Balances
Bank Charges & Fees
Rent Payment
Government-related Transactions
Insurance Payments
Education Spends
Jewellery Purchases
Utility Bill Payments
For Spends Waiver
Fuel Spends
EMI Spends
Wallet Loads
Jewellery Purchases
Cash Advances
Payment Of Outstanding Balances
Bank Charges & Fees
Rent Payment
Government-related Transactions
Insurance Payments
Education Spends
Utility Bill Payments
To maximize your rewards, you must know what the bank refuses to reward. The ICICI Sapphiro Credit Ca...
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To maximize your rewards, you must know what the bank refuses to reward. The ICICI Sapphiro Credit Ca...
To maximize your rewards, you must know what the bank refuses to reward. The ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card has a strict list of exclusions. Transactions made in these categories will not earn you any reward points, nor will they count toward milestone benefits.
The excluded categories are: Fuel Spends, EMI Spends, Wallet Loads, Jewellery Purchases, Cash Advances, Payment Of Outstanding Balances, Bank Charges & Fees, Rent Payment, Government-related Transactions, Insurance Payments, Education Spends, and Utility Bill Payments.
Let us look at the real-world impact. Suppose you pay your child's annual school fee of Rs. 1,50,000 using this card, load Rs. 10,000 into a digital wallet, and pay Rs. 30,000 for house rent. You might expect to earn thousands of reward points on this Rs. 1,90,000 spend. However, because education spends, wallet loads, and rent payments are explicitly excluded, you will earn exactly zero reward points for these transactions.
Always use alternative payment methods or specific co-branded cards for these categories if you want to earn rewards.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
Which transactions do not earn rewards on this card?
Spends on fuel, EMI conversions, wallet loads, jewelry, cash advances, rent, government transactions, insurance, education, and utility bills do not earn reward points.
Does paying rent with this card earn reward points?
No, rent payments are fully excluded from earning reward points. Furthermore, you will be charged a 1% convenience fee on the transaction amount.
Are insurance premium payments excluded from rewards?
Yes, insurance payments do not earn any reward points on the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card.
Do wallet top-ups or gift card purchases earn rewards?
No, wallet loads and gift card purchases are classified as quasi-cash transactions and are excluded from earning rewards.
Are education or school fee payments excluded from earning rewards?
Yes, all education-related spends are excluded and will not accumulate any reward points.
Are utility bill payments such as electricity and water excluded?
Yes, utility bill payments are part of the exclusion list and do not earn standard reward points.
What happens if I make a payment in an excluded category?
The transaction will go through successfully and be added to your monthly bill, but you will not earn any reward points for that specific spend.
Bank Fee Structure
| Structure | Details |
|---|---|
Forex Markups  3.5% forex markup is charged on transactions made in currencies other than INR. Applies to international POS payments and online purchases charged in foreign currency. | 3.50% |
APR Fees 3.75% monthly fee. Credit cards allow you for a interest free payment period of 20-55 days. However, if you fail to make payment for your statement in due time then bank starts charging interest. A simple way to avoid heavy interest rates over long time is to convert your large spends in EMIs. Normally bank charges 16% p.a interest on EMIs however if you fail to pay in time then annual interest can reach upto 45%
| 3.75% |
ATM withdrawal Interest is charged at 3.75% per month from the date of withdrawal. No interest-free period is applicable on cash withdrawals. Cash advance fee as per MITC is also applicable | 3.75% |
Reward Redemption Fees A reward redemption handling fee of ₹99 plus applicable GST is charged per redemption request. | ₹99 |
Link for all T&Cs | Click Here |
Railway Surcharge A railway booking surcharge of 1.80% for online transactions and 2.50% for other bookings is applied, with additional bank charges and taxes recovered at actuals. | 1.80% |
Rent Payment Fees 1% of the transaction amount is charged as a fee on rent payment transactions, subject to applicable GST and platform charges | 1% |
cheque Payment Fees A fee of ₹100 is charged for payments made through cheque | ₹100 |
Cash Payment Fees ₹100 cash payment fee per deposit. | ₹100 |
| Late Payment Fees | Amount Due |
|---|---|
| ₹0 - ₹100 | ₹0 |
| ₹100 - ₹500 | ₹100 |
| ₹501 - ₹1000 | ₹500 |
| ₹1001 - ₹5000 | ₹600 |
| ₹5001 - ₹10000 | ₹750 |
| ₹10001 - ₹25000 | ₹900 |
| ₹25001 - ₹50000 | ₹1100 |
| ₹50000 and above | ₹1300 |
Understanding the exact costs associated with the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is critical. While the c...
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Understanding the exact costs associated with the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is critical. While the c...
Understanding the exact costs associated with the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is critical. While the card offers premium lifestyle benefits, it carries a fee structure typical of high-end credit cards. Below is a detailed breakdown of every charge you might encounter.
Joining Fee
A one-time joining fee is charged at the time of card issuance as per the bank’s policy. The fee is exactly Rs. 6,500 plus GST. While this cannot be waived, it is offset by the Rs. 13,000+ welcome vouchers you receive.
Annual or Renewal Fee
The annual fee is charged every year and is set at Rs. 3,500 plus GST. However, the annual fee is waived if you spend Rs. 6 lakh or more in a year on your card. For example, if you average Rs. 50,000 a month in spends, you will not have to pay this fee next year.
APR or Interest Rate
Finance charges of 3.75% per month (45% per annum) apply on unpaid outstanding balances until the amount is fully repaid. For example, if you carry a balance of Rs. 10,000 past the due date, you will accrue roughly Rs. 375 in interest charges for that month alone, making it crucial to pay your bill in full.
Late Payment Charges
Late payment fees follow a slab structure based on your outstanding amount. It is Rs. 0 for balances up to Rs. 100; Rs. 500 for Rs. 101 to Rs. 500; Rs. 600 for Rs. 501 to Rs. 1,000; Rs. 750 for Rs. 1,001 to Rs. 5,000; Rs. 900 for Rs. 5,001 to Rs. 10,000; Rs. 1,100 for Rs. 10,001 to Rs. 25,000; and Rs. 1,300 for balances above Rs. 50,000. If your bill is Rs. 4,500 and you miss the payment, a Rs. 750 penalty will apply.
Foreign Transaction or Forex Markup Fee
A 3.5% forex markup is charged on transactions made in currencies other than INR. Applies to international POS payments and online purchases charged in foreign currency. For example, if you spend Rs. 10,000 equivalent in Dubai, an extra Rs. 350 is charged as markup fee.
ATM Cash Withdrawal Fee
2.5% of the withdrawn amount is charged on cash advances using the credit card (minimum Rs. 500). If you withdraw Rs. 10,000 from an ATM, you will pay a Rs. 250 fee immediately, plus interest starting from day one.
Rent Payment Convenience Fee
1% of the transaction amount is charged as a fee on rent payment transactions, subject to applicable GST and platform charges. If you pay Rs. 20,000 for rent using the card, you will pay a Rs. 200 bank fee on top of any third-party app charges, and earn zero reward points.
Railway Surcharge
1% of the transaction amount + GST will be charged on railway ticket purchases. If you book a train ticket worth Rs. 3,000 on IRCTC using this card, expect an extra Rs. 30 charge.
Cash Payment Fee
There is a Rs. 100 cash payment fee per deposit. If you walk into an ICICI branch to pay your credit card bill with physical cash, this fee will be added to your next statement. Use digital payment methods to avoid it.
Cheque Payment Fee
No cheque payment fee is charged. You can drop a cheque to clear your dues without incurring extra administrative costs.
Reward Redemption Fee
A reward redemption handling fee of Rs. 99 plus applicable GST is charged per redemption request. Whether you redeem 1,000 points or 10,000 points, this flat fee applies, so bulk redemptions are more cost-effective.
| Fee Type | Amount / Rate |
|---|---|
| Joining Fee | Rs. 6,500 + GST |
| Annual / Renewal Fee | Rs. 3,500 + GST (Waived on Rs. 6L spend) |
| Interest Rate (APR) | 3.75% per month (45% annually) |
| Late Payment Fee | Up to Rs. 1,300 based on outstanding balance |
| Forex Markup | 3.5% + GST |
| Cash Advance Fee | 2.5% (Min Rs. 500) |
| Rent Payment Fee | 1% of transaction amount |
| Railway Surcharge | 1% + GST |
| Reward Redemption Fee | Rs. 99 + GST per request |
| Cash Payment Fee | Rs. 100 per deposit |
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
What are the joining fees for this card?
The joining fee is Rs. 6,500 plus applicable GST.
What is the annual or renewal fee?
The annual renewal fee is Rs. 3,500 plus GST.
Is there an annual fee waiver based on spending?
Yes, the annual fee is waived if you spend Rs. 6 lakh or more during the year.
How can I get this card lifetime free?
Check with the bank's relationship managers regarding exclusive lifetime free offers available to alumni of premier institutes or employees of top-tier corporates.
What is the interest rate (APR) if I don't pay my full balance?
The card charges an interest rate of 3.75% per month, which equals 45% annually.
How is the interest calculated on outstanding balances?
Interest is calculated daily on the unpaid balance from the date of the transaction until the amount is fully repaid.
What are the late payment charges?
Late fees range from Rs. 0 to Rs. 1,300 depending on your outstanding statement balance.
Is the late payment fee different based on the outstanding amount?
Yes, higher balances attract higher late fees. A balance over Rs. 50,000 will incur the maximum Rs. 1,300 penalty.
What is the forex markup for international transactions?
A forex markup of 3.5% applies to all transactions processed in foreign currencies.
Can I withdraw cash using my credit card?
Yes, but you will be charged a cash advance fee of 2.5% of the withdrawn amount, subject to a minimum of Rs. 500.
Are there fees for paying rent with this card?
Yes, you will be charged a 1% fee on the rent payment transaction amount.
Is there a fee for paying my bill in cash?
Yes, depositing cash to pay your credit card bill at a branch costs Rs. 100 per transaction.
What are the charges for cheque payment of bills?
There are no charges for making a bill payment via cheque.
Are there charges for railway ticket bookings?
Yes, a 1% surcharge plus GST applies when you book railway tickets using this card.
Is there a fee to redeem my reward points?
Yes, a handling fee of Rs. 99 plus GST applies every time you submit a reward redemption request.
Who Should Get This Card?
Profile 1: The Frequent Golfer and Traveler
If you love playing golf and frequently travel abroad for business or leisure, this card is a perfect fit. The 4 complimentary golf rounds a month alone can save you tens of thousands of rupees annually, and the 4 reward points per Rs. 100 spent internationally ensure you are rewarded handsomely abroad.
Profile 2: The Movie Buff
If you go to the movies regularly, saving Rs. 1,000 a month via the BookMyShow BOGO offer justifies a large chunk of the annual fee, making this card a smart lifestyle choice.
Who should NOT get this card?
If your monthly salary is below Rs. 75,000, you will not meet the eligibility criteria. Furthermore, if you are looking for a straightforward cashback card for online shopping or utility bills, the Sapphiro will disappoint you, as it focuses on travel, lifestyle, and rewards catalogues rather than direct statement cashback.
Credit Limit and What to Expect
Since the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card requires a minimum monthly salary of Rs. 75,000, you can expect a fairly generous starting credit limit. Banks typically offer a credit limit that is 2 to 3 times your monthly income, depending on your existing debt and credit score. If your salary is Rs. 1 lakh per month, a starting limit of Rs. 2 lakh to Rs. 3 lakh is a reasonable expectation.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
What will be my starting credit limit?
With a Rs. 75,000 minimum salary requirement, you will receive a starting limit upwards of Rs. 1.5 lakh based on your specific income profile and credit score.
Can I request a higher credit limit later?
Yes, after 6 to 12 months of responsible usage and timely payments, ICICI Bank often provides pre-approved limit enhancement offers.
Does the bank share my credit limit before approval?
Exact credit limits are officially confirmed and shared only upon final approval and card issuance.
Will a high credit limit affect my credit score?
A high limit improves your credit score by lowering your credit utilization ratio, provided you do not max out the card every month.
Can I set transaction limits on my card?
Yes, you can easily set and manage daily transaction limits for online, POS, and international spends via the iMobile app.
What happens if I spend more than my credit limit?
An overlimit fee of 2.5% of the overlimit amount, subject to a minimum of Rs. 500, will be charged to your account.
How to Apply?
Applying for the ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card is a streamlined process. You can apply directly through the ICICI Bank website, the iMobile app, or through branch banking.
If you choose to apply online, you will need to fill out a short form with your basic details, employment type, and monthly income. Once you pass the initial eligibility check, you will be prompted to complete Video KYC (Know Your Customer). During the Video KYC call, ensure you have your original PAN card, a blank piece of paper, and a pen ready. You must also be physically located in India and have a stable internet connection. After successful KYC and document verification, the bank will process your application and dispatch the card.
View FAQ
Commonly Asked Questions
Where can I apply for this credit card?
You can apply online via the ICICI Bank website, the iMobile Pay app, or by visiting the nearest bank branch.
What is Video KYC and is it mandatory?
Video KYC is a digital verification process. While not strictly mandatory if you prefer physical KYC at a branch, Video KYC is the fastest and most convenient way to get approved online.
What do I need for a successful Video KYC call?
You will need your original PAN card, a blank paper, a blue or black pen for a live signature, good lighting, and a stable internet connection.
How can I track my application status?
You can track your status on the ICICI Bank website using the application reference number provided via SMS after submission.
How long does the approval process take?
Once Video KYC and document verification are complete, approval and dispatch are finalized within 5 to 7 working days.
Can I apply for this card online?
Yes, the entire process from application to document submission and KYC can be completed 100% online.
That’s the full story of this credit card
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Top Benefits
Top Benefits
Get welcome vouchers worth over ₹13,000
from top brands like Tata CLiQ, EazyDiner, Da Milano, EaseMyTrip and Croma
Enjoy 2 complimentary international lounge visits
every year and 4 complimentary domestic lounge visits every quarter, plus air accident insurance cover of up to ₹3 crore
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