HDFC Infinia Credit Card vs ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card

Last Updated : March 26, 2025, 1:09 p.m.
The HDFC Infinia Credit Card is one of India’s top super premium credit cards with a reward rate of 3.33% (Which is equal to 33% for purchases made on SmartBuy). HDFC Infinia has a redemption value of 1:1 for travel bookings via SmartBuy and Air mile conversion. This gives it an advantage over its competitors in the luxury credit cards category. Infinia also provides great benefits on travel, such as benefits with ITC and Marriott, low forex markup fee, etc. Most premium credit cards offer travel benefits which are similar to each other. However, when it comes to the overall value back gained through reward points, the HDFC Infinia credit card is a better choice. The ICICI Sapphiro credit card gives you some of the finest lifestyle benefits across dining, entertainment, travel, movies, and golf. With complimentary lounge access and memberships, this card is suitable for both domestic and international travelers. So, now to choose a card amongst these two and apply for it, let us first analyze both of them and compare them based on their features. After choosing a card and before applying for it, it is essential to check your credit score to know where you stand. This is because most lenders see this as an important eligibility criteria for credit card application approval. Do a CIBIL score check for free on Wishfin and get an accurate CIBIL score generated by TransUnion CIBIL.
Key Features and Benefits of HDFC Infinia Credit Card Vs ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card - A Comparison
Parameter | HDFC Infinia Credit Card | ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card |
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Welcome benefits |
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Reward points |
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Fuel surcharge waiver |
| Get 1% waiver on fuel transactions of up to Rs. 4,000 across all petrol pumps. |
Travel benefits |
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Golf benefits |
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Movie benefits |
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Insurance coverage |
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Dining benefits |
Note: This offer is valid from 2nd January 2025 to 31st December 2025. |
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Eligibility and Application Process - A Comparison
You'll need to meet specific eligibility criteria to get these premium cards. The application process varies quite a bit between these two options. The HDFC Infinia Credit Card is an exclusive "By Invite Only" card. You can't apply for it through regular channels. You'll need to build a strong relationship with HDFC Bank through other products before getting an invitation. The eligibility bar is set high. Private sector employees must earn Rs. 5 lakhs monthly. Self-employed applicants should show an annual ITR of Rs. 60 lakhs. Government employees need to earn ₹3.5 lakh monthly to qualify.
The ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card takes a different approach. You can apply directly through online or offline channels. This premium card asks for a monthly income of Rs. 80,000 from salaried individuals. Self-employed applicants should earn Rs.83,333 monthly. Indian residents between 23-60 years old can apply. A good credit score above 750 helps your chances.
Both cards ask for standard KYC documents. Here's what you'll need for the ICICI Sapphiro card:
- Identity proof (PAN, Aadhaar, passport, etc.)
- Address verification documents
- Income proof (payslips, ITR, or Form 16)
- Recent color passport-size photograph
Getting an ICICI Sapphiro is simple. Just visit ICICI Bank's website, head to the credit card section, fill out your application, and upload documents. HDFC Bank looks at your credit history, income, repayment track record, and your relationship with the bank before offering the Infinia card. These ultra-premium cards target people with substantial spending power. HDFC Infinia stays exclusive through its invitation-only approach, while ICICI Sapphiro provides an easier path to premium benefits.
Fees and Other Charges of HDFC Infinia and ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card
Parameter | HDFC Infinia Credit Card | ICICI Sapphiro Credit Card |
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Joining fees |
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Renewal fees |
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Annual fee waiver |
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Finance charges |
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Cash Advance fees |
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Late payment fees |
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Conclusion
HDFC Infinia and ICICI Sapphiro credit cards excel as premium offerings but target different customer segments. HDFC Infinia shines with unlimited lounge access, lower forex markup fees, and unlimited golf privileges. These features make it perfect for frequent international travelers. ICICI Sapphiro stands out with substantial welcome benefits, entertainment perks, and easier fee waivers that appeal to domestic spenders. Your choice between these cards ends up depending on your spending patterns and lifestyle. HDFC Infinia's invitation-only status and higher income requirements make it an ultra-premium option if you have high net worth. ICICI Sapphiro is a more available alternative that comes with impressive benefits, especially when you spend around Rs. 6 lakhs yearly. Think over your travel frequency, spending capacity, and reward preferences before you decide. A good credit score and meeting minimum income requirements are vital for both cards. HDFC Infinia's travel benefits might be superior, but ICICI Sapphiro's lower entry requirements and entertainment perks make it a smart choice for many premium card seekers.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)