Launched in 2018, the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card has stood the test of time, becoming one of the most beginner-friendly and rewarding cashback cards in India. Its simplicity, combined with zero fees and attractive cashback offers, makes it a go-to option for Amazon shoppers, especially those with Prime membership. It is also a relatively easier card to apply for and get, more so if you are an existing ICICI and Amazon user. It is a perfect beginner credit card for those starting out and looking for an easy to use card with a simple rewards structure.
In this blog, we’ll explore its features, benefits, drawbacks, application process, and why it’s still a favorite among cashback enthusiasts.
Features of the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card
- Lifetime Free (LTF):
- No joining or annual fees.
- Cashback Rewards:
- 5% Cashback for Amazon Prime members on physical goods purchased on Amazon.
- 3% Cashback for non-Prime Amazon users.
- 2% Cashback at 100+ Amazon Pay partner merchants like Swiggy, BookMyShow, and Cleartrip.
- 1% Cashback on other transactions.
- Exclusions: No cashback on silver, gold, fuel, EMI transactions, tax payments, and business purchases.
- Eligibility for Cashback:
- The linked Amazon account’s Prime status determines the cashback rate (Prime: 5%, Non-Prime: 3%).
- The card can be used on any Amazon account without restrictions.
- Ease of Cashback Redemption:
- Cashback is auto-credited as Amazon Pay balance, usable for shopping, bill payments, and more.
- No Devaluation:
- Since its launch, the rewards and benefits have remained unchanged, making it a reliable choice for consistent savings.
How to Apply for the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card
- Online Application via Amazon:
- Visit the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card section on the Amazon app or website.
- Log in to your Amazon account and complete the application form.
- Verification:
- Provide your PAN and Aadhaar details for KYC verification.
- Instant Approval:
- If eligible, receive instant digital card details to start using immediately.
- The physical card is delivered within 7–10 days.
- Eligibility Criteria:
- A good credit score (CIBIL 700+) is recommended.
- Minimum age of 18 years.
SBI Cashback Credit Card: A fierce competitor to Amazon Pay ICICI Card
The SBI Cashback Credit Card has emerged as a formidable competitor to the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card, offering robust cashback benefits across a wider range of spending categories. While the Amazon Pay ICICI card is tailored primarily for Amazon users, the SBI Cashback card appeals to a broader audience, especially those looking for a universal cashback solution. Here’s how the two cards compare.
Comparison: Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card vs. SBI Cashback Credit Card
| Feature | Amazon Pay ICICI Card | SBI Cashback Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | Rs. 0 (Lifetime Free) | Rs. 999 (Waived on Rs. 2L Spend) |
| Primary Cashback | 5% on Amazon (Prime), 3% (Non-Prime) | 5% on all online transactions |
| Offline Cashback | 1% on general expenses | 1% on all offline transactions |
| Welcome Benefits | Rs. 200 Cashback + Prime/EazyDiner | N/A |
| Exclusions | Fuel, Gold, EMI, Business Transactions | No major exclusions |
| Redemption | Auto-credit to Amazon Pay balance | Auto-credit as statement balance |
| Best for | Frequent Amazon Shoppers | General online shopping and variety |
Benefits of the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card
- Beginner-Friendly:
- Ideal for first-time credit card users due to its simple cashback structure.
- No Fees:
- Truly cost-effective with no joining or annual charges.
- Flexible Usage:
- Use the card on any Amazon account while still earning cashback based on the original linked account’s Prime status.
- Wide Partner Network:
- Earn additional cashback at 100+ Amazon Pay partner merchants.
- Non-Expiry of Rewards:
- Cashback does not expire and accumulates as Amazon Pay balance for hassle-free usage.
Drawbacks of the Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card
- Limited Cashback Categories:
- No cashback on silver, gold, fuel, EMI transactions, or tax payments.
- Lack of Premium Perks:
- No airport lounge access, travel benefits, or lifestyle perks like those offered by other credit cards.
- Prime Membership Dependency:
- The 5% cashback is limited to Prime members. Non-Prime users only get 3%.
- Hidden Costs on EMI Transactions:
- Converting purchases into EMI incurs a 2% processing fee + GST, along with high interest rates.
Comparison: Amazon Pay ICICI vs. Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card
| Feature | Amazon Pay ICICI Card | Flipkart Axis Bank Card |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | Rs. 0 (Lifetime Free) | Rs. 500 (waived on Rs. 2L spend) |
| Primary Rewards | 5% on Amazon (Prime), 3% (Non-Prime) | 5% on Flipkart, Myntra, 4% on others |
| Excluded Categories | Fuel, EMI, Tax Payments, Gold | Fuel (eligible for surcharge waiver) |
| Lounge Access | No | 4 Complimentary Visits/Year |
| Fuel Surcharge Waiver | No | Yes |
| Best for | Amazon Shoppers | Flipkart & Travel Enthusiasts |
Why It’s Perfect for Amazon Shoppers
The Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card is a no-brainer for frequent Amazon shoppers who:
- Have an Amazon Prime Membership, ensuring 5% cashback on purchases of physical goods.
- Shop frequently during sales like the Amazon Great Indian Festival, maximizing savings.
- Value simplicity, as the card’s cashback program is easy to understand and redeem.
Final Verdict
The Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card continues to shine as a beginner-friendly, straightforward cashback card. Its Lifetime Free status, combined with its no-nonsense rewards structure, makes it an excellent choice for Amazon loyalists. However, if you’re looking for travel benefits or rewards on broader categories, you might consider alternatives like the Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card.
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