Your Cards Guide Logo
IRCTC BoB Credit Card

IRCTC BoB Credit Card

Save smart on train journeys with India's premier railway rewards credit card

Rewards

Rewards

Up to 10% value-back on IRCTC bookings

Credit Period

Credit Period

Up to 50 days interest-free

Fee Waiver

Fee Waiver

No annual fee waiver available

Check Your Eligibility for This Card

Enter your details to get started

Key Highlights

Important benefits and features of this credit card
BenefitDetails
Exceptional IRCTC RewardsEarn up to 40 Reward Points per ₹100 spent on railway ticket bookings through IRCTC website and mobile app (equivalent to 10% value-back), delivering substantial savings for frequent train travellers.
Variable Reward StructureBenefit from 40 Reward Points per ₹100 during peak travel seasons (15 Jan-31 Mar & 15 Jul-15 Sep) and 16 Reward Points per ₹100 during regular periods on AC class bookings, optimising savings year-round.
Railway Lounge AccessEnjoy 4 complimentary railway lounge visits annually (maximum 1 per quarter) at select stations across India, providing comfortable pre-journey experiences.
Transaction Charge WaiverSave 1% on IRCTC transaction surcharges when booking railway tickets using this card, reducing booking costs on every reservation.

Categorisation

Card classification and attributes
AttributeClassification
Issuer / ProviderBank of Baroda (BOBCard Limited)
Bank / Non-bankBank-affiliated
CategoryTravel / Railway Rewards
Type of CardCo-branded RuPay Credit Card
Free or PaidJoining: ₹500 + GST; Annual: ₹350 + GST (no annual fee waiver available)

What This Card Is Best For

The IRCTC BoB Credit Card is the perfect choice for frequent train travellers who prioritise savings on railway bookings whilst seeking rewards on everyday spending. As a co-branded offering developed through Bank of Baroda's strategic partnership with the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC), this card delivers exceptional value specifically designed for India's extensive railway network users. With industry-leading up to 10% value-back on IRCTC ticket bookings, complimentary railway lounge access, 1% transaction surcharge waiver, and accelerated rewards on groceries and departmental stores, the card transforms routine train journeys and daily purchases into meaningful savings. The unique loyalty integration allows conversion of reward points into IRCTC Travel Points by linking your card with your IRCTC login ID, enabling direct redemption for future railway bookings. Combined with 500 bonus welcome points, fuel surcharge waivers, EMI conversion facility, and an affordable annual fee of just ₹350 (after first year), this card represents an accessible yet comprehensive solution for individuals and families who regularly travel by Indian Railways whilst managing household expenses efficiently. 

Overview 

Co-Branded Excellence: The IRCTC BoB Credit Card combines Bank of Baroda's banking expertise with IRCTC's extensive railway network reach, creating a powerful financial product designed specifically for India's rail travellers. This strategic partnership ensures cardholders benefit from both institutions' strengths whilst earning rewards on the world's fourth-largest railway network. 

Variable Reward Structure Based on Travel Dates: Unlike fixed reward cards, this card offers a dynamic reward structure optimised for travel patterns. Earn 40 Reward Points per ₹100 (10% value-back) on AC class bookings during peak travel periods (15 January to 31 March and 15 July to 15 September), and 16 Reward Points per ₹100 (4% value-back) during regular periods (1 April to 14 July and 16 September to 14 January). This seasonal approach delivers maximum savings when you need them most. 

Important Requirement: The primary cardholder must be one of the passengers listed on the railway ticket to earn reward points. The points are calculated only on the fare portion of the primary cardholder, not the entire ticket value. 

Comprehensive IRCTC Integration: Link your unique BOBCARD IRCTC co-brand loyalty number (embossed on the card) with your IRCTC login ID to automatically accrue Reward Points on all train ticket bookings made through the IRCTC website and mobile app. This seamless integration ensures every railway journey contributes to future savings. 

Railway Lounge Comfort: Access 4 complimentary railway lounge visits per year (maximum 1 per quarter) at partner railway lounges across select stations in India. Enjoy comfortable seating, refreshments, and a pleasant pre-journey environment at major railway stations. 

Transaction Charge Savings: Enjoy 1% transaction charge waiver on all railway ticket bookings made through the IRCTC website and mobile app using your IRCTC BoB Credit Card. This automatic waiver reduces booking costs on every reservation, compounding savings alongside reward points. 

Grocery & Retail Rewards: Earn 4 Reward Points per ₹100 spent at grocery stores and departmental stores (1% value-back at redemption rate of ₹0.25 per point), making everyday shopping more rewarding. Maximum 1,000 Reward Points can be earned per statement cycle in this category. 

General Spending Rewards: Earn 2 Reward Points per ₹100 on all other eligible categories (0.5% value-back), ensuring consistent value on everyday purchases including dining, shopping, and services. Maximum 1,000 Reward Points can be earned per statement cycle in this category. 

Welcome Bonus: Receive 500 Bonus Reward Points (worth ₹125) on spending ₹5,000 or more within the first 60 days of card issuance. This welcome benefit helps offset initial card costs whilst encouraging early usage. 

Flexible Reward Redemption: Redeem accumulated Reward Points in two ways: (1) Convert to IRCTC Travel Points at the rate of 4 Reward Points = 1 IRCTC Travel Point for booking railway tickets through IRCTC, or (2) Redeem against your credit card statement balance at 1 Reward Point = ₹0.25. 

Fuel Surcharge Waiver: Enjoy 1% fuel surcharge waiver on all fuel transactions at petrol pumps across India. Valid on transactions between ₹500 to ₹3,000, with maximum waiver capped at ₹100 per statement cycle, providing up to ₹1,200 in annual fuel savings. 

Complimentary Add-On Cards: Provide up to 3 lifetime free add-on cards to your spouse, parents, siblings, or children above 18 years of age, allowing family members to share the card's benefits whilst helping you accumulate rewards faster. 

Smart EMI Conversion: Convert purchases of ₹2,500 or more into easy monthly instalments ranging from 6 to 48 months. Manage significant expenses comfortably whilst maintaining cash flow for other priorities. 

Zero Liability Protection: Report lost or stolen card immediately to ensure zero liability on any fraudulent transactions made after reporting. Protected against card counterfeit, skimming, and unauthorised usage. 

RuPay Network Advantages: Built on India's domestic RuPay payment network, the card offers wide acceptance across millions of merchants and ATMs nationwide whilst supporting UPI payments for digital-first transactions. 

UPI Integration: Link your IRCTC BoB RuPay Credit Card to UPI-enabled apps like BHIM, PhonePe, Paytm, or Google Pay for seamless merchant payments via QR code scanning, earning rewards on UPI transactions just like regular card spends. 

Interest-Free Period: Enjoy up to 50 days of interest-free credit (ranging from 20 to 50 days depending on transaction timing), allowing you to manage cash flow efficiently whilst planning your payments strategically. 

Affordable Fee Structure: With a joining fee of ₹500 + GST (~₹590) and an annual fee of just ₹350 + GST (~₹413) from the second year onwards, this card offers exceptional value for frequent train travellers. Note that there is no annual fee waiver available based on spending. 

Important Loyalty Activation: Your unique BOBCARD IRCTC co-brand loyalty number gets activated upon payment of the joining fee. To continue accruing Reward Points on IRCTC bookings, you must pay the annual fee from the second year onwards to keep the loyalty number active. 

Additional Travel Benefits: Earn 8 Reward Points per ₹100 on flight bookings via BOBCard SmartDeal and 20 Reward Points per ₹100 on hotel bookings via BOBCard SmartDeal, extending rewards beyond railway travel. 

The IRCTC BoB Credit Card's combination of exceptional railway rewards, seasonal optimisation, complimentary lounge access, transaction charge waivers, and everyday spending benefits makes it an outstanding choice for frequent train travellers seeking to maximise savings on India's railway network. 

Rewards and Benefits 

Earning Reward Points 

Up to 40 Reward Points per ₹100 on IRCTC Bookings (Up to 10% Value-Back) 

Earn exceptional Reward Points on railway ticket bookings made through the IRCTC website and mobile app. The reward rate varies based on travel dates and class of travel: 

Peak Season Travel (40 Reward Points per ₹100): 

  • Travel Period: 15 January to 31 March AND 15 July to 15 September 

  • Classes Covered: 1AC, 2AC, 3AC, CC (Chair Car), EC (Executive Class) 

  • Value-Back: 10% at redemption rate of ₹0.25 per Reward Point 

Regular Season Travel (16 Reward Points per ₹100): 

  • Travel Period: 1 April to 14 July AND 16 September to 14 January 

  • Classes Covered: 1AC, 2AC, 3AC, CC (Chair Car), EC (Executive Class) 

  • Value-Back: 4% at redemption rate of ₹0.25 per Reward Point 

Important Terms: 

  • Applicable only when loyalty number is linked with IRCTC login ID 

  • Primary cardholder must be one of the passengers on the ticket 

  • Reward Points calculated only on the fare portion of primary cardholder, not entire ticket 

  • Reward Points for bookings on special travel dates credited within 5 days after journey completion (if ticket not cancelled) 

  • Reward Points credited within 60 days of eligible transaction 

4 Reward Points per ₹100 on Grocery & Departmental Stores (1% Value-Back) 

Earn 4 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent at grocery stores and departmental stores, providing 1% value-back when redeemed at ₹0.25 per point. 

Terms: 

  • Maximum 1,000 Reward Points per statement cycle in this category 

  • This cap means maximum ₹25,000 monthly spending in grocery/departmental stores qualifies for accelerated rewards 

2 Reward Points per ₹100 on Other Categories (0.5% Value-Back) 

Earn 2 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent on all other eligible retail purchases including: 

  • Dining at restaurants 

  • Shopping (online and offline) 

  • Entertainment and leisure 

  • Services and general spends 

Terms: 

  • Maximum 1,000 Reward Points per statement cycle in this category (including non-IRCTC train ticket purchases) 

  • This includes train ticket purchases made through IRCTC that don't have the loyalty number linked 

  • Value-back: 0.5% at redemption rate of ₹0.25 per Reward Point 

8 Reward Points per ₹100 on Flight Bookings via BOBCard SmartDeal 

Earn 8 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent on flight bookings made through the BOBCard SmartDeal platform, extending rewards beyond railway travel. 

20 Reward Points per ₹100 on Hotel Bookings via BOBCard SmartDeal 

Earn 20 Reward Points for every ₹100 spent on hotel bookings made through the BOBCard SmartDeal platform, providing 5% value-back on accommodation. 

Reward Exclusions 

No Reward Points are awarded on the following transactions: 

  • Fuel purchases (though fuel surcharge waiver applies) 

  • Cash advances 

  • EMI transactions 

  • Balance transfers 

  • Card fees and charges 

  • Select MCC (Merchant Category Code) categories as specified by BOBCard 

Redeeming Reward Points 

Redemption Value: 1 Reward Point = ₹0.25 

The Reward Points earned can be redeemed in two ways: 

Option 1: Convert to IRCTC Travel Points 

Convert your BOBCARD Reward Points into IRCTC Travel Points for booking railway tickets through the IRCTC website or mobile application. 

Conversion Rate: 4 BOBCARD Reward Points = 1 IRCTC Travel Point 

How to Convert: 

  • Link your IRCTC BoB Credit Card loyalty number with your IRCTC login ID 

  • Reward Points for IRCTC AC bookings automatically accumulate in your IRCTC loyalty account 

  • Use these IRCTC Travel Points for future railway ticket bookings 

Value: This option provides direct utility for frequent train travellers, effectively creating a closed loop of railway spending and rewards. 

Option 2: Redeem Against Statement Balance 

Redeem Reward Points against your credit card statement balance to reduce your outstanding amount. 

Redemption Rate: 1 Reward Point = ₹0.25 

Process: 

  • Contact BOBCard customer care or access through net banking 

  • Minimum redemption amount may apply 

  • Redeemed amount credited as a statement credit, reducing your payable balance 

Note: Reward Points for 'Other Spends' (non-IRCTC bookings) can be redeemed as cashback against statement balance at the above rate. 

Welcome Benefits 

500 Bonus Reward Points (Worth ₹125) 

Receive 500 Bonus Reward Points as a joining benefit when you spend ₹5,000 or more within the first 60 days of card issuance. 

Terms: 

  • Minimum spend: ₹5,000 within 60 days 

  • Reward Points credited after meeting spend requirement 

  • Effectively offsets a significant portion of the joining fee 

Railway Lounge Access 

4 Complimentary Railway Lounge Visits Per Year 

Enjoy 4 complimentary access to partner railway lounges annually, providing comfortable pre-journey experiences at select railway stations across India. 

Terms: 

  • Maximum 1 complimentary visit per calendar quarter 

  • Access available at partner railway lounges at major stations 

  • Facilities typically include comfortable seating, refreshments, newspapers, and charging points 

Availability: Railway lounges available at select major stations. Check with BOBCard or IRCTC for current partner lounge locations. 

Value: Enhances the train travel experience by providing a peaceful, comfortable environment before boarding, especially valuable for long-distance travellers. 

IRCTC Transaction Charge Waiver 

1% Transaction Charge Waiver 

Enjoy automatic 1% transaction charge waiver on all railway ticket bookings made through the IRCTC website and mobile app using your IRCTC BoB Credit Card. 

Benefit: 

  • Applies to all IRCTC ticket bookings 

  • Reduces booking costs on every reservation 

  • Saves additional money beyond reward points earning 

Value: When combined with reward points, this waiver significantly enhances overall savings on railway bookings, potentially delivering total savings exceeding 10% during peak seasons. 

Fuel Benefits 

1% Fuel Surcharge Waiver 

Enjoy 1% fuel surcharge waiver on all fuel transactions at petrol pumps across India. 

Terms: 

  • Transaction Range: ₹500 to ₹3,000 per transaction 

  • Maximum Waiver: ₹100 per statement cycle 

  • Applicable: All fuel outlets nationwide 

Annual Value: Up to ₹1,200 in annual fuel savings for regular drivers. 

Interest-Free Period 

Up to 50 Days: Enjoy an interest-free period ranging between 20 days to 50 days from the transaction date depending on when the transaction is made in the billing cycle, allowing you to manage cash flow efficiently and plan payments strategically. 

Smart EMI Conversion 

Convert purchases of ₹2,500 or more into easy monthly instalments ranging from 6 to 48 months. 

Benefits: 

  • Manage significant expenses comfortably 

  • Choose your preferred repayment tenure (6, 12, 18, 24, 36, or 48 months) 

  • Applicable interest rates and processing fees vary based on tenure 

  • Helps maintain cash flow whilst making necessary large purchases 

Process: 

  • Contact BOBCard customer care 

  • Access through BOBCard mobile app or website 

  • Available for both billed and unbilled transactions above ₹2,500 

Complimentary Add-On Cards 

Provide up to 3 lifetime free add-on cards to your family members including: 

  • Spouse 

  • Parents 

  • Siblings 

  • Children above 18 years of age 

Benefits: 

  • Share card benefits with family 

  • Accumulate rewards faster through combined spending 

  • Manage family expenses efficiently 

  • No additional annual fee for add-on cards 

Zero Liability Protection 

Report lost or stolen card immediately to ensure zero liability on any fraudulent transactions made after reporting the loss to the bank. 

Protection Covers: 

  • Card counterfeit fraud 

  • Skimming fraud 

  • Unauthorised online transactions 

Requirement: Loss must be reported promptly to BOBCard customer care for protection to apply. 

UPI Integration 

Link your IRCTC BoB RuPay Credit Card to UPI-enabled mobile apps like BHIM, PhonePe, Paytm, or Google Pay for seamless digital payments. 

How to Link: 

  1. Open any UPI-enabled app 

  1. Navigate to 'Accounts' or 'Profile' section 

  1. Select 'Add RuPay Credit Card' 

  1. Enter card details (number, expiry, CVV) 

  1. Set UPI PIN using OTP verification 

  1. Start making UPI payments with your credit card 

Benefits: 

  • Earn Reward Points on UPI transactions (same rates as regular card spends) 

  • Make merchant payments via QR code scanning 

  • Convenient digital-first payment experience 

UPI Reward Rates: 

  • 40 Reward Points per ₹100 on IRCTC train ticket bookings via UPI (during peak season with linked loyalty number) 

  • 4 Reward Points per ₹100 on grocery and departmental store UPI payments 

  • 2 Reward Points per ₹100 on other UPI transactions 

Fees & Charges of IRCTC BoB Credit Card

All applicable fees for this credit card
Fee TypeAmountDetails
Joining Fee₹500 + GST (~₹590)One-time charge when the card is issued. Activates your unique BOBCARD IRCTC loyalty number.
Annual Fee₹350 + GST (~₹413)Charged every year from 2nd year onwards. No annual fee waiver available. Required to keep loyalty number active.
Interest Rate (APR)3.49-3.75% per month (41.88-45% annually)Applicable on outstanding balances and revolving credit.
Foreign Currency Markup3.5%Applicable on all international transactions.
Cash Advance Fee2.5% or ₹500 (whichever is higher)Charged on cash withdrawals. Minimum ₹500.
Cash Advance Limit20-40% of credit limitVaries by cardholder based on creditworthiness.
Late Payment ChargesVaries based on outstanding amountCharged when payment is not received by due date.
Overlimit PenaltyAs per bank policyCharged when spending exceeds credit limit.
Payment Return Charges₹500Charged when payment cheque/ECS/NACH is returned/dishonoured.
Card Replacement Fee₹100Charged for lost, stolen, or damaged card replacement.
Duplicate Statement FeeAs per bank policyCharged for requesting duplicate physical statements.
Cash Payment at Bank Branch₹100Charged for making card payment at Bank of Baroda branch.
Railway Ticket Purchase Fee (IRCTC)Waived (normally 1%)Transaction charge waived when using this card for IRCTC bookings.
EMI Conversion ChargesAs per prevailing ratesApplicable on EMI conversions; specific rates communicated at time of conversion.
GST18%Applicable on all fees, interest, and charges mentioned above.

Eligibility Criteria for IRCTC BoB Credit Card

Requirements to apply for this card
CriteriaDetails
Age
Salaried: 21 to 60 years (Primary Cardholder); Self-Employed: 24 to 65 years (Primary Cardholder)
Add-On Cardholder Age
Above 18 years
Citizenship
Must be a Resident of India
Credit Score
Good CIBIL score (ideally 750-900) recommended for approval
Income - Non-BoB Customers
Salaried: Minimum ₹3.6 Lakh per annum; Self-Employed: Minimum ₹4.8 Lakh per annum
Income - Existing BoB Customers
Salaried: Minimum ₹3 Lakh per annum; Self-Employed: Minimum ₹3.6 Lakh per annum
Employment
Both salaried and self-employed individuals can apply

Required Documents

Documents needed for application
Document TypeDetails
Identity ProofAny one of the following: Aadhaar Card (both sides), PAN Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Voter ID Card issued by Election Commission of India, Job Card issued by NREGA, or any other government-approved photo ID proof
Address/Residence ProofAny one of the following: Aadhaar Card, Passport, Driving Licence, Voter ID Card, Utility Bill (not more than 3 months old), Ration Card, or any other government-approved address proof
Income ProofFor Salaried: Bank Statement reflecting salary credit for last 2-3 months, latest salary slips (if submitted, must be accompanied with bank statement), Form 16. For Self-Employed: Latest ITR acknowledgement, bank statements showing business income, financial statements
PAN CardMandatory for credit card issuance
PhotographRecent passport-size photograph (with clear/white background and without dark/tinted glasses)
Company ID CardFor salaried applicants (if applicable)

How To Apply for IRCTC BoB Credit Card

Follow these simple steps to apply for this card
1

Step 1: Click on Apply Now: Hit the "Apply Now" button to start your application.

2

Step 2: Fill in Your Details: Enter your personal, contact, and financial details in the application form.

3

Step 3: Upload Required Documents: Upload your PAN Card, Aadhaar/Address Proof, and Income Proof.

4

Step 4: Submit Your Application: Review all the details and click Submit.

5

Step 5: Approval & Card Delivery: Once approved, your IRCTC BoB Credit Card will be delivered to your registered address.

How To Use the IRCTC BoB Credit Card

Tips to maximize your card benefits
Usage TipsDetails
Link Loyalty Number with IRCTC ID
Immediately after receiving your card, link your unique BOBCARD IRCTC loyalty number (embossed on card) with your IRCTC login ID. This is mandatory to earn accelerated Reward Points on railway bookings.
Book During Peak Seasons
Maximise rewards by booking AC class train tickets during peak seasons (15 Jan-31 Mar & 15 Jul-15 Sep) to earn 40 Reward Points per ₹100 (10% value-back).
Ensure You're a Passenger
Always ensure the primary cardholder is listed as one of the passengers on the ticket. Reward Points are only awarded if the cardholder travels; booking for others without being a passenger won't earn points.
Track Seasonal Rewards
Monitor which season you're booking in—peak (40 RPs) or regular (16 RPs)—to understand your earning potential and plan high-value bookings during peak periods.
Use for All IRCTC Bookings
Always use this card for all railway ticket bookings through IRCTC website and mobile app to earn maximum Reward Points plus 1% transaction charge waiver.
Maximise Grocery & Retail Spends
Use the card for all grocery and departmental store purchases to earn 4 Reward Points per ₹100, but monitor the 1,000 points monthly cap (₹25,000 spending limit).
Redeem Strategically
Choose between converting to IRCTC Travel Points (4 RPs = 1 Travel Point) for future train bookings or redeeming against statement balance (1 RP = ₹0.25) based on your travel frequency.
Utilise Railway Lounge Access
Plan to use your quarterly railway lounge access (4 per year, max 1 per quarter) at major stations before long-distance journeys for comfort and convenience.
Book Hotels & Flights via SmartDeal
Extend rewards beyond railways by booking flights (8 RPs per ₹100) and hotels (20 RPs per ₹100) through BOBCard SmartDeal platform.
Claim Welcome Bonus
Ensure you spend ₹5,000 within the first 60 days of card issuance to earn 500 Bonus Reward Points (worth ₹125).
Fill Fuel Between ₹500-₹3,000
Optimise fuel surcharge waiver by filling petrol/diesel in transactions between ₹500-₹3,000 to receive 1% waiver (maximum ₹100 monthly).
Convert Large Purchases to EMI
For significant expenses like electronics or appliances, convert transactions of ₹2,500+ to EMI (6-48 months) for better cash flow management.
Link to UPI Apps
Link your RuPay credit card to UPI apps like Google Pay, PhonePe, or BHIM to earn Reward Points on UPI transactions whilst enjoying digital payment convenience.
Pay Annual Fee On Time
Always pay the annual fee (₹350 + GST) on time from the 2nd year onwards to keep your IRCTC loyalty number active and continue earning Reward Points on railway bookings.
Set Up Auto-Pay
Enable auto-pay for at least the minimum amount due to avoid late payment charges and maintain excellent credit history whilst enjoying the interest-free period.
Pay Full Balance Monthly
Always pay your full statement balance before the due date to avoid the 41.88-45% annual interest rate and maximise the benefit of the interest-free period.

Things To Know

Important information about this card
  • No Annual Fee Waiver: Unlike many credit cards, the IRCTC BoB Credit Card does not offer an annual fee waiver based on annual spending. You'll be required to pay ₹350 + GST (~₹413) every year from the second year onwards to keep your loyalty number active and continue earning IRCTC rewards.
  • Annual Fee Required for Loyalty: Your unique BOBCARD IRCTC loyalty number is activated upon payment of the joining fee. To continue accruing Reward Points on IRCTC bookings, you must pay the annual fee from the second year onwards. Non-payment means losing the ability to earn accelerated railway rewards.
  • Cardholder Must Travel: A critical restriction is that the primary cardholder must be one of the passengers listed on the railway ticket to earn Reward Points. Simply booking tickets for family or friends without traveling yourself won't qualify for rewards.
  • Reward Points Only on Primary Fare: Reward Points are calculated only on the fare portion of the primary cardholder, not the entire ticket value. If you book for multiple passengers, only your portion earns points.
  • Variable Rewards Based on Dates: The reward rate varies significantly between peak (40 RPs per ₹100) and regular (16 RPs per ₹100) seasons. Plan major railway bookings during peak periods (15 Jan-31 Mar & 15 Jul-15 Sep) to maximise value.
  • Loyalty Number Must Be Linked: To earn the accelerated 40 or 16 Reward Points per ₹100 on IRCTC bookings, you must link your BOBCARD IRCTC loyalty number with your IRCTC login ID. Without this linking, you'll only earn the base 2 Reward Points per ₹100.
  • Reward Points Have Caps: Maximum 1,000 Reward Points can be earned per statement cycle in both the 'Grocery & Departmental Stores' category and the 'Other Spends' category. This limits earning potential to ₹25,000 monthly in each category.
  • Best for Frequent AC Travellers: This card delivers maximum value for individuals who frequently travel in AC classes (1AC, 2AC, 3AC, CC, EC) on Indian Railways. Sleeper class travel doesn't earn the accelerated rewards, limiting the card's appeal for budget travellers.
  • Lower Redemption Value: At ₹0.25 per Reward Point, the redemption value is modest compared to some premium cards. However, the high earning rate on IRCTC bookings (up to 40 RPs per ₹100) compensates for this.
  • Conversion to IRCTC Points: When converting BOBCard Reward Points to IRCTC Travel Points, the rate is 4:1 (4 BOBCard RPs = 1 IRCTC Travel Point), which affects overall value. Evaluate whether this conversion or statement balance redemption offers better value based on your usage.
  • Reward Crediting Timeline: Reward Points for IRCTC bookings made on special travel dates are credited within 5 days after journey completion, provided the ticket isn't cancelled. General reward points are credited within 60 days of eligible transactions.
  • Limited to Indian Railways: While the card offers some rewards on flights and hotels via BOBCard SmartDeal, its primary value proposition is railway travel. If you primarily fly or use other transport modes, alternative cards may offer better value.
  • RuPay Network Acceptance: Built on India's RuPay network, the card has excellent domestic acceptance but may have limited international acceptance compared to Visa or Mastercard networks.
  • Modest Interest Rate: The interest rate of 3.49-3.75% per month (41.88-45% annually) is relatively high. Always pay your full statement balance to avoid interest charges that can quickly negate reward benefits.
  • Cash Advance is Expensive: Cash withdrawals incur a 2.5% fee (minimum ₹500) plus immediate interest charges. The cash advance limit is also restricted to 20-40% of your credit limit.
  • Income Requirements: The card requires minimum annual income of ₹3.6 Lakh for salaried and ₹4.8 Lakh for self-employed (non-BoB customers). Existing BoB customers have slightly lower requirements.
  • Additional Travel Platform Rewards: The 8 RPs per ₹100 on flights and 20 RPs per ₹100 on hotels via BOBCard SmartDeal platform extends value beyond railways, but requires using the specific booking platform.
  • Potential Annual Savings: When fully utilised—booking regularly during peak seasons, maximising grocery/retail caps, using fuel waiver, and railway lounges—the card can deliver substantial annual savings exceeding ₹10,000, easily justifying the ₹413 annual fee.

The IRCTC BoB Credit Card is designed for users who want to maximize their credit card benefits effectively.

Do's

  • Link your BOBCARD IRCTC loyalty number with your IRCTC login ID immediately upon receiving the card to earn accelerated Reward Points
  • Plan major railway bookings during peak seasons (15 Jan-31 Mar & 15 Jul-15 Sep) to earn maximum 40 Reward Points per ₹100 (10% value-back)
  • Use the card for all IRCTC bookings to earn both Reward Points and 1% transaction charge waiver, delivering double savings
  • Ensure you're always listed as a passenger on tickets you book to qualify for Reward Points on your fare portion
  • Utilise your 4 complimentary railway lounge visits annually (1 per quarter) at major stations for comfortable pre-journey experiences
  • Spend ₹5,000 within the first 60 days to earn 500 Bonus Reward Points (worth ₹125) as welcome benefit
  • Pay your credit card bill in full before the due date to avoid the 41.88-45% annual interest rate
  • Use the card for grocery and departmental store purchases to earn 4 Reward Points per ₹100 (up to 1,000 points monthly)
  • Link your RuPay card to UPI apps like Google Pay or PhonePe to earn Reward Points on UPI transactions
  • Fill petrol between ₹500-₹3,000 per transaction to maximise the monthly ₹100 fuel surcharge waiver
  • Convert large purchases of ₹2,500+ to EMI for better cash flow management on significant expenses

Don't

  • Avoid booking railway tickets without being a listed passenger; Reward Points only accrue when the primary cardholder travels
  • Do not exceed the 1,000 Reward Points monthly cap in grocery/other categories; additional spending beyond ₹25,000 won't earn accelerated points
  • Neglect to pay the annual fee (₹350 + GST) from the 2nd year; non-payment deactivates your loyalty number and stops IRCTC rewards
  • Share your card details, CVV, OTP, or PIN with anyone, including those claiming to be from the bank or IRCTC
  • Use the card for cash advances; 2.5% fee plus immediate interest charges make it extremely expensive
  • Book train tickets without ensuring your loyalty number is properly linked to your IRCTC ID; you'll only earn base 2 RPs per ₹100
  • Assume Sleeper class travel earns accelerated rewards; only AC classes (1AC, 2AC, 3AC, CC, EC) qualify
  • Miss the minimum payment due date; late payment charges and interest can quickly negate reward benefits
  • Expect international acceptance comparable to Visa/Mastercard; RuPay has excellent domestic but limited international presence
  • Redeem small amounts of points frequently; accumulate substantial points for meaningful redemptions
  • Choose this card if you don't travel frequently by train or prefer Sleeper class; the card's value is optimised for AC travellers

Disclaimer: The information provided on this page has been gathered from various reliable sources and is intended solely for general informational purposes. As details may change over time, we do not guarantee the accuracy or completeness of the content. Users are advised to verify the information with official or relevant sources before making any decisions or taking action.

FAQs on IRCTC BoB Credit Card

Common questions about this credit card

Discussion (0)

No comments yet. Be the first.