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Introduction
The Federal Scapia Credit Card is a contemporary credit product jointly developed by Federal Bank and Scapia, a fintech startup known for its travel-focused services. Designed primarily for modern Indian consumers, especially frequent travelers, this card offers several compelling benefits such as zero forex markup, travel rewards, lounge access, and a fully digital experience—all without annual or joining fees.
Let’s explore the key features, benefits, eligibility, recent changes, and whether this card is the right fit for your financial lifestyle.
Features & Benefits
1. 100% Digital Onboarding
The Scapia card application process is entirely app-based. You can apply directly from the Scapia app, submit your Aadhaar and PAN for verification, and receive a virtual card instantly. The physical card follows in a few days. This streamlined digital process eliminates paperwork and long wait times.
All card management tools—including spend tracking, EMI options, and rewards redemption—are integrated within the app, offering a truly mobile-first experience.
2. Zero Annual or Joining Fees
Unlike most travel-focused credit cards, the Federal Scapia Credit Card has no upfront or recurring charges. You won’t pay any annual or joining fees, making it ideal for users who want to avoid hidden costs while enjoying premium benefits.
3. No Foreign Transaction Charges
This card is a traveler’s delight—there’s no foreign exchange markup fee, which typically ranges from 2%–3% on other cards. Whether you’re shopping abroad or booking international stays, you’ll save significantly with this feature.
4. Scapia Coin Rewards System
The card rewards your spending with Scapia Coins:
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Earn 10% in Scapia Coins on most everyday purchases.
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Earn 20% in coins when booking flights or hotels through the Scapia platform.
Coins can be used exclusively for travel bookings on the Scapia app. Every 5 coins are worth ₹1, and there’s no cap on redemption. Points remain valid for 36 months, giving you plenty of time to use them.
5. Free Domestic Airport Lounge Access
When you spend at least ₹10,000 per month, you gain complimentary access to select domestic airport lounges in India. This feature enhances travel comfort and adds a premium touch to your journey.
6. EMI Options for Travel Spend
Scapia allows users to convert eligible travel bookings made through the app into no-cost 3-month EMIs, making it easier to plan large trips without financial stress.
What’s New in 2025?
Launch of Visa + RuPay Dual Network Card
In June 2025, Federal Bank and Scapia rolled out a dual-network credit card that combines the capabilities of both Visa and RuPay. With this card, you can:
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Use Visa for global transactions and e-commerce.
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Use RuPay for UPI-based credit card payments, enhancing everyday usability in India.
This unified experience means a single bill, a shared credit limit, and increased compatibility across platforms.
Policy Updates from September 2024
Several important changes took effect in late 2024:
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Fuel transactions are now surcharge-free up to ₹5,000/month but do not earn rewards.
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Utility bills and telecom payments earn 10% in coins up to ₹20,000/month. Beyond that, a 1% fee applies.
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Transactions like wallet top-ups, rent payments, and government-related spends no longer earn rewards and are subject to a 1% fee.
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Minimum monthly spend for lounge access increased to ₹10,000.
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The interest rate was revised to 3.75% per month, or 45% annually.
These updates align the product with changing market conditions and regulatory norms.
Charges Summary
| Fee Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Joining Fee | ₹0 |
| Annual Fee | ₹0 |
| Interest Rate | 3.75% per month (~45% APR) |
| Cash Withdrawal | 2.5% or ₹500 (minimum) |
| Late Payment Fee | ₹100–₹1,000 |
| Card Replacement | ₹200 |
| Forex Markup | 0% |
Eligibility Criteria
To apply, you must:
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Be an Indian citizen and a resident of India.
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Be 18 years or older (if salaried) or 21+ (if self-employed).
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Have valid PAN and Aadhaar.
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Provide basic income verification, such as a Form 16 or salary slip.
One important note: current Federal Bank customers may be ineligible, as internal restrictions sometimes block applicants with existing Federal Bank relationships.
Application Steps
Download the Scapia app from your phone’s app store.
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Register and complete KYC using Aadhaar and PAN.
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If eligible, get an instant virtual credit card.
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The physical card is delivered in a few working days.
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Manage your card fully through the app—no need to visit a branch or call support.
What Do Users Say?
Positive Feedback
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Many users praise the instant approval and virtual card activation.
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The 0% forex charge and 20% travel rewards are frequently mentioned as standout features.
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Customers appreciate the user-friendly mobile app for tracking expenses and managing the card.
Common Issues
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Some applicants with strong credit profiles are rejected without a clear reason, often due to internal Federal Bank policies.
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Credit limit cuts have been reported unexpectedly, sometimes dropping from several lakhs to just ₹20,000, which can hurt credit scores.
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Customer support is inconsistent and not always responsive.
Despite these concerns, users who are approved and use the card primarily for travel generally report a positive experience.
Pros and Cons
✅ Pros
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No annual or joining fees
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Zero foreign transaction markup
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High rewards on travel spending
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Unlimited lounge access with qualifying spend
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Mobile-first, digital control
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UPI and Visa support in one card (dual-network)
❌ Cons
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Scapia Coins can only be redeemed through the app for travel
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Eligibility issues for existing Federal Bank customers
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Unpredictable credit limit changes
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Limited utility outside the travel niche
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Customer support needs improvement
Ideal User Profile
This credit card is best suited for:
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Frequent domestic and international travelers
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People who are comfortable managing credit digitally
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Budget-conscious users looking for a free travel card
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Those who don’t already have a Federal Bank account
It might not suit:
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People who want flexible reward redemption
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Users who rely on offline support or branch visits
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Consumers who pay rent or use wallets frequently
Comparison with Other Credit Cards
| Card | Key Benefits | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Scapia Card | 0% forex, lounge, 10–20% rewards | ₹0 |
| AU Ixigo Credit Card | Travel vouchers, EMI options | ₹500 |
| Niyo Global Card | Zero forex, ATM access abroad | ₹0–₹250 |
| SBI Air India Card | Free air miles and insurance | ₹1,499 |
Final Verdict
The Federal Scapia Credit Card is a great option for individuals who:
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Love to travel,
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Want generous travel rewards,
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Need zero forex charges, and
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Prefer managing finances digitally.
It’s among the best free credit cards available in India for travel-specific benefits. However, the card does come with some caveats, especially regarding customer support and internal approval rules.
If you're a frequent traveler who books hotels and flights often, and you don't mind redeeming rewards only through the Scapia app, this card is definitely worth considering.
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