Major Credit Card Changes Coming in June 2025 : If you’re a frequent credit card user in India, June 2025 is shaping up to be a pivotal month. Several leading banks — including HDFC Bank, Kotak Mahindra, Axis Bank, and American Express — are rolling out important updates to their credit card policies.
These updates affect lounge access, reward points, fee structures, and spending criteria, and could significantly impact how you use your card.
Whether you’re a seasoned cardholder or just starting to build credit, here’s everything you need to know — plus expert tips on how to adapt and still make the most of your credit card perks.
🔁 Why These Changes Matter to You
Banks revise credit card terms for several reasons — to manage costs, meet regulatory compliance, or align rewards with customer behavior. While many of the June 2025 updates are aimed at curbing misuse and refining customer benefits, they also place new restrictions that every cardholder should understand.
✈️ HDFC Bank: No More Swipe-and-Enter for Airport Lounges (From June 10, 2025)
Impacted Cards: Tata Neu Infinity & Tata Neu Plus Credit Cards
What’s Changing:
Starting June 10, 2025, HDFC is overhauling the way its Tata Neu credit card holders access airport lounges.
Old System:
- Swipe the credit card at the lounge for direct entry.
New System:
- Lounge access will now require pre-issued vouchers, granted only if you meet specific quarterly spending thresholds.
🔍 What This Means for You:
- If you’re used to spontaneous lounge access, this change could be inconvenient.
- Cardholders must now track spending more carefully to qualify for vouchers.
✅ Pro Tip:
Keep an eye on your quarterly spending milestones. If lounge access is important to you, consider switching to a card that still offers unlimited or swipe-based entry with lower thresholds.
🏦 Kotak Mahindra Bank: New Charges & Fee Updates (From June 1, 2025)
Effective Date: June 1, 2025
What’s Changing:
Kotak Mahindra is rolling out a broad set of changes across its credit card offerings. Key updates include:
- New fees for:
- Failed standing instructions (auto-payments)
- Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) on foreign transactions
- Updated charges for:
- Utility bill payments
- Education-related transactions
- Wallet top-ups (like Paytm, PhonePe, etc.)
- Skill-based gaming
- Fuel purchases
Additionally, the Minimum Amount Due (MAD) calculation will change, potentially increasing your monthly minimum payments if you carry a balance.
💡 Insider Tip:
These changes are especially relevant if you use your Kotak card for recurring payments or travel abroad. Consider setting up reminders to ensure auto-payments don’t fail — this will help you avoid unnecessary fees.
🎁 Axis Bank: Rewards Reshuffled and Lounge Access Axed (From June 20, 2025)
Cards Affected:
- Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card
- Axis Bank REWARDS Credit Card
Effective Date: June 20, 2025
🚫 Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card:
Changes:
- Increased cashback on Myntra purchases
- Loss of complimentary airport lounge access
🧾 Axis REWARDS Credit Card:
Changes:
- New rules on spend exclusions (i.e., not all spending will count for rewards)
- Stricter criteria for annual fee waivers — you may need to spend more yearly to avoid the annual charge
📝 Takeaway:
While the Myntra cashback boost is a plus, the loss of lounge access makes this card less attractive for frequent travelers. Also, if you use the REWARDS card for daily expenses, make sure you understand which purchases don’t earn points anymore
⛽ American Express Gold Charge Card: No More Points on Fuel (From June 12, 2025)
Effective Date: June 12, 2025
What’s Changing:
Amex is removing reward eligibility for fuel purchases — including petrol, diesel, and CNG — at Oil Marketing Companies (OMCs).
⚠️ Who’s Affected:
If you regularly swipe your Amex Gold Charge Card at the pump, you’ll no longer earn Membership Rewards points on those transactions.
💬 Expert Insight:
Fuel was one of the few high-ticket, frequent expenses where Amex users could easily rack up points. With that gone, you may want to reallocate fuel spending to a different credit card that still offers cashback or fuel surcharge waivers.
💡 3 Fresh Tips to Adapt and Maximize Your Credit Card Benefits
1. Review and Rotate Your Credit Cards
Don’t stick with a single card. Maintain 2–3 cards that serve different purposes — one for travel perks, one for daily expenses, and one for online shopping rewards.
2. Track Changes with a Credit Card Tracker App
Apps like Cred, Walnut, or OneScore help track spends, fees, reward points, and upcoming changes — all in one place.
3. Negotiate With Your Bank
If a new fee or loss of benefit hits you hard, call your credit card issuer. Many banks offer personalized solutions or alternatives — especially if you’re a long-time customer with a good spending record.
🧠 Final Thoughts: Stay Informed to Stay Ahead
Credit card benefits are evolving fast, and June 2025 is a clear reminder that terms can change anytime. What was once a great deal may no longer offer the same value.
If you rely on your credit cards for lounge access, reward points, or daily savings, now is the time to:
- Reassess your current cards
- Look for alternatives that match your lifestyle
- Adjust your spending habits to align with new rules
Staying proactive can help you continue to enjoy the best perks — without unnecessary fees or missed rewards.
📌 FAQs
Q: Will I still get lounge access if I don’t meet HDFC’s spending milestone?
A: No. From June 10, 2025, HDFC will only issue lounge access vouchers to users who meet specific quarterly spend criteria.
Q: Is fuel spending excluded from all cards now?
A: Not necessarily. As of now, American Express is the one removing reward eligibility for fuel. Other cards still offer points or cashback on fuel purchases.
Q: Can I downgrade my card if I don’t like the new terms?
A: Yes. Most banks offer downgrade or switch options. Contact customer service to explore alternatives that better suit your needs.
