A high-limit credit card can unlock better financial flexibility, greater purchasing power, and enhanced rewards. But not everyone qualifies for one — especially without a strong credit score. If you’re wondering what credit score you need to get a high-limit credit card, this detailed guide will walk you through everything, including how your credit profile is assessed, what factors affect your limit, and how you can improve your chances.
What is a High Limit Credit Card?
Before we dive into the numbers, let’s define what a high-limit credit card actually means.
A high-limit credit card is one that offers a significantly higher credit limit than standard cards. While the definition can vary depending on your income, spending habits, and issuer policies, generally:
| Credit Limit Category | Credit Limit Range (INR) |
|---|---|
| Standard Credit Cards | ₹25,000 – ₹2,00,000 |
| Mid-Tier Credit Cards | ₹2,00,001 – ₹5,00,000 |
| High-Limit Credit Cards | ₹5,00,001 and above |
Such cards are generally offered to individuals with a strong credit profile, high income, and excellent repayment history.
What is a Credit Score?
A credit score is a three-digit number ranging between 300 to 900 that reflects your creditworthiness. It’s calculated by credit bureaus like CIBIL, Experian, Equifax, and CRIF High Mark based on your credit behavior, such as repayments, credit usage, and defaults.
- 300–549: Poor
- 550–649: Fair
- 650–749: Good
- 750–900: Excellent
If you’re targeting a high-limit credit card, your credit score needs to be on the upper end of the spectrum.
Ideal Credit Score for High Limit Credit Cards
Although there’s no fixed score that guarantees approval, most banks and NBFCs in India look for a credit score of 750 or above to offer premium or high-limit credit cards.
| Credit Score Range | Eligibility for High-Limit Card | Remarks |
|---|---|---|
| 750–900 | Very Likely | Strong credit history |
| 700–749 | Possible | May need higher income or co-applicant |
| 650–699 | Less Likely | May get low limit initially |
| Below 650 | Unlikely | Focus on improving score first |
So, if you’re aiming for a ₹5–10 lakh credit limit, you should ideally maintain a CIBIL score of 750+ with no defaults or late payments.
Factors That Affect High Credit Limit Approval
Apart from credit score, banks consider several other parameters before approving a high-limit credit card:
1. Income Level
Higher income indicates your ability to repay. Many issuers require a monthly income of ₹75,000 or more for high-limit cards.
2. Existing Debt
High existing loans or credit card balances may reduce your eligibility. Keep your debt-to-income ratio (DTI) under 30%.
3. Credit Utilization Ratio
If you consistently use more than 30-40% of your available credit, it signals credit hunger. Maintaining a lower ratio can increase your credit limit over time.
4. Credit History Duration
A longer and clean credit history improves your credibility. Ideally, your credit age should be 3+ years for premium card consideration.
5. Repayment Record
On-time EMIs and bill payments significantly boost your chances.
Best High-Limit Credit Cards in India (2025)
Here are some popular high-limit credit cards available in India and the credit score typically required:
| Card Name | Issuer | Approx. Limit | Ideal Credit Score | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| HDFC Infinia Credit Card | HDFC Bank | ₹10 Lakhs+ | 780+ | ₹12,500 |
| SBI Elite Credit Card | SBI Cards | ₹5–10 Lakhs | 750+ | ₹4,999 |
| Axis Reserve Credit Card | Axis Bank | ₹7–15 Lakhs | 770+ | ₹50,000 |
| ICICI Emeralde Credit Card | ICICI Bank | ₹5 Lakhs+ | 750+ | ₹12,000 |
| American Express Platinum Card | Amex | ₹5–10 Lakhs | 760+ | ₹60,000 |
How to Improve Credit Score for High Limit Cards
Don’t have a 750+ score yet? Here’s how you can improve it and boost your chances for approval:
1. Pay Bills On Time
This is the most crucial factor affecting your score. Even one late payment can hurt your profile.
2. Maintain Low Credit Utilization
Keep your usage under 30% of your total credit limit. For example, if your credit limit is ₹1,00,000, try to keep monthly usage under ₹30,000.
3. Avoid Multiple Credit Applications
Too many hard inquiries signal credit-hungriness. Apply for cards strategically.
4. Keep Old Accounts Open
Your credit history length matters. Don’t close older credit cards unless necessary.
5. Monitor Your Credit Report
Regularly check your credit report for errors or fraudulent activity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Applying for Multiple Cards at Once
This can hurt your credit score and make you appear desperate for credit.
❌ Exceeding Credit Limit Frequently
Overutilization reduces your score and shows poor credit discipline.
❌ Ignoring Annual Fees
Premium cards have high fees. Ensure that the rewards you get justify the cost.
Tips to Get a Higher Credit Limit
Already have a card and want a higher limit? Try the following:
- Request a Limit Increase: After 6–12 months of usage and timely payments, request your bank to increase your limit.
- Show Updated Income Proof: A recent salary hike or business income proof can help.
- Maintain a Strong Relationship with Bank: Existing customers with good history are more likely to be approved.
FAQs: Credit Score for High Limit Credit Cards
✅ Can I get a high-limit credit card with no credit history?
Unlikely. Banks usually want to see 12–18 months of good credit behavior.
✅ Do secured credit cards offer high limits?
Secured cards are based on fixed deposits. You can get a high limit if you deposit a large amount (e.g., ₹5–10 lakhs).
✅ Can self-employed individuals get high-limit cards?
Yes, but you must show consistent income and tax return filings.
✅ What if my score is between 700–749?
You may still get a high-limit card, but the bank may set a lower initial limit and increase it based on your usage.
Conclusion: Aim for 750+ to Unlock Premium Credit Benefits
To sum it up, while different banks have varied policies, the ideal credit score for high-limit credit cards in India is 750 or above. However, your income, existing liabilities, and credit history also play a key role in determining your eligibility and limit.
If you’re not there yet, don’t worry — by following good credit practices, maintaining financial discipline, and building a solid credit history, you can work your way up to not just a high credit score but also a high-limit credit card with exceptional rewards.