As a Mumbai-based finance enthusiast who's tested over 20 credit cards, the Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card stands out in 2025 for budget-conscious travelers seeking lounge perks without premium fees. Launched as a mid-range option, it offers complimentary domestic lounge visits, insurance up to ₹2 crore, and accelerated rewards on travel bookings. In this detailed review, I'll break down its features, eligibility, and value based on Axis Bank's latest updates—helping you decide if it fits your wallet.
What Makes the Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card Unique in 2025?
The Horizon Credit Card is Axis Bank's entry-level travel card, positioned below the Atlas but above basic options like Neo. With no joining fee for the first year (₹500 thereafter), it's accessible for salaried individuals earning ₹6 lakh annually. Key highlights include 2X EDGE REWARDS on travel and dining, plus insurance covers that rival pricier cards. In 2025's revised terms (effective June), it emphasizes digital perks like contactless payments and app-based tracking, making it ideal for urban millennials.
Key Features and Benefits
Axis Bank has tailored the Horizon for everyday travel needs. Here's what you get:
- Rewards Program: Earn 5 EDGE REWARDS per ₹100 on travel portals (e.g., MakeMyTrip), 2 on dining, and 1 on others. Redeem for flights or vouchers (1 EDGE = ₹0.20).
- Insurance Coverage: Up to ₹2 crore travel insurance, including lost baggage (₹50,000) and flight delays (₹10,000/hour).
- Fuel Surcharge Waiver: 1% waiver on fuel spends up to ₹5,000/month.
- Dining Discounts: 15% off at EazyDiner partners, up to ₹500/month.
- Other Perks: Zero forex markup on international spends under ₹50,000 quarterly.
In my experience, the rewards accumulate quickly for frequent diners, but they're less competitive for high-spenders compared to Magnus.
Lounge Access with Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card
A standout feature is the complimentary lounge access—4 domestic visits per year via Visa Signature, including major airports like Delhi T3 and Mumbai T2. No spend threshold required, unlike Amazon Pay ICICI (₹75,000/quarter). Guests pay ₹2 (reversed later), but it's primary cardholder-only. For international, it's limited to select lounges abroad, making it suitable for domestic flyers.
| Lounge Type | Visits/Year | Key Airports |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic | 4 | DEL, BOM, BLR, MAA |
| International | 2 (select) | DXB, SIN (Visa partners) |
This perk alone can save ₹1,000-2,000 annually, based on standard lounge fees.
Eligibility and Application Process to qualify in 2025:
- Income: ₹6 lakh+ annually (salaried/self-employed).
- Age: 18-70 years.
- Credit Score: 750+ CIBIL preferred.
- Documents: PAN, Aadhaar, salary slips (3 months), or ITR.
Apply online via Axis Bank's site or app—approval takes 7-10 days, with instant virtual card for eligible users. As someone who's applied for similar cards, ensure your CIBIL is clean to avoid rejections.
Fees and Charges: Is It Worth the Cost?
- Joining Fee: ₹500 (waived first year on ₹10,000 spend).
- Annual Fee: ₹500 (waived on ₹1.5 lakh annual spend).
- Interest Rate: 3.6% monthly on revolving credit.
- Forex Markup: 0% on spends under ₹50,000/quarter, then 3.5%.
Compared to peers, it's affordable—lower than HDFC Regalia's ₹2,500 fee but with fewer international perks.
How It Compares to Other Cards in 2025
| Card | Annual Fee | Lounge Visits | Rewards Rate | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Axis Horizon | ₹500 | 4 Domestic | 5X on Travel | Budget Travelers |
| HDFC Regalia | ₹2,500 | 6 Domestic + International | 4X on Dining | Premium Users |
| Amazon Pay ICICI | Free | 1/Quarter (Spend-based) | 5% on Amazon | Shoppers |
| SBI SimplyClick | ₹499 | None | 10X on Online | E-commerce |
The Horizon shines for travel rewards without high fees, but if you spend over ₹5 lakh/year, consider upgrading to Atlas.
Tips to Maximize Your Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card
- Hit Waivers: Spend ₹1.5 lakh annually to waive the fee—focus on travel and dining.
- Track Rewards: Use Axis Mobile app for real-time points; redeem via EDGE portal.
- Avoid Cash Advances: 3% fee + high interest—use for emergencies only.
- Pair with Others: Combine with a shopping card like Amazon Pay for balanced perks.
- Monitor Updates: Check Axis site for 2025 changes, like revised rewards in June.
From my trials, stacking travel spends yields 5-7% effective returns.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card annual fee? ₹500, waived on ₹1.5 lakh spend or first year with ₹10,000.
How many lounge accesses does it offer? 4 domestic visits/year via Visa Signature; no spend required.
What is the eligibility for Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card? ₹6 lakh+ income, 18-70 age, good credit score.
Is it better than HDFC Regalia? For low spenders, yes—cheaper fees; for high spenders, Regalia offers more international perks.
How to apply for Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card? Online via Axis site or app; instant approval for eligible users.
Conclusion: Should You Get the Axis Bank Horizon Credit Card in 2025?
If you're a moderate traveler seeking lounge access and rewards without breaking the bank, the Horizon is a solid pick—saving ₹2,000+ annually on perks. However, heavy spenders might prefer premium options. Apply if your profile matches, but compare based on your habits. This review is informational; consult Axis Bank for personalized advice.