Top 0 APR Credit Cards for Interest-Free Borrowing in 2025

Why 0 APR Credit Cards Are a Big Deal in 2025

Imagine buying a phone, laptop, or even paying off debt—without paying a rupee in interest for months. That’s exactly what 0 APR credit cards offer.

Using a credit card comes with certain costs—mainly interest charges, also called finance charges, which are added to any unpaid amount each month. These charges are calculated as a monthly percentage, but when shown on an annual basis, they’re called the Annual Percentage Rate (APR).

When a card offers 0% APR, it means you won’t have to pay any interest on purchases or balance transfers for a set time—usually between 6 to 21 months. It’s a limited-time offer, like a discount on interest. After the promo period ends, the usual interest rate (known as the regular APR) kicks in.

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Quick Comparison: Best Zero APR Credit Cards in India – 2025 Edition

Bank/Card	APR Offer Type	Tenure	Interest Rate	Fees	Best For
IDFC FIRST Select	Purchase + Transfers	3–6 months	0.75% – 1.25% monthly	Based on profile	Low-cost everyday spending
HDFC Bank InstaLoan	Balance Transfer (EMI)	3–6 months	0% (converted to EMI)	₹250 – ₹999	Consolidating debt
RBL Bank Platinum Delight	Balance Transfer	3–6 months	0% (3M), 1.16% (6M)	₹199 – ₹499	Short-term low-interest borrowing
SBI Card Balance Transfer	Balance Transfer	2 or 6 months	0% (2M) or 1.7% (6M)	1% or ₹199	Emergency interest relief
ICICI Coral Credit Card	Purchase + Transfers	3–6 months	1.25% monthly	₹199 onwards	Digital-savvy users
Kotak Mahindra PVR Credit Card	Balance Transfer	3–6 months	0.99% monthly	₹349+	Kotak users + movie rewards combo

📝 Note: These offers may change. Always verify with the issuing bank before applying.

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Two Types of 0% APR Offers You’ll Find

There are two ways a 0% APR deal can help:

1. 0% APR on Purchases

This lets you buy something now and pay it off later without paying any extra interest during the promo period.

💡 Example: Want to buy a ₹60,000 laptop? With a 0% APR for 12 months, you can pay ₹5,000 per month without paying a rupee in interest.

2. 0% APR on Balance Transfers

Already have a credit card with a big balance and high interest? You can move that balance to a 0% APR card and stop the interest from piling up—giving you a chance to pay it off faster.

💡 Example: You have ₹50,000 on a card that charges 18% interest. Transferring it to a 0% APR card could save you ₹9,000 in interest over a year.

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Why 0% APR Cards Can Be a Game-Changer

These cards aren’t just about paying less—they’re about gaining control of your money. Here’s how they help:

✅ Save on Interest

No interest = more of your money goes to paying off what you owe, not the bank.

✅ Manage Big Purchases Easily

Want to buy a new phone, fridge, or flight tickets? A 0% APR card gives you the option to pay in parts without EMI or interest.

✅ Get Out of Debt Faster

If you’re stuck paying high interest on another card, transferring the balance to a 0% APR card can help you clear your dues faster.

✅ Combine Multiple Debts

Got more than one credit card with balances? Combine them into one 0% APR card and pay just one bill every month.

✅ Improve Your Credit Score

Making payments on time and keeping your balance low helps your credit score improve over time—especially if you’re not adding more interest to it.

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Detailed Reviews: India’s Best Zero APR Credit Cards (2025)

If you’re searching for the best 0 APR credit cards in India, these six options stand out for their low or zero-interest offers, digital-first features, and user-friendly repayment options. Here’s an in-depth look at what makes each of them worth considering:

1. IDFC FIRST Select Credit Card

• Interest Rate: 0.75% – 1.25% monthly
  
• Tenure: 3 to 6 months
  
• Processing Fees: Based on credit profile
  
• Annual Fee: Often lifetime free
  

Why It’s a Top Pick:

• ✅ Among the lowest APRs in India, making repayments easier
  
• ✅ No annual fee for life in most customer profiles
  
• ✅ Free airport lounge access at select domestic airports
  
• ✅ Earn reward points on every spend – including EMI & fuel
  
• ✅ 1+1 movie ticket offers on BookMyShow
  
• ✅ Accepted widely online, perfect for e-commerce and subscriptions
  
• ✅ Instant digital approval via IDFC FIRST Bank app or website
  

Best For:
Everyday users who want an all-in-one card with low interest, flexible repayments, lifestyle rewards, and no hidden charges.

Apply for IDFC First Select Credit Card

2. HDFC Bank InstaLoan (via Credit Card)

• Offer Type: Balance Transfer
  
• APR: 0% (converted to EMIs)
  
• Tenure: 3 to 6 months
  
• Processing Fee: ₹250 – ₹999
  

What Makes It Special:

• ✅ Integrated directly within your HDFC NetBanking dashboard—apply instantly
  
• ✅ Option to repay in custom EMI plans (3, 6, 9, or 12 months)
  
• ✅ Get funds directly credited to your savings account
  
• ✅ High approval rate for existing HDFC cardholders
  
• ✅ Transparent repayment tracking via app
  
• ✅ No documentation required if you’re pre-approved
  

Best For:
HDFC customers with high credit card dues who want a structured, interest-free EMI option from a trusted bank.

Sign up for HDFC Insta Loan offer

3. RBL Bank Platinum Delight Credit Card

• APR: 0% for 3 months, 1.16% for 6 months
  
• Fees: ₹199 to ₹499
  
• Transfer Limit: Up to 75% of your credit limit
  
• Joining Fee: Often waived for early applicants
  

Why It’s a Winner:

• ✅ Ideal for short-term interest-free borrowing
  
• ✅ Quick digital onboarding in under 10 minutes
  
• ✅ Option to transfer even small amounts (₹3,000+)
  
• ✅ Earn up to 4,000 bonus points per month
  
• ✅ Cashback and discounts on Zomato, Swiggy, and Myntra
  
• ✅ Fuel surcharge waiver up to ₹100/month
  

Best For:
Budget-conscious users looking for an affordable, digitally accessible card to manage small balances and enjoy everyday perks.

Apply for New Rbl Bank Credit Card

4. SBI Card Balance Transfer

• APR: 0% for 60 days or 1.7% for 6 months
  
• Fees: 1% or ₹199 (whichever is higher)
  
• Limit: Up to 75% of the available credit limit
  
• Availability: All SBI credit card users
  

Why You’ll Love It:

• ✅ Fast online application via SBI Card website or mobile app
  
• ✅ No documentation needed for pre-approved customers
  
• ✅ Convert dues into EMIs or repay as a lump sum
  
• ✅ Offers a breather for emergencies or unplanned expenses
  
• ✅ Free add-on card with same benefits
  
• ✅ Get exclusive deals on BigBasket, Cleartrip & more
  

Best For:
Anyone needing quick, short-term relief from interest—ideal for handling one-time expenses or sudden cash crunches.

5. ICICI Bank Coral Credit Card

• APR: 1.25% monthly
  
• Tenure: 3 to 6 months
  
• Fees: ₹199 onwards (annual fee waived on annual spend milestone)
  

Why It’s a Smart Choice:

• ✅ Instant access via iMobile Pay app for ICICI customers
  
• ✅ Complimentary domestic airport lounge visits
  
• ✅ 2X rewards on dining, groceries, and entertainment
  
• ✅ Fuel surcharge waiver up to ₹100/month
  
• ✅ Get Payback reward points redeemable across 100+ brands
  
• ✅ Great track record for fast approval and EMIs
  

Best For:
Tech-savvy users who want a credit card with zero-interest flexibility, travel perks, and superior rewards—all backed by ICICI’s robust service.

Apply Online for ICICI Coral Credit Card

6. Kotak Mahindra PVR Credit Card

• APR: 0.99% monthly
  
• Tenure: 3 to 6 months
  
• Fees: ₹349+ annually (waived with annual spend)
  

Perks That Stand Out:

• ✅ Get free PVR movie tickets every month based on spending
  
• ✅ Excellent balance transfer facility with low interest
  
• ✅ EMI conversions made easy via mobile or email request
  
• ✅ Flat 10% off on BookMyShow, Swiggy & Zomato
  
• ✅ Spend-based fee waiver and reward boosters
  

Best For:
Movie lovers and Kotak customers looking to combine entertainment benefits with zero-interest financial breathing space.

Apply for Kotak PVR Credit Card

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Also Check Out > Best Balance Transfer Cards to Get Rid of Credit Card Debt Fast

How to Use 0% APR Cards for Debt Consolidation

Here’s a step-by-step way to combine your existing credit card debts into one 0% APR card:

1. Apply for a 0% APR balance transfer card
   
2. Move your balances from your current high-interest cards to the new one
   
3. Start paying it off during the interest-free period
   

💡 Tip: Make sure you can clear the debt before the promo ends—otherwise, interest will start adding up again.

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📈 Want to Boost Your Credit Score?

Using a 0% APR card the right way can help build your credit score. Here’s how:

• Make every payment on time
  
• Don’t use more than 30% of your credit limit
  
• Avoid applying for too many cards in a short span
  

Being smart with your credit usage shows lenders that you’re responsible, which can help you qualify for better financial products in the future.

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How to Choose the Right 0% APR Card

Here’s what to check when comparing cards:

Factor	What to Look For
Length of 0% APR	The longer, the better—ideally 12–18 months
Type of Offer	Purchases, balance transfers, or both?
Fees	Watch for annual fees, transfer fees, and late fees
Eligibility	Check the minimum credit score required
Regular APR	What rate applies after the promo ends?
Extra Rewards	Cashback, discounts, airport lounge access, etc.

📱 Tip: If you’re using Airtel Finance, you can apply for a feature-rich credit card directly through the Airtel Thanks App—it’s fast, easy, and secure.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: What does 0 APR mean on credit cards?
It means you won’t be charged interest on your balance or new purchases during a specific promo period (3–21 months).

Q2. How long does the 0% APR last?
Usually between 6 and 21 months, depending on the bank and the specific card offer.

Q3. Are there any hidden charges on 0% APR cards?
They may charge fees like:

• Annual fees
  
• Balance transfer fees
  
• Late payment penalties
  So it’s important to check the full terms before applying.
  

Q4. What happens after the 0% APR period ends?
Your card will start charging the standard interest rate (called regular APR) on any remaining balance.

Q5. Do I still have to pay monthly if there’s no interest?
Yes! You must pay at least the minimum each month, even during the 0% period.

Q6. Can I use a 0% APR card for both purchases and balance transfers?
Some cards offer both. But others may only apply the 0% deal to purchases or transfers. Always check what’s covered.

Q7: Are 0 APR credit cards available in India?
Yes, major banks like HDFC, ICICI, SBI, Kotak, RBL, and IDFC FIRST offer them.

Q8: Can I transfer balances from multiple cards?
Yes, most banks allow you to consolidate balances within your credit limit.

Q9: What happens after the 0% APR period ends?
Your remaining balance starts accruing interest at the regular APR (usually 18–25%).

Q10: Can 0 APR cards affect my credit score?
Yes—positively if used responsibly, negatively if misused or you default.

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⚠️ Things to Watch Out For with 0% APR Cards

These cards can be super helpful—but only if you know the fine print. Here are some important points to remember:

Fees Still Apply

Even though you’re not paying interest, some fees may still apply:

• Annual fees
  
• Late payment charges
  
• Balance transfer fees
  
• Cash withdrawal charges
  

👉 Always read the fee section before you apply.

It’s Not Forever

The 0% APR offer is temporary. It usually lasts anywhere from 6 to 21 months. Once it ends, the normal APR (often between 18%–40%) kicks in.

💡 Example: Say you still owe ₹20,000 when the promo ends, and the regular APR is 18%. Interest starts building up on that ₹20,000.

You Still Have to Pay Monthly

Even with 0% APR, you must pay at least the minimum amount every month. Missing a payment can:

• Cancel your 0% offer immediately
  
• Trigger late fees
  
• Damage your credit score
  

⏰ Set reminders or auto-pay to avoid missing a due date.

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✅ Should You Apply for a 0 APR Credit Card?

Apply if you:

• Need to make a big purchase soon
  
• Are paying high interest on your current cards
  
• Have a solid plan to repay before the offer ends
  

Avoid if:

• You tend to overspend
  
• You’re unsure about paying it off in time
  
• You’re close to your credit limit
  

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Final Tips Before You Apply

✔ Read the fine print
✔ Know the end date of the 0% offer
✔ Stick to 30% or less of your credit limit
✔ Use reminders or auto-pay
✔ Don’t treat it as “free money”—treat it as smart money

Also Check Out > Best Business Credit Cards in India (2025 Edition)