Yes Bank has returned to the credit card arena with renewed energy, rebranding older cards and introducing new features. The Reserv Credit Card replaces the Yes First Exclusive card with updates to design, rewards and added benefits.
Below is a clear summary of the Yes Bank Reserv Credit Card in its current form, covering fees, rewards, benefits and who it suits best.
Table of Contents
- Overview
- Joining Fees
- Design
- Rewards
- Reward Subscription Plan
- Redemption
- Airport Lounge Access
- Golf Benefit
- Other Benefits
- Reserv vs Marquee
- Should you get Reserv?
- How to apply?
- Bottomline
Overview
| Type | Premium Credit Card |
| Reward Rate | 1.5% – 3% |
| Annual Fee | 1,999 INR + GST |
| Best for | Online Spends |
| USP | Redemption without 70% restriction |
The card is currently issued as a paid product for most applicants, though many existing customers retained a lifetime free (LTF) variant. A standard 3% reward rate on online spends combined with straightforward redemption options makes the card attractive for frequent online shoppers. There is also an optional subscription plan that modifies rewards, detailed below.
Joining Fees
| Joining Fee | 1,999 INR + GST |
| Joining Fee Reversal | Spend 40,000 INR within 30 days |
| Welcome Benefit | Nil |
| Renewal Fee | 1,999 INR + GST |
| Renewal Fee waiver | On spending >3 Lakhs |
| Renewal Benefit | 8,000 Reward Points (if renewal fee is paid) |
Yes Bank offers a joining fee reversal if you spend 40,000 INR within 30 days, and a renewal fee waiver if annual spends exceed 3 lakh INR. For many cardholders who can meet that annual spend, the card effectively becomes LTF.
Design
The card carries a new visual identity. Some design choices are unconventional, such as the stylized name and logo placements, but overall the card presents well in everyday use.
Rewards
| SPEND TYPE | REWARD POINTS | REWARD RATE |
|---|---|---|
| Online Shopping Spends | 24 / 200 INR | ~3% |
| Offline Shopping Spends | 12 / 200 INR | ~1.5% |
| Select Categories | 6 / 200 INR | ~0.75% |
- Select Categories: Rental payments, wallet loading, recharges, utility bills, insurance, education and government payments.
- Max Cap for Online spends: 36,000 points per statement cycle (equivalent to 3 lakh INR of spend). Beyond this cap, points for online transactions are throttled to the offline reward rate.
The card is clearly optimized for online spending. If your card usage is predominantly digital, the rewards are compelling. If you want more value, the optional reward subscription plans can increase earn rates for a fee.
Reward Subscription Plan
Yes Bank introduced a reward subscription option instead of raising the base annual fee. The subscription is designed to let cardholders pay for higher earning rates. Current plans are:
| Plan | Benefit | Max Points | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3X Rewards | 3X on all spends | 75,000 / Stmt Cycle | 3,500 INR + GST |
| 5X Rewards | 5X on Travel, Dining, Fashion, Healthcare | 75,000 / Stmt Cycle | 5,000 INR + GST |
While the plans can be attractive, the effective benefit depends on your spend mix. For instance, online spends don’t necessarily translate to the headline percentage many expect once caps and base rates are factored in. Also, benefits from these plans may take time to reflect in statements due to processing and mapping changes after the card rebrand.
Redemption
- Flights/Hotels: 0.25 INR per point
A major advantage is the straightforward redemption for flights and hotels at a fixed revenue rate, removing the need to game complex mileage transfer programs. This makes the card practical for users who prefer simple, direct redemptions for domestic travel bookings.
Airport Lounge Access
| ACCESS TYPE | VIA | LIMIT |
|---|---|---|
| Domestic | Visa / Mastercard | 3 per quarter |
| International (Primary) | Visa / Mastercard | 6 per year |
Lounge access limits have been reduced from earlier unlimited access to a more modest allocation. Domestic lounge visits apply to both primary and add-on cards; international complimentary access is limited to the primary cardholder. From 21 March 2024, complimentary lounge eligibility depends on spends in the previous quarter: cardholders must spend at least 10,000 INR in a calendar quarter to qualify for complimentary lounges in the next quarter.
Golf Benefit
- 4 games per year (maximum 1 per month)
- 1 lesson per month
Golf benefits are accessible via Visa and Mastercard partner programs rather than a bank-run golf program. These features add value for cardholders who occasionally use golfing services.
Other Benefits
- Forex Markup Fee: 1.75%
- Purchase protection: Insurance cover up to 50,000 INR for accidental damage on mobile and electronics purchased online (6 months)
Purchase protection is a useful addition in this fee bracket, offering extra reassurance for online electronics purchases.
Reserv vs Marquee
If you prefer a stable, predictable premium card, Yes Bank Marquee may be a better option—especially if you don’t already hold other super-premium cards. Marquee’s unlimited lounge access and guest privileges make it more convenient for frequent family travelers.
Should you get Reserv?
Reserv is a sensible choice if your spending is heavily online and you want strong rewards at a relatively low fee. If you prefer a simpler, more stable product and are less focused on rewards, consider alternatives in the same segment.
How to apply?
- Online: Apply through the Yes Bank website.
- Branch – Digital: The branch can submit your application remotely if you provide OTP and documents.
- Branch – Physical: Complete and sign physical forms at a branch.
Online applications are typically smooth. If you face eligibility issues online, a branch visit—digital or physical—can help complete the process.
Bottomline
- Cardexpert Rating: 4.3/5
The Yes Bank Reserv Credit Card is a solid option for users who can access the LTF variant or who spend mainly online. Its straightforward redemptions and useful protections add practical value. Keep in mind that Yes Bank’s credit card features have seen changes in recent times, so monitor any updates and be prepared to adjust your strategy if benefits shift.
If you hold the Yes Bank Reserv Credit Card, feel free to share your experience in the comments.