12:10 PM IST – RBL Bank has stepped firmly into India’s premium credit card market with the launch of LUMIÈRE and NOVA, as per the RBL press release. Two metal cards aimed at customers who value travel comfort, rewards that feel real, and experiences that stand apart.
India’s affluent customer base is growing fast, especially among young professionals and Gen Z tech business owners who spend more on travel, food, and lifestyle. Unlike standard credit cards that focus on generic cashback or points, RBL is trying to create something more personal with these launches.
NOVA Credit Card — Travel, Rewards, and Everyday Value
NOVA is designed for customers who want strong rewards and simple benefits without complications. It’s a metal card with an annual fee of ₹12,500.
NOVA: Key Features & Benefits
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Welcome Benefit | Gift card worth ₹12,500 (Taj Experiences or Luxe) |
| Quarterly Milestone | Spend ₹3 lakh/quarter → ₹10,000 gift card |
| Reward Rate | 4 points/₹200 on normal spends |
| Travel Rewards | 12 points/₹200 on flights & hotels |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | Lower 2% |
| Airport Lounges | 12 domestic + 12 international lounges per year |
| Golf Perks | 4 rounds + 12 lessons yearly |
| Dining | 10% savings at top restaurants |
| Add-On Cards | First two free |
Unlike many mid-tier cards that offer inflated reward points but poor redemption rates, NOVA gives 1 Reward Point = ₹1, making the value direct and easy to understand. Bookings through nova.rbl.bank.in earn higher travel rewards, which is helpful for frequent flyers. 1 Step Above the launch –
LUMIÈRE Credit Card — Invitation Only, Metal, and Built for a Smaller Audience
The LUMIÈRE card is positioned far above regular premium cards. It is invitation-only, made from 18 grams of metal, and priced at ₹50,000 + GST.
RBL is targeting top-tier and tier 2 customers who really want personalised service and selective features. The card provides access to the Select Circle. It also offers a concierge-style support system, which works as an assistance with travel, reservations, and curated experiences.
Quick Snapshot
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligibility | By invitation only |
| Material | Metal (18g) |
| Annual Fee | ₹50,000 and 18% GST |
| Positioning | Ultra-premium, curated experiences, high-end lifestyle benefits |
| Support | Select Circle dedicated assistance |
While other luxury cards focus heavily on reward points or airline tie-ups, LUMIÈRE focuses more on service and access, similar to what high-end global cards offer.
Why These Cards Matter for RBL Bank
India’s luxury credit-card market is getting crowded, but RBL’s approach is slightly different.
- NOVA targets achievers and frequent travellers who want strong, simple value.
- LUMIÈRE is meant for a smaller circle of customers who want access, not just discounts.
Unlike regular premium cards available to almost anyone, the LUMIÈRE invitation model gives it exclusivity — something high-end consumers often look for.
What RBL Bank and Visa Said
Bikram Singh Yadav, Head of Credit Cards at RBL Bank, said these cards were created for customers who appreciate “exclusivity and sophistication.” Visa’s Sandeep Ghosh added that both cards are powered by Visa Infinite to offer global lifestyle experiences.
Easemoney Take
RBL Bank’s new NOVA and LUMIÈRE cards enter a space already crowded with strong premium options. NOVA fits well for travellers and regular spenders who want clear value and simple rewards. LUMIÈRE sits in a much higher segment, made for a very small group that prefers exclusivity and personal service.
To understand where they stand, here are a few similar cards active in India (Nov 2025):
| Card | Annual Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| HDFC Infinia Metal | ₹12,500 | Invite-only, strong travel value |
| ICICI Emeralde Private Metal | ₹12,499 | Metal design, lifestyle perks |
| Axis Burgundy Private | Invitation | Ultra-premium segment |
Both RBL cards are solid, but best suited for customers who match their spending levels and lifestyle.
