UPI has completely transformed how we pay in India. From groceries to rent, we now tap, scan, and pay in seconds. But what if you could enjoy the benefits of a credit card while paying via UPI?
Enter the UPI Credit Card — the latest payment innovation that combines the speed of UPI with the flexibility of credit.
In this blog, you’ll learn:
- What a UPI Credit Card is
- How it works
- Its advantages over debit cards or traditional credit card usage
- And how to use it for booking flights and hotels online, especially on platforms like MakeMyTrip
What Is a UPI Credit Card?
A UPI Credit Card is a RuPay credit card that can be linked to a UPI ID. When you make payments via apps like PhonePe, Google Pay, Paytm, or Kiwi, the amount is charged to your credit card, not your bank account.
So, it behaves just like your normal UPI — but with the perks of a credit card.
Currently, only RuPay network credit cards support UPI payments.
How Does a UPI Credit Card Work?
Here’s how it works in practice:
- You apply for a RuPay credit card (physical or virtual)
- Link it to a UPI ID through a supported app like Kiwi, BHIM, Paytm, etc.
- Use that UPI ID to pay on any merchant that accepts UPI (both offline and online)
- Instead of debiting your bank, the payment is charged to your credit card limit
You get:
- Reward points or cashback
- Interest-free credit for up to 50 days
- Full UPI convenience
- No need to swipe or enter card details
Why Is a UPI Credit Card Better Than a Debit Card?
| Feature | Debit Card via UPI | UPI Credit Card |
|---|---|---|
| Charges Bank A/C | Yes | No |
| Earn Rewards | No | Yes (Cashback, Points) |
| Interest-Free Period | No | Yes (up to 50 days) |
| Monthly Bill Payment | No | Yes |
| Credit Limit | No | Yes (Based on Profile) |
If you’re booking a flight or hotel online, using a UPI Credit Card is way more rewarding — and safer, since you’re not sharing bank account data.
How to Use a UPI Credit Card to Book Flights Online
Whether it’s MakeMyTrip, Goibibo, or Yatra, most travel platforms accept UPI as a payment option. Here’s how to pay using your UPI Credit Card:
Step 1: Get a RuPay Credit Card
You can:
- Get an instant virtual UPI Credit Card via Kiwi (issued by Yes Bank or AU Small Finance Bank)
- Or apply at your bank
Step 2: Link the Card to UPI
Use the Kiwi app or any UPI app that supports credit card linking:
- Choose “Add Credit Card Account”
- Select your bank and verify
- Set a UPI PIN
Step 3: Go to MakeMyTrip (or any travel platform)
- Choose your flight
- At checkout, choose “UPI” as your payment option
- Enter your UPI ID linked to your credit card
- Approve the payment in the UPI app
Your credit card will be charged, and your bank balance stays intact.
How to Use a UPI Credit Card for Hotel or Holiday Bookings
It works the same way as with flights.
- Search for a hotel or package on MMT, Goibibo, or Cleartrip
- Select UPI as your payment method
- Enter your UPI ID (linked to your RuPay credit card)
- Approve and book
Done! You now earn credit card rewards on your hotel stays too.
Bonus: Get 20% Cashback on MakeMyTrip with UPI Credit Card via Kiwi
If you use the UPI Credit Card via Kiwi to book a flight on MakeMyTrip, there’s a limited-time offer you can grab:
Claim 20% Cashback (Up to ₹2,000)
Offer Details:
- 20% cashback on your first MMT flight booking with UPI Credit Card via Kiwi
- Max cashback: ₹2,000
- Credited to your Kiwi Wallet after completed travel
FAQs
1. Which UPI apps support UPI Credit Cards?
Apps like Kiwi, BHIM, Paytm, Mobikwik, and sometimes PhonePe support credit card linking (only RuPay).
2. Do all credit cards work with UPI?
No. Only RuPay credit cards are eligible for UPI payments.
3. Is it safe to use UPI with a credit card?
Yes. All transactions are protected by your UPI PIN and bank OTPs. It’s just as secure as paying with your bank account.
4. Will I get cashback or rewards?
Absolutely. Most RuPay credit cards come with reward points, and platforms like Kiwi give real cashback too.
Final Take
A UPI Credit Card is a game-changer — it gives you the power of UPI and the benefits of credit, all in one. Whether you’re booking flights, hotels, or holidays online, this method:
- Saves your bank balance
- Earns you rewards
- Offers faster and safer payments
- Can get you exclusive offers like 20% cashback on MakeMyTrip with UPI Credit Card via Kiwi
If you haven’t used one yet, now’s the best time to start. Get your virtual UPI Credit Card with Kiwi and book smarter, not costlier.
