Summary
- BharatPe partners with Unity Bank to launch India’s first EMI-driven RuPay credit card, offering unlimited 2% rewards and a zero-fee structure for seamless payments.
- Readers will learn how this card’s auto-EMI conversion, UPI integration, and lifestyle benefits like lounge access empower entrepreneurs and digital professionals to manage finances smarter.
- Published by Startup INDIAX, this article draws on expert insights and market data to guide startups on leveraging this innovative financial tool for growth.
Table of Contents
Introduction
In a groundbreaking move, BharatPe partners with Unity Bank to introduce India’s first EMI-driven credit card on the RuPay network, launched on August 28, 2025. This card isn’t just another payment option—it’s a game-changer for startups, entrepreneurs, and digital professionals. With unlimited 2% rewards, no hidden fees, and seamless UPI integration, it’s designed to simplify financial management while maximizing value. Startup INDIAX explores how this card redefines credit for Indian consumers and why it’s a must-have for business owners.
What is the Unity Bank BharatPe RuPay Credit Card?
The Unity Bank BharatPe RuPay Credit Card is a co-branded offering that blends affordability with innovation. Unlike traditional credit cards, it automatically converts unpaid balances above ₹999 into EMIs, making big-ticket purchases manageable. It’s lifetime-free, with no joining, annual, or foreclosure fees, and offers unlimited 2% rewards via Zillion Coins on EMI repayments.
Why is this card a first in India?
This card stands out as India’s first EMI-focused credit card, as highlighted by Kohinoor Biswas, Head of Consumer Business at BharatPe: “Our focus has always been to make access to credit simple, transparent, and inclusive.” Its integration with UPI and auto-EMI feature sets it apart, addressing the needs of digital-first consumers. According to a 2025 NPCI report, RuPay cards now account for 20% of India’s credit card transactions, underscoring the network’s growing dominance.
How Does the Unlimited 2% Rewards Program Work?
The card’s rewards program is a major draw, offering unlimited 2% cashback in the form of Zillion Coins on EMI repayments for bills of ₹10,000 or more. For spends between ₹1,000 and ₹9,999, you earn 1% rewards, while spends below ₹1,000 accrue no rewards.
What are Zillion Coins and how to redeem them?
Zillion Coins are part of a loyalty program partnered with Zillion, redeemable via the BharatPe app for vouchers, merchandise, or credit card bill payments. For example, 4 Zillion Coins equal ₹1, and coins are valid for three years. This flexibility makes the rewards program appealing for frequent shoppers and business owners alike.
How does the reward accrual system function?
Rewards accrue when a bill is generated and converted into EMIs. For instance, a ₹9,000 spend earns 1% (₹90 or 360 Zillion Coins), split equally across EMI payments. If you choose six EMIs, you unlock 60 Zillion Coins after each timely payment. Startup INDIAX notes that this structure encourages disciplined spending, a boon for startups managing cash flow.
What Makes the Auto-EMI Feature Unique?
The card’s auto-EMI feature converts unpaid balances exceeding ₹999 into EMIs of up to 12 months, with a 2% monthly interest rate (reducing balance method). This eliminates the high interest traps of traditional cards, which can charge up to 36% annually.
How does automatic EMI conversion benefit users?
For entrepreneurs, this feature is a lifeline. Imagine a startup purchasing ₹50,000 worth of equipment. Instead of paying in full, the card splits it into affordable EMIs, easing cash flow. Aditya Harkauli, Chief Business Officer at Unity Bank, states, “This card combines instant payments with flexible pay-as-you-use options, addressing daily financial challenges.”
Are there any drawbacks to auto-EMI conversion?
While convenient, the auto-EMI feature isn’t optional, which may frustrate users who prefer paying in full. A Reddit user on r/CreditCardsIndia noted, “The forced EMI conversion feels shady, especially with 2% monthly interest.” To avoid this, pay your bill before the due date to enjoy up to 48 days of interest-free credit.
What Are the Key Benefits of the Card?
The card’s benefits make it a standout for startups and professionals:
- Up to 12 months flexible EMI tenures: Choose EMI plans up to 12 months for manageable payments.
- Limitless rewards: Earn flat 2% uncapped benefits on EMI repayments for bills over ₹10,000.
- Zero hidden charges: Enjoy complete transparency with no unexpected fees.
- Lifetime-free card: No joining or annual fees, ever.
- Zero foreclosure fee: Prepay EMIs without penalties for stress-free repayment.
- Link RuPay credit card to pay via UPI: Seamlessly pay at millions of merchants using UPI.
- Lounge access: Two domestic lounge visits per quarter and two international visits annually.
- Health checkup: One complimentary health checkup per year via the RuPay network.
How does the flexible EMI tenure work?
Cardholders can select EMI tenures from 3 to 12 months for unpaid balances over ₹999, automatically converted at billing. This flexibility suits varied financial needs, from small business purchases to personal expenses.
What does a lifetime-free card mean?
A lifetime-free card incurs no joining or annual fee, ensuring long-term savings. This is ideal for startups minimizing overhead costs, as confirmed by BharatPe’s commitment to zero hidden charges.
How does UPI integration enhance usability?
Link RuPay credit card to pay via UPI allows payments at over 30 million merchants, from street vendors to e-commerce platforms. This aligns with India’s digital payment boom, with UPI transactions hitting ₹20 lakh crore in 2024 (NPCI data).
What Additional Benefits Does the Card Offer?
Beyond rewards, the card offers lifestyle perks that enhance its appeal for frequent travelers and health-conscious users.
How can cardholders access airport lounges?
Cardholders get two complimentary domestic lounge visits per quarter (eight annually) and two international lounge visits per year at over 500 global lounges. However, the RuPay Exclusive Lounge at Delhi IGI T3 is excluded, a minor downside for frequent Delhi travelers.
What is the complimentary health checkup perk?
Primary cardholders are eligible for one free health checkup annually via the RuPay network. Visit the RuPay website to explore and redeem available packages, adding value for busy entrepreneurs prioritizing wellness.
How to Apply for the Unity Bank BharatPe Credit Card?
Applying is 100% digital via the BharatPe app. Download the app, enter your phone number and PAN, complete eKYC and vKYC, and set your billing date and PIN. Your credit limit is assigned based on eligibility checks.
Who is eligible for this card?
Applicants must be aged 21 to 65 with a minimum salaried income of ₹2.5 lakh per annum or an ITR of ₹5 lakh for self-employed individuals. This makes it accessible for young entrepreneurs and professionals.
Why Should Startups and Entrepreneurs Care?
For startups, managing expenses is critical. The Unity Bank BharatPe Credit Card’s UPI integration allows seamless payments at millions of merchants, from vendors to online platforms. Its zero-fee structure and rewards on EMI repayments make it ideal for businesses with fluctuating cash flows. For example, a Bengaluru-based startup founder shared, “The 2% cashback on EMIs helped us recover ₹10,000 annually on operational spends.”
How can this card help manage business expenses?
The card’s flexible EMI options and rewards program enable startups to spread costs for equipment, marketing, or inventory without straining budgets. With BharatPe processing ₹12,000 crores in monthly transactions, its ecosystem is trusted by over 2.5 million merchants, ensuring reliability for business use.
Conclusion: Is This Card Right for You?
The Unity Bank BharatPe RuPay Credit Card is a revolutionary tool for startups and digital professionals seeking flexibility and rewards. Its unlimited 2% rewards, zero-fee structure, and UPI compatibility make it a standout, though the mandatory EMI conversion may not suit everyone. Startup INDIAX encourages readers to weigh its benefits against their spending habits. Share your thoughts in the comments or explore more startup stories on Startup INDIAX for the latest in tech and finance!
FAQs
What is the Unity Bank BharatPe Credit Card?
A lifetime-free RuPay credit card offering unlimited 2% rewards on EMI repayments, UPI integration, and lifestyle benefits like lounge access.
How do I earn 2% rewards with this card?
Earn 2% cashback as Zillion Coins on EMI repayments for bills of ₹10,000 or more, redeemable via the BharatPe app.
Is the auto-EMI feature mandatory?
Yes, unpaid balances over ₹999 are automatically converted to EMIs, but you can prepay without penalties to avoid interest.
Who can apply for this credit card?
Individuals aged 21–65 with a salaried income of ₹2.5 lakh or ITR of ₹5 lakh for self-employed are eligible.
What are the lounge access benefits?
Get two domestic lounge visits per quarter and two international visits annually, excluding Delhi IGI T3 RuPay Lounge.
