Debit Card Application Process - Online & Offline Explained
A debit card is a payment card linked directly to your bank account, allowing you to spend money by drawing from the funds you already have. It can be used for purchase at stores, online shopping, and cash withdrawals at ATMs. Debit card is also a payment card that enables the holder to transfer funds, make online transactions, and withdraw cash from or deposit money into your bank account using the card.
Features and Benefits of a Debit Card
The main features and benefits of a debit card are mentioned below:
- Cash Withdrawals: You can use a debit card to withdraw cash from ATMs.
- Merchant Transactions: It can be also used for merchant transactions at Point of Sale (PoS) terminals.
- Instant Fund Transfers: Debit cards enable immediate transfer of funds and provide receipts for transactions.
- Online Shopping: You can use your debit card to shop online or pay for services on e-commerce platforms.
- Rewards and Benefits: Many debit cards offer features like bonus points, cash back, and free insurance coverage.
- Enhanced Security: It Offers greater security, reducing the risk of fraud and misuse.
- Tracking: Keep track of your spending with email and SMS alerts.
- Contactless Payments: Enjoy the convenience of making purchases by simply tapping your card on the PoS terminal.
What is an ATM Card?
Automatic Teller Machine, widely known as ATM is a pin-based card that is very similar to a debit card. The card is issued by banks to its account holders for various use at ATM and also in their daily life. Account holders can use ATM card to withdraw money from their bank account at an ATM.
How Does an ATM Card Works?
- The card can be inserted into the ATM, and you can then withdraw money from your account.
- You will require a Personal Identification Number(PIN) to carry out a transaction.
- An ATM card is linked to your current account or savings account.
- The card does not offer credits and hence money is deducted on a real-time basis.
Benefits of Using an ATM Card
The various benefits of using an ATM card are mentioned below:
- Serves as fund for emergencies – During an emergency, ATM cards allow you to withdraw cash from your account.
- Helps you set a budget – Unlike credit cards, an ATM card will debit your money from your bank account immediately after you have used it.
- Easy to get - Having a bank account is the only need for receiving a ATM card, and it's also the most crucial. Anyone with a minimal deposit can open a bank account.
- Easy to use - Using ATM cards are really easy. The payment can be made right away because it is taken immediately out of your bank account, where the money already is.
- Protected - A four-digit PIN (Personal Identification Number) that you choose is used to protect ATM cards.
Top Debit Cards in India 2025
The following are the 5 best debit cards for shopping, international transactions, lounge access, rewards, and more benefits.
- HDFC Millennia Debit Card
- SBI Platinum Debit Card
- HDFC Platinum Debit Card
- ICICI Coral Debit Card
- Axis Bank Burgundy Debit Card
Different Types of Debit Cards in India
Here are the six various types of debit cards available in India:
✅Visa Debit Cards
- Issued through partnerships with VISA Payment Services, Visa debit cards use the Verified by Visa (VbV) infrastructure for secure online transactions.
✅RuPay Debit Cards
- Developed by the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI), RuPay debit cards are designed for domestic use. They facilitate online transactions on the Discover network and ATM transactions through the National Financial Switch network.
✅MasterCard Debit Cards
- MasterCard debit cards, one of the most widely used forms of electronic transactions worldwide, allow you to access your savings or current account for payments and ATM withdrawals. They come with excellent customer support and various benefits and rewards.
✅Maestro Debit Cards
- Maestro debit cards are accepted worldwide. You can use them to withdraw cash from ATMs globally and make payments for both online purchases and in-store transactions.
✅Contactless Debit Cards
- It uses Near Field Communication (NFC) technology, contactless debit cards let you make payments quickly by tapping or waving your card near PoS terminals.
✅Visa Electron Debit Cards
- Visa Electron debit cards are similar to Visa debit cards, but they do not offer an overdraft option.
Understanding the Components of a Debit Card
The debit or ATM card consists of the following components:
- Name of the Card Holder
- 16 digits of your card number
- Issue and Expiry Date
- EMV Chip
- Signature bar
- Card Verification Value (CVV)
Top Debit Card Issuers in India
- SBI Debit Card
- HDFC Debit Card
- ICICI Debit Card
- Axis Bank Debit Card
- YES Bank Debit Card
- Kotak Mahindra Bank Debit Card
- PNB Debit Card
- Canara Bank Debit Card
- Bank of Baroda Debit Card
- Bank of India Debit Card
- Union Bank Of India Debit Card
- HSBC Debit Card
- Niyo Global Debit Card
- AU Bank Debit Card
- IDFC First Bank Debit Card
- Jupiter Bank Debit Card
- DBS Bank debit card
- Karnataka Gramin Bank Debit Cards
- Fi Federal Bank Debit card
- Suryoday Bank Debit Card
Debit Card vs Credit Card
Payment cards such as ATM cards, debit cards, and credit cards are provided by banks to their customers so they can conduct particular types of transactions.
Given below are some of the main differences between an debit card and credit card.
Debit Card | Credit Card |
The funds are deducted from your savings account or current account. | The funds are debited from your card issuer through borrowing. |
You can only spend up to the available balance in your bank account. | You can utilize your card within the credit limit assigned to you. |
These cards are typically provided with your salary, current, or savings account. | It is possible to apply for a credit card from any issuer, even if you don't have a bank account with them. |
They offer limited rewards and cashback benefits. | Credit cards provide more extensive rewards and cashback benefits. |
The availability of the EMI facility depends on the agreement between the vendor and the bank. | Credit cards generally offer an EMI facility for transactions above Rs. 2,500. |
Debit card usage does not affect your credit score. | Credit card usage directly affects your credit score |
ATM/Debit cards provide higher cash withdrawal limits. | Credit cards offer additional advantages such as lounge access and protection against lost cards, among others. |
Requires an annual maintenance fee of about Rs. 100 to Rs. 500. | Requires an annual membership fee of about more than Rs. 500. |
Debit Card Fees and Charges
ATM or Debit Card fees and charges can differ between cards and banks. Here are the standard fees associated with these Cards in India:
- Annual Maintenance Fee: This is an annual fee for the Card usage, typically ranging from Rs. 100 to Rs. 500, varying by bank policies.
- Card Replacement Fee: When replacing your ATM or Debit Card, some banks like HDFC waive the fee for physical damage but charge Rs. 200 for lost cards. SBI and other banks charge between Rs. 100 to Rs. 300 for both physical damage and card loss.
- Duplicate PIN or PIN Regeneration Fee: If you forget your Debit Card or ATM card PIN, a duplicate PIN can be sent to your address for a nominal fee of Rs. 50 to Rs. 100.
- Cash Withdrawal Charges: ATM or Debit Cards usually allow frequent cash withdrawals, but limits may apply. Transactions at the same bank's ATM are typically free, but there is a defined limit for free transactions at other banks' ATMs, with charges ranging from Rs. 10 to Rs. 30 per transaction.
- International Transaction Charges: Fees are levied for cross-currency markup, Debit Card balance checks, and cash withdrawals made with your Card in foreign countries. These charges can be percentage-based or a flat transaction fee.
- POS Fee: No additional fee is charged for purchases made with your Card. However, for fuel transactions, a general surcharge of 1% may apply.
Eligibility for a Debit Card
An individual becomes eligible for a debit card upon opening a savings or current account. Below are the additional eligibility criteria to obtain a debit card:
- Citizenship Requirements: Must be an Indian citizen
- Age Criteria: Must be 15 years of age or older
- Documentation Required: Must provide valid address and identity proof to the bank
- Financial Requirements: Must meet the minimum balance requirement as per the bank’s terms
- Maintenance Charges: Must pay the annual maintenance fee for the debit card, in accordance with the bank's guidelines
Documents Required for a Debit Card
The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) mandates the submission of certain documents to open a savings account, which are also required when applying for a debit card. Below is a list of essential documents needed to apply for a debit card:
Identity proof:
✅ Pan Card
✅ Form 16
✅ Passport
Address proof:
✅ Voter ID card
✅ Driving License
✅ Passport
How to Apply for Debit Card Online and Offline?
Customers can apply for a debit card through both online and offline processes. Below are the steps for each method:
Steps to Apply for a Debit Card Offline
The process to apply for a debit card offline is as follows:
- You typically do not need to apply separately for a debit card, as it is automatically issued when you open a savings or current bank account.
- If you need a new debit card, visit the nearest branch of your bank. Complete the relevant application form and submit it to the bank manager. You will receive your new debit card within a few days.
Steps to Apply for a Debit Card Online
Many major banks, such as SBI, and Union Bank of India, now allow customers to apply for debit cards online. Below is a step-by-step guide for applying through each bank:
How to Apply for an SBI Debit Card Online?
To apply for an SBI debit card online, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the SBI official website to apply online
Step 2: Choose the debit card that suits your requirements and Apply.
Step 3: You will receive your SBI debit card at your registered address within a few business days.
How to Apply for a Union Bank of India Debit Card Online?
To apply for a Union Bank of India debit card online, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the Union Bank of India official website
Step 2: Click on "Apply for New Debit Card." Enter your account number and the captcha code, then validate your account.
Step 3: You will receive your debit card within a few days.
Note:- If you have existing union bank debit card, you are not eligible to apply online.
Procedure to Set Your UPI PIN Without a Debit Card
The National Payments Corporation of India (NCPI) has introduced a new system that allows individuals to use digital and cashless payments without requiring a debit card. This system, known as the Aadhaar card-based Unified Payments Interface (UPI) Personal Identification Number (PIN service), enables users to initiate UPI payments by linking their Aadhaar number with their bank account.
Steps To Set Your UPI PIN Without a Debit Card
Step 1: Download a UPI-enabled app like BHIM UPI your smartphone from an App Store.
Step 2: Click on the option 'Add UPI ID' and choose your registered bank account.
Step 3: Create a UPI ID that meets the app's requirements and verify its availability.
Step 4: Now, select 'Aadhaar-based verification' and accept all the terms and conditions.
Step 5: Validate your Aadhaar number by entering the first six digits on your Aadhaar card, and click on 'confirm' button.
Step 6: Then, Set your four-digit or a six-digit UPI PIN depending on the app you are using.
Step 7: Enter the OTP which received on the mobile number
Step 8: Now, Enter the same UPI PIN you had set earlier for final confirmation.
Once the process is completed, you can use the newly verified UPI ID to make payments to any UPI-enabled mobile number and scan QR codes as well.
However, note that not all UPI-based apps may offer the Aadhaar card-based UPI PIN service, and the user's bank also needs to enable the service from their end to allow bank account holders to register for UPI via Aadhaar-based verification. So far, only 11 banks have enabled the option to generate a UPI PIN using an Aadhaar card.
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How Does a Debit Card Works?
Here are the key details about how a debit card functions:
- A debit card is a rectangular metallic or plastic card linked to the account of the cardholder.
- It contains a 16-digit number and a unique three or four-digit CVV code.
- The spending capacity is directly tied to the account balance of the cardholder.
- The card displays its validity period, and the bank issues a new card before it expires.
- The eligibility for a debit card is the same as for opening a bank account.
- Cash withdrawals made using the card are deducted from the linked account.
- Account holders receive SMS notifications for every debit transaction on their registered mobile number.
- The daily purchase limit on the debit card is set for a 24-hour period.
- Some cards allow contactless transactions without requiring a PIN, by tapping or holding the card over a payment machine.
Complete Guide on Tokenisation of Debit Cards
Tokenization of debit cards protects the card data by replacing it with a unique string of characters called a token. This token code can be used in place of the card details for making a payment or storing information in a database.
Tokenization can be used to protect debit card information in a number of ways:
- For example, when making a payment online, the merchant may use tokenization to process the transaction without ever seeing or storing the actual debit card number.
- Instead, the merchant sends the payment request and the token to the payment processor, which looks up the corresponding debit card number and processes the transaction.
- It also protects information when it is stored in a database. Instead of storing the actual debit card number, the database stores the token, which can be used to retrieve the information when needed.
- Tokenization helps to protect debit card information from being accessed or compromised by unauthorized parties.
Overall, tokenization is a useful tool for protecting sensitive data, such as debit card numbers, and helps reduce the risk of fraud and identity theft.
Transactions That Can Be Done at ATMs
Most individuals with ATM cards usually use ATM machines for the sole purpose of withdrawing cash. However, ATM machines perform other functions as well. They include:
Payment of Utility Bills with Debit Card: Payments for services including power, insurance fees, and phone providers can be made using ATMs. These payments, however, can only be made if the invoices haven't already passed their due dates.
Requesting a Cheque Book: The ATM that belongs to the cardholder's bank allows them to request a new chequebook. One thing to keep in mind when requesting a new chequebook is to make sure the address given to the bank is current.
Making Credit Card Payments using ATM Cards: Most ATMs have an option for paying credit card bills. However, it is essential that the payment is made at the ATM that is owned by the bank where the credit card was issued.
Paying Taxes through Debit Card:To use the service of paying their taxes at an ATM, cardholders must register. However, paying direct taxes is the only way to use this service. The money due will be deducted from the cardholder's account when they have enrolled for the service. The cardholder receives a Special Item Number (SIN) after the purchase has been debited, which they must use as a reference for paying their taxes.
Recharging Mobile Phones via ATM Card: Cardholders can recharge their pre-paid mobile numbers using their debit cards. To do this, go to the ATM operated by the cardholder's bank. The cardholder would have to confirm and authenticate the transaction by entering their mobile number and ATM PIN.
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FAQs on Debit Card
- What is CVV in the debit card?
CVV full form is Card Verification Value number. It is a 3-digit identification number that is presented on the back side of your card to verify the person's identity.
- Which bank offers lifetime free debit card?
HSBC bank offers free life time debit card without any fee.
- Are ATM card and debit card the same?
No, ATM cards and debit cards are not the same. ATM cards are used to withdraw cash from an ATM machine while debit cards can be used for cash withdrawal and online payments as well.
- Can ATM card be used as a debit card?
No, ATM cards cannot be used as a debit card. However, a debit card can be used as an ATM card.
- Can I use ATM card to make online payments?
Earlier using ATM card for online payments was not possible. However, a lot of banks are adding this feature to their ATM cards. So, now ATM card users can use to make online payments.
- Can I change my PIN number of my ATM card?
Yes, you can change the PIN number of your ATM card whenever you want.
- Is there a daily withdrawal limit for ATM cards?
Yes, daily withdrawal limits for ATM cards are set by the banks issuing them.
- What is a chip card?
A chip card comes with an embedded chip on the front to enhance data security. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) has directed all banks to switch over to EMV Chip Cards from magnetic strip cards.
- When will the customer receive a replacement card for the lost one?
The replacement for the lost card will be issued to the customer after receiving the above information and a request for a replacement card from the customer's parent or base branch.
- What is the validity period for a Debit Card?
Debit Cards have a validity of eight years. However, this validity may vary within eight years, depending on the date of issuance of the Card to the customer.
- What is the disadvantage of having a debit card?
The only con of a debit card is that they have limited protection against frauds.
- What does Debit Card Hotlisting means?
Debit cum ATM Card Hotlisting means blocking all the transactions on your card to avoid misusing the card. In simple terms just blocking your card.
- Can I use my debit card if I don’t have any money in my account?
No, you cannot use your debit card if you don’t have any money in your account. However, few banks offer an ‘overdraft protection’ feature, that lets you use your debit card without any money in your account.
- Will I be charged any fee if I don’t use my debit card for a long time?
Yes, you will be charged an inactivity fee if you don’t use your debit card for a long time.
- What is DI Debit Card?
A card used in contact and contactless transactions is called a Dual Interface (DI) Debit Card.
- How long is the PIN on a debit card?
The PIN on the debit card is four-digit number.
- Can multiple accounts be linked to a Debit Card?
Yes, some banks give customers the option of linking several bank accounts to a single debit card.
- Do banks block Debit Cards if customers enter the wrong PIN during cash withdrawals?
Yes, any bank would block a customer's debit card after three unsuccessful attempts at an ATM as a protective measure.
- Is the overdraft facility available with Debit Cards?
Overdraft facility is available with the savings account linked to a debit card but is not applicable on a particular card.
- What are the different costs associated with a Debit Card?
Some banks might charge issuance fees, ATM withdrawal charges, and annual fees for debit cards.
- In India, what are the two types of Debit Cards generally issued to users?
Indian Banks provide personalized and non-personalized variants to debit card users. Personalized debit cards additionally contain the user's name and photograph. Non-Personalized cards will just have the bank logo, card details and the payment platform logo without any user related information.
- Are debit cards and ATM cards the same?
Yes, a debit card is also known as an ATM card. Debit cards are issued by banks and allow you to access your current or savings account to make payments or withdraw cash at ATMs.
- What is the security code on a debit card?
A security code is a three-digit or four-digit code known as the Card Verification Value (CVV) or Card Verification Code (CVC) printed on the back of a debit card. The security code is an extra layer of protection for online transactions and is designed to verify that you are using for a purchase.
- Do debit cards offer purchase protection?
Some banks offer purchase protection for debit cards. However, debit cards and credit cards do not have the same type protection.
- What can I do if the debit card is stolen?
In case your debit card is stolen, you can contact your bank and report the theft. They will cancel your card immediately, and you can apply to get a new one.
- What is a virtual debit card?
A virtual debit card is a digital version of a physical debit card that can be used to make online purchases or other transactions over the internet.
- What is the validity of the new debit card PIN?
There is no such specific validity period for newly generated debit card PIN. For the security of the customer’s card details, the bank recommends the users to change the debit card PIN after every two to three months.
- What is meant by Zero Lost Card Liability?
Zero Lost Card Liability is an important feature provided to enhance the safety of your card. This feature basically protects you, as a card holder, from any loss or liability which may arise following the loss/theft of your card.
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