Which credit cards are accepted internationally without forex markup?

Don't blindly apply based on YouTube recommendations. Pull your latest CIBIL score first — most premium cards need 760+. If your score is in the 700-750 range, start with a lifetime free card and upgrade after 12-18 months of clean history.

On the lounge access — the PassApp / Dreamfolks integration works smoothly only if you've registered your card on the lounge app before reaching the airport. First-time users always face issues. Do it the night before, not at the lounge counter.

I have had a hard time getting this card approved twice. The third time I applied after a 10% salary hike and got instant approval. Banks re-check eligibility every time. If you got rejected, improve your income proof / CIBIL and reapply after 6 months.

Honestly, the annual fee is on the higher side. But if you spend consistently on the accelerated categories, the cashback more than offsets it. I did the maths on my own statement last year and came out ahead by about ₹3,200.

For the fee waiver condition: most banks count only retail purchases, not EMI, wallet loads, or fuel (in some cases). Read the TnC PDF linked at the bottom of the fee-waiver email — it's usually 2-3 paragraphs of fine print that change everything.