Kotak White Reserve cardholders who spend abroad have a better earn rate to look at now. Kotak Mahindra Bank has increased the international spend reward rate to 6 reward points per ₹100, up from 4. The card is also expanding domestic airport lounge access to 8 per year, which makes the travel side of the product a little more generous than before.
The fee structure remains firmly in premium territory, with an annual fee of ₹10,000 + GST. There is a milestone waiver available on ₹10 lakh spend, so the card can still become more manageable for heavy users. But the key news here is really the stronger international earn rate, because that’s where this card now looks more compelling for frequent overseas spenders.
For people who travel abroad often or make a lot of foreign currency transactions online, this is the sort of change that can materially improve returns. A higher international earn rate is especially useful if you already have unavoidable foreign spends such as airline tickets, hotel bookings, or overseas subscriptions. The extra lounge visits also help the card feel more complete as a travel product, rather than just a points earner.
That said, this is still a premium card with a premium fee, so it won’t make sense for everyone. The real question is whether your spending pattern is international-heavy enough to justify the annual cost. If most of your spends are domestic, the improved international rate may not move the needle much. But if you regularly spend in foreign currency, this is a meaningful upgrade.
What You Should Do: If you use a card heavily for overseas purchases, compare your current earn rate against 6 reward points per ₹100 on Kotak White Reserve. If the math works in your favor, this card deserves a fresh look before your next international trip.