KrisFlyer UOB Credit Card Review
The KrisFlyer UOB Credit Card presents an enticing option for those seeking a co-branded Singapore Airlines card, especially for users who favor broader acceptance beyond American Express. This review delves into its key features, rewards structure, and recent changes affecting its value.
Key Features
At the heart of the KrisFlyer UOB Credit Card are two standout features: it offers uncapped bonuses on Singapore Airlines and Scoot tickets, as well as on purchases from KrisShop, Kris+, and Pelago. Additionally, it provides accelerated rewards in categories such as dining, food delivery, online shopping, travel, and transport. These facets make it particularly appealing for frequent travelers and diners.
Recent Changes Impacting Rewards
However, it’s essential to note that the Accelerated Miles feature recently underwent a noteworthy adjustment. As of June 1, 2025, the earn rate was reduced from an uncapped 3 miles per dollar (mpd) to 2.4 mpd. Moreover, the minimum annual spend required to unlock this rate for Singapore Airlines Group transactions increased from S$800 to S$1,000. Despite these changes, the card still presents a compelling choice for high spenders who often surpass bonus caps with other cards.
Earn Structure
Spend Type | Earn Rate |
---|---|
General Spend (Local & FCY) | 1.2 mpd |
SIA Group Transactions & KrisShop, Kris+, Pelago | 3 mpd |
Dining, Food Delivery, Online Shopping, Travel, and Transport | 2.4 mpd |
While the earned miles on general spending might not rival many specialized cards, the true value of the KrisFlyer UOB Credit Card shines through its uncapped earning potential on higher spending amounts. This makes it especially appealing to users who prefer to consolidate their spending onto a single card.
Annual Fee and Income Requirements
The card charges an annual fee of S$196.20, which is waived for the first year. This fee comes with an attractive bonus of 10,000 miles upon payment, effectively translating to a cost of about 1.96 cents per mile. To qualify, users need to meet a minimum annual income requirement of S$30,000. Those who fall short can opt to secure the card with a S$10,000 fixed deposit.
Welcome Offers
New applicants can enjoy enticing welcome offers such as up to 25,000 bonus miles upon meeting a spending threshold of S$2,000 within the first 60 days of approval. This offer, subject to availability and renewed monthly, can provide significant value to newcomers.
Rewards Redemption and Miles Expiry
Cardholders benefit from direct crediting of KrisFlyer miles to their accounts monthly, without any conversion fees. However, it’s important to be aware that these miles have a validity of three years, which begins immediately upon crediting. This differs from non-cobrand cards where miles may remain in a different account until transfer, giving cardholders dual validity periods.
Moreover, due to the unique mechanics of the KrisFlyer UOB Credit Card, bonus miles from accelerated categories are credited two months after the end of the membership year, leading to a potential wait of up to 14 months before full bonuses are realized. This delayed crediting can complicate financial tracking and impact decision-making for cardholders.
Additional Perks
Beyond earning miles, the KrisFlyer UOB Credit Card comes with a range of perks. For instance, cardholders receive two annual S$15 Grab vouchers for rides to and from Changi Airport, making it a convenient option for travelers. Moreover, new cardholders are granted instant KrisShopper Insider status, providing additional benefits when shopping at KrisShop.
Summary of the Good and Bad
The Good | ![]() |
---|---|
Uncapped 3 mpd on SIA and Scoot tickets, KrisShop, Kris+, Pelago | Accelerated Miles rate cut to 2.4 mpd, with min. spend hiked |
Accelerated Miles feature offers uncapped 2.4 mpd on various dining and shopping transactions | Delayed crediting of bonus miles (up to 14 months) |
No conversion fees | No foreign currency spending bonuses |
Exclusive discounts on KrisFlyer Experiences | Limited benefits for purchasing Scoot tickets |
Taking all these factors into account, the KrisFlyer UOB Credit Card emerges as an advantageous choice for those who prioritize travel rewards and high spending in specific categories. Its unique earn structure, when leveraged correctly, can significantly enhance the value of miles earned, while the additional perks round out its appeal for frequent travelers.