If you’re looking to earn more on every trip, every dinner out, and every drive to the grocery store, the Citi PremierĀ® Card delivers exceptional value. With 3x points in top spending categories, 1:1 point transfers to airline partners, and a solid annual hotel credit, this card is built for people who want flexibility, travel value, and everyday earning power ā all for a modest annual fee.
What is the Citi PremierĀ® Card?
The Citi PremierĀ® Card is a travel rewards credit card that earns ThankYouĀ® Points, Citiās flexible rewards currency. These points can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, or cash, or transferred to over a dozen airline partners. The card combines powerful bonus categories with a manageable annual fee, making it a top pick for everyday travelers and point maximizers.
Key Features and Benefits of the Citi PremierĀ® Card
1. Generous Welcome Bonus
Earn a large ThankYouĀ® Points bonus (commonly 60,000+ points) after spending a set amount (e.g., $4,000) within the first 3 months. Thatās worth $600 in travel or more when transferred to partners.
2. Powerful 3x Point Categories
Earn:
- 3x points at restaurants
- 3x points at supermarkets
- 3x points at gas stations
- 3x points on air travel and hotels
- 1x point on all other purchases
This diversified structure lets you rack up rewards quickly on both everyday and travel-related expenses ā without rotating categories or caps.
3. $100 Annual Hotel Credit
Each year, receive up to $100 off a single hotel stay of $500 or more (excluding taxes/fees) when booked through thankyou.com. A great way to recoup part of the $95 annual fee.
4. 1:1 Point Transfers to Travel Partners
Transfer points to over 15 airline partners, including:
- Turkish Airlines Miles&Smiles
- Avianca LifeMiles
- Singapore KrisFlyer
- Qantas, Flying Blue, Etihad, Emirates, and more
This makes the Citi PremierĀ® a powerful travel tool for booking international flights, business class seats, or sweet spot redemptions with partner programs.
5. Flexible Redemption Options
Use your points to:
- Book flights, hotels, rental cars via the ThankYouĀ® Travel Portal
- Redeem for gift cards, statement credit, or direct deposit
- Shop with points at Amazon or PayPal
- Transfer to airline partners for outsized value
You get 1 cent per point when booking travel, and potentially 1.5ā2 cents per point via strategic transfers.
6. No Foreign Transaction Fees
Use your card abroad or for international purchases with no extra fees, making it ideal for travelers and digital nomads.
7. ThankYouĀ® Points Pooling
You can combine points from other Citi cards (like the Double Cash or Custom Cash), unlocking more value when you have the Premier. It becomes the gateway card for travel transfers.
8. Citi EntertainmentĀ®
Enjoy early access to concerts, events, and experiences through Citi EntertainmentĀ®, including presales and VIP access to top cultural and sporting events.
Important Considerations Before Applying
- Annual Fee: $95 ā not waived the first year. Can be offset by the hotel credit and accelerated earnings.
- No Lounge Access: Unlike premium cards, the Premier doesnāt include lounge access or luxury perks like Global Entry reimbursement.
- Travel Portal Required for Hotel Credit: The $100 hotel credit applies only when booking through thankyou.com and only on pre-tax hotel stays of $500+.
- Best Paired with Other Citi Cards: Maximize value by combining with Citi Double Cash or Custom Cash and funneling all points into the Premier for travel redemptions.
š How to Apply for the Citi PremierĀ® Card
1. Visit citi.com
Navigate to the Citi PremierĀ® card under āTravel Cards.ā
2. Review the Current Offer
Check for the most up-to-date welcome bonus, APR, and redemption details.
3. Click āApply Nowā
Enter personal, income, and housing information. Submit securely.
4. Wait for Approval
Most applicants receive instant decisions, though some may require review. Once approved, your card arrives within 7ā10 business days.
Conclusion: Is the Citi PremierĀ® Card Worth It?
Yes ā especially for travelers and point strategists.
With 3x points in five major categories, 1:1 airline transfers, and a $100 hotel credit, the Citi PremierĀ® Card competes with top-tier travel cards ā all for under $100/year.
If youāre ready to turn groceries, gas, and getaways into high-value travel experiences, the Citi PremierĀ® is a smart, flexible, and rewarding companion.
Apply Now and make every purchase a step closer to your next destination.
