Changes Coming for Citi Rewards Visa Cardholders

New York – Citi Rewards Visa cardholders should prepare for some upcoming changes as the bank has started informing customers about the final stages of the card’s phase-out process.

In fact, the Citi Premiermiles Visa is already being phased out and will be replaced by a MasterCard version. The Citi Rewards Visa will soon follow, impacting those who have relied on its bonus structure.

Citibank Ends Citi Rewards Visa

Back in 2015, Citibank entered a 10-year partnership with MasterCard, paving the way for a gradual transition of their card portfolio. At first, only new card issues were affected, while existing Visa cardholders could still renew their cards.

However, by March 2020, key products like the Citi Cashback Card, Citi Premiermiles Card, and Citi Rewards Card had already made the switch to MasterCard.

According to reports, the final phase is now underway. Holders of the Citi Premiermiles Visa were notified that their card will be discontinued on January 30, 2026, with existing cards being automatically replaced by MasterCard versions.

Transactions such as City Miles, Payall, and installment loans will migrate smoothly during the transition. But, if customers aren’t active by the deadline, their accumulated miles could be forfeited.

Impact on Citi Rewards Visa Cardholders

The Citi Rewards Visa is still valid for the time being, but Citibank has confirmed it will also be cancelled.

This card currently offers a rewarding rate of four miles per dollar on online purchases, but that is capped at S$1,000 per month.

It’s worth noting that both Visa and MasterCard versions operate with separate bonus caps, which allowed some cardholders to earn up to 96,000 miles annually. However, once the Visa version is discontinued, cardholders will lose this dual-cap benefit. The transition will automatically transfer balances, installment plans, and appreciation points to the MasterCard.

Existing customers can look forward to new perks with the MasterCard, including additional Mastercard benefits and loyalty status matches, which may grant elite access with hotels and travel partners.

Transition Timeline and Next Steps

While Citibank has not yet announced a concrete cut-off date for the Citi Rewards Visa, it is likely to align with the Premiermiles Visa timeline. Customers should be prepared for the following:

• If a Citi Rewards Visa holder does not currently have a MasterCard, one will be issued, invalidating the Visa upon activation.
• If both Visa and MasterCard accounts are maintained, bonus points will be consolidated under the MasterCard after the Visa support ends.
• All benefits, balances, and loans will carry over smoothly throughout the transition.

In the meantime, cardholders are encouraged to maximize their bonus caps while the Visa remains operational.

Conclusion

Citibank’s decision to switch to MasterCard signifies the end of Citi Rewards Visa and other remaining Visa products.

As Premiermiles Visa holders are facing a confirmed cancellation date, it seems a similar timeline awaits other Visa cardholders. While the transition to MasterCard ensures continuity in rewards and balances, it does come with the downside of losing the dual bonus cap, which could limit earning potential for users.