American Express Temporarily Halts Credit Card Applications – September 2025 Update

It is now widely known that American Express has temporarily stopped accepting all new credit card applications in India. This information has been shared extensively on social media, with people asking customer support representatives about its validity and the duration of this pause. While it is true that American Express has halted credit card applications, this is a temporary measure and not a long-term situation, contrary to what some may speculate.

American Express is a premium credit card issuer in India, offering limited services. Although the reason for this temporary halt is not officially known, it is presumed to be due to changes being made to their offerings and processes.

Additionally, as predicted, American Express is indeed transitioning from Taj as their preferred hotel partner to Postcard Hotels. Marking a shift in their current offerings. Check complete details here.

September Update

There are several rumors surrounding the launch of new applications for American Express Credit Cards, but no clear answer on when they will actually open. Over the past week, social media has been buzzing with speculation that applications would be available from September 22. AmEx executives even confirmed this timeline over chat support. However, as of now, no new applications have been opened.

In fact, as of today, 23rd September 2025, American Express chat support is once again stating that there is no clear timeline for when new applications will be opened.

May Update

It is rumored that American Express will begin accepting applications around September or October 2025. This aligns with the current situation of American Express, including the temporary (or possibly permanent) status of Emirates Skywards as a transfer partner. Although American Express has stopped new applications, it is still offering upgrade offers to its cardmembers. Recently, many have been offered upgrade offers from the AmEx Platinum Travel to the Platinum Charge Card.

Those interested in upgrade offers can contact American Express customer support, and their request will be reviewed. 

April

There has been no update regarding the halt of new American Express credit card applications. Even customer support has claimed to have no knowledge of the situation. It is now speculated that this halt may last until June or July of 2025. Many who believed that the suspension would end in the first week of April have been proven wrong.

March

American Express has officially announced a temporary halt on new application acceptance on its website.

“We are temporarily pausing the acceptance of new proprietary Card applications in India as we integrate new platforms for our domestic Card issuing operations. We apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding.”

Bottom Line

It is uncertain how long this halt will last, and many estimate that it could continue for at least six months. However, given American Express’s strong presence in the premium credit card segment, it is unlikely to be a prolonged pause. In our estimation, the company should begin accepting applications by October, possibly with refreshed offerings or policy updates. Until then, existing cardholders can continue to use their cards without any impact.