HSBC Points to Miles: The 2025 Detailed Transfer Guide

Do you own a HSBC credit card? Recent changes have made it vital to understand the nuance and strategy behind maximizing your travel rewards. Here is a comprehensive guide to help you get the most value from your HSBC points, with a focus on conversion rates, partner options, and potential pitfalls.

How HSBC Points-to-Miles Transfers Work

• HSBC credit cardholders can convert their rewards points into miles with over a dozen frequent flyer and hotel loyalty programs.
  
  
• Transfers are typically managed via the HSBC Rewards portal or, in some regions, the HSBC Reward+ app.
  
  
• The process is straightforward: select your desired partner, choose the number of points to transfer (subject to minimums and increments), and confirm the transaction.
  
  

Key Transfer Ratios (2025)

Singapore Airlines Krisflyer: 30,000 points : 10,000 miles

Cathay Pacific Asia Miles: 25,000 points : 10,000 miles

British Airways Executive Club (Avios): 25,000 points : 10,000 miles

• KrisFlyer Ratio Changes: From 16 January 2025, the transfer ratio updated to 30,000 points for 10,000 miles.
  
  
• Other Partners: Most other airline partners remain at 25,000 points for 10,000 miles, offering better value.
  
  
• Minimum Transfer: Typically, transfers must be made in blocks of 25,000 points (or equivalent), but some platforms allow flexible increments after the minimum is met.
  
  

Step-by-Step Transfer Guide

Log in to HSBC Rewards Portal or App
Use your credentials to access your account.

Choose ‘Rewards for Miles’
Select your preferred airline or hotel partner from the list.

Select Transfer Amount
Enter the number of points to transfer, ensuring you meet the minimum block requirement.

Confirm and Submit
Review the details, then confirm the transfer. Transfers to most partners are instant; some may take up to two weeks.

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Pitfalls and Pro Tips

• Change Alert: The KrisFlyer transfer ratio decreased from 16 Jan 2025.
  
  
• Partner Ratios Vary: Not all partners offer the same value. Some require up to 50,000 points for 10,000 miles, dramatically reducing your effective earn rate.
  
  
• No Transfer Fees: As of 2025, HSBC has waived all transfer fees indefinitely-so you can transfer points without extra cost.
  
  
• Points Earning Has Been Nerfed: HSBC cards, especially the Revolution, have seen reduced bonus categories and tighter caps, making points harder to accumulate.
  
  
• Redemption Value: Always compare the value of transferring to different partners. For example, after the KrisFlyer devaluation, other partners may offer a better cents-per-mile value.
  
  
• Expiry: Once transferred, miles are subject to the partner program’s expiry rules. For KrisFlyer, miles expire three years after transfer, at the end of the month. Check out our article on Rewards Points and Miles Expiry for more details.
  
  

Final Thoughts

HSBC points remain flexible, but recent changes-especially the KrisFlyer update-mean you must plan your transfers carefully to maximize value. Consider alternative partners, leverage the fee waiver, and always check the latest ratios before transferring.

Want tips on which airline partners offer the best sweet spots for your travel goals? Let me know your preferred destinations or frequent flyer programs!

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