Planning to start your credit journey? Here’s everything you need to know about credit cards for beginners!
Last updated on: March 26, 2026
Choosing the right credit card for beginners is an important first step toward building a strong financial foundation. A good credit card for beginners usually has simple eligibility criteria, low or no annual fees, and features that help you learn responsible usage. Selecting the best credit card for beginners can help you build your credit history, manage daily expenses, and avoid unnecessary charges.
Many of the best credit cards for beginners in India offer rewards on everyday spending, EMI conversion options, and expense tracking through mobile apps. These features make it easier to stay within budget while still enjoying benefits. If you are wondering which credit card is easy to get, beginner-friendly cards often require limited documentation and have higher approval chances for first-time users.
Applying for your first credit card as a beginner with the right features ensures you develop healthy repayment habits early. When you apply for a credit card for beginners, focus on affordability, transparency, and long-term value rather than just flashy rewards.
The best credit card for beginners is subjective and based on how you use it. As such, you must compare their features, benefits, costs, and more.
Beginner level credit cards that you can choose from if you’re just starting your credit journey:
| Credit Card | Fees and Charges | Card Category | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
YES Bank Klick Credit Card |
|
Cashback |
UPI |
Tata Neu Plus HDFC Bank Credit Card |
|
Cashback |
Shopping and Travel |
SimplySAVE SBI Card |
|
Rewards |
Fuel |
IDFC FIRST Bank SWYP Credit Card |
|
Rewards |
Entertainment |
SimplyCLICK SBI Card |
|
Rewards |
e-Shopping |
Disclaimer:
The information on this page, including any “Top” or “Best” lists, is based on data from our Partner institutions and objective parameters such as interest rates, loan amounts, tenure, and other factual criteria. These lists are not exhaustive and do not cover the entire market. We do not claim that featured products are universally the best or suitable for everyone. Details are accurate as of the date shown and may change without notice. Rankings are for informational purposes only and do not constitute financial advice or personal recommendations. They should not be considered endorsements or guarantees of suitability. Bajaj Markets operates as a neutral marketplace and shall not be liable for any loss or damage arising from reliance on this information.
Here are key features of some of India’s top credit cards for beginners:
5% Cashback on UPI spends of ₹1.5 Lakhs annually on Kiwi
3 Lounge visits in a year
2% Cashback on Scan & Pay
Up to 10% NeuCoins on spends
10% unlimited cashback on Zomato and 1.5% cashback on UPI spends
12 Complimentary airport lounge access
Spend ₹2,000 or more in first 60 days and get 2,000 bonus reward points
Get freedom from paying the 1% fuel surcharge at any petrol pump. (Avail offer on making transactions between ₹500 to ₹3,000 at any petrol pump in India)
Get a 25% discount when booking movie tickets on Paytm
Attain a one-year Times Prime membership on spends exceeding ₹30,000 within 90 days of card issuance
4 Complimentary railway lounge visits per quarter
Amazon giftcard worth ₹500 on joining
10x rewards on spends with exclusive partner
Fuel surcharge waiver up to ₹100/month
Here are some things you should consider before getting your first credit card:
When it comes to your finances, it is always wise to take a measured approach. Hence, when choosing your first credit card, pick the one that is easy to manage.
While a credit card can support you when it comes to expenses and savings, it can impact your journey to a good or bad credit score. Hence, you must ensure that you are ready for a credit card.
Your first credit card could be a means to help you practice better financial management. Go through the fees and charges associated with it to ensure you choose a feasible option.
Multiple credit cards allow you to earn while you spend, with multiple offers like cashback, reward points on spends, vouchers, and more. Ensure you keep an eye for such spend-based rewards.
Beginners should treat a credit card as a financial tool, not extra spending money. Always pay your credit card bill on time and try to clear the full balance each month to avoid interest charges. Track your expenses regularly and stay within your credit limit to maintain a healthy credit score. Using the card for planned purchases and paying off dues promptly builds good habits and strengthens your financial profile over time.
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The ideal credit card is one that offers a number of benefits while still being affordable for you. If you’re just starting out, then you can consider getting a lifetime-free credit card.
The charges of a credit card for beginners vary depending on the card and issuer. It can range from being free with no annual or joining fee to ₹500 and upwards.
A secured credit card that’s backed by a fixed deposit is one of the easiest ways to get your hands on a credit card without a credit score. You can build your credit score using these cards and then get a different card if you need to.
Applying for a credit card is quite easy and can be done online in a few easy steps. You may also apply for a credit card on Bajaj Markets. Enjoy a fully digital application process, along with different eligibility terms, rewards, and cashback on spends.
There are many credit cards that are specifically for new-to-credit customers who have no or limited credit history. Alternatively, you may also opt for a secured credit card that’s backed by a fixed deposit.
The YES Bank Klick Credit Card is one of the few cards with no annual fee. However, other credit cards such as Tata Neu Plus HDFC Bank Credit Card, SimplySAVE SBI Card, IDFC FIRST Bank SWYP Credit Card, and SimplyCLICK SBI Card are provided with nominal annual charges of ₹449 to ₹499 that is waived off on reaching pre-defined spending milestones.
Yes, you can get started with a secured credit card, which is backed by a fixed deposit with the issuer. These are relatively easy to get. You can use them to build your credit score and then switch to one that offers exciting benefits.
It can be quite challenging to get a credit card if you are unemployed. However, if you absolutely need a credit card, you can ask a family member to authorise you as an add-on cardholder.
Alternatively, you may apply for a secured credit card. Since credit on these cards is usually issued on a lien on a fixed deposit, they’re comparatively easy to obtain.
Getting a credit card is relatively easy these days, especially if you have a good credit score and a regular source of income. If you’re looking to get a credit card with minimal effort, you can apply for a credit card on Bajaj Markets. You can choose from several travel-friendly, cashback, lifetime-free credit cards or others that offer a great rewards program.
Yes, you can get a credit card with a salary of ₹9,000. Make sure to choose a secured credit card and pick one that has a low annual fee.
As a beginner, you could pick a lifetime-free credit card which has NIL joining or annual fees. If your daily commute depends on your personal vehicle, you can opt for a fuel credit card with refuelling benefits.
You can also choose a shopping credit card if you shop frequently. Additionally, if you travel often, special travel credit cards can offer you exclusive discounts and privileges. You can find many credit cards that fit these categories on Bajaj Markets.
A secured credit card is a type of credit card that is issued against a fixed deposit or cash security kept with the bank. The credit limit is usually a percentage of the deposit amount, which reduces the lender’s risk.
It can be a good option for beginners or individuals with no credit history, as approval is easier and it helps build a credit score through regular, timely repayments. However, you must still use it responsibly and pay dues on time to see positive credit benefits.