Best Credit Cards for First Timers in India

So, you finally get to handle your own money. After mastering the art of e-wallets and becoming a UPI ninja, you're probably thinking, "Okay, what's next?"

Naturally, you might be eyeing that sleek, shiny slice of plastic that your parents keep flashing around: A credit card.

Well, you have to hold your horses because:

1.  A credit card does not equal free money
2.  Credit cards for first-timers aren't as cool as the ones experienced people get

You have to pay interest, deal with hidden charges, and if you're not careful, you could end up in a debt trap faster than you can ask, "What terms and conditions?"

Yes, millions of people in India are using credit cards, but most newbies don't really understand how credit cards actually work. That's why we have created this cheat sheet to help you pick the best credit cards for first-timers, the kind that match your lifestyle and not mess it up. 

Ready? Let's go!

Table of Contents

• What Makes Good Credit Cards for First-Timers?
• The Best Credit Cards for First-Timers
• How to Get Credit Cards for First-Timers with No Credit
• Applying for a Good Credit Card for First-Timers

What Makes Good Credit Cards for First-Timers?

Before you start planning all the money you will spend using your credit card, you need to face the harsh reality. As we've already mentioned, a credit card is not free money. It's a loan and is, therefore, expensive.

If you're not careful about how you use your credit card, it could end up costing you a lot. We're talking 36% to 55% annual interest levels. 

It's easy enough to get a credit card, even for newbies who do not have any credit score, thanks to secured credit cards. However, most people just don't understand how to use them wisely. Maybe that's why credit card defaults in India are so high right now.

Credit cards, for first-timers, are not just about discounts or cashback. It's a way for them to build a solid financial foundation. It helps them build a credit score, which can be incredibly useful in case they want to take a car, home or any other type of loan at cheaper rates in the future.

So, what separates the truly good credit cards for first-timers from the rest? It boils down to a few simple things:

• Low or no annual fees: Usually, people have to pay money just to own a credit card. However, credit cards for first-timers usually come as lifetime free or have a low annual fee that can easily be waived by spending a certain amount per year.
• Easy approval: People with no credit history find it challenging to get a credit card, but the best credit cards for first-timers are designed explicitly with relaxed eligibility criteria. Additionally, there are secured credit cards or credit cards against fixed deposits that give you a much higher chance of getting approved.
• Simple and relevant rewards: For your first credit card, go for something that offers straightforward rewards like cashback or reward points on things you actually spend on. Credit cards that offer rewards for online shopping, food delivery or utility bills are great for first-timers.
• A great CIBIL score builder: This is the most important, non-negotiable feature. Your CIBIL score is your financial report card, a three-digit number that tells lenders how trustworthy you are with credit. Your first card is your primary tool to build this score from zero, so it must report your payment behaviour to all major credit bureaus.

The gist is that when looking for credit cards for first-timers, it is ideal to go for something simple and straightforward. If you use it responsibly, you will have a great credit score in a few years' time.

The Best Credit Cards for First-Timers

So, you've decided it's time to get your first credit card. This is great, but there are thousands of credit card options out there, and choosing the best credit card for a first-timer can be quite overwhelming.

Some credit cards are designed for online shoppers, others for foodies, commuters, or beginners who simply want to start building credit without paying fees. We did the hard work, comparing features, reading the fine print, and sifting through dozens of popular choices to bring you a list of the best credit cards for first-timers.

1. For online shoppers

If you love buying most of your stuff online, you could really benefit from a card that rewards you for shopping online. Some of the great credit cards for first-timers fall into this category because they offer high rewards with low or no fees.

1. Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card

The Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card is a top choice for anyone who frequently shops on Amazon. It is completely free for life and offers 5% cashback for Prime members and 3% for others. The cashback is credited directly to your Amazon Pay balance. There are no complicated rules or fees, just regular value. It's one of the best credit cards for first-timers who are also Amazon loyalists.

2. Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card

Prefer Flipkart and Myntra? The Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card is tailored for you. You get 7.5% cashback on Myntra, 5% on Flipkart and Cleartrip, along with 4% on select partners like Swiggy, Uber, and PVR. There's a ₹500 annual fee, but if you're a regular shopper on these sites, you'll easily earn that back. It stands out among credit cards for first-timers who are active on Indian e-commerce platforms.

2. For food and ride spenders

If you spend more on ordering food and getting around the city than anything else, here are two good credit cards for first-timers that help you save on exactly that.

1. Axis Bank ACE Credit Card

The Axis Bank ACE Credit Card is a powerful option for everyday spenders. It offers 5% cashback on utility bill payments through Google Pay, 4% on food delivery and rides with platforms like Swiggy, Zomato and Ola, and 1.5% on all other purchases. The flat cashback structure makes it easy to use without thinking too much. And even though the card has a joining fee of ₹499, you can get it for free through select channels.

2. Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card

If you order everything from groceries to dinner through Swiggy, the Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card is designed for you. It gives you 10% cashback on all Swiggy-related spending, including Instamart and Dineout. There is an annual fee of ₹500, but if Swiggy is a regular part of your life, the card pays for itself quickly. 

3. For the balanced spender

Some people don't have one dominant spending habit. If you split your expenses between shopping, food, travel, and entertainment, you'll benefit more from a card that gives broad-based rewards. These are great credit cards for first-timers who want a bit of everything.

1. SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card

The SBI SimplyCLICK Credit Card gives you 10X reward points on selected partners like BookMyShow, Domino's and Myntra, and 5X points on all other online spends. If you make regular digital purchases across various categories, this is a simple way to build up rewards quickly. It's also one of the best credit cards for first-timers with no credit, provided you have a basic savings history.

2. HDFC MoneyBack+ Credit Card

The HDFC MoneyBack Plus Credit Card is another solid option for those who shop across multiple platforms. It offers 10X CashPoints on Amazon, Flipkart, Swiggy, and BigBasket. If your spending habits are fairly diversified, this card helps you collect and redeem rewards consistently without locking you into a single ecosystem.

4. For those who want zero fees

If the idea of paying any annual or joining fee doesn't sit well with you, there are a few best credit cards for first-timers with no credit that offer solid entry-level benefits without charging you anything.

1. IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card

The IDFC Millennia Credit Card is one of the great credit cards for first-timers who don't want to deal with annual charges. It rewards you with 10X points on monthly spending over ₹20,000 and gives bonus points on birthday purchases. With no charges attached and decent benefits, it's a smart way to begin your credit journey without any cost.

2. ICICI Bank Platinum Chip Credit Card

This is as basic as a credit card gets, but that's exactly why it works for beginners. It has no fees and offers a small set of rewards with 2x points on retail and 1x points on utility spends. It is ideal for those who want to start building their credit history slowly and safely. Definitely one of the more reliable credit cards for first-timers with no credit who need a risk-free starting point.

To make your choice even easier, we've put together a quick table of all the best credit cards for first-timers mentioned above so you can compare your options at a glance.

Card Name & Issuer	Joining/ Annual Fee (₹)	Fee Waiver Condition (Spend ₹)	Best For
Amazon Pay ICICI Card	0	Lifetime free	Amazon shoppers
Flipkart Axis Bank Card	500	Spend ₹3.5 lakh	Online shoppers
Axis Bank ACE Card	499	Spend ₹2 lakh	All-round cashback
Swiggy HDFC Bank Card	500	Spend ₹2 lakh	Swiggy loyalists
SBI SimplyCLICK Card	499	Spend ₹1 lakh	Online spenders
HDFC MoneyBack+ Card	500	Spend ₹50,000	Multi-platform shoppers
IDFC FIRST Millennia Card	0	Lifetime free	Fee-averse users
ICICI Platinum Chip Card	0	Lifetime free	Absolute beginners

The right first credit card is the one that fits how you already spend. Whether you're someone who orders online every week, books a lot of rides, or just wants to start with something simple and free, there is a card here that suits your needs.

How to Get Credit Cards for First-Timers with No Credit

Here's where things get a little problematic. The thing is that to get a credit card, you usually need a credit score. But to build a credit score, you need a credit card. You see the problem here?

Thankfully, there are proven ways to break into the credit system, even if you have zero credit history. Let's explore the easiest and most reliable paths to get credit cards for first-timers with no credit.

• Secured credit cards

If you're new to credit and don't have an income to show, your best bet is a secured credit card. These cards are issued against a Fixed Deposit (FD), which acts as security. Just open an FD (usually between ₹5,000 and ₹20,000). The bank gives you a credit limit that's around 80–90% of your FD value. You still earn interest on your deposit while using your card, just like any other. No proof of income or existing credit score is required.

These are good credit cards for first-timers because they come with minimal risk and a guaranteed approval.

• Student cards

Most so-called student credit cards in India are just secured cards with a friendlier label. For instance, ICICI and IDFC FIRST offer secured cards that only require your Aadhaar, PAN, and college ID. They're designed for students 18 and above who don't yet have a job or credit score.

So when you see best credit cards for first timers or "student credit cards", read the fine print, it's likely a secured card in disguise. And that's not a bad thing.

1. Others 

• Add-on cards: If you're over 18, a parent can add you as a supplementary user on their credit card. It's a quick way to access credit, but since the account isn't technically yours, it will not build your individual CIBIL score.
• Banking relationship: Been with a bank for a while? If you have a salary or savings account with regular transactions, the bank might pre-approve you for a basic unsecured card, even if you have no credit history.

Great credit cards for first-timers do exist, even without a CIBIL score. Start with a secured card, use it smartly, and in a few months, you'll be eligible for some of the best credit cards for first-timers in the market.

Applying for a Good Credit Card for First-Timers

Now it is time to apply for it and, more importantly, use it with care. Getting a credit card is the start of your credit journey. And if done right, it can open the door to better financial products in the future.

Let us start with the application process.

Before you apply, make sure everything is in place. This avoids unnecessary delays or rejection.

1. Check your eligibility: Visit the bank's official website and confirm you meet the eligibility criteria for the card. This usually includes age, occupation, and in the case of unsecured cards, monthly income.
2. Keep your documents ready: Missing paperwork is one of the most common reasons for rejection. Here is what you will typically need:

• Identity proof: PAN card (mandatory), Aadhaar card, passport, or voter ID
• Address proof: Aadhaar card, utility bill, or passport
• Income proof:
  • If salaried: Recent salary slips or Form 16
  • If self-employed: Income Tax Returns (ITR)
  • For students applying for a secured card: College ID or admission slip, along with standard ID and address proof

1. Fill the application form online: Most banks allow you to apply online. It is quick and convenient. Fill in the details carefully and check twice before submitting.
2. Do not apply for multiple cards at once: Every credit card application results in a hard inquiry on your credit profile. Too many applications in a short period can bring your CIBIL score down. Apply only once to the card that best matches your profile.
3. Activate your card: Once your application is approved and you receive the card, follow the activation instructions. Set your PIN, and you are ready to begin.

Getting one of the best credit cards for first-timers is step one. Using it well is what makes the difference between building a good credit score and falling into a debt trap.

1. Never pay just the minimum amount. The unpaid balance will start accumulating interest, often as high as 36 to 42% annually. Paying the full amount on time protects your score and keeps you debt-free.
2. Try not to use more than 30% of your credit limit. For example, if your limit is ₹50,000, keep your monthly spending under ₹15,000. High utilisation makes you look credit-hungry and can hurt your score, even if you pay on time.
3. Set up auto-debit instructions to pay the total amount due a few days before the due date. This ensures you never miss a payment and helps you avoid late fees or penalties.
4. Go through your monthly credit card statement to review the total due, due date, and all transactions. It helps catch billing errors or any fraud early.

Whether you are applying for secured cards, student cards, or other credit cards for first-timers with no credit, the fundamentals stay the same. Apply carefully, stay within your limits, and pay on time. That is the real difference between simply owning a credit card and using it well.

Conclusion 

There's a reason getting your first credit card feels like a big deal. That's because it is. It's your entry into the world of credit, and how you start matters. Pick the right card, use it well, and you'll build a credit history that quietly works in your favour for years.

But with every bank calling their card the "best", choosing one can feel like picking a needle from a stack of shiny, confusing needles.

That's where Finology Select makes life easier.

Instead of scrolling through endless features you don't care about, just tell us what matters to you: cashback, zero fees, travel perks, whatever. You can explore 90+ credit cards and filter them by your income, spending habits, and actual needs.

Need help understanding how interest quietly builds up on your card? This credit card interest rates guide breaks it down step-by-step and shares ways to manage it smartly.

FAQs

What are the best credit cards for first-timers?

If you're just getting started, the best credit cards are the ones that are simple, low-cost, and fit your lifestyle. Think of the Amazon Pay ICICI credit card if you're always on Amazon, the Axis Bank ACE card if you're into cashback on food, rides, and bills, or the IDFC FIRST Millennia card if you want a solid lifetime-free option with decent rewards.

What are good credit cards for first-timers?

Good cards for beginners are the ones that help you build credit without burning a hole in your pocket. Look for low or no annual fees (under ₹500), a high chance of approval even if you've never had credit before, and rewards that give you something back on everyday spends, like food delivery or online shopping.

What are the best credit cards for first-timers with no credit?

If you have no credit score yet, your safest bet is a secured credit card. These cards are backed by an FD, which makes it easier to get approved. They also help you build your credit from scratch, with zero drama.

What are credit cards for first-timers with no credit?

These are cards designed for people who are just starting out and don't have a CIBIL score yet. The most common types are:

• Secured credit cards, where you open a fixed deposit, and the card is issued against that
• Add-on credit cards, which are linked to your parents’ or family members’ existing card

Both are great entry points into the world of credit.

What are great credit cards for first-timers?

Great cards make your financial life easier. Ideally, you want a card that's free or comes with a fee that's easy to waive. Perks like cashback on Swiggy, Zomato, Flipkart, or Amazon are a nice bonus. Most importantly, it should help you start building a strong credit profile without the stress.

How can I get my first credit card in India?

It's easier than you think. Start by picking a card that suits your spending. Check the eligibility, then gather your documents (ID proof, address proof, and either income documents or your college ID). Apply online through the bank's website. Once it's approved, activate the card, set your PIN, and you're good to go. No credit history? Go for a secured card backed by an FD.

What is the minimum age for getting a credit card in India?

You need to be at least 18 years old to apply for a primary credit card in India.

Can a student get a credit card in India?

Yes, absolutely. If you're 18 or older, you can apply. The easiest way is through a secured credit card; you just need a fixed deposit and some basic documents. Another way is to get an add-on card linked to a parent's credit card. Either option helps you build credit while you're still in college.