In India, getting your first credit card is a big financial step. But with hundreds of options, choosing the best credit cards for beginners India can feel overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’ve done the research for you. This guide will help you pick the right card based on your needs, spending habits, and eligibility.
Let’s explore the most beginner-friendly credit cards that offer low fees, good rewards, and valuable credit card benefits to help you build a solid financial foundation.
Why Should Beginners Consider Getting a Credit Card?
A credit card isn’t just a tool for spending—it can help you:
- Build a credit score
- Earn rewards and cashback
- Manage short-term expenses
- Enjoy travel, dining, and shopping benefits
But if used without discipline, it can lead to debt traps. So, understanding how to get a credit card responsibly is crucial.
What to Look for in a Beginner Credit Card
Before we list the top options, here are the key features you should prioritize:
✅ Low or Zero Annual Fee
✅ Simple Eligibility (minimal income proof or documents)
✅ Basic Rewards & Cashback
✅ Easy to Upgrade Later
✅ Secure & App-Based Management
Looking for more tools to manage your money? Check out the Best Apps to Save Money in India to stay financially smart.
Table of Contents
Top 7 Best Credit Cards for Beginners in India (2025)
Here are the best options to kickstart your credit journey:
1. SBI SimplySAVE Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹499 (waived on ₹1L spend/year)
- Welcome Offer: ₹100 cashback on first ATM withdrawal
- Best For: Beginners who spend on groceries & movies
- Benefits: 10x rewards on dining, movies, groceries
👉 Apply here: SBI SimplySAVE Official Page
2. HDFC MoneyBack+ Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹500
- Welcome Gift: ₹500 worth of CashPoints
- Best For: Online shopping & bill payments
- Benefits: 10x CashPoints on Amazon, Flipkart, BigBasket
👉 Explore HDFC Cards: HDFC Bank Credit Cards
3. Axis Bank Flipkart Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹500 (waived on ₹2L spend/year)
- Best For: Flipkart & lifestyle shoppers
- Benefits: 5% cashback on Flipkart, 4% on preferred partners
Tip: This is also a great low annual fee card if you’re already using Flipkart frequently.
4. Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card
- Annual Fee: Zero (Lifetime free)
- Best For: Amazon Prime users
- Benefits: 5% cashback for Prime, 1% elsewhere, fuel surcharge waiver
5. IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card
- Annual Fee: Free for life
- Best For: Young professionals & salaried individuals
- Benefits: 3x to 6x reward points, 1.5% cashback, 4 free airport lounge visits
6. Kotak 811 #DreamDifferent Credit Card
- Annual Fee: Zero
- Best For: People without credit history
- Benefits: Helps build credit score, 1% cashback, fuel surcharge waiver
🔗 Related: Want to earn more from your card? Learn about passive income ideas in India.
7. ICICI Platinum Chip Credit Card
- Annual Fee: ₹199 (low fee)
- Best For: Simple, no-frills usage
- Benefits: PAYBACK points, dining offers, EMI conversion
How to Get a Credit Card as a Beginner in India
If you’re new to credit, here’s a step-by-step process to follow:
- Check your eligibility on the bank’s website
- Compare cards based on fee, rewards, and usage
- Apply online through the official bank portal
- Submit basic documents (ID proof, address proof, income proof or FD if needed)
- Wait for verification & approval
Bonus: No income proof? Consider secured cards against an FD like the SBI Unnati Card.
Credit Card Benefits Beginners Should Know
A good credit card offers more than just credit access. Here’s what you can enjoy:
| Benefit | Description |
|---|---|
| Rewards & Cashback | Earn points or cashback on spending |
| EMI Facility | Convert large purchases to EMIs |
| Travel Perks | Lounge access, flight discounts |
| Dining Offers | Restaurant discounts & special deals |
| Security Features | Fraud protection, OTP verification |
Also, don’t forget to track your spending. Use these budgeting apps for India to stay in control.
Tips to Use Credit Cards Wisely as a Beginner
- Pay your bills in full every month
- Never max out your credit limit
- Use for planned expenses only
- Don’t apply for too many cards at once
- Review your statement monthly
Want to explore freelancing as an income source? Start with these freelancing websites for beginners in India.
FAQs About Best Credit Cards for Beginners India
Q1. What is the easiest credit card to get approved for in India?
Cards like Kotak 811, ICICI Platinum Chip, and SBI Unnati are easy for beginners with little or no credit history.
Q2. Can a student get a credit card?
Yes, with a secured card or through add-on credit cards linked to their parents.
Q3. Do all credit cards have annual fees?
No, many cards like Amazon Pay ICICI or IDFC FIRST Millennia are lifetime free.
Q4. How to increase my credit limit?
Use your card regularly, pay dues on time, and request an upgrade after 6-12 months.
Final Thoughts: Choose Smart, Spend Smart
Getting your first credit card is exciting—but it’s also a responsibility. The best credit cards for beginners India in 2025 offer you a great way to build credit, enjoy rewards, and manage expenses without high costs.
Start with a card that matches your lifestyle, and remember: use it like a debit card, pay in full, and avoid unnecessary debt. That’s the real power of smart credit.
