How to Get a Credit Card Without CIBIL Score: Simple Ways to Apply
Do you wonder how you get a credit card with no CIBIL score? If you have never applied for a loan or used a credit card, you probably don’t have a CIBIL score either. It is practically difficult to get a credit card under such circumstances. But wait-things are not that hopeless! There are a thousand opportunities for those with no credit history to begin. On this blog, we’ll be talking about the best ways on how to get a credit card without a CIBIL score and help you in building a strong credit profile in the long run.
What is a CIBIL Score?
The score will range between 300 and 900, a three-digit number which indicates your credit history. This is the score against which the lender appraises whether you will repay your loan or handle your credits or not. You won’t have any kind of CIBIL score if you haven’t used any loan or credit card in your credit history; however, this doesn’t mean that you cannot get a credit card approved.
Can You Get a Credit Card Without a CIBIL Score?
Yes, you can! While most credit card providers prefer a good CIBIL score, there are alternative ways to acquire a credit card without a CIBIL score. Banks and financial institutions understand that most people, especially young professionals or students may not have a credit history. Thus, they offer special credit cards designed for individuals without a CIBIL score
1. Secured Credit Cards
One of the easiest methods for how to get a credit card without CIBIL score is by opting for a secured credit card. You will have to place a fixed deposit that acts as a backing for the bank in case you do not repay your credit card dues. The credit limit is usually a percentage of your fixed deposit.
How It Works:
-
You open a fixed deposit with the bank.
-
The bank issues a secured credit card with a credit limit corresponding to the FD amount
-
When you default on your dues, you are permitting the Bank to draw a corresponding amount of FD for paying the dues.
Example: Banks like ICICI, SBI, HDFC and Axis Bank offer secured credit cards that don’t require a credit score.
2. Income-based Credit Cards
One other way through which you can get a credit card without having a CIBIL score is by getting income-based credit cards. This credit card is issued to you as per your salary slips or income proofs instead of your history.
How It Works?
- You will require providing proof like salary slips or bank statements.
- The bank will grade your income and decide on the credit limit.
This product is especially suitable for salaried or self-employed applicants who have no CIBIL score yet but have an assured source of income.
3. Add-On or Supplementary Credit Cards
If you are also thinking through how to get a credit card without CIBIL, you should look forward to applying for an add-on or supplement credit card. These are the additional credit cards that are issued under an existing primary card account.
How It Works?
- A member of your family who owns a credit card may apply for an add-on card under your name.
- You will be able to use the card to make purchases, but the billing will be directly connected to the account of the primary cardholder.
This is a great way for you to start building your credit history without needing a CIBIL score.
4. Pre-Approved Credit Cards
If you already have a banking relationship, like that from a savings or a salary account, the banks can sometimes offer a credit card even if you do not have a credit score. That’s another easy solution for how to get a credit card without a CIBIL score.
How It Works:
- The banks analyze your account activity, and if you are maintaining a good record, then you can get pre-approved credit cards.
- You don’t need a CIBIL score for this.
Banks like HDFC and SBI often offer these cards to their loyal customers with good banking behavior.
Documents Required for Credit Cards Without a CIBIL Score
You will require the following documents to apply for a credit card using the aforementioned ways of getting a credit card without the CIBIL score.
- Identity Proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport, etc.)
- Address Proof (Utility bill, rent agreement, etc.)
- Income Proof (For income-based cards)
- Fixed Deposit Receipt (For secured credit cards)
Steps to Apply for a Credit Card Without CIBIL Score
Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get a credit card without CIBIL score:
- Right Card Selection: You can opt for a secured credit card, income-based card or an add-on card.
- Documents to be ready: ID proof and income proof or FD receipts will have to be submitted.
- Apply online or in a bank: Increasingly, today, banks make applications very easy via the internet. Alternatively, you can apply to your chosen branch or for in-bank applications.
- Wait for approval :The bank will process your application, after which it will get back to you if further details are required.
- Collect Your Card: Then comes your credit card; you can use it to start an actual credit history.
How to Build Your Credit Score After Getting a Credit Card
Now that you have managed to get your credit card without a CIBIL score, here’s how you can utilize your card responsibly to build your credit score. Some tips are as follows:
- Pay Your Bills on Time: This is the most significant element in good credit score.
- Maintain Low Credit Utilisation: Ensure you only spend a minute fraction of the credit that is available on your card (ideally less than 30%) for optimum scores.
- Do not Overspend: Wise usage of your card benefits your credit score after sometime.
Building a strong credit history will allow you to upgrade to better credit cards in the future.
Pros and Cons of Getting a Credit Card Without CIBIL Score
Pros:
- You can start building your credit history.
- It gives you financial flexibility.
- Several options are available for how to get a credit card without CIBIL score.
Cons:
- Some credit cards may come with higher interest rates or lower credit limits.
The very first is to know how to get a credit card without CIBIL score; now, it’s time to take the first step in your credit journey. You could opt for one, two, or three from any of these-the secured credit card, an income-based card, or an add-on card. Just mind that you will have to use it very responsibly so that your credit score builds up. With appropriate practices, you will soon enjoy more credit opportunities and such financial favors.
Let us know if this blog has helped you understand how to get a credit card as a student. Know 10 best ways to earn money under 18 online without investment by clicking here.