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RBC credit cards offer a wide range of benefits for newcomers, students, and long-term residents — but choosing the right one depends on your lifestyle and financial goals.
In this guide, we’ll compare RBC’s main credit card options, explain how to apply, and help you build credit responsibly in Canada.
Quick comparison: RBC’s most popular credit cards
RBC offers a wide range of credit cards to match different needs — whether you’re looking for cashback, travel rewards, or low interest. Below are some of the most popular options, with key features to help you decide:
💳 RBC Cash Back Mastercard
Type: Cashback / No Annual Fee
Best for: Newcomers and students
Annual Fee: $0
Key perks:
- Earn up to 2% cashback on grocery purchases
- Save 3¢/L on fuel at Petro-Canada when linked
- Basic purchase protection and extended warranty
💳 RBC ION Visa
Type: Rewards / No Annual Fee
Best for: Everyday use and digital-first users
Annual Fee: $0
Key perks:
- Earn 1.5 Avion points per $1 on groceries, gas, streaming, and more
- Mobile device insurance included
- Purchase protection and no annual fee
💳 RBC Avion Visa Infinite
Type: Travel / Premium
Best for: Frequent travellers
Annual Fee: $120
Key perks:
- 35,000 welcome points (up to $750 in travel value)
- Book flights on any airline, any time
- Emergency medical and trip cancellation insurance
💳 WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
Type: Travel / Premium
Best for: WestJet flyers
Annual Fee: $139
Key perks:
- Up to 70,000 WestJet points
- Annual companion voucher
- First checked bag free for up to 8 guests on the same booking
💳 RBC Visa Classic Low Rate
Type: Low Interest
Best for: Budget-conscious users
Annual Fee: $20
Key perks:
- Low fixed rate of 12.99%
- Ideal for managing balances
- Basic purchase protection
👉 Want to compare even more cards? Use RBC’s credit card comparison tool.
Top choices for newcomers
RBC offers several cards with simplified approval for newcomers, including those with no Canadian credit history. These cards are ideal entry points into the financial system:
🔸 RBC Cash Back Mastercard – A no-annual-fee card that offers up to 2% cashback on groceries, fuel savings at Petro-Canada, and essential purchase protection.
🔸 RBC ION Visa – Earn Avion points on everyday essentials with no annual fee. Includes purchase security, extended warranty, and mobile device insurance.
🔸 RBC Visa Classic Low Rate – Offers a low fixed interest rate of 12.99%, helping you minimize interest as you build credit.
All three options are beginner-friendly and can be easily linked to an RBC chequing account.
Premium credit cards for long-term benefits
Once you’ve established some credit history, RBC’s premium cards offer greater rewards, higher limits, and additional perks:
🟡 RBC Avion Visa Infinite – Earn 35,000 Avion points and enjoy flexible travel booking with access to travel insurance and premium support.
🟡 WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard – Best for frequent WestJet users, with a companion voucher and generous travel rewards.
🟡 RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite – Unlimited 1.5% cashback on all purchases, 12-month DashPass subscription, and access to 1,300+ airport lounges worldwide.
🟡 RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege – Premium travel experience with 70,000 welcome points, six lounge visits per year, and luxury-level insurance coverage.
These cards come with annual fees ranging from $99 to $399, but their benefits cater to frequent travellers and high-value users.
How to apply (step-by-step)
Applying for an RBC credit card is simple. Here’s how:
- Use the “Help Me Choose” tool to narrow down your options based on your needs: Start here
- Gather your documents: valid ID, proof of immigration status, proof of address, and SIN (if available).
- Consider opening an RBC bank account first — it can simplify the process and unlock more benefits.
- Apply online, through the RBC Mobile App, or at a branch.
- Get a decision quickly — some applicants receive approval within minutes.
👉 Start your application here: RBC Credit Cards Portal.
Smart usage tips to grow your credit score
Using your RBC credit card responsibly helps build your Canadian credit profile. Follow these best practices:
- Pay your full balance on time each month
- Keep your usage under 30% of your available credit limit
- Set up automatic payments to avoid missed due dates
- Monitor spending habits using the RBC Mobile app and NOMI Insights
- Check your credit score directly in the app and follow personalized tips to improve it
👉 Download the RBC Mobile App:
• App Store (iOS)
• Google Play (Android)
Key credit terms to know
🔹 Credit Score: A number that shows lenders how reliably you manage credit. A strong score helps with loans, renting, and future approvals.
🔹 Annual Fee: The yearly cost for holding some credit cards. RBC has options with and without this fee.
🔹 Cashback: Money you earn back from purchases, typically a percentage.
🔹 Rewards Points: Points earned from spending, which can be redeemed for travel, gift cards, merchandise, and more.
🔹 APR (Annual Percentage Rate): The annual interest rate charged when you don’t pay off your full balance. Most RBC cards range from 20.99% to 22.99%, with some low-rate options at 12.99%.
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to upgrade, RBC credit cards offer flexible options for every financial stage. With digital tools, helpful rewards, and a trusted name in Canadian banking, RBC makes it easier to manage and grow your finances.
Get your payments back on track ✅
