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How to Get a Credit Card for Low CIBIL Score and Unlock Premium Perks

Key Takeaways

  • Getting a premium credit card is difficult with a low CIBIL score, as banks assess creditworthiness based on credit history, income, and repayment patterns, often rejecting applicants with limited or poor credit profiles.
  • To build creditworthiness, start with a secured premium card like the FIRST WOW! Credit Card, build your credit score through responsible usage, monitor your credit report for accuracy, and gradually upgrade to better cards.
  • The FIRST WOW! Credit Card is a strong starting option, offering premium features such as zero forex charges, 4X rewards, and lifetime-free usage—even with low or no credit history, backed by a ₹20,000 fixed deposit.
28 May 2025 by Team FinFIRST

A premium credit card offers more than just convenience—it provides travel privileges, lifestyle upgrades, and valuable rewards. However, if you’re just starting out financially or have a low CIBIL score, qualifying for such cards can seem out of reach.

Banks assess several factors before issuing credit cards. If your credit score is low or you lack a credit history, the chances of approval for a premium card are typically slim.

But don’t worry—you can still get a credit card with low CIBIL score and work your way up to premium rewards. Here's how.

Why getting a premium card is hard with a low CIBIL score
 

Banks typically assess your eligibility based on:

  1. Credit score
  2. Length and quality of credit history
  3. Monthly income and job stability
  4. Current debts and repayment patterns

If you have a low credit score or no history, you may be perceived as high-risk. Instead of facing rejection, consider a smarter strategy: start small, build credibility, and climb toward better cards.

Credit card for low CIBIL score - Your 4-step roadmap
 

If you’re wondering what type of credit card you can realistically get right now, this ladder shows a practical way forward. It's structured for someone who wants to climb toward premium offerings and is seeking a credit card for a low CIBIL score.

Step

Card type

Ideal for

Premium value offered

1

Secured premium card (e.g. FIRST WOW! Credit Card)

No credit history or low CIBIL score

Zero forex charges, VISA Infinite, Rewards, EMI, UPI, lifestyle perks

2

Co-branded entry-level cards

Fair score (~650–700)

Brand-specific perks, lower fees

3

Pre-approved premium cards

Good banking relationship

Low documentation, better credit limits

4

Top-tier premium cards

High score (750+), solid income

Airport lounges, concierge, travel deals


For anyone with limited history, starting at step 1 with a secured option makes the most sense.

Step 1 - Apply for a secured credit card for low CIBIL score applicants
 

The best way to get started is with a secured credit card—one backed by a fixed deposit. These cards are easier to obtain, even if you have a low CIBIL score or no credit record.

Why FIRST WOW! Credit Card is a strong starting point

The FIRST WOW! Credit Card is a secured card that offers premium-level features, tailored for people looking for a credit card for a low CIBIL score or limited credit history.

Key benefits include -

  1. Issued against a fixed deposit of just ₹20,000
  2. No income proof or credit history required
  3. Zero forex charges
  4.  Credit limit equal to your fixed deposit value
  5. Attractive reward program
  6. VISA Infinite offers and lifestyle offers
  7. Lifetime-free (no annual or joining fees)

Unlike most basic secured cards, it provides genuine premium experiences—a rare find for applicants with low CIBIL scores.
 

Step 2 - Build your credit score quickly
 

Once you’ve received your secured card, the next step is to improve your credit standing through disciplined usage.

  1. Always pay your bills on time—set up reminders or auto-pay
  2.  Keep usage below 30–40% of your credit limit
  3. Use the card regularly – even small spends help build history

In just 6 to 12 months, these habits can significantly improve your credit score, making you eligible for more advanced cards.

Step 3 - Keep track of your credit report
 

Track your progress and catch errors by regularly checking your credit report. Mistakes or incorrect entries can lower your score.

Useful tools:

  • CIBIL’s official website
  • Credit dashboards on banking apps
  • Financial apps that offer free credit tracking

Look out for:

  • Wrong data
  • Unauthorised enquiries
  • Late payment reports you’ve already settled

Step 4 - Move to better cards as your credit profile improves
 

As your creditworthiness improves, you’ll qualify for:

  1. Pre-approved card offers from your bank

  2. Access to co-branded cards with lifestyle or travel benefits

  3. Opportunities to upgrade your existing secured card

You don’t need to apply for everything—choose strategically based on your spending habits and the benefits that matter most to you.

Premium credit card without credit score: Why consider the FIRST WOW! Credit Card?
 

Having a premium secured credit card like the FIRST WOW! Credit Card can elevate your experience with features such as:

Feature

Why it matters

No Forex Charges

If you are studying internationally or simply traveling abroad, low forex markup means you pay lesser in exchange fees.

Up to 4X Reward Points

Earn up to 4 Reward Points on every ₹150 you spend, so you get more value from your spending.

EMI Conversion

Manage larger purchases comfortably

UPI compatibility

Integrates well with existing payment habits

Travel and dining offers

Pay less for an enhanced lifestyle

Lifetime-Free

Save on joining and annual fees


The FIRST WOW! Credit Card offers these advantages right from the start, making it a practical and rewarding option for anyone in search of a credit card for a low CIBIL score with premium features.

Final thoughts - You don’t have to wait to go premium
 

The idea that premium cards are only for those with perfect credit is outdated. With the FIRST WOW! Credit Card, you can start enjoying travel, rewards, and lifestyle rewards while also building your credit score.

Whether you're a student, freelancer, or rebuilding your finances—getting a credit card for a low CIBIL score is a practical and strategic move.

Ready to begin?

  1. Apply for the FIRST WOW! Credit Card with a minimum fixed deposit of just ₹20,000
  2. Use it smartly over the next 6–12 months
  3. Monitor your growth and upgrade when the time is right

Start small. Build strong. And enjoy the perks of premium, sooner than you think.

Disclaimer

The contents of this article/infographic/picture/video are meant solely for information purposes. The contents are generic in nature and for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for specific advice in your own circumstances. The information is subject to updation, completion, revision, verification and amendment and the same may change materially. The information is not intended for distribution or use by any person in any jurisdiction where such distribution or use would be contrary to law or regulation or would subject IDFC FIRST Bank or its affiliates to any licensing or registration requirements. IDFC FIRST Bank shall not be responsible for any direct/indirect loss or liability incurred by the reader for taking any financial decisions based on the contents and information mentioned. Please consult your financial advisor before making any financial decision.

The features, benefits and offers mentioned in the article are applicable as on the day of publication of this blog and is subject to change without notice. The contents herein are also subject to other product specific terms and conditions and any third party terms and conditions, as applicable. Please refer our website www.idfcfirstbank.com for latest updates.