A poor CIBIL score can create financial difficulties. Banks reject credit card applications instantly, EMI options disappear, and even small loans become difficult to get. You CAN still get a credit card in India even with a low CIBIL score (below 650).
Today, several banks and digital lenders offer credit cards designed specifically for people with low credit scores, no credit history, new job starters, and students.
Here are the top 5 credit cards for low CIBIL scores in India. They promise easy approval, low fees, and quick credit score boosts.
1. SBI SimplySave Credit Card
A trusted secured credit card from India’s largest bank—perfect for people rebuilding their credit.
Why It’s Ideal for Low CIBIL Users
- Approval based on FD, not CIBIL
- High reliability and nationwide acceptance
- Excellent for building a strong credit score
Features
- Minimum FD: ₹20,000
- Reward Points: On dining, grocery, movies, and retail
- Interest-Free Period: Up to 50 days
- Annual Fee: ₹499
Best For:
Salaried people, homemakers, and self-employed users who want an easy, safe credit-building option.
2. Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
One of the fastest approval secured cards in India.
Why It’s Ideal
- Instant approval at the branch
- Higher credit limit (up to 100% of FD)
- Solid customer support and widely accepted
Features
- Minimum FD: ₹25,000
- Cash Withdrawal: 100% of limit
- Annual Fee: ₹500
- Usage: India + International
Best For:
Users need a high credit limit and fast approval without CIBIL verification.
3. IDFC FIRST WOW Credit Card (Lifetime Free)
A rare, zero-fee secured credit card with excellent technology and digital control.
Why It Stands Out
- Lifetime FREE — no joining or renewal fee
- Zero CIBIL dependency for approval
- Excellent mobile-app management
Features
- Minimum FD: ₹5,000 only
- Forex Markup: 0% (best for travel)
- Contactless Payments enabled
- Interest-Free Period: Up to 48 days
Best For:
Students, freelancers, freshers, and low-income earners who want affordability + quality.
4. Kotak 811 Dream Different Credit Card
A hybrid semi-secured card available even without an FD (subject to internal checks).
Why It’s Ideal
- Low-income friendly
- Good rewards for online spending
- Can be issued with an 811 digital account
Features
- FD Requirement: Optional (varies by profile)
- Annual Fee: ₹500
- Rewards: Cashback + movie benefits
- Limit: Up to 90% of FD
Best For:
New credit users who want simple approvals and lifestyle benefits.
5. OneCard Metal Credit Card (FD-Based)
A stylish metal card powered by modern technology and easy app-based approval.
Why It’s Ideal
- Instant approval through the app
- Metal design card (premium feel)
- Full digital control—limit, lock, payments
Features
- Minimum FD: ₹2,000–₹10,000
- Annual Fee: ₹0
- Rewards: 5X points on top categories
- Approval: 100% digital
Best For:
Young professionals, first-time credit users, and people rebuilding credit who love premium design.
Also Read: Unsecured Business Loan up to 75 Lakh
Comparison Table: Top 5 Credit Cards for Low CIBIL Score
| Credit Card | Approval Type | Minimum FD | Annual Fee | Highlights |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SBI SimplySave FD Card | Secured | ₹20,000 | ₹499 | High acceptance, credit builder |
| Axis Bank Insta Easy | Secured | ₹25,000 | ₹500 | High limit, instant approval |
| IDFC FIRST WOW | Secured | ₹5,000 | Free for life | Best for beginners, zero fees |
| Kotak 811 Dream Different | Semi-Secured | None / FD | ₹500 | Great for digital users |
| OneCard (FD-Based) | Secured | ₹2,000+ | Free | Metal card, app-based control |
Why These Cards Are Perfect for Low CIBIL Score Users
1. Easy Approval
These cards don’t use your CIBIL score; instead, they primarily require your FD or KYC.
2. Helps Repair Your Credit Score
Timely payments report to CIBIL and improve score in 90–180 days.
3. Zero or Low Charges
Most secured cards come with low fees, and some are completely free.
4. Higher Chances of Future Loan Approval
Once your score improves, banks easily offer:
- Personal loans
- Bike loans
- Credit upgrades
- EMI offers
5. Safer for Banks, Easier for You
Because you provide an FD, banks take no risk—so approval is simple and fast.
How to Choose the Right Card for a Low CIBIL Score
| Your Situation | Best Card |
|---|---|
| Student / first-time user | IDFC FIRST WOW / OneCard |
| Low income | Kotak 811 / IDFC WOW |
| Want premium card | OneCard Metal |
| Want trusted network | SBI SimplySave |
| Want instant approval | Axis Insta Easy |
Also Read: Best 5 Credit Cards with Flight Booking Offers
Conclusion
A low CIBIL score is not necessarily the last word on the matter. The right credit card can help you rebuild your score, improve your finances, and make banking easier in the future.
Secured cards like SBI Credit Card, Axis, IDFC FIRST, and OneCard are the fastest and safest way to climb back to a 700+ score.