Getting your first credit card is an exciting milestone for new earners. It opens up the convenience of cashless payments, builds your credit record, and provides access to exclusive rewards and offers. But if you’re fresh in your career or just started earning, you might be wondering: Am I eligible for a credit card? What do banks check, and how can I increase my chances?
Understanding Credit Card Eligibility for First-Time Earners
Banks have specific criteria before they approve a credit card. Understanding these in advance can save you from unnecessary rejections that may impact your credit score. Here’s what most banks look for:
- Age: Typically, you need to be at least 18 years old. Some cards require a minimum age of 21.
- Income: There’s usually a minimum monthly or annual income requirement. This amount can be as low as ₹15,000/month for basic cards and much higher for premium ones.
- Employment Type: Salaried employees are preferred, but many banks now offer cards for self-employed professionals as well.
- Credit Score: As a new earner, you might not have a credit history yet. Some banks offer starter or secured cards in such cases.
- City of Residence: Eligibility sometimes depends on where you live. Metro cities may have more options.
What Documents Do You Need?
Keep these documents ready, as most banks require them when you apply credit card online or offline:
- Identity proof (Aadhaar card, PAN card, passport)
- Address proof (utility bill, Aadhaar, passport)
- Proof of income (latest salary slips, bank statements, or IT returns)
- PAN card (mandatory for credit applications)
Best Practices: Tips for New Earners to Get a Credit Card
If you want to boost your chances of approval as a new earner, consider these strategies:
- Start with Lifetime Free or Zero Annual Fee Card: Cards like the HSBC Platinum Credit Card or IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card are good bets with relaxed criteria.
- Consider a Secured Credit Card: Link your card to a fixed deposit. This is a smart move if you don’t have an income proof yet — many banks like SBI or Axis Bank offer these cards with minimal paperwork.
- Show Consistent Income: Even if your salary is just above the minimum, having it credited into a savings account with the same bank improves trust.
- Apply for Entry-Level or Digital Cards: Fintech and digital-first banks now provide easy approval products aimed at first-time users.
Common Reasons Credit Card Applications Get Declined
It’s disappointing when an application gets rejected. Most common reasons for new earners:
- Insufficient or unstable monthly income
- Inaccurate information or missing documents
- Lack of credit history (for some cards only)
- Multiple recent loan or credit card applications
- Existing loans make your debt burden high relative to income
Starter Credit Card Options for New Earners
Some cards stand out for their flexible requirements and accessibility. Here are 5 cards that new earners can consider:
- IDFC FIRST Millennia Credit Card – Lifetime free, popular among young earners, flexible approval.
- HSBC Platinum Credit Card – Zero annual fee, attractive welcome offers, good for those with lower starting income.
- HDFC MoneyBack+ Credit Card – Reliable entry-level card, easy online approval, rewards on daily spends.
- Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card – No annual fee, instant digital approval, suited for online shoppers.
- Kotak 811 Credit Card – Digital-first, lifetime free card, designed for first-time users.
Compare Credit Cards: What Should New Earners Look At?
Don’t just go with the first card you see. Comparing credit cards is a smart move. As a new earner, consider:
- Annual/Joining Fee: Look for zero annual fee card offers for low-cost ownership.
- Rewards & Cashback: Opt for cards providing simple, useful rewards — such as a cashback credit card on your main spending categories.
- Credit Limit: Entry-level cards may have lower limits, but this increases over time as you build your record.
- Approval Speed: Some banks offer instant credit card approval for select customers/on digital channels.
Use the Find My Card tool for a tailored shortlist matching your income and needs.
How to Maximize Your Approval Odds
- Meet Income Criteria: Don’t apply for a card where the income bar is higher than your salary.
- Maintain a Good Banking Relationship: Apply with your salary credit bank if possible.
- Build a Simple Credit History: Pay utility bills via credit card, take a small consumer loan — repaying on time helps your profile.
- Apply in Moderation: Avoid making multiple applications within a short period, as this can signal desperation to lenders and hurt your credit score.
FAQs: Credit Card Eligibility for New Earners
1. What is the minimum salary required to get a credit card in India?
For most basic cards, banks require a minimum salary of ₹15,000–₹20,000 per month. Some premium cards need higher incomes. Always check the card’s eligibility before applying.
2. Can I get a credit card if I have no credit history?
Yes, some cards are designed for first-time users. Look at secured cards (against FD) or entry-level digital cards with easier approval.
3. How quickly can I get approval as a new earner?
Many banks now offer instant or same-day credit card approval, especially if you have an account with them and meet the eligibility.
4. Will multiple rejections affect my credit score?
Yes. Each hard inquiry (application) gets recorded. Multiple rejections in a short time signal risk and can reduce your credit score temporarily.
5. Should I choose a card with annual fees as my first card?
It’s wiser to choose lifetime free or zero annual fee cards as your first, unless the benefits far outweigh the costs for your spending pattern.
Ready to Find the Right Credit Card?
Getting your first card is a smart financial step — but only if you meet the eligibility and use it responsibly from day one. For detailed comparisons, expert reviews, and the easiest way to compare credit cards by your profile, check out the Find My Card tool or browse our full blog archive for more tips. Take the time to choose right, stay disciplined, and build your credit with confidence!