How to get credit card without CIBIL score?

How to get credit card without CIBIL score? Many first-time borrowers assume that the absence of a credit history automatically disqualifies them from getting a credit card. Several options are available for individuals with an NH (No History) or NA (Not Applicable) status. These include FD-backed secured cards, add-on cards, salary-linked offers, student cards, and starter cards that rely on alternative eligibility criteria.

Used responsibly, these options may help establish a credit record over time. Once sufficient credit information is reported to a credit bureau, a credit profile and score may be generated. The time required can vary depending on the type of credit product, reporting frequency, account activity, and bureau-specific assessment processes.

Why Banks Ask for a CIBIL Score Before Issuing a Credit Card

A credit card is an unsecured credit product. Unlike a secured loan backed by collateral, the issuer extends a line of credit based largely on the applicant's repayment capacity and credit behaviour.

To assess this risk, lenders typically review the CIBIL score, which generally ranges from 300 to 900. A higher score reflects a stronger repayment track record and may improve eligibility for mainstream credit cards. Many issuers prefer applicants with scores above 750, though requirements vary by institution and product.

First-time borrowers often have an NH (No History) or NA (Not Applicable) status. This does not mean poor creditworthiness. It simply indicates that the individual has not previously used credit products that are reported to credit bureaus.

Understanding this distinction is important. A lack of credit history is different from having a low credit score, and many products are specifically designed for individuals in this category.

5 Ways to Get a Credit Card Without a CIBIL Score

If you are searching for a credit card without CIBIL score, there is no single solution that works for everyone. The right option depends on your financial profile.

The most common pathways include:

• Secured credit card against a fixed deposit
• Add-on card on a family member's account
• Salary account-linked credit card
• Student credit card
• Fintech and starter card programmes

Each option serves a different need and may help establish a credit record over time.

Option 1: Secured Credit Card Against a Fixed Deposit

A secured credit card is one of the most accessible options for people with no credit history.

Under this arrangement, you place a fixed deposit (FD) with the issuer. The FD acts as collateral, reducing the lender's risk. Because the card is backed by a deposit, a prior credit history may not be required.

Typically, FD requirements start from around ₹10,000, though actual minimum amounts vary by issuer and product.

The credit limit is usually linked to the FD value. Many issuers provide a limit equivalent to approximately 80%–90% of the deposit amount.

For example:

Disclaimer: FD requirements and credit limit ratios are indicative and may vary by issuer, product terms, and applicant profile.

The card functions similarly to a regular credit card. Transactions are reported to credit bureaus, allowing users to begin building a repayment track record.

With consistent usage and timely bill payments, some issuers may review the account after 12–18 months and offer an upgrade to an unsecured card. Such upgrades are subject to internal policies and credit assessment.

This option may suit:

• First-time earners

• Freelancers

• Homemakers

• Self-employed individuals

• Anyone with savings but no credit history

For many borrowers seeking a credit card without credit score in India, an FD-backed card can be a practical starting point.

Option 2: Add-On Card on a Family Member's Account

An add-on credit card is issued under an existing primary cardholder's account.

A parent, spouse, or close family member can request an additional card in your name. You can use the card for purchases, while the primary cardholder remains responsible for repayment.

Since the account is linked to the primary holder's profile, an existing credit history is generally not required for the add-on user.

Most issuers require the add-on holder to be at least 18 years old, although age requirements may differ.

The card usually shares the same overall credit limit as the primary account. Responsible usage can help introduce new users to credit management and budgeting practices.

This option may be suitable for:

• College students

• Young professionals

• Individuals without salary slips

• First-time users learning credit discipline

An add-on card may provide access to card-based transactions without requiring an independent credit history. However, reporting practices differ across issuers, and the add-on holder may not always build a separate credit record through such usage alone.

Option 3: Credit Card Against Your Salary Account

Some issuers extend credit card offers to customers who maintain a salary account with them.

In these cases, the lender may evaluate salary credits, account activity, and employment stability alongside other eligibility criteria. A prior credit score may not always be necessary.

Illustratively, salary requirements often begin around ₹15,000–₹25,000 per month, though thresholds vary significantly across issuers and products.

Applicants may be asked to provide:

• PAN card

• Aadhaar card

• Salary slips

• Recent bank statements

Some issuers may offer pre-approved or pre-qualified cards to eligible salary account holders.

Credit limits may range from two to three times monthly net salary, depending on internal assessment.

Disclaimer: Salary requirements and credit limits are indicative and vary by issuer, employment profile, and eligibility assessment.

This option is generally suitable for salaried employees with at least three months of stable employment.

Option 4: Student Credit Cards

A student credit card is designed for young adults who are beginning their financial journey.

These products are available through select issuers and may be linked to student savings accounts or educational programmes.

Eligibility generally includes:

• Minimum age of 18 years

• Valid Aadhaar and PAN

• Proof of enrolment

Credit limits are typically lower than standard cards and may range from ₹5,000 to ₹20,000.

Disclaimer: Credit limits are indicative and may vary depending on issuer policies and applicant profile.

Because limits are modest, students can learn responsible borrowing while reducing the risk of excessive debt accumulation.

For individuals looking for a without CIBIL score credit card, student-focused products may provide a structured entry point into the credit ecosystem.

Option 5: Fintech and Co-Branded Starter Cards

The growth of digital financial services has introduced new options for individuals with limited or no credit history.

Some starter-card programmes and digital credit products may evaluate alternative financial indicators such as account activity, income records, transaction patterns, or other eligibility parameters in addition to traditional bureau data. Product structures and underwriting methods vary across issuers.

• UPI transaction behaviour

• Bank account activity

• Mobile bill payment history

• Income verification records

Instead of relying solely on traditional bureau data, these programmes assess broader financial behaviour patterns.

Typical requirements may include:

• Aadhaar card

• PAN card

• Smartphone access

• Recent bank statements

Several programmes offer digital onboarding and virtual card issuance after eligibility verification.

Before applying, borrowers should verify that the product is issued through an RBI-regulated bank or financial institution.

For applicants seeking a no CIBIL score credit card, these products may provide an alternative route to entering the formal credit system.

Quick Decision Guide: Which Option Suits You?

Three-Question Decision Matrix

Question 1: Do you have savings for an FD?

• Yes → Secured credit card

• No → Go to Question 2

Question 2: Are you salaried with regular income?

• Yes → Salary account card

• No → Go to Question 3

Question 3: Are you a student or dependent family member?

• Yes → Student card or add-on card

• No → Starter card programme

All five options may contribute to credit bureau reporting when used responsibly, helping establish a credit record that can support future eligibility for mainstream credit products.

Documents Required to Apply

Documentation requirements may vary across issuers and product categories.

How to Build Your CIBIL Score After Getting Your First Card

Getting approved for a card is only the first step. Building a strong credit score requires disciplined usage.

Focus on these habits:

1. Pay the Full Bill on Time

Avoid paying only the minimum amount due whenever possible. Full and timely repayment demonstrates stronger credit behaviour.

2. Keep Utilisation Below 30%

Try to use less than 30% of your available credit limit.

For example, if your limit is ₹20,000, keeping monthly usage below ₹6,000 may support healthier credit behaviour.

3. Avoid Multiple Applications

Submitting several credit applications in a short period may result in multiple hard enquiries.

4. Allow the Account to Age

Longer account history generally contributes positively to credit profile development.

5. Review Your Credit Report

Checking your report periodically helps identify reporting errors and allows timely dispute resolution.

An initial CIBIL score may appear after approximately 6–12 months of responsible usage, though timelines vary. Reaching a score above 700 may take 12–18 months or longer depending on repayment behaviour, credit utilisation, and overall credit activity.

Disclaimer: Credit score generation and improvement timelines are indicative and may vary based on credit bureau methodology and individual financial behaviour.

Alternative Credit-Building Path

Certain credit products, including loans and credit cards, may contribute to the development of a credit history when repayment behaviour is reported to credit bureaus. Borrowing decisions should be based on genuine financial requirements, repayment capacity, and product suitability rather than solely for the purpose of building a credit score.

Conclusion

Having no credit history does not mean you are excluded from the formal credit system. Borrowers with NH or NA status can access several pathways, including secured credit cards, add-on cards, salary-linked offers, student cards, and starter card programmes.

The most suitable option depends on your financial situation, income profile, and available savings. Once approved, responsible usage becomes the key factor in building a strong credit profile. Paying bills on time, maintaining low utilisation, and avoiding excessive applications can gradually establish a positive credit history.

Responsible credit usage and timely repayment behaviour may contribute to the development of a positive credit profile over time.

Disclaimer : The information in this blog is for general purposes only and may change without notice. It does not constitute legal, tax, or financial advice. Readers should seek professional guidance and make decisions at their own discretion. IIFL Finance is not liable for any reliance on this content. Read more