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Top Credit-Building Credit Cards for Newcomers in 2025
Published Aug 17, 2025 10:49 PM UTC • 10 min read
Fact Checked
Let’s say you’re brand new to Canada, ready to settle in, start spending, and build credit. To do so effectively, you’ll want to find the right credit card.
To help you out, we’ve created this list of the top credit-building credit cards for newcomers in 2025, complete with categories like best for points, best for cashback, and best for secured alternatives.
For a deeper dive into all of your options, keep scrolling.
When to Choose a Secured Credit Card or an Unsecured Credit Card
In this post, we'll mention newcomer cards that are both secured and unsecured.
Secured credit cards are backed-up by a deposit that is paid up-front. This deposit acts as your collateral and your credit limit. If you fail to repay your balance, then the bank will claim your security deposit. Secured credit cards are the best option when you have poor or no credit history. By responsibly using a secured credit card, you can build up your credit health and eventually earn a higher credit score to apply for more lucrative unsecured credit cards.
Unsecured credit cards do not require a security deposit, instead you adhere to the card's imposed credit limit. If you don't repay your unsecured credit card balance by its due date, you'll start to collect credit card debt which often comes with added interest rates. Unsecured credit cards are best for individuals with a good credit history and credit score. Sometimes, certain unsecured credit cards are also made available to newcomers, as long as they can prove recent immigration status outlined by issuer policies (i.e. by providing their Permanent Resident Card, work permit or study permit).
Basically, as a newcomer, you're starting from scratch, which means you currently don't have a credit history in Canada. In this case, you'll want to stick to an unsecured credit card that caters to newcomers first. If you don't qualify for any participating newcomer card, you can always resort to a secured credit card instead until you build up a positive credit history.
For more information on secured credit cards vs unsecured credit cards, read the full breakdown.
Best Overall Credit Card for Newcomers
BMO CashBack® Mastercard®
BMO CashBack® Mastercard®
3.2
APPLY NOW
on BMO's website
Welcome Bonus*
5% cash back for the first 3 months, up to $2,500 in spend*
Rewards Rate*
0.5% - 3%
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates
21.99%* / 23.99%*□
This is a great basic cashback credit card for those that prefer no annual fees while getting one of the highest cashback rates on groceries. You also have the additional benefit of redeeming cashback at any point without needing to wait.
Pros
- No annual fee, making it a cost-effective option.
- Up to 3% cash back on groceries and 1% on recurring bill payments.
- Save up to 7 cents per litre at Shell stations when linked with Air Miles.
Cons
- Low base earn rate of 0.5% cash back on non-bonus purchases.
- Limited insurance coverage (extended warranty and purchase protection only).
Rewards*
- 3% cash back on grocery purchases (maximum $15 per statement)
- 1% cash back on recurring payments like bills or subscriptions (maximum $5 per statement)
- 0.5% cash back on all other purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Purchase Protection
90 days
Extended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Car Rental Discount
Save up to 20% on National Car Rental® and Alamo Rent A Car® and up to 5% on Enterprise Rent-A-Car® at locations worldwide using the Car Rental Booking tool..svg)
Gas Discount
Save up to 7 cents per litre at Shell stations when linked with Air Miles
Discount
Get 20% off admission to Cirque du Soleil shows touring Canada, and 15% off resident shows in Las Vegas.Hotel Booking Discount
Save up to 7% on your Booking.com prepaid hotel or property rental bookings at booking.com/mastercardcanada.
Eligibility*
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
*BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information. Check here for full details and current product information.
The best overall credit card for newcomers is none other than the BMO Cashback Mastercard.
In other words, if you're able to qualify for an unsecured credit card, this is the #1 card to consider.
This option earns you generous cashback on groceries, plus decent cashback on recurring payments like bills or subscriptions. Keep in mind, however, that both optimized categories are capped per statement.
The coverage on this card is standard, equipped with purchase protection and extended warranty insurance.
As for benefits, cardholders can enjoy discounts on rental cars, gas, Cirque du Soleil admission, and Booking.com prepaid hotel or rental property arrangements.
When it comes down to it, the BMO Cashback Mastercard is the most user-friendly credit card that allows newcomers to collect cashback on everyday expenses whilst building up a credit history. Just make sure you abide by your billing cycle responsibly!
Best Newcomer Credit Cards for Points
Typically, the best points credit cards come with higher credit score estimates, annual income requirements, and annual fees.
Below, we’ve revealed some of the best newcomer credit cards for points. Thankfully, these options are less strict on nearly all of those expectations.
BMO eclipse rise Visa* Card
BMO eclipse rise Visa* Card
3.5
APPLY NOW
on BMO's website
Welcome Bonus*
Get up to 25,000 bonus points in your first anniversary!*
Rewards Rate*
1x - 5x points
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates
21.99%* / 23.99%*□
The BMO Eclipse Rise Visa is an excellent choice for those who want to earn rewards without paying an annual fee. It offers solid bonus categories like dining, groceries, and bills, and includes rare perks such as mobile device insurance. The card is ideal for newcomers or those looking to build their credit while enjoying the benefits of a no-fee rewards card with simple, everyday earnings. If you frequently spend in the bonus categories, this card provides good value without any added costs.
Pros
- No annual fee: This card comes with no annual fee, making it an affordable option for earning rewards.
- Bonus categories: Earn 5 points per $2 spent on dining, groceries, and recurring bills.
- Mobile device insurance: Includes $1,000 mobile device coverage, a rare perk for a no-fee card.
- Welcome bonus: Earn up to 20,000 points ($134 value) after spending $1,500 in the first 3 months.
- Annual bonus points: Earn up to 5,000 bonus points yearly when you complete certain actions, such as paying your bill on time.
- Fuel savings: Save up to 7 cents per litre at Shell when you link your BMO and Air Miles accounts.
Cons
- Low base earn rate: Only 1 point per $2 spent on non-bonus categories, providing a low return of 0.335%.
- Low point value: Points are valued at 0.67 cents each, reducing the overall reward potential.
Rewards*
- 5x points per $2 spent on eligible dining, groceries and recurring bill payments (up to $5,000 spent per category)
- 1x point per $2 spent on all other eligible purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Mobile Device Insurance
$1,000
Benefits*
Details*
Extra points
2,500 bonus points per year for paying full credit card bill on time for 12 consecutive monthsExtra points
Another 2,500 bonus points for redeeming at least 12,000 points annually towards your statement balance with Pay with PointsGas Discount
Up to 7 cents off per litre on Shell® fuel if you are an AirMiles collector
Eligibility*
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
*BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information. Check here for full details and current product information.
Luckily, the BMO eclipse rise Visa Card has no annual fees or annual income requirements.
This card earns cardholders solid points per dollar spent on popular everyday earn categories, particularly eligible dining, groceries and recurring bill payments (capped per category).
The coverage on this card is pretty basic, with standard inclusions like purchase protection insurance and extended warranty insurance, but thankfully this contender also adds valuable mobile device insurance.
Added benefits include extra points per year when you pay off your credit card bill in full and on time for 12 consecutive months, more bonus points when you redeem a certain amount of points annually towards your statement balance, and cents off per litre of fuel at Shell for AirMiles collectors.
Overall, the BMO eclipse rise Visa card is a superior and affordable credit card for newcomers looking to collect decent points on everyday earn categories, all while building up their credit history in the process.
Scotiabank® Scene+ Visa Card
Scotiabank® Scene+ Visa Card
3.3
APPLY NOW
on Scotiabank's website
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 5,000 Scene+ points
Rewards Rate*
1x - 2x Points
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates
20.99%* / 22.99%*
We like this card because it offers solid rewards with no annual fee, including the opportunity to earn up to 5,000 bonus Scene+ points within the first 3 months. With 2x Scene+ points on purchases at popular grocery stores, home improvement retailers, and Cineplex, plus 1x points on all other purchases, it's a great option for maximizing everyday spending.
Pros
- No Annual Fee: Enjoy all the benefits without any yearly cost.
- Universal Rewards: Earn rewards on every purchase, no matter where you shop.
- Flexible Redemption: Redeem your rewards with a variety of options tailored to your needs.
Cons
- Limited Accelerated Categories: Fewer opportunities to earn bonus points in specific categories.
- Specific Grocery Partners: Rewards at grocery stores are limited to select partners.
- Lacks Travel Insurance: Missing some of the common travel insurance coverages offered by other cards.
Rewards*
- Earn 2x Scene+ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland, participating Co-ops, Freshco and more
- Earn 2x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend on Home Hardware, Home Building Center, Home Furniture locations in Canada and online at homehardware.ca
- Earn 2x Scene+ points for every $1 you spend at Cineplex theatres or online at cineplex.com
- Plus earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
Benefits*
Details*
Car Rental Discount
25% off base rate of Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car
Eligibility*
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
*See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information. Check here for full details and current product information.
For even more annual reward potential, newcomers can look into the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card instead, available through Scotiabank's StartRight Program. The StartRight Program allows newcomers to score an unsecured Scotiabank credit card without a credit history. The program is available to Canadian Permanent Residents that have been residing in Canada for 0-5 years, international students, and foreign workers.
Through this card, you can collect tons of Scene+ points on partnered grocers, home goods, movies, and travel bookings.
Unlike the BMO eclipse rise Visa Card, however, the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card doesn't include any insurance coverage, but it does provide car rental discounts at Avis and Budget Rent A Car locations.
Ultimately then, if you want a newcomer-friendly credit card with higher annual point potential, trade in your BMO eclipse rise Visa Card for the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card. Otherwise, if you'd like a credit card that offers points and protection, stick with the BMO eclipse rise Visa Card.
TD Rewards Visa* Card
TD Rewards Visa* Card
1.5
Welcome Bonus
Earn 15,152 TD Rewards Points+ (a value of $50 on Amazon.ca)
Rewards Rate
1x - 4x points
Annual Fee
$0
Interest Rates
19.99% / 22.99%
The TD Rewards Visa Card* is a great choice for individuals looking for a no-fee card with moderate rewards. It offers solid perks like mobile device insurance and flexible rewards redeemable for travel, gift cards, and more. However, the lower point value and limited earning potential on everyday purchases may not appeal to frequent spenders looking for maximum rewards.
Pros
- No annual fee, making it easy to maintain.
- Strong welcome bonus of 15,152 points, worth approximately $75.
- Earn 4 points per $1 on travel booked through Expedia For TD, 3 points per $1 on groceries and restaurants, and 2 points per $1 on recurring bill payments.
- Mobile device insurance included, a rare feature for no-fee cards.
Cons
- TD Rewards points are only worth 0.5 cents each, meaning the value per point is lower compared to other rewards programs.
- Low return rate on everyday purchases, with 1 point per $1 spent, equating to just 0.5% return.
- Limited insurance coverage compared to premium cards.
Rewards
- 4x points per $1 spent on travel booked online through Expedia for TD
- 3x points per $1 spent on eligible grocery and restaurant purchases
- 2x points per $1 spent on eligible recurring bill payments
- 1x points per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
Insurance
Coverage
Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to 1 yearMobile Device Insurance
$1,000
Benefits
Details
Extra points
Earn 50% more Stars and 50% more Aeroplan points at participating Starbucks storesCar Rental Discount
10% off base rate of Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
Maybe you'd prefer to bank with TD. In that case, consider the TD Rewards Visa Card.
While its annual point potential isn't quite as impressive as the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card, the TD Rewards Visa Card still earns cardholders TD Rewards points on travel bookings, groceries, restaurant purchases, and recurring bill payments.
Thankfully, the TD Rewards Visa Card also comes with insurance, specifically mobile device insurance, extended warranty insurance, and purchase protection insurance.
On top of a car rental discount at Avis and Budget locations (for a lower rate than the discount provided by the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card), the TD Rewards Visa Card also offers more Stars and Aeroplan points on purchases made at participating Starbucks stores.
All in all, the TD Rewards Visa Card is a good alternative to the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card if you want insurance coverage and a couple of better perks alongside your points. However, if point-accumulation is more important to you, stick with the Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card.
Best Newcomer Credit Cards for Cashback
There are a few cashback contenders for newcomers to consider, namely:
Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card
Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card
4.4
APPLY NOW
on Tangerine's website
Welcome Bonus*
10% Cash Back (up to $100 value) + 1.95% balance transfer promo rate for 6 months
Rewards Rate*
0.5% - 2%
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates
20.95%* / 22.95%*
While we think Tangerine isn't the best single credit card to own, it's still a valuable card to have in your arsenal for maximizing your rewards. It offers one of the highest cashback rates for pharmacy and recurring bill payments, areas where your other credit cards might not provide significant rewards. This card only requires a Fair credit score, making it an excellent choice for people who don't have a high credit score yet.
Pros
- Allows you to change the categories, and you get a 2% reward depending on how your spending is changing every 90 days.
- 2% cashback on recurring Transactions and pharmacy purchases. One of the highest cashback rates on these categories among credit cards in Canada.
- Has cashback on Furniture and Home Improvement categories. Two categories that are not covered by any other card in Canada.
- Easy credit score requirements needed for this card.
- Overall, it is a good no-annual-fee cashback credit card, especially if you have a Tangerine Savings account.
Cons
- Insurance coverage is the most basic.
- Very low cashback rate on the other categories not selected.
Rewards*
- 2% on the choice of two categories chosen from the 10 offered by Tangerine (Grocery, Restaurants, Gas, Entertainment, Furniture, Hotel-Motel, Drug Store, Reoccurring Bill Payments, Home Improvement, Public Transportation and Parking).
- Have your cash back Reward deposited in a Tangerine Savings Account and get a third 2% Money-Back Category.
- 0.5% cashback on all other credit card purchases.
Insurance*
Coverage*
Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to a year
Eligibility*
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
*11 Balance Transfer Promotional Offer at 1.95% for 6 months (1% Balance Transfer Fee)
A Promotional Rate of 1.95% will apply to any and all Balance Transfers made within 30 days of the Account opening, and will remain in effect for 6 Statement Periods from the date the last such Balance Transfer was posted to the Account (the “Promotional Rate Period”). To take advantage of this Promotional Offer, you must complete the Balance Transfer request within 30 days of Account approval. You must also activate your Card within 45 days of Account approval for the requested Balance Transfer to be processed, or the Balance Transfer will be automatically cancelled. Balance Transfers are treated as Cash Advances on your Card and do not have an interest-free grace period. Balance Transfers may not exceed the available credit on the Account. If the Balance Transfer exceeds the available credit, the Balance Transfer transaction will not be processed. A 1% Balance Transfer Fee will be charged on each Balance Transfer amount and will be immediately charged to your Credit Card. This Balance Transfer Fee is waived by Tangerine if you are a resident of the province of Quebec at the time you accept this offer. Interest does not accrue on the Balance Transfer Fee, however it is included in the Minimum Payment amount on your monthly statement. You must continue to make all of your monthly Minimum Payments by the Payment Due Dates shown on your monthly statements. If you still have an amount owing from your Balance Transfer when the Promotional Rate Period ends, the Cash Advance interest rate of 22.95% will apply to that amount. You must continue to make the Minimum Payments on your Account, regardless of whether the Balance Transfer has been processed to your Account. We don’t charge interest on new Purchases that appear on your statement for the first time if we receive full payment of the Balance on your statement (including payment of any Balance Transfers included in that Balance), by the Payment Due Date on your statement. This means you will pay interest on new purchases that appear on your statement for the first time unless we receive payment of your entire balance each month by the payment due date. For example, if you do a promotional (or non-promotional) balance transfer for $7,000 and spend $500 in new purchases during the same statement cycle, we must receive payment of the entire balance of $7,500 on or before your payment due date to avoid paying interest on your new purchases that month of $500. Balance Transfers may not be used to transfer money to or from another Tangerine Account. See the Tangerine Credit Card Cardholder Agreement for more information about how we apply payments to your Account. Check here for full details and current product information.
Celebrated for its affordability and customization, the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card avoids annual fees and allows cardholders to choose 2 categories from the 10 offered by Tangerine to collect cashback – 3 if you have a Tangerine Savings Account.
Tangerine earn category options include:
- Groceries
- Restaurant purchases
- Gas
- Recurring bill payments
- Entertainment
- Home improvement
- Drug store purchases
- Public transportation and parking
- Furniture purchases
- Hotel/motel bookings
The insurance is basic, offering only purchase protection and extended warranty insurance.
Unfortunately, there are no added benefits.
Still, the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card is a flexible and attainable starter card that can earn newcomers both cashback and – when used responsibly – a positive credit history.
BMO CashBack® Mastercard®
BMO CashBack® Mastercard®
3.2
APPLY NOW
on BMO's website
Welcome Bonus*
5% cash back for the first 3 months, up to $2,500 in spend*
Rewards Rate*
0.5% - 3%
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates
21.99%* / 23.99%*□
This is a great basic cashback credit card for those that prefer no annual fees while getting one of the highest cashback rates on groceries. You also have the additional benefit of redeeming cashback at any point without needing to wait.
Pros
- No annual fee, making it a cost-effective option.
- Up to 3% cash back on groceries and 1% on recurring bill payments.
- Save up to 7 cents per litre at Shell stations when linked with Air Miles.
Cons
- Low base earn rate of 0.5% cash back on non-bonus purchases.
- Limited insurance coverage (extended warranty and purchase protection only).
Rewards*
- 3% cash back on grocery purchases (maximum $15 per statement)
- 1% cash back on recurring payments like bills or subscriptions (maximum $5 per statement)
- 0.5% cash back on all other purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Car Rental Discount
Save up to 20% on National Car Rental® and Alamo Rent A Car® and up to 5% on Enterprise Rent-A-Car® at locations worldwide using the Car Rental Booking tool.Gas Discount
Save up to 7 cents per litre at Shell stations when linked with Air MilesDiscount
Get 20% off admission to Cirque du Soleil shows touring Canada, and 15% off resident shows in Las Vegas.Hotel Booking Discount
Save up to 7% on your Booking.com prepaid hotel or property rental bookings at booking.com/mastercardcanada.
Eligibility*
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
*BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information. Check here for full details and current product information.
Back to BMO, as mentioned, the BMO Cashback Mastercard is a great contender for earning cashback and building credit.
The card comes with no annual fee and a relatively small personal income requirement.
Once approved, you’ll receive strong cashback on groceries and decent cashback on recurring payments like bills or subscriptions. With this option, you’ll earn more cashback on groceries than you would with the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card, but less on recurring bill payments.
Like the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card, the BMO Cashback Mastercard includes purchase protection insurance and extended warranty insurance. Unlike the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card, the BMO Cashback Mastercard has some benefits, particularly discounts on car rentals, gas, Cirque du Soleil tickets, and prepaid hotel or rental property arrangements made through Booking.com.
So, the BMO Cashback Mastercard is a basic cashback option for newcomers looking to optimize groceries and recurring payments as they build up their credit. If you’d like your cashback to remain a bit more customizable and you don’t require any added perks, you can stick with the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card instead.
Scotia Momentum® No-Fee Visa* Card
Scotia Momentum® No-Fee Visa* Card
2.9
APPLY NOW
on Scotiabank's website
Welcome Bonus*
5% Cash back (up to $2,000 in purchases)
Rewards Rate*
0.5% - 1%
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates
19.99% / 22.99%
The Scotiabank Momentum® No-Fee Visa* Card is ideal for those seeking a straightforward, entry-level credit card to build their credit while earning modest cash back on everyday purchases like groceries, gas, and bills. With no annual fee, a competitive balance transfer offer, and a high spending cap, it's a practical choice for young adults or newcomers who want to earn rewards without the complexities of more premium cards.
Pros
- No Annual Fee: Enjoy cash back rewards without any annual cost.
- Welcome Offer: Get 5% cash back on purchases for the first three months (up to $100).
- Cash Back Rewards: Earn up to 1% cash back in select categories.
Cons
- Lower Earn Rate: Offers a below-average cash back rate compared to other cards.
- Annual Redemption: Cash back can only be redeemed once per year.
- Lacks Insurance Coverage: No travel or consumer insurance, including purchase protection and extended warranty.
Rewards*
- 1% cash back on gas, groceries, drug store and recurring payments
- 0.5% cash back on all other credit card purchases (unlimited).
Benefits*
Details*
Car Rental Discount
25% off base rate of Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car
Eligibility*
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$12,000 personal
*See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information. Check here for full details and current product information.
Also available through Scotiabank's StartRight Program, the Scotia Momentum No-Fee Visa Card offers a flat rate of cashback on common spend categories like gas, groceries, drugstore purchases, and recurring payments. That said, its rewards program isn't quite as lucrative as the BMO Cashback Mastercard. After all, with the BMO Cashback Mastercard, you get better cashback rates on groceries and recurring payments. That said, the Scotia Momentum No-Fee Visa Card adds gas and drugstore purchase optimization.
Additionally, the Scotia Momentum No-Fee Visa Card lacks insurance coverage, but includes a better car rental discount at participating businesses.
While small, the Scotia Momentum No-Fee Visa Card also comes with a minimum personal income requirement.
Therefore, the Scotia Momentum No-Fee Visa Card is really only superior to the BMO Cashback Mastercard if you'd like to optimize your gas and drugstore purchases on top of groceries and recurring payments, plus if you'd prefer bigger discounts on rental cars.
CIBC Dividend Platinum® Visa* Card
CIBC Dividend Platinum® Visa* Card
2.8
APPLY NOW
on CIBC's website
Welcome Bonus
Up to $200
Rewards Rate
1% - 3%
Annual Fee
$99 $0
Interest Rates
20.99% / 22.99%
The CIBC Dividend Platinum® Visa Card* offers great cash back rates, especially for gas and groceries, with a lower annual fee of $99. It's a solid option for households with lower income requirements, and the fuel savings with Journie Rewards add extra value. However, the limited insurance coverage and the annual fee might make other cards more attractive if you're looking for more benefits.
Pros
- 10% Cash Back Welcome Offer: Earn 10% cash back for the first 4 months, up to $2,500 in spending.
- Solid Cash Back Rates: Get 3% cash back on gas, groceries, and EV charging, plus 2% on restaurants, transportation, and recurring bills.
- Fuel Savings: Save up to 10 cents per litre at Journie Rewards gas stations (Ultramar, Fas Gas, Pioneer, Chevron).
- Low Income Requirement: Only a $15,000 household income requirement, making it accessible to a wider audience.
Cons
- Limited Insurance Coverage: Only includes basic insurance options, which may not be ideal for travelers or those seeking comprehensive coverage.
- Annual Fee: The $99 annual fee reduces the net rewards slightly.
Rewards
- 3% cashback on gas and groceries if they are in the first $80K transactions of the year and $20K of categorical spends
- 2% cashback on transportation, dining and recurring bills if they are in the first $80K transactions of the year and $20K of categorical spends
- 1% cashback on all other eligible card purchases
Insurance
Coverage
.svg)
Car Rental Damage & Theft
yes
Travel Accident
$500,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to a year
Benefits
Details
Gas Discount
save up to 10¢/L on fuel at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar and Chevron gas stationsCar Rental Discount
Get up to 25% off auto rentals at participating Avis and Budget locations worldwide.
Eligibility
Credit Score
Very GoodAnnual Income
$15,000 household
With a CIBC credit card and a CIBC Smart Account, you can start building a Canadian credit history as a permanent resident, foreign worker, or international student.
You can also earn better cashback rates on gas, groceries, transportation, dining, and recurring bills with the CIBC Dividend Platinum Visa Card. The catch? This card comes with an annual fee, but luckily that fee is waived for the first year.
If you're not opposed to an annual fee and meet some household minimum income requirements, then you'll unlock decent cashback, solid insurance coverage (including car rental damage and theft insurance and travel accident insurance), plus car rental and gas discounts.
In summary, the CIBC Dividend Platinum Visa Card is great if you want to pay more for better annual value, coverage, and perks.
CIBC Dividend® Visa* Card
CIBC Dividend® Visa* Card
2.6
APPLY NOW
on CIBC's website
Welcome Bonus
N/A
Rewards Rate
0.5% - 2%
Annual Fee
$0
Interest Rates
20.99% / 22.99%, for Quebec 21.99%
The CIBC Dividend® Visa Card* is a solid option for those looking for a no-fee credit card with decent rewards, particularly for groceries. However, the lower base earn rate and limited insurance benefits make it less competitive for general spending or travel protection compared to other options.
Pros
- No Annual Fee: This card comes with no annual fee, which is a major plus for those looking for a basic cashback card without extra costs.
- 2% Cash Back on Groceries: Earn 2% cash back on grocery purchases, which is higher than the standard rate for no-fee cards.
- Fuel Savings: Save up to 10 cents per litre on gas when you use the card at Journie Rewards gas stations.
- Redeem Cash Back on Demand: Flexibility to redeem cash back any time you have at least $25.
Cons
- Low Base Earn Rate: The base earn rate of 0.5% cash back on all other purchases is quite low compared to other cashback cards.
- Limited Insurance Coverage: The card offers basic insurance benefits, but it lacks the more comprehensive travel and purchase protection available with premium cards.
Rewards
- 2% cashback on groceries if they are in the first $80k transactions of the year and $20k of categorical spends
- 1% cash back on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, transportation, dining and recurring payments if they are in the first $80k transactions of the year and $20k of categorical spends
- 1% cashback on all other eligible card purchases
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Accident
$500,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to a year
Benefits
Details
Gas Discount
save up to 10¢/L on fuel at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar and Chevron gas stationsCar Rental Discount
Get up to 25% off auto rentals at participating Avis and Budget locations worldwide.
Eligibility
Credit Score
Very GoodAnnual Income
$15,000 household
For commendable cashback on groceries, gas, recurring payments, electric vehicle charging, transportation, and dining, check out the much more affordable CIBC Dividend Visa Card.
On top of your basic extended warranty and purchase protection insurance, this card also includes travel accident insurance.
Like the CIBC Dividend Platinum Visa Card, cardholders receive the same car rental discount at Avis and Budget locations plus a gas discount on fuel at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar, and Chevron gas stations.
Overall, this is a great CIBC newcomer contender for no annual fee.
RBC Cash Back Mastercard
RBC Cash Back Mastercard
2.5
Welcome Bonus*
Get Unlimited Cash Back on Your Purchases(2) with our no annual fee Cash Back credit card
Rewards Rate*
0.5% - 2% cashback
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates
20.99% / 22.99%□
The RBC Cash Back Mastercard is a solid no-fee option for those looking to earn 2% cash back on groceries and save on gas at Petro-Canada. However, the lower cash back rate on other purchases and limited insurance coverage make it a basic rewards card for everyday use. It’s great for those who prefer a no-annual-fee card with flexible cash back redemption options.
Pros
- 2% cash back on groceries (up to $6,000 spending annually).
- No annual fee.
- Instant gas savings: Save 3¢ per litre at Petro-Canada locations and earn 20% more Petro-Points.
- Flexible cash back redemption: Get your cash back on demand when you reach $25 in accumulated rewards.
Cons
- Lower cash back rate: Only 0.5% cash back on non-grocery purchases up to $6,000, and 1% after.
- Limited insurance coverage: Only basic extended warranty and purchase protection.
Rewards*
- 2% cash back on groceries (maximum $120 cash back yearly then 1%)
- 0.5% cash back on all other purchases for the first $6k spent
- 1% cash back on all other purchases after spending over $6k
Insurance*
Coverage*
Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to a year
Benefits*
Details*
Gas Discount
save 3¢/L on fuel and always earn 20% more Petro-Points at Petro-CanadaExtra points
50 Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall
Eligibility*
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
*Unlimited means there is no maximum cash back credits you can earn on Grocery Store Purchases and other purchases (up to your available credit limit) per Annual Period. For complete RBC Cash Back Program Terms and Conditions, please visit: www.rbc.com/cashbackterms. Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions. The Website may engage in affiliate marketing, which is done by embedding tracking links into The Website. If you click on a link for an affiliate partnership, a cookie will be placed on your browser to track any sales for purposes of commissions. Check here for full details and current product information.
The RBC Cash Back Mastercard has no annual fee or annual income requirements.
This option optimizes groceries the most and boosts your overall base rate on all other purchases when you spend over $6k on your card.
The best part? Currently, RBC is providing new Canadians with a 12% cashback bonus on a new RBC Cashback Mastercard for the first few months of membership!
The insurance on this card is basic, including standard extended warranty and purchase protection insurance.
For benefits, expect extra Be Well points per dollar spent on eligible products at Rexall, plus gas discounts and additional Petro-Points at Petro-Canada.
As you can see then, the RBC Cash Back Mastercard is a great starter cashback credit card for everyday shoppers.
TD Cash Back Visa* Card
TD Cash Back Visa* Card
1.7
Welcome Bonus
N/A
Rewards Rate
0.5% - 1%
Annual Fee
$0
Interest Rates
19.99% / 22.99%
The TD Cash Back Visa Card is a solid no-fee option for individuals looking for a basic, easy-to-use credit card. While its rewards rates aren't the highest, the ability to redeem cash back anytime, coupled with no annual fee and essential insurance coverage, makes it an appealing choice for those with moderate spending who want a straightforward rewards card.
Pros
- No annual fee, making it an excellent choice for those who want to earn rewards without paying a fee.
- 1% cash back on essential categories like gas, groceries, and recurring bills.
- Flexibility in redeeming cash back: you can redeem whenever you reach $25, rather than waiting for year-end or specific dates.
- Complimentary extended warranty and purchase protection insurance.
Cons
- Only 0.5% cash back on all other purchases, which is lower than some competitors.
- Limited insurance coverage compared to premium cash back cards.
Rewards
- 1% cash back on eligible groceries, gas and recurring bills (maximum $50 cash back for groceries & gas and another $50 for recurring bills)
- 0.5% cash back on all other eligible credit card purchases
Insurance
Coverage
Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to 1 year
Benefits
Details
Extra points
Earn 50% more Stars at participating Starbucks storesCar Rental Discount
10% off base rate of Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$60,000 personal or $100,000 household
The TD Cash Back Visa Card also avoids annual fees, but it includes some higher annual income requirements.
If you meet these requirements, you'll unlock a flat rate of cashback on eligible groceries, gas, and recurring bills.
Unfortunately, this TD contender doesn't have any insurance coverage, but it boasts a small car rental discount and extra Stars at participating Starbucks stores.
Therefore, the TD Cash Back Visa Card is best for higher earners looking for an uncomplicated cashback rewards program. In reality though, the contenders mentioned before this card are more accessible and, in many cases, more valuable.
Best Newcomer Secured Credit Cards
As a newcomer, if you cannot seem to qualify for an unsecured credit card, then apply for a secured credit card instead.
Here are some of the top credit-building secured credit cards for newcomers in Canada:
Our choice for: Guaranteed approval and earning cashback
Neo Secured Mastercard®
Neo Secured Mastercard®
4.5
APPLY NOW
on Neo Financial's website
Welcome Bonus
N/A
Rewards Rate
1% - 4%
Annual Fee
$60
$5 Paid Monthly.
Interest Rates
19.99% - 29.99%□ / 22.99% - 31.99%□
If you have a poor credit score and are looking to rebuild it with a secured card, then the Neo Financial Secured Credit Card is the best card to go for. This card offers so much more compared to other secured credit cards on the market, including no monthly fees, a low deposit amount needed to get started, and it is the only credit card that offers some rewards on your purchases!
Pros
- The minimum deposit requirement is only $50, making it accessible to all consumers
- High cashback rates of up to 5% on average at Neo Partners
Cons
- Interest rate could go really high for some customers
- A monthly fee of $5
Rewards
- 1% cash back on grocery purchases up to $500 spending per month (3% cash back with $5k in a Neo everyday account, and 4% cash back with $10k in a Neo everyday account) - drops to the 0.5-1% cash back tier after hitting spend cap
- 1% cash back on gas purchases up to $500 spending per month (3% cash back with $5k in a Neo everyday account, and 4% cash back with $10k in a Neo everyday account) - drops to the 0.5-1% cash back tier after hitting spend cap
- 0% cash back on all other purchases with $0 in a Neo everyday account, or 0.5% cash back with $5k in a Neo everyday account up to $1,667 spending per month, or 1% cash back with $10k in a Neo everyday account up to $1,667 spending per month - drops to 0% cash back again after hitting spend cap
- +5% earned on average at Neo Partners.
Note: our reward calculations use the base cash back rates assuming you do not hold any money in a Neo everyday account to earn the higher tier (boosted) cash back rates, otherwise the reward estimates may be higher.
Benefits
Details
Neo Premium ($4.99/month)
optional.svg)
Neo Travel Benefits ($4.99/month)
optional
Neo Food Cashback boost ($1.99/month)
optional
Neo Mind and Body Perks ($9.99/month)
optional
Eligibility
Credit Score
PoorAnnual Income
N/A
Recognizable as the best overall secured credit card, the Neo Secured Mastercard operates slightly differently but extremely optimally – complete with a low estimated credit score recommendation.
Initially, cardholders can earn cashback back on grocery and gas purchases (capped per month), but these earn rates aren’t very remarkable at first. The real optimization kicks in after you save $5k to $10k inside of a Neo Everyday Account, boosting these earn rates up to 4%.
You can also improve your earning rate by purchasing from Neo Partners (full list of retailers here). These partner earn rates are applied on-top of any initial or previously boosted cashback.
If you want any added perks through this card, be prepared to pay a monthly fee that varies by benefit.
Note that the Neo Secured Credit Card also has a small annual fee to account for a rewards program with such high-earning potential.
Ultimately, the Neo Secured Credit Card is the top secured contender for newcomers because of its high-earning potential, contributing to an extremely accessible annual value designed specifically to help you build credit.
Capital One Guaranteed Secured Mastercard®
Capital One Guaranteed Secured Mastercard®
Welcome Bonus
N/A
Rewards Rate
No Rewards
Annual Fee
$0
Interest Rates
29.9%□ / 29.9%□
Secured cards typically come with no rewards or benefits, even the ones with annual fees. This card has broken the norm and provides many great benefits to secured cardholders without any fees. So, if you are looking to get benefits with a secured card, this card is your best choice.
Pros
- No Annual fees
- Great list of benefits for a card with no annual fee, especially the price protection benefit, which is not offered by many other credit cards.
Cons
No rewards earned on purchases
Rewards
No Rewards on this card
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Accident
$250,000
Baggage Delay
$100/day up to 3 daysCar Rental Damage & Theft
Up to 31 daysPurchase Protection
120 daysExtended Warranty
double up to 2 years
Benefits
Details
Price Protection
60 days, Up to $100 per item, $500 per year
Eligibility
Credit Score
PoorAnnual Income
N/A
If you were hoping for a secured credit card with no annual fee and something extremely uncomplicated, then consider the Capital One Secured Mastercard.
Unlike the Neo Secured Credit Card, the Capital One Secured Mastercard lacks a rewards program, but it does include plenty of insurance, like travel accident insurance, baggage delay insurance, and car rental damage and theft insurance.
To top it all off, cardholders will also receive rare price protection as an added benefit, a perk that reimburses eligible price-changes after a recent purchase.
All in all, the Capital One Secured Mastercard is a simple contender that focuses less on rewards and more on coverage, price protection, and helping newcomers build credit.
Home Trust Secured Visa
Home Trust Secured Visa
APPLY NOW
on Home Trust's website
Welcome Bonus
N/A
Rewards Rate
No Rewards
Annual Fee
$0
Interest Rates
19.99%, option to pay $59 Annual fee for %14.90 / 19.99%, option to pay $59 Annual fee for %14.90
Although there are other better secured credit card options available in Canada, this card is the only no-fee secured credit card option, making it the choice for those who want to avoid fees.
Pros
- No Annual Fee required
Cons
- No rewards earned on purchases
- No benefits provided by the card
Rewards
No Rewards
Eligibility
Credit Score
PoorAnnual Income
N/A
Also for no annual fee and no annual income requirements, the Home Trust Secured Visa Card simplifies things even further.
Similar to the Capital One Secured Mastercard, this card doesn’t have a rewards program. Unlike the Capital One Secured Mastercard though, it also lacks any insurance categories and added benefits. This means that you’d use this card exclusively for building your credit as a newcomer to Canada.
Therefore, if you’re happy to focus on your creditworthiness without any extra components, the Home Trust Secured Visa Card could be the newcomer credit card for you. Alternatively, if you’d like some valuable insurance coverage and some price protection also for no annual fee, consider the Capital One Secured Mastercard. Otherwise, if you’re thinking you’d like to optimize some everyday purchases while building your credit, keep the Neo Secured Credit Card in mind.
Best Newcomer Travel Credit Cards
Whether you’re planning to go back and visit family or to take some future trips abroad, there are a bunch of great newcomer credit cards available for travel.
Our choice for: Premium Travel Perks and No FX Fees
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card
4.8
APPLY NOW
on Scotiabank's website
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 45,000 Scene+ points ($450 value)
Rewards Rate*
1x - 3x Points
Annual Fee*
$150
Interest Rates
20.99% / 22.99%
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite is a strong choice for frequent travelers, especially those who value flexibility and premium perks. It stands out with its rare benefit of no foreign transaction fees, making international purchases more cost-effective. Additionally, the card offers a valuable blend of travel perks, including airport lounge access, comprehensive insurance coverage, and flexible rewards, making it an ideal companion for those who frequently travel abroad and want to avoid extra fees while enjoying premium benefits.
Pros
- High Rewards on Select Purchases: Earn up to 3 points per $1 spent on select categories.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees: Shop abroad without additional charges.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Includes 11 types of insurance coverage.
- Airport Lounge Access: Enjoy up to 6 airport lounge passes per year through the Visa Airport Companion program.
Cons
- High Income Requirements: Requires $60,000 personal or $100,000 household income.
- Lower Overall Rewards: Rewards potential is lower compared to premium credit cards.
- High Annual Fee: Comes with a significant annual fee.
- Average Insurance Coverage: Insurance benefits are standard, not exceptional.
- Mediocre Earnings Potential: The card’s rewards structure might not offer the highest returns for every spender.
Rewards*
- Earn 3x Scene+™ points on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, IGA, Foodland and participating Co-ops and moreScotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Review: Benefits & Lounge Access†
- Earn 2x Scene+™ points for every $1 you spend on other eligible grocery stores, dining, eligible entertainment purchases and eligible daily transit options(including rideshares, buses, subways taxis and more)†
- Plus earn 1 Scene+™ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases†
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4x Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia†
Insurance*
Coverage*
Emergency Out of province Medical
$2M/insured up to 25 daysEmergency Medical Over 65
$2M/insured up to 3 days
Trip Cancellation
$1,500/person, $10,000/trip
Trip Interruption
$2,500/person, $10,000/tripFlight Delay
$500/person after 4 hours
Lost or Stolen Baggage
$1000Baggage Delay
$1000Travel Accident
$500,000/insured, $1M combinedCar Rental Damage & Theft
$65,000 up to 48 days
Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Avoid the usual 2.5% forex fees on your purchases when you travel outside of Canada
Airport Lounge - Dragon Pass
6 Free complimentary visits.svg)
Status lift
Avis® Preferred Plus membership.svg)
Concierge Services
Visa Infinite Exclusive Benefits
Eligibility*
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
$60,000 personal or $100,000 household
**†Terms and conditions apply. See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information. Check here for full details and current product information.
If you don’t mind covering an annual fee and can meet the listed annual income requirements, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card is the best travel credit card out there, and thus a great option for anyone who qualifies, including newcomers in the StartRight Program.
The card earns you strong Scene+ points at partnered grocers, other grocery stores, restaurants, entertainment venues, and on select transit options. You’ll also receive additional Scene+ points for every dollar spent on hotel arrangements, car rentals, and experiences booked through Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia. These points can later be redeemed for a high value towards other travel purchases.
The insurance is packed with valuable protections like trip interruption and trip cancellation insurance, hotel burglary insurance, and emergency medical coverages.
Perhaps the real highlight of this travel card, however, is its perks, including no foreign transaction fees (so you can shop internationally without being charged an additional cost), and airport lounge access through the Dragon Pass (so you can relax before takeoff).
In summary, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card is a top travel option (even for eligible newcomers) on account of its travel-oriented rewards program, its comprehensive trip coverage, and its exclusive travel benefits like no foreign transaction fees and airport lounge access. For a better breakdown of this contender, read more here.
Our choice for: Travels to Asia
Neo Cathay World Elite® Mastercard® Secured
Neo Cathay World Elite® Mastercard® Secured
Welcome Bonus*
Up to 60,000 Asia Miles (35,000 upon approval)
Rewards Rate*
1x - 5x Asia Miles
Annual Fee*
$180
Interest Rates
19.99% - 26.99%* / 22.99% - 28.99%*
The Cathay World Elite Mastercard is a top choice for frequent travelers to Asia, offering up to 60,000 bonus Asia Miles, high earn rates at Neo retail partners, and exclusive Cathay Pacific benefits like priority check-in and lounge access. With 12 types of insurance coverage, airport lounge access through DragonPass, and the ability to earn up to 15 miles per dollar spent at select partners, this card provides substantial value for those who regularly fly with Cathay Pacific and its partners. However, the card does require a higher income and comes with a $180 annual fee.
Pros
- Guaranteed Approval: The card is the same as regular but you’ll get guaranteed approval with a security deposit of at least $200 to open an account. No credit history required.
- Generous Bonus: Earn up to 60,000 bonus Asia Miles, read the full neo cathay review here.
- Discount on flights: Up to 15% discount on flights to Asia and beyond with code CXNEO15OFF (valid until Dec 31, 2025).
- High Earn Rates: Get an average of 5 miles, and up to 15 miles per $1 spent (first time purchases) at Neo retail partners.
- Cathay Pacific Perks: Enjoy several exclusive benefits with Cathay Pacific.
- Comprehensive Insurance: Comes with 12 types of insurance coverage.
- Airport Lounge Access: Gain entry to airport lounges with a Mastercard Travel Pass membership.
Cons
- High Income Requirement: Requires a minimum personal income of $80,000 or $150,000 household income.
- Annual Fee: The card comes with a high annual fee of $180.
- Limited Redemption: Asia Miles cannot be redeemed for flights within Canada.
Rewards*
- Earn 4x Asia Miles per $1 spent on Cathay Pacific flights
- Earn 2x Asia Miles per $1 spent on purchases made in foreign currencies
- Earn 1x Asia Miles per $1 spent in Canada
- Earn an average of 5x the Asia Miles when you spend at thousands of Neo partners nationwide
- Save up to 15% off on flights to Asia and beyond when you pay with your Cathay World Elite Mastercard and enter the discount code CXNEO15OFF (valid until Dec 31, 2025), more details
Insurance*
Coverage*
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Car Rental Personal Effects
$1,000/person, $2,000 combined
Car Rental Accident
$100K for Cardholder, $10K spouse and childCar Rental Damage & Theft
Yes, 48 daysBaggage Delay
$1,000 after 4 hoursLost or Stolen Baggage
$1,000Trip Interruption
$5,000Trip Cancellation
$5,000Emergency Out of province Medical
14 daysFlight Delay
$500Hotel Burglary Insurance
$1,000Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Airport Lounge - Dragon Pass
DragonPass only. No Complimentary visits.
Priority Travel
Online priority check-in and extra baggage redemption for Cathay Pacific, and Cathay Pacific Business class lounge redemption accessPriority Travel
Airport Security Fast Track with and professional and punctual airport with Mastercard benefits
Boingo Wi-Fi hotspot
Discount
Save up to 15% off on flights to Asia and beyond when you pay with your Cathay World Elite Mastercard and enter the discount code CXNEO15OFF (valid until Dec 31, 2025)
Eligibility*
Credit Score
PoorAnnual Income
$80,000 personal or $150,000 household
*The Cathay World Elite® Mastercard is issued by Neo Financial™ pursuant to license by Mastercard International Incorporated.
Mastercard, World Elite® and the circles design are registered trademarks of Mastercard International Incorporated.
The Cathay World Elite® Mastercard is not available in Quebec. Check here for full details and current product information.
The Neo Cathay World Elite Mastercard is built for those who travel frequently to Asia with Cathay Pacific, earning cardholders solid Asia Miles per dollar spent on Cathay Pacific flights and purchases made in foreign currencies. Impressively, you can also collect more Asia Miles when you purchase from Neo Partners.
Instead of travel accident insurance and emergency medical over 65 insurance (two coverage categories included on the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card), the Neo Cathay World Elite Mastercard Secured Card includes car rental accident insurance and car rental personal effects insurance.
The Neo Cathay World Elite Mastercard Secured Card also supplies a Dragon Pass membership, but without any complimentary visits, it substitutes perks like no foreign transactions fees for flight discounts, Wi-Fi hotspots, and Priority Travel perks.
Unfortunately, the Neo Cathay World Elite Mastercard Secured Card is slightly more expensive than the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card, plus it comes with some higher annual income requirements. That said, with a lower estimated credit-score recommendation than the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card, the Neo Cathay World Elite Mastercard Secured Card might be easier to get approved for if you have no credit history.
Our choice for: No fee AIR MILES card
BMO AIR MILES® Mastercard®*
BMO AIR MILES® Mastercard®*
3.2
APPLY NOW
on BMO's website
Welcome Bonus*
Get 1,200 AIR MILES Bonus Miles* + 0.99% rate on Balance Transfers for 9 months
Rewards Rate*
1x - 3x Miles
Annual Fee*
$0
Interest Rates
21.99%* / 23.99%*□
The BMO Air Miles Mastercard is an excellent option for those looking to collect Air Miles without paying an annual fee. With bonus earning opportunities at Air Miles partners and grocery stores, this card is ideal for regular Air Miles collectors. It also offers perks like fuel savings at Shell and a competitive balance transfer rate, making it a versatile card for everyday purchases. However, its limited rewards outside of partner stores may not make it the best fit for those who don't frequently shop at Air Miles-affiliated retailers.
Pros
- No annual fee: The card is free to hold, making it a cost-effective way to collect Air Miles.
- Bonus miles at partners: Earn 3x the miles at Air Miles partners and 2x the miles at grocery, liquor, and wholesale stores.
- Fuel savings: Save up to 7 cents per litre at Shell stations, with the potential to save up to $100 annually.
- Balance transfer offer: 0.99% promotional interest rate on balance transfers for the first 9 months.
Cons
- Low base earn rate: Earn only 1 Air Mile per $25 spent on all non-bonus purchases.
- Limited insurance: The card only offers basic insurance, such as extended warranty and purchase protection.
- Limited value outside Air Miles partners: Rewards earning potential is higher at participating partners, but significantly lower for general spending.
Rewards*
- 3x Miles points per $25 spent at participating AIR MILES Partners
- 2x Miles points per $25 spent on eligible grocery purchases
- 1x Mile point per $25 spent on all other eligible purchases
Insurance*
Coverage*
Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
1 year
Benefits*
Details*
Discount
Save up to 7% on your Booking.com prepaid hotel or property rental bookingsDiscount
Up to 7 cents off per litre on Shell® fuel if you are an AirMiles collectorCar Rental Discount
20% off base rate of participating National Car Rental and Alamo Rent a Car and up to 5% on Enterprise Rent-A-CarDiscount
Get 20% off admission to Cirque du Soleil shows touring Canada, and 15% off resident shows in Las Vegas
Eligibility*
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
*BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information. Check here for full details and current product information.
Maybe you're looking to collect Air Miles. If so, you might want to apply for the BMO AIR MILES Mastercard instead, a contender that avoids annual fees and income requirements.
With this card, you'll earn generous Miles points per $25 spent at participating AIR MILES Partners and points per $25 spent on eligible groceries.
Unlike the Neo Cathay World Elite Mastercard Secured Card, the BMO AIR MILES Mastercard doesn't include travel insurance. That said, this card has some travel benefits, including discounts on Booking.com prepaid hotel or rental property bookings, Shell fuel, admission to Cirque du Soleil shows, and rental cars.
In the end, the BMO AIR MILES Mastercard is really only worthwhile if you intend on being an avid Air Miles collector.
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Platinum* Credit Card
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Platinum* Credit Card
Welcome Bonus
Up to 20,000 Aeroplan points
Rewards Rate
0.66x - 1.5x Aeroplan points
Annual Fee
$89 $0
Interest Rates
20.99% / 22.99%
The TD® Aeroplan® Visa Platinum Card* is a solid option for individuals who frequently fly with Air Canada and want a low-fee entry into the Aeroplan rewards program. With a first-year fee waiver, 20,000-point welcome bonus, and 12 types of insurance, it offers good value for occasional travelers. However, if you want broader reward options or higher earnings on non-Air Canada purchases, it may not be the best fit.
Pros
- Up to 20,000 Aeroplan Points welcome bonus.
- Earn 1 point per $1 on gas, groceries, and Air Canada purchases.
- Preferred Pricing on Aeroplan flight rewards.
- Includes 12 types of insurance for added travel protection.
Cons
- Rewards value is best redeemed for Air Canada flights.
- Lower points earning rate of 1 point per $1.50 on other purchases.
Rewards
- 1.5 Aeroplan points per $1 spent on gas, groceries, Air Canada and Air Canada vacations (maximum 80,000 points annually)
- 0.66 Aeroplan point per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
Insurance
Coverage
Flight Delay
$500Baggage Delay
$1,000Lost or Stolen Baggage
$1,000Travel Accident
$500,000Car Rental Damage & Theft
yesPurchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to 1 year
Benefits
Details
Extra points
Earn 50% more Stars and 50% more Aeroplan points at participating Starbucks storesExtra points
Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and over 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStoreCar Rental Discount
10% off base rate of Avis Rent A Car and Budget Rent A Car
Eligibility
Credit Score
GoodAnnual Income
N/A
Perhaps Aeroplan is more your speed. In that case, try the TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Credit Card.
For an annual fee (one that's waived for the first year of membership), cardholders receive decent Aeroplan points per dollar spent on gas, groceries, and Air Canada and Air Canada vacations.
Unlike the BMO AIR MILES Mastercard, the TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Credit Card comes with travel insurance, including car rental damage and theft insurance, travel accident insurance, and flight and baggage delay insurance.
For benefits, expect car rental discounts, extra Stars and Aeroplan points at participating Starbucks stores, plus double the Aeroplan points at Partner brands and online retailers.
So, if you're willing to spend more money for a rewards program with better annual value and a card that actually comes with travel insurance, then you might want to consider the TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Credit Card. If you're looking for something more affordable, then the BMO AIR MILES Mastercard is still an option.
CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
2.6
APPLY NOW
on CIBC's website
Welcome Bonus
Up to 60,000 Aventura points
Rewards Rate
1x - 2x points
Annual Fee
$139 $0
Interest Rates
20.99% / 22.99%□
The CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa Card* is an excellent choice for travelers who want a flexible rewards program with good travel perks and easy point redemptions for flights. However, the lower point value outside of travel redemptions and the annual fee may be drawbacks for those not focused on maximizing travel rewards.
Pros
- High Rewards on Travel: Earn 2 points per $1 on travel booked through the CIBC Rewards Centre and 1.5 points per $1 on gas, groceries, EV charging, and drugstore purchases.
- Flexible Point Redemption: Points can be used for flights, merchandise, gift cards, and more, with airline redemptions offering up to 2.29 cents per point.
- Airport Lounge Access: Includes 4 complimentary visits to Visa Airport Companion lounges globally.
- NEXUS Application Fee Rebate: Offers a rebate on the NEXUS program application fee, making U.S. travel easier.
Cons
- Poor Non-Travel Rewards: Outside of the airline rewards chart, points have a lower value when redeemed for non-travel items like gift cards and merchandise.
- Annual Fee: $139 annual fee, which can be high if you're not fully utilizing the travel benefits.
- Limited Insurance: Includes only 10 types of insurance, fewer than some other premium travel cards.
Rewards
- 2 points per $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre
- 1.5 points per $1 spent at eligible gas stations, electric vehicle charging stations, grocery stores and drug stores
- 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases
Insurance
Coverage
Travel Accident
$500,000Emergency Out of province Medical
15 daysFlight Delay
$500Baggage Delay
$500Lost or Stolen Baggage
$500Hotel Burglary Insurance
$2,500Purchase Protection
90 daysExtended Warranty
Up to a yearCar Rental Damage & Theft
up to car value of $65kMobile Device Insurance
$1,000
Benefits
Details
Gas Discount
save up to 10¢/L on fuel at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar and Chevron gas stationsCar Rental Discount
Get up to 25% off auto rentals at participating Avis and Budget locations worldwide.Airport Lounge - Dragon Pass
Airport lounges Visa Airport Companion Program managed by DragonPass International + 4 Free complimentary visits
Nexus Program Rebate
Up to $100 statement credit for Nexus Application fee every 4 years
Eligibility
Credit Score
Very GoodAnnual Income
$15,000 household
Hoping to see something from CIBC? You're in luck! Newcomers can apply for the CIBC Aventura Gold Visa Card alongside opening their CIBC Smart Account.
This card will help you pocket points per dollar spent on travel purchases made through the CIBC Rewards Centre, plus points per dollar spent on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries, and drugstore purchases.
Compared to the TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Credit Card, the CIBC Aventura Gold Visa Card has more travel insurance categories, but certain shared categories like lost or stolen baggage insurance and baggage delay insurance have better coverage on the TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Credit Card.
Still, the CIBC Aventura Gold Visa Card comes with a few more exclusive travel perks, particularly airport lounge access through the Dragon Pass and a Nexus Program rebate.
So, what's the downside to the CIBC Aventura Gold Visa Card? It all comes down to the annual fee, which is much higher than the TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Credit Card, even though it's waived in the first year of membership.
In conclusion, the CIBC Aventura Gold Visa Card, while stacked with earning potential, travel protections, and exclusive perks like airport lounge access, is simply less accessible due to its higher annual fee. That said, if you don't mind paying for an annual fee, this card is a solid travel option for newcomers.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s a typical recommended credit credit score to get approved for a credit card in Canada?
Typically, you’ll want to aim to have “good” credit for most credit card applications. A “good” credit score is considered to be around 660 and above.
What should I do if I can’t qualify for a credit card as a newcomer to Canada?
As a newcomer to Canada, you might not have had the time to build enough credit to get approved for a traditional credit card. In that case, consider applying for a secured credit card instead.
What is a secured credit card?
Secured credit cards allow you to make a deposit that acts as your credit balance and your collateral in case you fail to pay off your card in time.
How does your credit card build a credit score?
When you use a credit card, your spending habits and repayment patterns are reported to major Canadian credit bureaus (more details here). These credit bureaus use your credit report to calculate a reflective credit score.
Factors like paying off your balance by its due date and keeping your credit utilization ratio low (generally under 30%) influence the calculation of your credit score.
To better understand your billing cycle and how to follow it responsibly, review our credit card billing cycle blog post.
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