If you are someone who is new to the world of credit limits and credit cards, then getting your first credit card is going to be an extremely confusing process. Banks want to see a good credit history before approving you for a credit card, but how are you supposed to build a credit history if no one gives you a credit card in the first place?

The fact is that the absence of a credit history doesn’t automatically preclude you from getting a credit card. What it means is that you will need to be more careful and selective in choosing your very first credit cards online. For a beginner, student, young professional or first-time earner, the most suitable choice will be a credit card without credit score that has relaxed eligibility criterias, low charges and useful features that can help you build a positive credit profile.

An FD-based secured credit card in India can be one of the easiest ways to obtain a credit card without credit score, whereas salaried individuals might get entry-level unsecured credit cards through their existing bank.

What Does It Mean to Have No Credit History?

If you have not taken a loan or used a credit card before and do not have any other credit account running in your name, then you might not have a credit history at all.

Credit history provides lenders with information on how you used your credit products previously. This could include your repayment behaviour, credit card limits, credit utilization ratio, and the age of your credit accounts.

With no credit history, this automatically gives lenders very little or no information to assess your creditworthiness. This does not mean that you are a bad borrower. It simply means that you are relatively quite new to the concept of credit lines.

Hence, choose the most accurate credit card that fits your financial needs and income. A responsibly used credit card can help you begin establishing a repayment history and build a stronger credit profile over time.

What Is The Best Type Of First Credit Card For A Beginner?

Every beginner might have different financial requirements, different financial goals and different income. This is why a single credit card cannot be the most appropriate one for every beginner applicant. The right choice always depends on analysing your income, employment status, savings, and spending habits thoroughly before applying.

However, beginners generally have two main options.

1.Secured Credit Cards

A secured credit card is backed by a fixed deposit (FD). Instead of relying entirely on your credit history or income, the bank uses your FD as security or collateral for the card.

For example, you may open a fixed deposit with the issuing bank and receive a credit card with a limit linked to a percentage of that deposit.

This option can be particularly useful for:

• Students
• First-time earners
• Freelancers with irregular income
• Individuals with no credit score
• People who have been rejected for unsecured credit cards

FD-backed cards are designed to make credit more accessible to people who may not meet the usual eligibility criteria for a regular card. Your fixed deposit may also continue earning interest, subject to the terms of the bank and card.

For someone starting completely from scratch, a secured credit card can often be the simplest way to begin building a credit history. Simply search for ‘FD credit card apply’ on the Internet and you will get multiple options to choose from.

ZET’s FD-backed credit card is one such option that beginners can consider. For someone with no credit history, the ZET FD Credit Card can be a practical option to consider. It is an FD-backed secured credit card, allowing users to start with a fixed deposit from ₹2,000 without requiring prior credit history or income proof.

ZET FD-backed credit card also offers a credit limit of up to 90% of the FD amount, while the deposit continues to earn up to 7% interest. By using this credit card responsibly and paying bills on time, first-time users can begin building their credit history over time.

2.Entry-Level Unsecured Credit Cards

If you have a consistent, regular source of income and a stable banking relationship, then you may be eligible for an entry-level unsecured credit card. An unsecured credit card does not require you to put down some money as a fixed deposit acting as collateral.

Approvals for entry-level unsecured credit cards are often based on factors such as your income, employment details, banking relationship and the card issuer’s internal eligibility criteria.

If you receive your salary in a particular bank account, checking whether your bank offers a pre-approved or beginner-friendly card can be a good starting point. An existing relationship with a bank may sometimes make the approval process easier for new-to-credit applicants.

What Should You Look For In Your First Credit Card?

While applying for a low CIBIL score credit card as a beginner, you must always keep your eye out for the following features:

1. Low or Zero Annual Charges: For beginners, a low-cost or lifetime free credit card can be a good starting point. ZET’s FD-backed credit card is one such lifetime free credit card that you can avail of without any rigid eligibility requirements.
2. Minimal Eligibility Criteria: Do not apply for a premium credit card just because it offers a lot of attractive features. Premium credit cards often tend to have stricter eligibility criteria, and beginners might not always be able to qualify for them. As a beginner, you must always be on the lookout for credit cards with the most minimal eligibility criterias.
3. Manageable Credit Limit: A huge credit limit might sound very attractive, but you do not really need it in your first credit card. The job of your first credit card is to teach you how credit works. A moderate credit limit will encourage good spending habits and make it easier for you to repay the spent amount.

Conclusion

For someone with absolutely no credit history, an FD-backed secured credit card can be one of the most practical options because it is specifically designed to make credit accessible without relying heavily on an existing credit profile.

If you have a stable income, you may also consider a beginner-friendly unsecured low CIBIL score credit card based on your salary or existing banking relationship.

The best credit cards online for beginners are not necessarily the one with the highest rewards or the most premium benefits. It is the one that you are easily eligible for, can afford to maintain, and use responsibly.

Start small. Use the credit card for planned purchases. Pay your bills in full and on time. Over time, responsible credit behaviour can help you build the financial track record needed to access better credit products in the future. Your first credit card should not be about spending more. It should be about building smart financial habits that can benefit you for years to come.

FAQs

1. Can I get a credit card with no credit history?

Yes, you can get a credit card even without a credit history. FD-backed secured credit cards and beginner-friendly credit cards can be good options for first-time users.

2. Which credit card is best for someone with no credit history?

The best option depends on your eligibility and financial situation. An FD-backed credit card can be a suitable choice for individuals with no credit history.

3. How can I build credit history with my first credit card?

Use your credit card responsibly, keep your spending manageable, and pay your credit card bill in full and on time every month.

4. Do I need a fixed deposit to get my first credit card?

Not always. Some entry-level unsecured credit cards may be available based on your income and banking relationship. However, an FD-backed card can be easier to obtain without a credit history.

5. Is an FD-backed credit card good for beginners?

Yes, an FD-backed credit card can be a good option for beginners as it may have easier eligibility requirements and can help users start building a credit history through resp