Credit cards offer a variety of benefits, including rewards, cashback, lounge access, and discounts. While many premium credit cards come with high fees and are typically available to those with a strong credit history, there are also options designed specifically for beginners. These entry-level credit cards offer valuable perks at a reasonable fee, helping new users build their credit while enjoying some great benefits.

If you're new to credit cards, selecting the right one can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 5 best credit cards for beginners in India, each offering distinct advantages and helping you find the ideal card for your needs.

1. Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card

The Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card is one of the best free credit cards for beginners. It’s a lifetime free card that offers great cashback options on Amazon purchases, making it perfect for frequent online shoppers.

Benefits:

• Annual Fee: Nil

• Category: Lifetime Free

• Rewards:

• 5% cashback for Prime members on Amazon purchases

• 3% cashback for non-Prime members on Amazon purchases

• 2% cashback when using Amazon Pay at select merchants

• 1% cashback on all other transactions

• Additional Perks: 1% discount on fuel surcharge at all petrol stations across India.

This card is highly recommended for individuals seeking a best free credit card in India for everyday use.

2. Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card

The Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card is ideal for beginners who frequently shop online. This card offers fantastic cashback deals on Flipkart and partner platforms, making it one of the top credit cards for students and other online shoppers.

Benefits:

• Annual Fee: Rs. 500

• Category: Shopping

• Welcome Bonus: Rs. 600 upon issuance

• Rewards:

• 5% cashback on Flipkart

• 4% cashback on selected partners like Swiggy, Uber, PVR, and cult.fit

• 1% cashback on all other purchases

• Additional Perks: Complimentary domestic airport lounge pass every quarter, and 15% discount at participating restaurants.

This card offers excellent value, especially for those who frequently shop on Flipkart or use its partners, making it a contender for the best credit card offers for beginners.

3. SBI Simply CLICK Credit Card

The SBI Simply CLICK Credit Card is a great option for those seeking the best credit card offers for online shopping. Packed with rewards, this card is one of the best credit cards for beginners in India when it comes to shopping and travel deals.

Benefits:

• Annual Fee: Rs. 499

• Category: Rewards

• Rewards:

• 10X reward points on partner websites like BookMyShow, Swiggy, and Myntra

• 5X reward points on other online purchases

• Cleartrip/Yatra e-vouchers worth Rs. 2,000 on spending Rs. 1 lakh in a year

• Fuel Surcharge: 1% waiver on fuel transactions between Rs. 500 and Rs. 3,000.

This card is perfect for beginners looking for free credit card offers with rewards on online purchases and travel expenses.

4. Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card

For foodies who frequently order from Swiggy, the Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card offers fantastic dining benefits. It's among the top credit cards for students and young professionals who love ordering in or dining out.

Benefits:

• Annual Fee: Rs. 500

• Category: Dining

• Rewards:

• 10% cashback on Swiggy, Instamart, and Dineout

• 5% reward on online purchases

• 1% reward on other purchases

• Additional Perks: Three months of Swiggy One membership worth Rs. 1,199 and cashback redeemable as Swiggy Money.

The Credit Card offers HDFC provides are highly beneficial for dining and food delivery enthusiasts.

5. Indian Oil Axis Bank Credit Card

The Indian Oil Axis Bank Credit Card is designed for those looking to save on fuel expenses. It offers great value on fuel purchases and everyday spending, making it one of the best credit cards for beginners in India.

Benefits:

• Annual Fee: Rs. 500

• Category: Fuel

• Rewards:

• 4% cashback on Indian Oil fuel purchases

• 5 reward points for every Rs. 100 spent online

• 1% fuel surcharge waiver

• Additional Perks: Discounts on dining and movie tickets via BookMyShow and EazyDiner.

This is a great card for beginners who want to reduce their fuel costs while enjoying dining and entertainment perks.

Conclusion

When choosing the best credit cards for beginners in India, consider your spending habits and lifestyle. For online shoppers, the Flipkart Axis Bank Credit Card and Amazon Pay ICICI Credit Card offer excellent cashback. For dining enthusiasts, the Swiggy HDFC Bank Credit Card is a great option. Meanwhile, the SBI Simply CLICK Credit Card and Indian Oil Axis Bank Credit Card cater to those looking for rewards and fuel savings. Whether you’re a student or a working professional, there’s a perfect beginner card for everyone.