Many people worry that a low CIBIL score will stop them from getting a credit card. The truth, however, is different. In India, several secured (FD-based) credit cards are available that can be approved instantly even if you have a low score—or no credit history at all. These cards not only offer convenience but also help you gradually rebuild and improve your credit score.
What Is a CIBIL Score?
A CIBIL score is a three-digit number ranging from 300 to 900. It reflects how responsibly you have handled loans, EMIs, and credit card payments in the past. This score is calculated by TransUnion CIBIL, one of India’s primary credit bureaus.
If you delay EMIs, miss credit card payments, or frequently use a very high percentage of your credit limit, your score can drop. A low score makes banks hesitant to approve new credit applications. On the other hand, a strong score improves your chances of getting credit cards and loans at better interest rates.
5 Credit Cards You Can Get Even With a Low CIBIL Score
Below are five FD-backed secured credit cards that offer quick approval with minimal requirements. These cards are ideal for beginners and for anyone trying to rebuild their credit profile.
1. SBI Unnati Credit Card
The SBI Unnati Card is one of the easiest secured cards to obtain, even with a CIBIL score below 600 or no score at all.
Requires a minimum fixed deposit of ₹25,000
No joining fee or annual fee for the first year
Offers reward points, cashback and add-on cards for family
Spend ₹50,000 within the first 15 days to get ₹500 cashback
It is a great entry-level card for first-time users or anyone looking to rebuild their credit score.
2. IDFC First WOW Credit Card
The IDFC First WOW Card is fully FD-backed and designed especially for first-time credit card users.
No joining fee or annual fee
Requires an FD of ₹20,000
Full credit limit equals your fixed deposit amount
No income proof required
Offers reward points and UPI-linked cashback
Instant approval makes this one of the most convenient options for low-score applicants.
3. Axis Bank Insta Easy Credit Card
Popular for quick approval, this FD-based card is ideal for credit rebuilding.
Minimum FD requirement: ₹20,000
Credit limit up to 80% of the deposit
Annual fee of ₹500
No fuel surcharge on transactions
Can be used universally like any regular credit card
If your goal is to improve your credit profile, this is a strong and reliable option.
4. ICICI Bank Instant Platinum Credit Card
A perfect choice for customers who want a fast, hassle-free card without any extra charges.
Requires an FD of ₹50,000 or more
No joining or annual fees
Reward points on every transaction
No fuel surcharge
Up to two BookMyShow offers every month
The combination of zero fees and instant approval makes it a great beginner-friendly credit card.
5. Kotak 811 Dream Different Credit Card
This is one of the easiest secured cards to get with a low FD requirement.
Only ₹10,000 FD needed
Credit limit up to 90% of FD value
Annual fee of ₹299
Reward benefits, cashback, and four free PVR tickets yearly
Includes fuel surcharge waiver and fraud protection
Perfect for users who want maximum benefits with minimum deposit.
How to Choose the Right Card for You?
If you already have an FD or are willing to open one, secured credit cards are the fastest way to get approval despite a low CIBIL score. Here is how to decide:
For low FD amount: Kotak 811 Dream Different
For zero annual fees: ICICI Instant Platinum or IDFC WOW
For beginners seeking cashback: SBI Unnati
For improving credit score quickly: Axis Bank Insta Easy
Once you start using the card, make sure to:
Pay all bills on time
Keep credit utilisation below 30%
Avoid unnecessary spending
With consistent and responsible usage, your CIBIL score can improve significantly within a few months, making it easier to get regular (unsecured) credit cards and loans in the future.
This list offers some of the easiest and most effective options for anyone struggling with a low score but hoping to rebuild their financial profile.
