Best RBC credit cards in Canada

I've personally owned this card for 5+ years despite being often enticed by competing offers. Its simple earn rate helps me rack up points quickly and the ability to book any airline anytime without restriction is a huge plus.

My wife and I have used this card for full refunds on trip cancellations (even when our Airbnb couldn't), the customer service is always incredibly helpful with removing fraudulent charges, too.

We didn't travel much in COVID and have accumulated enough points now that we're flying our family (2 kids) to Hawaii for less than $500 in taxes.

It doesn't come with Airport lounge access so I'm always on the lookout, but Scotia feels like it ties you to shopping at Freshco or Sobeys, TD feels like it ties you to ExpediaforTD, I haven't heard great things about the Aventura program for point redemption so, for ease of use and collecting points everywhere, I like the RBC Avion Visa Infinite.

Disclosures:

• Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions.

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A low annual fee of $48 in easy-to-pay installments of $4 per month while earning 3 Avion points† on grocery, dining, food delivery, gas, rideshare, public transit, EV charging, streaming, digital gaming and online subscriptions and 1 Avion point on all other purchases.

Or, hold on to that welcome bonus, exchange it for travel rewards from Avion, and get your annual fee rebated every month with the RBC Advantage Banking account for students. RBC online has NOMI which helps you manage your budget similar to other budgeting apps.  

While it doesn't feature travel insurance, it comes with super valuable insurance for students: mobile device, 90-day purchase security, and an additional year on the manufacturer's original warranty.

Not only can you can your Apple Macbook covered by insurance, you can redeem your Avion points for Apply merchandise and over 50,000 other products at Best Buy through the Avion Rewards program.  

Want even more points? Download the Avion app and Avion browser extension which help you find deals and discounts to rack up those points and start travelling sooner.

Disclosures:

• Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions.
  
  This post contains affiliate links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

  Disclaimer: Money.ca may engage in affiliate marketing, which is done by embedding tracking links into Money.ca. 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.

With as much love as I have for the Visa Infinite, you'd think I'd vote for the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege (VIP).

The Avion VIP's annual fee is a bit of a deterrent. They do give you airport lounge passes, though. However, that essentially bundles the cost of lounge access into that fee..

So, at $119 annual fee and a decent welcome offer, the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard takes home the prize. Not just because of the lower price, but the value you can get from this card including an annual round-trip companion voucher to any WestJet destination starting from $119 (plus taxes, fees, charges, etc.).

Earn 2% back in WestJet dollars on WestJet flights or WestJet Vacations packages using your card and 1.5% on all other purchases.

If you're not big on the companion voucher, you can exchange it for 4 airport lounge vouchers.

You'll also get free first checked bag for you and up to 8 guests on the same reservation, plus travel coverage including emergency medical insurance as well as trip interruption insurance hotel burglary, and rental car insurance. Even eligible purchases you make on the card are protected.

Disclosures:

• Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions.
  
  This post contains affiliate links. Please read disclaimer for more info.

  Disclaimer: Money.ca may engage in affiliate marketing, which is done by embedding tracking links into Money.ca. 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.

For no annual fee, unlimited cash back and up to 2% back on groceries (1% on other qualifying purchases), it's a great cash back credit card. Earn up to 1% unlimited cash back on everything else.

  Now, there's also the RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Card for which gives you a complimentary Boingo Wi-Fi account, Mastercard Airport Experiences provided by Dragon Pass, and rental car credit card insurance.  

But Dragon Pass access doesn't mean you have Dragon Pass vouchers, you'll have to pay around $30 to access the lounges.

While the Preferred gives you a higher earn rate, 1.5%, on everything, the numbers fail to add up in your favour.

For example, at $2,000 of monthly spending, the Preferred card gives you $360 cash back, while the RBC cash Back gives you $270 cash back. So, for $99, you get $90 more cash back (and Wi-Fi and credit card rental car insurance), but arguably, there's a reason to get one of the best travel credit cards to pair with this cash back credit card where you can get better travel benefits like insurance and airport lounge access.  

Disclosures:

• Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions.
  
  This post contains affiliate links. Please read disclaimer for more info.
  
  Disclaimer: Money.ca may engage in affiliate marketing, which is done by embedding tracking links into Money.ca. 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.

For a year, it's RBC's lowest interest rate credit card at only 12.99% for purchases and cash advance. If you're currently carrying a balance, you can transfer it for $5 to help you pay it down faster.

The card throws in extended warranty and purchase security too because if you're trying to rebuild your credit, you don't need any major expenses popping up from damage or theft.

If you're 100% going with RBC, we believe this to be your best choice. However, there are great prepaid cards from KOHO and EQ bank or you can check out the best secured credit cards in Canada.  

Disclosures:

• Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions.
  
  This post contains affiliate links. Please read disclaimer for more info. 
  
  Disclaimer: Money.ca may engage in affiliate marketing, which is done by embedding tracking links into Money.ca. 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.

We love no annual fee cards that still give you a welcome bonus and, with the RBC Ion Visa, a decent earn rate of 1.5 Avion points on groceries, transportation (gas, rideshare, transit, EV charging), and streaming services and subscriptions.

You can save and earn more with Petro-Canada and Rexall, too. Be sure to get the Avion Rewards app and Chrome extension for when you're shopping online to rack up those points even faster.

You can redeem your points for travel or gift cards or merchandise through the Avion Rewards program, so it offers loads of flexibility, too.

This could also be the best RBC credit card for newcomers to Canada given the rewards and lack of annual fee.

Disclosures:

• Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions.
  
  This post contains affiliate links. Please read disclaimer for more info. 
  
  Disclaimer: Money.ca may engage in affiliate marketing, which is done by embedding tracking links into Money.ca. 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.

You can start your RBC credit card application online.

To begin the application process for an RBC credit card, simply click the 'Apply Now' button located beneath the credit card that best suits your needs on our website. This will redirect you to the official RBC application page. There, you will be asked to fill out an application form with your personal and financial details, such as your name, address, income, and employment information. After completing this form, you can finalize your application online.

Alternative application methods:

If you prefer not to apply online or if you have specific questions you'd like to discuss, RBC also offers the following application methods:

1. 1.

   1.In-person: You can visit an RBC branch to apply for a credit card in person. This option allows you to speak directly with a bank representative who can guide you through the application process and answer any questions you might have.

2. 2.

   2.Over the phone: RBC also offers the option to apply over the phone. This method combines the convenience of applying from home with the benefit of having a direct conversation with an RBC representative.

Remember, no matter which method you choose, it's important to have all the necessary information and documentation on hand to ensure a smooth application process.

How to pay your RBC credit card from another bank online

Paying your RBC credit card from an account at another bank online can typically be done in a few steps. Here's a general guide on how to proceed, but remember that the exact process may vary slightly depending on the bank you're using to make the payment:

1. 1.

   Log into your bank's online banking: Access your online banking account at the bank where you have your checking or savings account.

2. 2.

   Add your RBC Credit Card as a payee: Before you can make a payment, you need to add your RBC credit card as a payee in your online banking system. Look for an option to "Add Payee", "Manage Payees", or something similar in the payments section.

3. 3.

   Find the correct payee name: When adding a new payee, you will need to search for the correct name. It's usually listed as "RBC Credit Card" or "Royal Bank Credit Card".

4. 4.

   Enter your credit card number: You will be prompted to enter your RBC credit card number. This is the account number for the payee, and it ensures the payment is credited to your card.

5. 5.

   Confirm the payee details: Double-check that you've entered the correct credit card number and that the payee is correctly identified as RBC.

6. 6.

   Make a payment: Once your RBC credit card is added as a payee, go to the payments section of your online banking, select the RBC credit card as the payee, enter the amount you wish to pay, and confirm the transaction.

7. 7.

   Allow time for processing: Keep in mind that it may take a few business days for the payment to be processed and appear on your RBC credit card account. Be sure to pay your balance (or at least the minimum) a few days before it due to avoid any extra interest charges or late fees.

It's important to ensure that you make your payment well before the due date, considering the processing time, to avoid any late payment fees or charges. If you're unsure about any step of the process or if your bank has a different procedure, it's a good idea to contact your bank's customer service for assistance.

How long does it take for a credit card payment to process with RBC?

NOTE: Payments made on weekends or holidays may take longer to process. Banks typically process transactions on business days, so a payment made on a Friday evening might not be processed until the following Monday.

It's important to make your credit card payments ahead of the due date to ensure they are processed on time, especially if you're paying from an external bank. Late payments can result in fees and affect your credit score.

What credit score do you need for an RBC credit card?

The required credit score for an RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) credit card can vary depending on the specific card you are applying for. Credit card issuers like RBC generally do not publish the exact credit score requirements for their cards, but here is a general guideline:

1. 1.

   1.Basic or Student Cards: For basic credit cards or student credit cards, the required credit score might be more lenient. Applicants might be approved with a fair credit score, typically in the range of 600-650.

2. 2.

   2.Standard Cards: For standard RBC credit cards, a good credit score, usually around 650-700, is often expected. This range indicates a responsible credit history and a lower risk for the lender.

3. 3.

   3.Premium Cards: For premium or elite credit cards, such as those offering extensive rewards or travel benefits, a higher credit score is usually required. This could be in the range of 700-750 or higher. These cards often come with more benefits and higher credit limits, so the financial institution takes on more risk.

It's important to note that credit score is not the only factor considered in credit card applications. Banks also look at your income, employment status, debt-to-income ratio, and credit history. A lower credit score might be acceptable if other aspects of your financial profile are strong.

If you're unsure about your credit score or your eligibility for an RBC credit card, you might consider contacting RBC directly or checking your credit score through a reputable credit bureau or free credit score service. Additionally, applying for a card that aligns with your current credit profile can help increase your chances of approval.

Whether you're a points-chasing traveler, a cash-back connoisseur, or a savvy student, RBC's got a card with your name on it:

• No annual fee: Free is everyone's favorite price, right? RBC's got no annual fee cards that'll let you keep more of your hard-earned cash in your pocket.
• Low APR: The RBC Visa Classic Low Rate Option lets you keep more money in your pocket with a low interest rate that'll make your wallet breathe a sigh of relief.
• Cash back: The RBC Cash Back Mastercard offers a mix of no annual fee and cash back on all your purchases. It's like getting a tiny raise with every swipe.
• Rewards: RBC offers an array of rewards cards, including co-branded airline cards with WestJet and British Airways, RBC Avion and Ion credit cards, and more.
• US Dollar: The RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold credit card lets RBC cardholders avoid the foreign transaction fee when making purchases in USD.
• Student: RBC credit cards are great for students. In fact, the RBC Ion+ recently won our award for Best Student Credit Card. 

RBC offers a variety of reward styles to suit your specific needs, including airline miles, cash back and the bank's own Avion Rewards program:

Cash back

RBC's cash back credit cards are like finding money in your coat pocket, but better – they reward you for spending you'd do anyway. Cash back with RBC credit cards is automatically credited to your account and is applied on your January statement.

RBC Avion Rewards

RBC Avion is Canada's largest bank-owned rewards program. The easiest way to earn Avion Rewards points is by making purchases with your eligible RBC credit card, including the RBC Avion Visa Infinite, our top RBC credit card. Avion points are worth one cent each and never expire as long as your account remains open and in good standing.

Read more: Check out our comprehensive RBC Avion guide

WestJet Rewards

WestJet Rewards is the frequent flyer program of leading Canadian airline, WestJet. WestJet Rewards is getting a makeover for 2025, with the following changes:

1. 1.

   Tier qualifying spend:. Silver will need $4,000 in spending, Gold $6,000, and Platinum a whopping $10,000 in spending to reach the next tier. Looks like WestJet wants us to really earn those perks!

2. 2.

   Milestone awards: WestJet has removed rewards below $8,000 spend, and the new milestones are spaced out like economy seats ($8,000, $12,000, $16,000, $20,000, $30,000, $50,000). B

3. 3.

   Boarding zones: Gold members, you're moving back a zone. But Silver and Platinum, you're still sitting pretty in your current spots.

4. 4.

   Companion upgrades: Good news for those who don't fly solo – your plus-one might score an upgrade with you now. Power couple goals, anyone?

5. 5.

   Companion vouchers: These babies now have a two-year shelf life. More time to plan that getaway!

RBC issues two co-branded credit cards with WestJet:

• WestJet RBC Mastercard
• WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard

British Airways Executive Club

RBC also issues the RBC British Airways Visa Infinite with British Airways. That card earns Avios points which apply towards flights with British Airways, Aer Lingus and Iberia Airlines. Avios have a value of 2 cents per points and never expire, with the average base fare for an economy British Airways flight from Toronto to London usually requiring between 26,000 and 40,000 Avios.