No Credit? Low Score? You Can STILL Get a Credit Card in Canada!
Costco Co-Branded Card | Low-Score & Newcomer Credit Card Options
For many Canadians, having no credit history or a low credit score can feel like a dead end — especially when trying to apply for a credit card. Denials are common, and building credit becomes even harder.
This guide breaks down easy approval strategies, beginner-friendly card options, and step-by-step methods to boost your approval chances — even if your credit score is low today.
📌 Why Your Credit Score Matters
Canadian credit scores range from 300–900 and determine how “risky” lenders think you are. Scores are categorized by Equifax and TransUnion from poor to excellent.
Low or no credit = fewer card choices + lower approval rates. This often happens due to:
• Late payments
• Limited credit history
• High credit utilization
👉 Before applying, check your score through your bank or a credit bureau. It helps you choose the right card.
🔹 Best Credit Card Types for Low or Zero Credit
| Type | What It Is | Why It Helps |
|---|---|---|
| Secured Cards | Deposit-backed cards that report to credit bureaus. | Best for rebuilding credit |
| Prepaid Cards | Debit-like cards; usually don’t affect credit. | Great for budgeting |
| Student Cards | For students; easy approval and low fees. | Builds credit over time |
| Newcomer Cards | For new immigrants with no history. | Designed for beginners |
💡 Top Credit Cards Recommended for Easy Approval
| Card | Score Needed | Benefits | Annual Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Home Trust Preferred Visa | 560+ | 1% cashback | $0 |
| BMO eclipse rise Visa | 640+ | Points rewards | $0 |
| Secured Cathay World Elite Mastercard | None | Great for rebuilding | Varies |
| CIBC Costco Mastercard | Low score | No annual fee | $0 |
✅ Best Practices for Getting Approved With Bad Credit
• Know your credit score first.
• Don’t apply for multiple cards at once.
• Compare cards by fees & interest rates.
• Submit one application at a time.
• Use cards designed for rebuilding credit.
🔍 6 Simple Ways to Improve Your Credit Score Quickly
Use a credit card monthly and pay on time.
Avoid too many applications.
Turn on auto-pay for all bills.
Keep usage below 30% of your limit.
Check your credit report for mistakes.
Keep older accounts open and active.
Improve your score step by step — and you’ll unlock better credit cards, higher limits, and more financial opportunities in Canada.