Top 7 Credit Cards for Canadians with No Credit History [2025 Edition]
If you’re a newcomer to Canada, a recent graduate, or just someone who’s never had a credit card before — you’re not alone. In 2025, there are more options than ever for Canadians looking to build credit from the ground up. Whether you’re after low fees, easy approvals, or credit-building features, we’ve rounded up the best credit cards in Canada designed for people with no credit history.
Let’s dive in:
1. Neo Secured Credit Card
Best for: Cashback with no annual fee
- 💳 Annual Fee: $0
- ✅ Approval Odds: Very High
- 💰 Cashback: Up to 5% with select Neo partners
- 🔒 Security Deposit: From $50
Why it’s great: Instant approval, app-based control, and flexible deposit requirements make Neo a top pick for beginners. Plus, you earn cashback right away.
2. KOHO Prepaid Mastercard (Credit Building)
Best for: Budgeting + building credit with a prepaid card
- 💳 Annual Fee: $0 (optional paid plans for perks)
- 💼 Credit Building Tool: $10/month
- 🧾 Credit Bureau: Equifax
- 📲 Extras: In-app savings goals, cashback
Why it’s great: KOHO isn’t a traditional credit card, but their optional credit-building tool reports to Equifax and helps you build your score with zero debt risk.
3. Capital One Guaranteed Secured Mastercard
Best for: Guaranteed approval
- 💳 Annual Fee: $59
- 🔒 Security Deposit: Starts at $75
- ✅ Approval Odds: Nearly 100% (as long as you meet income/deposit minimums)
- 🧾 Reports to: Equifax & TransUnion
Why it’s great: This card is ideal for those with no credit or even poor credit. It’s one of the few cards in Canada that guarantees approval.
4. Home Trust Secured Visa
Best for: No annual fee + simple setup
- 💳 Annual Fee: $0
- 🔒 Deposit Required: $500+
- 🧾 Reports to: Both credit bureaus
Why it’s great: A traditional secured card with flexible deposit amounts and no frills. A reliable option to slowly build your score.
5. Plastk Secured Credit Card
Best for: Credit education and rewards
- 💳 Annual Fee: $48 (plus $6 monthly maintenance)
- 🎓 Extras: Credit score tracker, financial tips
- 💰 Rewards: Points on every purchase
Why it’s great: Plastk combines credit building with a rewards program and real-time score tracking. Ideal for users who want to learn as they go.
6. Scotiabank StartRight® Program (Secured Visa)
Best for: Newcomers to Canada
- 💳 Annual Fee: $29
- 🌍 Designed For: New permanent residents, international students
- 🏦 Additional Perks: Chequing accounts, overdraft protection
Why it’s great: Tailored for newcomers, this card helps immigrants get access to credit and banking tools at the same time.
7. Refresh Financial Secured Card
Best for: Hands-off credit growth
- 💳 Annual Fee: $12.95/month
- 🔒 Deposit Range: $200–$10,000
- 🧾 Reports to: Equifax & TransUnion
Why it’s great: One of the fastest-growing secured card programs in Canada, offering credit monitoring and financial tools.
🚀 Final Thoughts
Getting your first credit card in Canada doesn’t have to be stressful. Whether you want cashback, credit education, or a simple way to get started, these cards give you the tools to build your credit from day one.
Ready to learn more and compare options side-by-side?