Explore an introduction to credit cards, how they work, and the different types available.
Best RBC Credit Card Offers
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RBC ION+ Visa
WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
RBC Avion Visa Infinite
RBC Cash Back Mastercard
RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard
RBC Visa Classic Low Rate Option
RBC ION Visa
What You Need to Know about Credit Cards in Canada
A credit card is a type of payment card that lets you borrow money up to a set limit to pay for goods and services. Unlike a debit card, you repay the balance later instead of funds being debited from your account right away.
Learn MoreWhen you use your credit card, the issuer pays the merchant on your behalf through the card network and you are responsible for repaying the issuer.
Learn MoreYou can apply for an RBC credit card online here by selecting “Apply Now” on your chosen card. Existing clients can also apply through RBC Online Banking, the RBC Mobile app, or by calling an advisor.
Learn MoreYou pay credit card interest when you carry a balance. If you don’t pay the full balance each month, interest is charged on your outstanding balance, which can make your purchases more expensive over time.
Learn MoreWhen used responsibly, credit cards can be helpful tools. They can assist in building credit, and some credit cards protect your purchases and let you earn rewards like cash back or travel points.
Learn MoreWhy Choose an RBC Credit Card?
Award-Winning Bank. Award-Winning Cards.
RBC has been recognized by Global Finance’s 2025 & 2026 awards as the:
Best Bank in Canada in 2026
Safest Bank in North America in 2025
Get an award-winning credit card from Global Finances Best Canadian Bank*
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Flexible Credit Card Rewards That Fit Your Lifestyle
Choose from a range of rewards programs, including Avion Rewards, WestJet and moi, so you can earn in a way that works for you.
More Ways To Earn With Our Partners
Earn more from your everyday purchases by linking your RBC credit card to our partners, unlocking extra value on eligible purchases, such as, gas, groceries and everyday essentials.
Learn More About Our PartnershipsNot Sure What Card is Right for You?
Browse tips, tools, and guides designed to help you choose with confidence.
Tools & Calculators:
Explore and Compare Credit Cards
Compare Credit CardsFind the Right RBC Card for You
Help Me ChooseEstimate Your Rewards
Calculate Rewards PointsGuides & Articles:
Explore how cash back credit cards work, the key features to compare, and how to find the right card for you.
Explore how travel credit cards and rewards work so you can find the right card for the way you travel and make the most of every trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you use RBC Online Banking or the RBC Mobile app, it’s easy to dispute a transaction. On your credit card transaction page, choose the transaction in question and select “I disagree with this charge.” RBC will review the request and get back to you with an update on your claim within three to five business days.
If you don’t use RBC Online Banking or the RBC Mobile app, you can call 1-800-769-2512 and we’ll be happy to help you.
If you're short on the cash needed to make an important purchase, taking out a cash advance on your credit card is one way to access funds quickly without a new credit check.
Before you proceed however, it’s important to understand that the terms for cash advances on your credit card tend to be quite different from using it to purchase goods and services. Cash advance interest rates are typically higher than credit card purchase interest rates and they start accruing on day one.
There are 3 ways to request a change to the credit limit on your card (subject to qualification and a possible credit check):
- Sign into RBC Online Banking and select your RBC credit card. On the right side of the page, select Change credit limit and follow the instructions
- Call us at 1-800-769-2512
- Visit your local branch
There’s no magic number when it comes to applying for a credit card and it’s not the only detail providers look at. However, a credit history and a score of 660 or higher are helpful. If you’re new to credit – as a student or newcomer, for instance – there are other factors a credit card company may review when approving.
You can check your credit score in a few ways. If you’re an RBC client, you can easily check it for free within Online Banking. You can also check through Canada’s credit reporting agencies, Equifax or TransUnion.
If your credit score is low, there may be ways to improve it. And you may still be able to apply and get a credit card.
If your card has been stolen or permanently lost, call our 24-hour toll-free number 1-800-769-2512. We’ll block the card from future use and issue you a new card.
Learn moreIf you collect Avion points, you can redeem them for travel, merchandise, gift cards and more at https://www.avionrewards.com. If you earn partner program points, such as WestJet, you can redeem directly with the airline loyalty program connected to your card.
Learn more about Travel Credit CardsRedeeming your cash back is simple with RBC – it is applied as a statement credit directly to your account.
Learn more about Cash Back Credit CardsThat depends on the card you choose. Some of our cards offer more benefits with an annual fee, while others have no annual fee at all. Browse our no annual fee cards or use our RBC Credit Card Selector Tool to help narrow down the benefits that are most important to you. To see a detailed breakdown of annual fees for all our credit cards, visit our dedicated Annual Fee Comparison page.
If you’re ever a victim of credit card fraud, take a deep breath--you’re ok. Call 1-800-769-2512 and we’ll be happy to help you. Provided you’ve take reasonable precautions to protect your PIN, online account, and your card, you’re covered for any fraudulent charges both online and in-store. For more information, view the Zero Liability policies by Visa and Mastercard.
Need Some Additional Help?
Call us at 1-800-769-2512
Awarded Best Bank in Canada for 2026 by Global Finance