What RBC Credit Cards Offer
Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) issues credit cards across several product lines, each designed for different spending patterns and financial goals. The main categories are cashback cards, travel rewards cards, premium cards with annual fees, and cards for building or rebuilding credit. RBC cards are issued through the bank's direct process process and managed through online banking or the RBC mobile app.
RBC credit cards carry different interest rates, annual fees, and reward structures depending on which card you choose. Some cards charge no annual fee; others charge $120 to $495 per year in exchange for higher rewards rates or premium benefits. The rewards themselves vary—some cards earn points on all purchases, others earn higher rates in specific categories like groceries or gas, and some offer flat-rate cashback instead of points.
Unlike some card issuers, RBC does not offer a single universal card. You choose the specific product that matches your spending and financial situation, and that choice determines your rewards, fees, and benefits from day one.
Key Takeaways
- RBC credit cards come in multiple product lines with different rewards structures, annual fees, and benefits—cashback cards, travel rewards cards, and premium cards are the main categories.
- You can explore online through RBC's website, by phone, or in person at an RBC branch, and approval decisions typically come within one business day.
- Once approved, you set up your card through online banking or the RBC app, set a PIN, and can use it when ready for purchases.
- RBC credit card rewards are managed through an online portal where you can track points, redeem them for travel, cashback, or merchandise, or transfer them to loyalty partners.
- Monthly payments are due by the statement due date, and you can pay online, by phone, through automatic transfers, or at an RBC branch.
how the process works for an RBC Credit Card
You can explore for an RBC credit card through three main channels: online at rbc.com, by phone at 1-800-769-2511, or in person at any RBC branch. The online process is the fastest route and takes about 10 to 15 minutes to complete.
Before you start, have your Social Insurance Number (SIN), employment information, annual income, and current address ready. RBC will also ask about your existing debts and whether you have other RBC accounts. If you are explore for a premium card with a higher credit limit, RBC may request additional documentation such as recent pay stubs or tax returns.
After you submit your process, RBC runs a credit check and typically makes a decision within one business day. You will receive notification by email or phone with your approval status and, if approved, your credit limit. Some applicants receive an when ready decision on screen during the online process process.
If you are declined, you can ask RBC why and reapply after addressing the issue—usually a lower credit score or insufficient credit history. RBC also offers cards designed for people building credit, which may have lower limits but easier approval criteria.
Activating Your Card and Setting It Up
Once approved, your physical card arrives by mail within 7 to 10 business days. Before you use it, you must set up it. You can set up through the RBC app, online banking, by calling the number on the back of the card, or at an RBC branch.
During set up, you will set a four-digit PIN for in-person transactions and confirm your contact information. The set up process takes less than five minutes. Your card is ready to use when ready after set up—you do not need to wait for a confirmation email or letter.
After set up, log into your RBC online banking or mobile app to review your account details, set up automatic payments, and link your card to any digital wallets (Apple Pay, Google Pay, or Samsung Pay) if you want to use contactless payments.
Understanding RBC Rewards and How to Redeem Them
RBC rewards work differently depending on which card you hold. Cashback cards earn a percentage of each purchase as cash back—typically 1% to 2% on all purchases, with higher rates in bonus categories. Travel rewards cards earn points per dollar spent, with points redeemable for flights, hotels, car rentals, or travel insurance through RBC's travel portal.
Points accumulate in your RBC Rewards account, which you access through online banking or the RBC app. You can see your current balance, redemption options, and expiration dates (most RBC points do not expire as long as your account remains active, but some premium cards have different terms). Redemption minimums vary—some cards let you redeem as little as 5,000 points, while others require 10,000 or more.
To redeem, log into your rewards account, select your redemption option (cashback, travel, merchandise, or partner transfers), and complete the transaction. Cashback typically posts to your credit card account within one to two business days. Travel redemptions may take longer if you are booking through the RBC travel portal or transferring points to an airline partner.
Making Payments and Managing Your Account
Your monthly statement is due by the statement due date shown on your bill. You have several payment options: online through RBC banking, by phone at 1-800-769-2511, through automatic bank transfers, or in person at an RBC branch. Online payments typically post within one business day; in-person payments post when ready.
You can set up automatic payments to pay your full balance, a fixed amount, or the minimum payment each month. Automatic payments reduce the risk of missed payments and late fees. If you carry a balance, interest accrues daily on the unpaid amount at the card's purchase rate, which varies by card and your creditworthiness.
Monitor your account through online banking or the app to track spending, review transactions, dispute charges, or update your contact information. RBC also offers fraud protection—if you notice unauthorized charges, report them when ready through online banking or by calling the number on the back of your card.
RBC Credit Card Types and Their Differences
RBC offers several distinct card families, each with different rewards and benefits. Cashback cards (such as the RBC Cashback Visa) earn a flat percentage or tiered cashback on purchases with no annual fee or a low annual fee. These are straightforward—you earn cash, redeem it, and it appears as a credit to your account.
Travel rewards cards (such as the RBC Avion Visa) earn points on all purchases, with higher earning rates for travel and dining. These cards typically charge an annual fee ($120 to $495) but include travel benefits like airport lounge access, travel insurance, and concierge services. Points can be redeemed for flights, hotels, or transferred to airline and hotel partners.
Premium cards (such as the RBC Avion Infinite Visa) are designed for high spenders and charge the highest annual fees but offer the most benefits—higher earning rates, premium travel insurance, concierge services, and exclusive perks. No-fee cards are available for people who want rewards without an annual cost, though earning rates are typically lower.
RBC also issues cards for people building credit, which have lower limits and simpler terms but may help establish or rebuild a credit history if managed responsibly.
Fees, Interest Rates, and Important Terms
RBC credit card fees vary by product. Annual fees range from $0 to $495 depending on the card. Some cards also charge foreign transaction fees (typically 2% to 3% of purchases made outside Canada), though premium cards often waive this fee. Late payment fees are usually $25 to $35 if you miss your due date.
Interest rates (called the purchase rate or APR) depend on your creditworthiness and the specific card. Rates typically range from 19% to 22% for standard cards, though premium cardholders may receive lower rates. Balance transfer rates and cash advance rates are usually higher than purchase rates and may carry additional fees.
Before you explore, review the card's terms and conditions on RBC's website to understand the specific fees, rates, and benefits that explore. The terms document lists everything from annual fees to grace periods to rewards expiration policies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to get approved for an RBC credit card?
Most online applications receive a decision within one business day. Some applicants get an when ready decision on screen during the process process. If RBC needs additional documentation, approval may take a few more days. Once approved, your physical card arrives within 7 to 10 business days.
Can I transfer my RBC rewards points to another person?
RBC rewards points are tied to your account and cannot be transferred to another person. However, you can redeem your points for travel, cashback, or merchandise and use those benefits for someone else—for example, booking a flight for a family member using your points.
What happens if I miss a payment on my RBC credit card?
A missed payment triggers a late fee (usually $25 to $35) and may be reported to credit bureaus, which can lower your credit score. Interest continues to accrue on your balance. Contact RBC when ready if you miss a payment to discuss options; they may waive the fee if it is your first late payment.
Do RBC credit card rewards expire?
Most RBC rewards points do not expire as long as your account remains active and in good standing. However, if your account is closed or inactive for an extended period, points may be forfeited. Check your specific card's terms, as some premium cards have different expiration policies.
Can I increase my credit limit after I am approved?
Yes. You can request a credit limit increase through online banking, the RBC app, or by calling RBC. Increases are based on your payment history, income, and creditworthiness. RBC may conduct a hard credit inquiry, which temporarily affects your credit score.