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How to Apply for an RBC Credit Card in Canada

Updated

You can apply for an RBC credit card online at rbc.com, through the RBC Mobile app (for existing clients), or at an RBC branch. The online process takes about 10 minutes.

Step-by-Step: Applying Online

  1. Review the lineup — Compare RBC credit cards and check income requirements
  2. Go to rbc.com — Navigate to credit cards and click “Apply Now”
  3. Log in or apply as a guest — Existing RBC Online Banking clients can pre-fill personal information
  4. Complete the application — Provide your SIN (optional), income, employment details, and address
  5. Submit — RBC runs a hard credit inquiry; most applicants get an instant decision

Required Information

FieldDetails
Legal name and date of birthAs on your government ID
SIN (optional)Speeds up the credit check; not mandatory
Annual incomeTotal gross income from all sources
Employment statusEmployed, self-employed, retired, student
Employer name and length of employmentFor employed applicants
Current addressAnd time at address; prior address if less than 2 years
Monthly housing paymentRent or mortgage

RBC Client vs. Non-RBC Client

Existing RBC clients applying through RBC Online Banking or the RBC Mobile app benefit from pre-filled fields and faster processing. RBC may also pre-approve existing clients based on their banking relationship — check the “Offers” section in the app before applying.

Non-RBC clients can apply at rbc.com without an RBC bank account. You’ll enter all information manually.

Income Requirements Quick Reference

Card TierPersonal IncomeHousehold Income
Visa Infinite (Avion Infinite, British Airways)$60,000$100,000
World Elite Mastercard (WestJet, Cash Back WE)$80,000$150,000
Visa Infinite Privilege (Avion Privilege)$200,000$200,000
All other cards (Ion Plus, Platinum, no-fee)NoneNone

See RBC Credit Card Income Requirements for the full table.

After You Apply

OutcomeTimingNext Step
Approved — instantImmediateCard mailed; arrives in 7–10 business days
Pending — review1–3 business daysRBC may call or email for more information
DeclinedImmediate or 1–3 daysConsider a lower-tier RBC card

If declined, you can call RBC at 1-800-769-2512 to ask whether additional documentation would result in reconsideration.

Tips for a Successful Application

  • Check your credit score first — Free via Borrowell (Equifax) or Credit Karma (TransUnion). Target 700+ for Visa Infinite / World Elite cards.
  • Apply during a welcome bonus promotion — RBC runs elevated welcome offers seasonally
  • Space out your applications — Don’t apply for multiple cards within 3–6 months
  • Have your NOA or pay stubs ready — High-limit cards may require income verification

Process current as of June 2026. RBC may update its application process at any time. See our Advertiser Disclosure.