How to Take a Credit Card in India – Step-by-Step Guide (With Real Life Example)

A credit card can be a very useful financial tool if used correctly. It helps in emergencies, online shopping, travel bookings, and also improves your credit score. Many people think credit cards are only for high-salary earners, but that’s not true.
Let’s understand how to take a credit card, from where to apply, and see a real-life example of a person earning ₹25,000 per month.
What Is a Credit Card?
A credit card allows you to borrow money from a bank up to a fixed limit and repay it later. If you repay the full amount before the due date, no interest is charged.
Who Is Eligible for a Credit Card in India?
Basic eligibility criteria (may vary by bank):
Age: 21–60 years
Monthly salary: ₹15,000–₹25,000 (for entry-level cards)
Employment: Salaried or self-employed
Documents:
Aadhaar Card
PAN Card
Salary slips (last 1–3 months)
Bank statement
From Where Can You Get a Credit Card?

  1. Your Salary Account Bank (Best Option)
    If your salary is credited to a private bank, approval is easier.
    Popular private banks:
    HDFC Bank
    ICICI Bank
    Axis Bank
    Kotak Mahindra Bank
    IndusInd Bank
  2. Online Bank Websites
    You can apply directly on official bank websites.
  3. Bank Branch
    Visit the nearest branch and apply with documents.
  4. Through Bank Executives (Be Careful)
    Always verify the bank name and never share OTP or card details.
    Real Life Example: Salary ₹25,000 (Private Bank Employee)
    Profile:
    Name: Rahul Sharma
    Age: 27 years
    Job: Customer Service Executive
    Employer: Private company
    Monthly Salary: ₹25,000
    Salary Account: ICICI Bank
    Credit Score: No previous credit history
    What Rahul Did:
    Rahul visited his salary account bank (ICICI)
    He applied for an entry-level credit card
    Submitted:
    PAN Card
    Aadhaar Card
    Last 3 months salary slips
    Bank verified his details
    Result:
    Credit Card Approved in 7 days
    Credit Limit: ₹40,000
    Card Type: Entry-level / Basic Card
    👉 Even without previous credit history, Rahul got a credit card because:
    He had a stable salary
    Salary account was in a private bank
    Best Credit Cards for ₹25,000 Salary (Beginner Friendly)
    ICICI Platinum Credit Card
    HDFC MoneyBack Credit Card
    Axis Bank My Zone
    Kotak 811 Credit Card
    SBI SimplySAVE (if eligible)
    Important Tips Before Taking a Credit Card
    Always pay full bill before due date
    Avoid withdrawing cash from credit card
    Don’t use more than 30–40% of credit limit
    One credit card is enough for beginners
    Late payment affects your CIBIL score badly
    If Your Application Gets Rejected, What to Do?
    Apply through your salary account bank
    Build credit using:
    Secured credit card (FD-based)
    Buy Now Pay Later options
    Reapply after 3–6 months
    Final Words
    A person earning ₹25,000 per month in a private job can easily get a credit card if applied smartly. Start with a basic card, use it responsibly, and over time you’ll get higher limits and better cards.
    Used wisely, a credit card is a financial support tool, not a burden.

Leave a Comment