Compare the Best RBC Credit Cards
RBC offers one of the most complete credit card portfolios in Canada, from flexible Avion travel rewards to straightforward cash back and co-branded airline cards. But with so many options, choosing the right one can feel overwhelming.
We compare RBC credit cards based on earn rates, redemption flexibility, fees, insurance coverage, and real-world value so you can select the best fit for your spending and financial goals.
Table of content
Top RBC Credit Cards in Canada: Quick Overview
| Category | First year value | Score | Winner | Card | Learn more |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Overall | $1,571 | 4.5 | RBC Avion Visa Infinite |  | |
| Best Travel | $266 | 4.3 | WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ |  | |
| Best Cash Back | $306 | 4.2 | RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard |  | |
| Best No-Fee | $491 | 3.9 | RBC IONᵀᴹ Visa |  | |
| Best for Students | $1,514 | 3.8 | RBC ION + Visa Card |  |
Best Overall RBC Credit Card
For versatile everyday use, the best overall rbc credit card should balance strong earning potential with flexible redemption options and valuable additional benefits.
This category winner excels across multiple spending categories while providing travel flexibility and comprehensive insurance coverage that appeals to a broad range of Canadian cardholders.
Winner: RBC Avion® Visa Infinite
The RBC Avion Visa Infinite offers 1 Avion point per dollar on all purchases and 1.25 points per dollar on travel.
It includes a welcome bonus of about 35,000 points (can vary depending on current promotions), typically worth up to $750 in short-haul flights via the Avion flight grid or partner transfers.
The RBC Avion Visa Infinite requires a minimum personal income of $60,000 or household income of $100,000.
Points can be redeemed through the Avion booking portal for any airline or transferred 1:1 to programs such as Avios, AAdvantage, and Asia Miles.
The $120 annual fee is offset by flexibility and travel value.
Cardholders enjoy out-of-province medical, trip cancellation, flight delay, baggage, and car rental coverage, plus Visa Infinite concierge and partner perks.
RBC Avion Visa Infinite
A flexible premium travel card that delivers strong everyday earn rates, valuable airline-agnostic Avion points, and comprehensive insurance for frequent Canadian travellers.
Why it wins:
Flexible Avion points, strong insurance coverage, and partner transfers make it a top everyday travel and lifestyle card for Canadians.
Best for:
Users seeking all-around value and airline flexibility.
Not ideal if:
You prioritize 0% FX or fly exclusively WestJet.
Alternatives to compare:
- RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege (Metal): Higher bonus and premium perks for frequent travelers.
- Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite: 0% FX and lounge access for international trips.
RBC Avion Visa Infinite – RBC
Estimated rewards for the first year*
RBC Avion Visa Infinite – RBC
Estimated rewards for subsequent years*
Best RBC Travel Credit Card
Travel-focused cards prioritize earning on flights, hotels, and vacation purchases while providing valuable travel-specific benefits like companion vouchers, free checked bags, and comprehensive trip insurance.
The category winner should deliver strong value for Canadian travelers who fly domestically or internationally on a regular basis.
Winner: WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard
The WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard earns 2 WestJet dollars per dollar on WestJet flights and vacations and 1.5 per dollar elsewhere.
The $119 annual fee is offset by a welcome bonus of up to 45,000 WestJet dollars (around $450 in value) depending on current promotions.
Perks include an annual round-trip companion voucher that starts at $119 for Canada and the continental U.S. or $399 for the rest of WestJet’s network, plus the first checked bag free for you and up to eight guests on the same reservation.
WestJet points can be redeemed toward WestJet flights and vacation packages, and can now be applied to taxes and fees when booking through WestJet.
WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡
A high-value airline card offering strong earn rates, a powerful annual companion voucher, and free checked bags for Canadians who regularly fly WestJet.
Why it wins:
Direct value for WestJet travelers through the companion voucher, free checked bags, and solid travel insurance.
Best for:
Families or couples flying WestJet a few times per year.
Not ideal if:
You prefer flexible points and partner transfers.
Alternatives to compare:
- RBC Avion Visa Infinite: Flexible airline redemptions and transfer bonuses.
- RBC British Airways Visa Infinite: Earn Avios and annual companion vouchers.
WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ – RBC
Estimated rewards for the first year*
WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ – RBC
Estimated rewards for subsequent years*
Best RBC Cash Back Credit Card
Cash back simplicity appeals to cardholders who prefer straightforward rewards without redemption complexity.
The best cash back option should provide competitive earning rates across broad spending categories while minimizing restrictions and offering valuable additional benefits that justify any annual fee.
Winner: RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard
The RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard earns 1.5 percent cash back on the first $25,000 in annual purchases, then 1 percent thereafter.
The annual fee is $99. Cash back accumulates automatically and can be redeemed once your balance reaches $25 or is paid out automatically in January.
The card is a Mastercard, so it can be used at Costco warehouses in Canada.
It also includes Mastercard Travel Pass by DragonPass membership, with lounge visits charged per use.
It includes mobile device insurance, extended warranty, purchase protection, and access to DragonPass membership (visits paid per use).
RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard
A straightforward cash back card offering a strong flat 1.5% return, broad acceptance, and useful insurance benefits for Canadians who want simple, reliable rewards.
Why it wins:
Simple, unlimited 1.5% cash back and strong insurance protection make it ideal for consistent high spenders.
Best for:
Canadians who want a set-and-forget cash back card.
Not ideal if:
Your spending is concentrated in grocery or category-based cards.
Alternatives to compare:
- RBC ION+ Visa: Low-fee option with 3x Avion on many everyday categories.
- RBC Cash Back Mastercard (No Fee): Simpler starter card with lower rates.
RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard – RBC
Estimated rewards for the first year*
RBC Cash Back Preferred World Elite Mastercard – RBC
Estimated rewards for subsequent years*
Best No-Fee RBC Credit Card
No annual fee cards serve budget-conscious consumers, newcomers to Canada, and anyone building credit history without wanting to commit to ongoing costs.
The best no-fee option should still provide meaningful rewards and useful benefits while maintaining accessible approval standards.
Winner: RBC ION® Visa
The RBC ION Visa earns 1.5x Avion points on groceries, travel, gas, EV charging, streaming, and subscriptions, and 1x on all other purchases.
It includes mobile device insurance, Petro-Canada fuel savings, and access to Avion Rewards for travel or merchandise.
The card has no annual fee, and welcome bonuses often include around 7,000 Avion points.
RBC IONᵀᴹ Visa
A versatile no-fee rewards card that delivers 1.5x points on key everyday categories plus useful digital perks, making it an easy choice for budget-minded Canadians.
Why it wins:
Broad category coverage, no annual fee, and modern digital perks make it RBC’s most accessible rewards card.
Best for:
Users building credit who want flexible points without paying fees.
Not ideal if:
You prefer cash back simplicity or premium travel perks.
Alternatives to compare:
- RBC Visa / More Rewards RBC Visa: Best for grocery loyalty programs.
- RBC Cash Back Mastercard: Simple 1% earn rate with $0 fee.
RBC IONᵀᴹ Visa – RBC
Estimated rewards for the first year*
RBC IONᵀᴹ Visa – RBC
Estimated rewards for subsequent years*
Best RBC Student Credit Card
Students need credit cards that accommodate limited income while providing relevant rewards and features that support their lifestyle.
The best student card should offer accessible approval, meaningful rewards on student-typical spending, and benefits that add value during the school years.
Winner: RBC ION+ Visa
The RBC ION+ Visa earns 3x Avion points on everyday categories including groceries and dining, food delivery, rides and local transit, gas and EV charging, and select digital categories such as streaming and eligible digital gaming and subscriptions.
You earn 1x on other purchases.
The annual fee is $48; students or clients 24 and under may qualify to have this fee rebated when they hold eligible RBC student banking.
Cardholders also get mobile device insurance and Petro-Canada fuel discounts.
RBC ION + Visa Card
A high-earning student rewards card that delivers 3x points on everyday spending plus useful perks, with an annual fee that’s often rebated for eligible students.
Why it wins:
Excellent earning potential on real-world student spending categories with accessible approval standards.
Best for:
Students or early-career users who want strong everyday rewards.
Not ideal if:
You prefer a completely free starter card.
Alternatives to compare:
- RBC ION Visa: No annual fee and lower earn rate for light spenders.
- RBC Cash Back Mastercard: Straightforward rewards and no fee.
RBC ION + Visa Card – RBC
Estimated rewards for the first year*
RBC ION + Visa Card – RBC
Estimated rewards for subsequent years*
RBC Credit Card Basics
As one of Canada’s leading banks, RBC offers a diverse range of credit cards designed to suit different lifestyles and financial goals.
The Avion Rewards program serves as its flagship, providing flexible travel redemption options and valuable airline transfer partnerships.
Cash back cards deliver simple, transparent value, while co-branded options like WestJet and Petro-Canada cater to travelers and everyday drivers seeking targeted rewards.
All RBC cards integrate seamlessly with RBC Online Banking and the RBC Mobile app, making it easy to manage accounts, track rewards, and process payments.
Premium cards also feature comprehensive insurance coverage through RBC Insurance and partners such as Aviva General Insurance Company, offering protection and benefits that often justify their annual fees for frequent travelers.
RBC Rewards Programs Explained
RBC offers several rewards programs, each designed for different spending habits and redemption preferences.
Avion Rewards serves as the flagship travel program, allowing flexible redemptions on any airline with no blackout dates and point transfers to partners like British Airways and American Airlines. Strategic redemptions often yield strong travel value, especially during transfer promotions.
RBC Rewards offers a simpler system focused on merchandise, gift cards, and statement credits, ideal for users who prefer easy, non-travel options.
Cash Back Cards provide instant value by depositing rewards directly to your statement or savings account without point management.
Co-branded Programs, such as WestJet and Petro-Canada, earn partner-specific rewards with fixed redemption values, offering strong returns for loyal users within those ecosystems.
How to Choose the Right RBC Credit Card
Choosing the best RBC credit card depends on your lifestyle, spending patterns, and financial priorities.
Understanding where and how you spend helps determine which card offers the highest long-term value.
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Assess Your Spending Habits
Track your monthly expenses for a few months to see where you spend most consistentlyé
This helps you decide whether a category-based rewards card or a flat-rate option delivers more value over time.
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Match Your Travel Style
Frequent travelers benefit most from Avion cards, which offer flexible points and transfer options to major airlines. Occasional travelers or families who fly within Canada may find better value with the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard, thanks to perks like free checked bags and annual companion vouchers.
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Evaluate Annual Fees and Value
Weigh annual fees against the rewards and benefits you’ll actually use. Calculate whether the card’s rewards, bonuses, and insurance coverage exceed the cost of the fee, especially after the first year.
-
Review Insurance Coverage
RBC’s premium cards include travel medical, trip cancellation, and purchase protection, often worth hundreds per year. Compare this coverage to what you already have through work or other cards to avoid overlap and maximize value.
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Check Eligibility Requirements
Higher-tier RBC cards typically require strong credit and higher income, while entry-level cards provide accessible approval for newer credit users. Choose a card that aligns with both your financial profile and lifestyle goals.
What to Consider Before Applying
Before applying for an RBC credit card, evaluate key factors to ensure the card aligns with your financial habits and delivers real value.
Choose a card whose bonus categories match your actual spending habits to ensure you earn meaningful rewards.
Review spending requirements and deadlines for promotional bonuses, and only apply when you can meet them through normal expenses.
Compare the annual fee against the benefits you will actually use, such as insurance, travel perks, or concierge access.
Understand how rewards are redeemed, balancing the flexibility of Avion points with the simplicity of cash back or co-branded programs.
Check that your credit score and income meet the card’s criteria before applying to avoid unnecessary credit inquiries.
If you travel or shop internationally, consider pairing your RBC card with a no-FX option to avoid the 2.5% surcharge on foreign purchases.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- ✅ Extensive rewards flexibility through Avion points transfers and varied redemption options.
- ✅ Comprehensive insurance coverage on premium cards comparable to standalone travel policies.
- ✅ Strong partnership ecosystem with Petro-Points and WestJet Rewards integration.
- ✅ Competitive welcome bonuses, often worth up to 55,000 Avion points or equivalent.
- ✅ Reliable customer service through RBC’s branch network and mobile app integration.
Cons
- ❌ Higher minimum income requirements for premium cards than some competitors.
- ❌ Standard foreign transaction fees apply on most cards, reducing value for international spending.
- ❌ Earning caps and category limits can restrict rewards for high spenders.
- ❌ Annual fees on mid- and premium-tier cards may outweigh benefits for infrequent users.
- ❌ Fewer no-fee card options compared to some credit unions and alternative lenders.
RBC Versus Other Major Canadian Banks
RBC competes directly with TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC, and National Bank across most credit card categories. Each bank has developed unique strengths, but RBC’s flexibility through Avion Rewards and its exclusive WestJet partnership make it a strong contender for travelers seeking versatile rewards and premium benefits.
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RBC vs. TD Bank
TD focuses on Aeroplan partnerships that appeal to frequent Air Canada flyers. RBC’s Avion Rewards, by contrast, offer broader airline flexibility without tying users to a single carrier, making them ideal for travelers who value choice over loyalty.
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RBC vs. Scotiabank
Scotiabank’s Scene + program targets entertainment and lifestyle spending, while RBC emphasizes travel versatility and stronger insurance coverage. RBC typically provides more robust premium benefits, especially for frequent travelers.
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RBC vs. BMO
BMO Rewards delivers competitive travel redemption options similar to Avion, but RBC’s integration with WestJet Rewards gives it a distinct advantage for domestic flyers. RBC’s higher-tier cards also tend to offer more comprehensive insurance protection.
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RBC vs. CIBC
CIBC’s Aeroplan lineup mirrors TD’s, offering excellent value for Air Canada loyalists. RBC, however, provides greater flexibility through its transfer partners and redemption options across multiple airlines, appealing to users who prefer independence from specific carriers.
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RBC vs. National Bank
National Bank performs strongly in the cashback segment with competitive rates and flexible redemption. RBC, while slightly behind on raw cashback percentages, offers superior digital integration and broader service coverage through its nationwide branch and mobile banking network.
Frequently Asked Questions about RBC Credit Cards
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What credit score do I need for RBC credit cards?
No-fee cards like the RBC ION typically accept fair credit scores (600+), while premium options such as the preferred world elite mastercard require excellent credit (750+). Student cards offer more flexible approval for limited credit histories.
-
How do RBC Avion points compare to other travel programs?
Avion points typically value at 1-1.5¢ when redeemed for travel, comparable to Aeroplan and other major programs. The advantage lies in airline flexibility: you can book any carrier without restrictions or transfer to partners like British Airways Avios for specific route optimization.
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Can I have multiple RBC credit cards at once?
Yes, RBC generally allows multiple cards per customer, enabling strategies like pairing a travel rewards card with a cash back option for different spending categories. Each application undergoes separate underwriting based on your overall credit profile.
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What’s the difference between RBC Rewards and Avion points?
Avion points focus on travel redemptions with airline transfers and flight booking flexibility, typically offering higher per-point values. RBC Rewards emphasizes merchandise, gift cards, and statement credits with simpler redemption but generally lower values.
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How do RBC cash back rates compare to other banks?
RBC’s flat 1.5% unlimited rate through the Cash Back Preferred competes well with most major banks, though some credit unions and specialized cards offer higher rates in specific categories. The World Elite benefits and insurance coverage often differentiate RBC’s offerings.
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Do RBC credit cards have foreign transaction fees?
Most RBC cards charge standard 2.5% foreign transaction fees. Users with significant international spending should consider pairing RBC cards with dedicated no-FX options or factor these costs into their value calculations.
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How long do RBC credit card applications take to process?
Online applications typically receive instant or same-day decisions for existing RBC customers with established credit profiles. New customers or complex applications may require 7-10 business days for manual review and verification.
Final Thoughts
RBC’s credit card lineup stands out for its flexibility, reliability, and strong integration across the bank’s broader financial ecosystem.
With a range of cards covering travel, cash back, business, and student needs, RBC offers options suited to nearly every spending profile.
While annual fees and income requirements can be higher than average, the combination of comprehensive insurance coverage, premium perks, and nationwide service access makes RBC cards a strong choice for Canadians who value convenience and quality.
For those who plan their spending strategically and take advantage of rewards, RBC delivers long-term value and dependable performance in a competitive credit card market.
Mathieu Laliberte-Robert
Mathieu is a finance and digital marketing professional with experience across banking, investment services, and financial product marketing. He previously worked with organizations such as National Bank, Manulife Securities, and Accenture. He is part of the leadership team at Hardbacon, where he contributes to editorial strategy and financial content aimed at helping Canadians make informed decisions.
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