Royal Bank of Canada (RBC) is one of the largest and most reputable banks in Canada, with a rich history dating back to 1864. As a global financial institution, RBC provides a wide range of banking services, including personal and commercial banking, wealth management, insurance, and investment banking.
One of the key offerings of RBC is its credit card services, which include both Visa and Mastercard options. Visa and Mastercard are two of the most widely accepted payment networks globally, providing customers with convenience and accessibility in making everyday purchases pay bills both domestically and internationally.
However, for this article review, we will focus specifically on RBC's Visa cards, exploring their features, benefits, and how they compare to other Canadian credit card options in the market.
Key Features
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Competitive Interest Rates. RBC Visa cards offer competitive interest rates on both purchases and cash advances, ensuring financial flexibility for cardholders.
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Avion Points Rewards. Certain RBC Visa cards, like the RBC Avion Visa Infinite and RBC Avion Visa Platinum, allow you to earn Avion points, which can be redeemed for flights within Canada and the U.S., with no blackout dates or airline restrictions.
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Welcome Bonuses and Rewards. Select RBC Visa cards, such as the RBC ION+ Visa and moi RBC Visa, provide welcome bonuses and rewards on everyday spending categories like groceries, dining, and gas, enhancing the value for cardholders.
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Partner Integrations. RBC Visa cards offer various partner integrations, allowing cardholders to earn additional points or benefits at participating retailers, making each purchase more rewarding.
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Insurance Coverage. All RBC Visa cards come with standard insurance coverage, including purchase security and extended warranty protection. Higher-tier Visa cards from RBC offer additional insurance benefits such as travel insurance, rental car insurance, and emergency medical coverage.
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Exclusive Benefits. Premium RBC Visa credit cards provide exclusive benefits, including access to Visa's travel rewards program, discounts on subscription services, and access to airport lounges through Visa's travel program.
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Security Features. For added security, RBC Visa cardholders can easily lock their cards through the RBC Mobile app if they misplace their cards, providing peace of mind in case of loss or theft.
Visa Cards offered by RBC
RBC Avion Visa Infinite. With 35,000 Avion rewards points, you can secure a roundtrip flight to almost anywhere in Canada and the U.S., with flexibility on airlines and travel times, and even one-way flights starting at just 7,500 Avion points. Сard requires a minimum personal income of $60,000 or a minimum household income of $100,000.
RBC ION+ Visa. Offering 3,500 Welcome Points and an additional 3,500 bonus points upon spending $500 in the first 3 months, this card rewards 3X Avion points on various everyday categories like groceries, gas, dining, and streaming.
RBC ION Visa. Enjoy 3,500 Avion welcome rewards points upon approval, along with earning 1.5X Avion points on purchases including groceries, gas, and streaming, all with no annual fee.
moi RBC Visa. Receive 3,000 welcome Moi points upon your first purchase, and earn double Moi points on dining, gas, and more at select retailers, all with no annual fee.
RBC Visa Classic Low Rate Option. This card offers a low interest rate on grocery store purchases and cash advances, along with purchase security and extended warranty insurance, all at a low annual fee.
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege. A luxury travel credit card offering up to 70,000 Avion points as a limited-time offer, along with exclusive travel benefits and privileges. Сard requires a minimum personal income of $200,000 or a minimum household income of $200,000.
RBC Avion Visa Platinum. Similar to the Infinite version, this card offers 35,000 Avion points for a roundtrip flight within Canada and the U.S., with no blackout dates and flexible flight options.
RBC Visa Platinum. This card comes with no annual fee and premium insurance coverage for car rentals, travel, and eligible purchases, along with emergency travel assistance.
RBC RateAdvantage Visa. Offering a low variable interest rate and no annual fee, this card also includes purchase security and extended warranty insurance.
RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold. Designed for transactions in U.S. funds, this card earns Avion points for every U.S. dollar spent, along with extensive insurance coverage.
RBC British Airways Visa Infinite: Receive up to 60,000 bonus Avios, earn Avios on various spending categories, and receive a Companion Award eVoucher with this card.
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Business. Offering 35,000 Avion points and no annual fee for the first year, along with premium insurance and rewards for business spending.
RBC Avion Visa Business. Similar to the Business Infinite version, this card offers no annual fee for the first year, along with Avion points for business spending and no blackout periods.
RBC Visa Business. This flexible and affordable card for businesses comes with a low annual fee and convenient ATM access for account management.
RBC Visa CreditLine for Small Business. Earn Avion points on spending, benefit from a low competitive interest rate, and enjoy no annual fee with this card designed for small businesses.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Versatile Rewards: RBC Visa cards offer diverse rewards programs, including Avion points for travel, cash back, and other redemption options, catering to different spending habits and preferences.
Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: All RBC Visa cards come with standard insurance coverage, providing peace of mind for cardholders with features like purchase security extended warranty protection, and more extensive coverage options for premium cards.
Flexible Partner Integrations: RBC Visa cards offer partnerships with various retailers and service providers, allowing cardholders to earn additional points or receive exclusive benefits when making purchases, enhancing the overall value of the card.
Security Features: Similar to Mastercard, RBC Visa cards offer security features such as the ability to lock the card through the RBC Mobile app if misplaced, ensuring protection against unauthorized use.
Cons
Limited Card Selection: Compared to Mastercard, RBC Visa cards might have a narrower selection of options, potentially limiting the range of benefits and rewards available to cardholders.
High Income Requirements for Premium Cards: Some premium RBC Visa cards may have steep minimum annual income requirements, making them less accessible to individuals who do not meet these criteria.
How to Choose an RBC Visa Card
Identify Your Spending Habits. Begin by analyzing your typical monthly expenses. Use the compare function on the RBC website to view the rewards and benefits offered by different RBC Visa cards and see which ones align with your spending habits.
Consider Your Rewards Preferences. Explore the various rewards programs available through RBC Visa cards, such as travel rewards, cash back, or points-based systems. Use the comparison tool to evaluate which cards offer the most appealing rewards for your lifestyle.
Evaluate Annual Fees and Interest Rates. Utilize the compare function to view the annual fees and interest rates associated with each card side by side. This allows you to assess whether the benefits outweigh the costs and make an informed decision based on your budget.
Review Welcome Bonuses and Promotions. Take advantage of the comparison tool to compare the welcome bonuses and promotional offers available with different RBC Visa cards. This helps you identify cards with enticing introductory rewards that add immediate value.
Examine Additional Card Benefits. Use the compare function to explore the additional benefits provided by each RBC Visa card, such as insurance coverage, purchase protection, and travel perks. This allows you to prioritize cards that offer the most valuable extras for your needs.
Check for Partner Integrations. Utilize the comparison tool to review any partnerships or collaborations associated with RBC Visa cards, such as exclusive discounts or rewards with partner retailers or airlines. This helps you choose cards that offer additional perks aligned with your interests.
Assess Redemption Flexibility. Compare the redemption options available with each RBC Visa card using the website's compare function. Look for cards that provide flexible redemption choices, such as booking travel, redeeming for statement credits, or accessing unique experiences.
Use "Compare Credit Cards" option. Utilize the compare function on the bank website to add up to three RBC Visa cards side by side, allowing for a comprehensive comparison of their features, rewards, fees, and benefits. This enables you to make a detailed assessment and select the card that best suits your financial needs and preferences.
Read Reviews and Compare Options. After narrowing down your choices, read customer reviews and compare the final contenders using the compare function on the RBC website. This allows you to make a well-informed decision based on real user experiences and comprehensive card comparisons.
Consult with an RBC Advisor. If you require further assistance or personalized guidance, schedule a consultation with an RBC advisor. They can offer expert advice tailored to your financial situation and help you choose the ideal RBC Visa card to meet your needs.
How to Apply for an RBC Visa Credit Card
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Visit the RBC Website. Start by visiting the official website of RBC (Royal Bank of Canada) using your preferred web browser.
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Navigate to Credit Cards. Locate the "Credit Cards" section on the RBC website. It is located on the top part of the screen.
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View All Credit Cards. Once you're in the credit cards section, you'll find an option to "View All Credit Cards". Click on this option to see the full range of credit cards offered by RBC.
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Choose Your Desired Card. Browse through the available RBC Visa cards and choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences based on features, rewards, benefits, and annual fees.
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Click "Apply Now". Underneath the details of each card, you'll find a button labeled "Apply Now". Click on this button corresponding to the RBC Visa card you've selected.
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Fill Out the Application Form. After clicking "Apply Now," you'll be redirected to a secure application form. Here, you'll need to provide personal information such as your name, address, date of birth, contact details, employment information, and financial details.
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Review and Submit Your Application. Carefully review all the information you've entered to ensure its accuracy. Double-check that you've provided all the required details. Once you're satisfied, submit your application by clicking the "Submit" or "Apply" button.
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Wait for Approval. After submitting your application, RBC will review your information and conduct a credit check. If approved, you'll receive notification of your approval status and further instructions on card activation and delivery.
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Activate Your Card. Upon approval, follow the instructions provided by RBC to activate your new RBC Visa card. This typically involves logging into your online banking account or calling a designated phone number.
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Start Using Your Card. Once activated, your new RBC Visa card is ready to use. You can start making purchases, earning rewards, and enjoying the benefits offered by your chosen card.
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Apply Through the Mobile App. In addition to applying through the website, you can also apply for an RBC Visa card through the RBC Mobile App. Simply select "More" in the bottom navigation, then under "Products" select "Open an account" and choose "Credit Cards." From there, select the card you want and tap "Apply Now."
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Apply Through Calls. If you prefer to apply by phone, you can call +1 (800) 769-25-12 to speak with an RBC Advisor who will assist you in finding the right card and guide you through the application process.
Eligibility Requirements
Minimum Age. In most countries, including the United States and Canada, you must be at least 18 years old to apply for a credit card. Some issuers may require you to be older, such as 21 years old, for certain types of cards.
Residency Status. You typically need to be a resident of the country where you're applying for the credit card. This may require providing proof of address, such as a utility bill or lease agreement, during the application process.
Income. Credit card issuers often have minimum income requirements to ensure that applicants have the means to repay their credit card debt. The specific income threshold can vary depending on the card and issuer.
Credit History. Your credit history plays a significant role in determining your eligibility for a credit card. Issuers will check your credit report to assess your creditworthiness, including factors such as your payment history, credit utilization, length of credit history, and any negative marks like bankruptcies or late payments.
Credit Score. Your credit score is a numerical representation of your creditworthiness, based on the information in your credit report. While each issuer may have different score requirements, generally, a higher credit score increases your chances of approval and may qualify you for better terms and rewards.
Debt-to-Income Ratio. Credit card issuers may also consider your debt-to-income ratio, which is the ratio of your monthly debt payments to your gross monthly income. A lower debt-to-income ratio indicates that you have more disposable income available to handle additional debt, making you a lower risk to lenders.
Employment Status. While not always a strict requirement, having stable employment or a regular source of income can improve your chances of being approved for a credit card. Some issuers may ask for information about your employment status and income during the application process.
Legal Capacity. You must have the legal capacity to enter into a contract, which typically means you cannot be under guardianship or have legal restrictions that would prevent you from taking on debt.
Reasons You May Be Denied an RBC Visa Card
If you have limited or no credit history, it can be challenging for credit card issuers to assess your creditworthiness. Without a track record of responsible credit use, they may hesitate to approve your application.
Your credit score is a key factor in determining your creditworthiness. If your credit score is below the issuer's minimum threshold, you may be denied an RBC Visa card. Factors such as missed payments, high credit utilization, and derogatory marks on your credit report can negatively impact your score.
Credit card issuers consider your debt-to-income ratio when evaluating your application. If your monthly debt obligations are high relative to your income, it may indicate that you're at risk of being overextended financially, leading to a denial.
Multiple recent credit inquiries or a history of applying for multiple credit cards in a short period can raise red flags for issuers. It may suggest to them that you're in desperate need of credit, which could be a sign of financial instability.
Credit card issuers typically have minimum income requirements for card approval. If your income doesn't meet the issuer's criteria for the card you're applying for, you may be denied.
Past credit problems, such as bankruptcy, foreclosure, or accounts in collections, can significantly impact your creditworthiness and lead to a denial of your application.
Mistakes or inaccuracies on your credit report could negatively affect your credit score and lead to a denial. It's essential to review your credit report regularly and dispute any errors you find.
Providing incomplete or inaccurate information on your credit card application can result in a denial. Make sure to double-check all the information you provide to ensure its accuracy.
Having too many open credit accounts can signal to issuers that you already have access to a significant amount of credit, making them hesitant to extend additional credit to you.
If you have a history of frequent job changes or periods of unemployment, it may raise concerns for credit card issuers about your ability to repay debt.
How to Pay Off My RBC Visa Card Debt
Log in to your RBC Online Banking account and navigate to the section where you can manage your credit card. From there, you can make a payment directly from your bank account to your RBC Visa card.
If you prefer managing your finances on the go, you can use the RBC Mobile app to make a payment towards your RBC Visa card. Simply open the app, navigate to your credit card account, and follow the prompts to make a payment.
Set up automated payments through RBC Online Banking or the RBC Mobile app to ensure your RBC Visa card payment is made on time each month. This option allows you to schedule recurring payments, providing peace of mind and helping you avoid late fees.
Call the RBC customer service number and follow the prompts to make a payment towards your RBC Visa card over the phone. You may be asked to provide your card details and banking information to complete the payment.
If you prefer traditional methods, you can mail a cheque or money order along with your payment stub to the address provided on your RBC Visa card statement. Make sure to allow sufficient time for the payment to reach RBC and be processed before the due date.
Visit your nearest RBC branch and speak with a representative at the banking counter. You can make a payment towards your RBC Visa card using cash, cheque, or debit card. Remember to bring your RBC Visa card or account details for reference.
Some RBC ATMs allow you to make credit card payments directly at the machine. Insert your RBC Visa card and follow the on-screen instructions to initiate a payment transaction.
Editorial Opinion
Additional Resources
- Royal Bank of Canada Review
- Royal Bank of Canada Account Review
- How to PayOff Royal Bank of Canada
- Royal Bank of Canada Mobile App