Canara Bank Mastercard Gold Secured Credit Card Review
Author And Publisher: Gyro 3.oCanara Bank Mastercard Gold Secured Credit Card

Financial Expert Advice
Choose Your First (or Next) Credit Card Wisely
"Limit yourself to holding two credit cards A/C—one for daily expenses and auto-debits, and another reserved for emergencies.
Avoid chasing cashback, miles, rewards or Investments, as this can distract from sound financial management;
and lead to unnecessary debt. Focus on stability & discipline."
Canara Bank Mastercard Gold Secured Credit Card Review
Introduction
The Canara Bank Mastercard Gold Secured Credit Card is designed for individuals looking to build or rebuild their credit history. This secured card requires a Fixed Deposit (FD) as collateral, making it accessible to those with limited credit history or low credit scores. As a lifetime free card with comprehensive benefits, it serves as an excellent entry point into the world of credit cards.
Key Features and Benefits
No Annual or Joining Fees
The card comes with zero joining fees, annual fees, and enrollment fees, making it truly lifetime free. This is particularly attractive for first-time credit card users who want to avoid recurring charges.
Interest-Free Credit Period
Cardholders enjoy up to 50 days of interest-free credit on purchases, provided the total outstanding amount is paid by the due date. This grace period applies to all purchase transactions but not to cash advances.
Global Acceptance
With Mastercard network backing, the card offers domestic and international acceptance, allowing users to make transactions worldwide.
Digital Integration
The card integrates with Canara ai1 app for easy EMI conversions, allowing users to convert purchases above Rs. 5,000 into manageable installments.
Rewards Program
Each point is valued at Rs. 0.25
Points are valid for 3 years from the date of accrual
Minimum redemption of 1,000 points for cashback
Redemption through www.canararewardz.com for merchandise, vouchers, or cashback
Note: Cash withdrawals, fuel transactions, and EMI transactions do not earn reward points.
Insurance Coverage (CANCARE Policy)
Air Accident: Rs. 8,00,000 (Self), Rs. 4,00,000 (Spouse)
Other Accidents: Rs. 4,00,000 (Self), Rs. 2,00,000 (Spouse)
Purchase Protection Cover: Upto ₹25,000/-
Baggage Insurance: Upto ₹25,000/-
Fraudulent Charge Cover: ₹5,00,000/-
Fees and Charges
Core Charges
Joining Fee: NIL
Annual Fee: NIL
Inactivity Fee: Rs. 150 (only if annual spending is below Rs. 25,000)
Transaction Charges
Cash Withdrawal: 3% of transaction amount (minimum Rs. 150 per Rs. 1,000 withdrawn)
Foreign Currency Markup: Up to 3% on international transactions
Late Payment Fee: Rs. 250 + GST
Card Replacement: Rs. 300 per card
Interest Rates
Secured Cards: 2.50% per month (30% per annum)
EMI Interest: 13% p.a. for 3-9 months, 14% p.a. for 12-24 monthscanarabank
EMI Processing Fee: 2% of transaction amount (Min: Rs. 100, Max: Rs. 200)
Struggling to keep up with mounting credit card bills?
Card Essential
Type | Reward Points |
Welcome Benefits | N/A |
Annual Fee | N/A |
Reward Structure | Rewards On SPENDS |
Renewal Benefit | n/a |
Eligibility Criteria
Basic Requirements
No Income Requirements
- Unlike regular credit cards, secured cards don't require minimum income proof, making them accessible to students, homemakers, and those with irregular income.
Pros and Cons
Advantages
Disadvantages
- No annual or joining fees - Truly lifetime free
- Easy approval process - Secured against FD reduces bank's risk
- Credit building opportunity - Helps establish/improve credit history
- Comprehensive insurance - Substantial accident and fraud coverage
- 50-day interest-free period - Good for managing cash flow
- Global acceptance - Can be used internationally
- Reward points program - Earn on every eligible transaction
- Capital locked in FD - 75% of deposit amount unavailable for other investments
- credit limits - Restricted by FD amount
- Limited premium features - No lounge access or premium perks
- High cash advance charges - 3% fee plus interest from transaction date
Ideal User Profile
Ideal Candidates
- Credit beginners looking to establish credit history
- Individuals with low CIBIL scores needing credit rehabilitation
- Students and young professionals starting their financial journey
- Those seeking a backup card without annual fees
- Conservative users who prefer debt Free secured credit products
Not Suitable For
- High spenders seeking premium rewards and benefits
- Frequent travelers requiring lounge access
- Those needing high credit limits for large purchases
- Users wanting immediate access to their FD funds
Application Process
Visit Canara Bank branch with required documents
Open/pledge Fixed Deposit as collateral
Submit application with KYC documents
Bank marks lien on the deposit
Card approval and dispatch typically within 7-10 days
Additional Tips for Potential Applicants
Optimization Tips
Maintain spending above Rs. 25,000 annually to avoid inactivity fees
Pay full amount by due date to maximize the 50-day interest-free period
Set up auto-debit from your account to ensure timely payments
Monitor CIBIL score improvement after 6-12 months of responsible usage
Upgrade Path
After building a good credit history (typically 12-18 months), cardholders can:
Request conversion to unsecured card with higher limits
Apply for premium cards like Mastercard World or Platinum variants
Release FD collateral once creditworthiness is established
Verdict
The Canara Bank Mastercard Gold Secured Credit Card offers excellent value for individuals beginning their credit journey or rebuilding their credit profile. With no annual fees, comprehensive insurance coverage, and a solid rewards program, it provides the essential features needed to establish responsible credit habits.
Recommended for: Credit beginners, CIBIL score improvement, and conservative users seeking a reliable, cost-effective credit card solution.
- This review offers a clear and balanced overview of the Canara Bank Mastercard Gold Secured Credit Card’s strengths and limitations, helping readers make an informed choice about whether this card fits their
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