Best CIBC credit cards in Canada
Fact Checked: Scott Birke
Updated: April 19, 2024
Choosing the best CIBC credit card can be daunting because there are typically multiple options for each card type. We’ve made your life a little easier by narrowing the entire CIBC card suite down to the very best CIBC credit cards available in Canada and going into detail about their strengths and weaknesses.
Best CIBC credit card
CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* Card
4% Earn 4% cash back on gas, EV charging, and groceries.
2% Earn 2% cash back on dining, transportation, recurring payments or bills.
1% Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases with no limit.
10 cents Save 10 cents per litre with CIBC and Journie Rewards (Ultramar, Chevron, Pioneer, Fas Gas)
$120 Annual Fee First year rebated. Each additional card is $30 per year, max 3.
20.99% Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Cash Advance APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Balance Transfer Rate non-Quebec residents†
Good Recommended Credit Score
$60,000 Required Annual Personal Income
$100,000 Required Annual Household Income
Welcome Offer
Get a first-year annual fee rebate and earn 10% cash back welcome bonus of up to $250!†
Learn moreBest CIBC travel credit card
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card
2 Earn 2 points per $1 spent on travel purchases through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
1.5 Earn 1.5 points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores, and drug stores. Available on the first $80,000 in net annual card purchases on your account.
1 After exceeding $80k in purchases, cardholders will earn 1 point per $1 spent in these categories until the annual limit resets each December.
$139 Annual Fee
20.99% Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Cash Advance APR for non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Balance Transfer Rate for non-Quebec residents†
Good Recommended Credit Score
Welcome Offer
Join and get up to $1,500 in value including a first year annual fee rebate!†
Learn moreBest CIBC credit card for travel insurance
CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
2 Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
1 Earn 1.5 points for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores and drug stores†
1 Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases†
$139 Annual Fee
20.99% Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Cash Advance APR for non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Balance Transfer Rate for non-Quebec residents†
Good Recommended Credit Score
$15,000 Required Annual Household Income
Best CIBC Mastercards
CIBC Costco®† Mastercard®
3% cash back at restaurants and at Costco gas
2% cash back at other gas stations and at Costco.ca
1% cash back on all other purchases including at Costco
$0 Annual Fee Up to 3 additional cardholders for $0
20.75% Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.49% Cash Advance APR non-Quebec residents†
Good Recommended Credit Score
$15,000 Required Annual Personal Income
Welcome Offer
Earn up to 3% cash back on eligible purchases everywhere Mastercard is accepted.
Learn moreBest CIBC low interest credit card
CIBC Select Visa* Card
0% Pay 0% interest for up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee.†
$29 Annual Fee First year annual fee rebate. $0 for up to 3 additional cards.†
13.99% Purchase APR
13.99% Cash Advance APR
13.99% Balance Transfer Rate Promotional offer: 0% interest for up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee†
1.00% Balance Transfer Fee 1% transfer fee†
Good Recommended Credit Score
$15,000 Required Annual Household Income
Welcome Offer
Transfer your credit card balance - Get 0% interest for up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee† and a first year annual fee rebate†
Learn moreBest CIBC cash back credit card
CIBC Dividend Platinum® Visa Card
3% cash back on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, and groceries.
2% cash back on eligible transportation, dining and recurring payments.
1% cash back on all other eligible purchases.
90 days purchase security from damage and theft on eligible items purchased with your card.
1 year on top of the original manufacturer's warranty
$500,000 common carrier accident insurance
$65,000 MSRP for rental cars for up to 48 consecutive days
$99 Annual Fee First year annual fee rebate†
20.99% Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Cash Advance APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Balance Transfer Rate non-Quebec residents†
Very Good Recommended Credit Score
$15,000 Required Annual Personal Income
$15,000 Required Annual Household Income
Welcome Offer
Get a first-year annual fee rebate and earn 10% cash back welcome bonus of up to $200!†
Learn moreBest CIBC no annual fee credit card
CIBC Dividend® Visa* Card
2% Get 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases†
1% cash back on eligible gas, EV charging, transportation, dining purchases and recurring payments†
0.5% 0.5% cash back on all other purchases†
$0.10 Save up to 10 cents off per litre on gas with CIBC and Journie Rewards at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar and Chevron gas stations.†
$0 Annual Fee $0 for each additional card (3 card maximum)
20.99% Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Cash Advance APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Balance Transfer Rate non-Quebec residents†
Good Recommended Credit Score
$15,000 Required Annual Household Income
Welcome Offer
Get 5% cash back for the first 4 statements on net purchases of up to $2,000 (up to $100 cash back).†
Learn moreBest CIBC balance transfer credit card
CIBC Select Visa* Card
0% Pay 0% interest for up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee.†
$29 Annual Fee First year annual fee rebate. $0 for up to 3 additional cards.†
13.99% Purchase APR
13.99% Cash Advance APR
13.99% Balance Transfer Rate Promotional offer: 0% interest for up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee†
1.00% Balance Transfer Fee 1% transfer fee†
Good Recommended Credit Score
$15,000 Required Annual Household Income
Welcome Offer
Transfer your credit card balance - Get 0% interest for up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee† and a first year annual fee rebate†
Learn moreBest CIBC student credit card
CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card for Students
1 point for every $1 spent at eligible gas stations, EV charging, grocery stores and drug stores†
1 point for every $1 spent on travel purchased through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
1 point for every $2 spent on all other purchases†
$0 Annual Fee
20.99% Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Cash Advance APR for non-Quebec residents†
22.99% Balance Transfer Rate for non-Quebec residents†
Good Recommended Credit Score
$15,000 Required Annual Household Income
Welcome Offer
Get up to 10,000 Aventura Points (up to $100 in travel value†); Earn up to 2,500 Aventura Points† for completing bonus activities within 60 days from your account approval† 7,500 Aventura Points after you make your first purchase within first 4 months.†
Learn moreCompare CIBC credit cards (travel): Aventura
Best CIBC Aventura credit cards | CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card | CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card | CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card | CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card |
---|---|---|---|---|
- | ||||
Annual fee: | $0 | $139 | $139 | $499 |
APR: |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Minimum income: | $15,000 household | $15,000 household | $60,000 individual, or$100,000 household | $150,000 individual, or $200,000 household |
Welcome bonus: | N/A | 15,000 Aventura® Point Welcome Bonus | 15,000 Aventura® Point Welcome Bonus | 25,000 Aventura® Points Welcome Bonus |
Earn rate per $1 | 1 point on gas, EV charging, groceries, drugstores, and through CIBC Rewards Centre. 1 point for every $2 spent everywhere else. | 2 points through CIBC Rewards Centre, 1.5 points for gas, EV charging, grocery and drug stores, 1 point on all other purchases | 2 points through CIBC Rewards Centre, 1.5 points for gas, EV charging, grocery and drug stores, 1 point on all other purchases | 3 points through CIBC Rewards Centre, 2 points for dining, entertainment, transportation, gas, EV charging, and groceries, 1.25 points on all other purchases |
Insurance: | Rental car, $100,000 travel accident, purchase security and extended warranty | Emergency medical, flight delay and baggage, rental car, $500,000 travel accident, purchase security and extended warranty, mobile device, hotel burglary, | Emergency medical, flight delay and baggage, Trip cancellation, trip interruption, rental car, $500,000 travel accident, purchase security and extended warranty, mobile device, hotel burglary | Emergency medical, flight delay and baggage, Trip cancellation, trip interruption, rental car, $500,000 travel accident, purchase security and extended warranty, mobile device, hotel burglary |
Extra perks: | N/A | One time annual fee rebate, 4 Airport lounge passes, 1 NEXUS application fee rebate | One time annual fee rebate, 4 Airport lounge passes, 1 NEXUS application fee rebate | $200 annual travel credit, 6 Airport lounge passes, 2 NEXUS application fee rebates |
Apply now | Apply now | Apply now | Apply now | Apply now |
Compare CIBC credit cards (travel rewards): Aeroplan
Best CIBC Aeroplan credit cards | CIBC Aeroplan® Visa* Card | CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite* Card | CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card |
---|---|---|---|
- | |||
Annual fee: | $0 | $139 | $599 |
APR: |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Minimum income: | $15,000 | $60,000 individual, or$100,000 household | $150,000 individual, or$200,000 household |
Welcome bonus: |
Earn 10,000 Aeroplan points on your first purchase†
|
Earn up to 50,000 Aeroplan points† |
Earn up to 70,000 Aeroplan® points†
|
Earn rate per $1 |
1 point on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging stations, groceries and with Air Canada® directly, including through Air Canada Vacations.
1 point for every $1.50 you spend on all other purchases. |
1.5 points eligible gas, electric vehicle charging stations, groceries and with Air Canada® directly, including through Air Canada Vacations. 1 point on all other purchases. |
2 points with Air Canada including Air Canada Vacations.
1.5 points on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging stations, groceries and with Air Canada® directly, including through Air Canada Vacations, 1.25 point you spend on all other purchases |
Insurance | rental car insurance, $100,000 travel accident, purchase security and extended warranty | $500,00 travel accident, mobile device | Out-of-province emergency travel medical, flight delay and baggage, trip cancellation and trip interruption, rental car insurance, $500,000 travel accident, purchase security and extended warranty, mobile device, hotel and motel burglary insurance |
Extra perks | n/a | Free first checked bag for 2 travellers, one-time annual fee rebate | Free fist checked bag for 2 travellers, Maple Leaf lounge access, 6 complimentary lounge passes, NEXUS application fee rebate |
Apply now | Apply now | Apply now | Apply now |
The information for the CIBC Aeroplan cards have been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Compare CIBC credit cards (cash back): Dividend
Best CIBC cash back credit cards | CIBC Dividend® Visa* Card | CIBC Dividend Platinum® Visa* Card | CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* Card |
---|---|---|---|
- | |||
Annual fee | $0 | $99 | $120 |
APR |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Purchases: 20.99%
Cash advance / Balance transfers: 22.99% (21.99% for Quebec residents) |
Minimum income | $15,000 household | $15,000 household | $60,000 individual, or$100,000 household |
Welcome bonus | n/a | Get a first-year annual fee rebate for you and up to 3 Authorized Users!† | Get a first-year annual fee rebate for you and up to 3 Authorized Users!† |
Earn rate per $1 | Earn 2% cash back on groceries, and up to 1% on gas, EV charging, transportation, dining, and recurring payments, 0.5% on everything else | Earn 3% cash back on gas, EV charging, and groceries, 2% on transportation, dining, and recurring payments, 1% cash back on everything else | Earn 4% cash back on gas, EV charging and groceries, 2% on transportation, dining, and recurring payments, 1% cash back on everything else |
Insurance | $100,000 travel accident insurance, | rental car, $500,000 travel accident insurance, purchase security and extended warranty, | Out-of-province emergency travel medical, rental car, $500,000 travel accident insurance, purchase security and extended warranty, mobile device |
Apply now | Apply now | Apply now | Apply now |
Expert tip: Some CIBC bank accounts come with CIBC credit card fee rebates
The Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, better known as CIBC, is considered to be one of the 5 best banks in Canada. CIBC credit cards options are wide as well—from travel rewards to low interest credit cards, there are several credit cards to choose from to fit most people's needs and goals. As an existing CIBC client, choosing a CIBC credit card can help simplify your banking experience by keeping everything all in one place. CIBC clients with multiple financial products may also benefit from the CIBC Smart Plus account which offers annual rebates on eligible CIBC credit cards. Talk to a CIBC representative to learn more.
How to pay your CIBC credit card bill from another bank
Paying a CIBC credit card bill from another bank can typically be done through one of several methods. Here's a general guide on how you can do it:
How to pay a credit card with CIBC | Details |
---|---|
Online banking |
1. Log into your online banking portal for the bank where you have your checking or savings account.
2. Look for an option to make a bill payment. 3. Add your CIBC credit card as a payee. You'll likely need your credit card number and possibly other details such as the mailing address for CIBC's credit card payment processing. 4. Once the CIBC credit card is added as a payee, you can select it from your list of payees and enter the amount you want to pay. |
Telephone banking |
1. Call your bank's telephone banking service.
2. Follow the prompts to make a bill payment. 3. Similar to online banking, you will need to add your CIBC credit card as a payee if it's not already added. |
In-person at a bank branch |
1. Visit your local branch of the bank where you have an account.
2. Speak with a teller and request to make a payment to your CIBC credit card. You'll need to provide your credit card details and the payment amount. |
Mail a cheque |
1. Write a cheque from your other bank account.
2. Mail it to the address provided by CIBC for credit card payments. Ensure you include your credit card number on the cheque for reference. |
Mobile banking app |
1. If your bank has a mobile banking app, you can use it to make a payment.
2. The process will be similar to online banking, where you add your CIBC credit card as a payee and make a payment. |
Remember to ensure that your payment is made several business days before the due date to avoid any late fees, as some methods (like mailing a cheque) can take longer to process. Also, it's always a good idea to verify the specific process with your bank, as procedures can vary slightly between different financial institutions.
How to apply for a credit card with CIBC
Applying for a CIBC credit card is a simple process with Money.ca. To start, click on the specific link associated with your choice of credit card. That link will direct you to the application page on CIBC's official website. There, you'll fill out an online application form asking your name, address, income and employment details. After submitting the form, CIBC will process the application and perform a credit check. if approved, you'll receive your credit card by mail within a few business days.
Note: CIBC secured credit card
CIBC does not offer a secured credit card, however, you can walk into a branch to apply for a credit card and put down a security deposit equivalent to the amount of credit you'd like (sometimes more of a deposit is required). If you have any collections or a poor credit score, they may still deny you.
If you want options, check out our best secured credit cards.
How to activate your CIBC credit card
Activating a CIBC credit card is a straightforward process and can be done in a few different ways. Here are the common methods:
Online activation
- Visit CIBC's website and look for the credit card activation link.
- You will need to sign into your CIBC online banking account. If you do not have one, you may need to register for online access first.
- Enter the required details, such as your credit card number and other personal identification information.
CIBC Mobile Banking App
- If you have the CIBC mobile app, you can activate your credit card through it.
- Log into the app using your online banking credentials.
- Navigate to the section for credit card activation and follow the prompts.
Telephone activation
- Call the activation phone number provided by CIBC. This number is typically found on a sticker on the front of the new credit card or in the information package that came with the card.
- Follow the automated prompts, which will likely include entering your credit card number and possibly some additional personal information for verification.
In-person at a branch
- If you prefer, you can visit a CIBC branch to activate your credit card.
- Bring your credit card and personal identification with you. A bank representative will assist you with the activation process.
When activating your new CIBC credit card, it's important to keep a few key points in mind. Ensure that you have the credit card at hand, along with any necessary personal identification and information, regardless of the chosen activation method. After successfully activating your card, don’t forget to sign the back of the card if it's required. Additionally, it's wise to review any updates or changes to your account terms and familiarize yourself with new features or benefits that may be associated with your card. In case you encounter any issues or have specific questions during the activation process, reaching out directly to CIBC for assistance is the best course of action.
CIBC credit card types
CIBC offers a variety of credit card types to suit different financial needs and preferences. The main categories of CIBC credit cards include:
- 1.
Rewards cards: These cards offer rewards points on purchases, which can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, gift cards, or even applied to credit card statements. Examples include the CIBC Aventura and CIBC Aeroplan card lines.
- 2.
Cash back cards: Ideal for those who prefer cash rewards, these cards provide cash back on purchases, often with higher rates in specific categories like groceries or gas. The CIBC Dividend Visa line is a popular choice in this category.
- 3.
Travel cards: Designed for frequent travelers, these cards offer travel-related benefits and rewards, such as travel insurance, airport lounge access, and points redeemable for travel. The CIBC Aventura cards are notable options here.
- 4.
Low-interest cards: These cards offer lower interest rates, making them a good choice for those who carry a balance. The CIBC Select Visa is an example, offering a lower interest rate on purchases and cash advances.
- 5.
Student cards: Tailored for students, these cards often have no annual fee and offer rewards suitable for young adults managing credit for the first time. The CIBC Aventura Visa Card for Students is an example.
- 6.
Business cards: Aimed at business owners and entrepreneurs, these cards offer features like expense management, rewards on business purchases, and additional cards for employees. The CIBC Bizline Visa is one such card, designed for small business needs.
- 7.
Balance transfer cards: These are cards that offer special promotions on balance transfers, which can be beneficial for those looking to consolidate and pay off existing credit card debt.
- 8.
Secured cards: For those with limited credit history or looking to rebuild credit, secured cards require a security deposit and offer a way to build or improve credit scores.
- 9.
No annual fee cards: CIBC offers a selection of credit cards with no annual fee, catering to those who prefer a cost-effective credit option without sacrificing rewards and benefits. A notable card in this category is the CIBC Dividend® Visa Card.
- 10.
Costco cards: CIBC has partnered with Costco to offer credit cards that are specifically designed for Costco members, maximizing rewards and benefits for shopping at Costco warehouses and gas stations. The CIBC Costco Mastercard® is a popular choice in this segment.
About CIBC
CIBC Canada, or the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, boasts a distinguished history that intertwines with the nation's own economic and financial evolution. Established through the amalgamation of two older banks, the Canadian Bank of Commerce (founded in 1867) and the Imperial Bank of Canada (founded in 1875), CIBC marked a significant milestone in the Canadian banking sector with its formation in 1961. This union created a robust institution that rapidly expanded its presence both nationally and internationally. It embraced early technological innovations, significantly impacting how Canadians interacted with their finances, notably through the introduction of Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) in the 1970s.
Throughout the 20th century and into the modern era, CIBC has continued to evolve and adapt. The bank has been at the forefront of embracing digital banking trends, ensuring that its services remain relevant and accessible in an increasingly online world. This period also saw CIBC engage in strategic mergers and acquisitions, further enhancing its market position and service offerings. These developments have solidified CIBC’s reputation as a dynamic and forward-thinking financial institution, committed to addressing the diverse needs of its customers.
Beyond its financial services, CIBC is renowned for its commitment to community involvement and championing diversity. As a major supporter of various social causes, including health, education, and community development, the bank has shown a consistent dedication to social responsibility. This commitment, coupled with its efforts in promoting workplace diversity and inclusion, highlights CIBC's role not just as a financial entity, but as an integral part of the broader Canadian community. Today, as one of the "Big Five" banks in Canada, CIBC continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the country’s financial landscape, balancing its rich history with a focus on innovation and social impact.
Want to look beyond CIBC?
If you didn’t find a CIBC card on this list that meets your needs, consider switching focus to another card issuer. We recommend that you start by checking out our list of the best credit cards in Canada, which might open your eyes to some great cards that you weren’t previously aware of.
FAQs
Disclaimer
The content provided on Money.ca is information to help users become financially literate. It is neither tax nor legal advice, is not intended to be relied upon as a forecast, research or investment advice, and is not a recommendation, offer or solicitation to buy or sell any securities or to adopt any investment strategy. Tax, investment and all other decisions should be made, as appropriate, only with guidance from a qualified professional. We make no representation or warranty of any kind, either express or implied, with respect to the data provided, the timeliness thereof, the results to be obtained by the use thereof or any other matter.