Best CIBC credit cards in Canada

Get a first-year annual fee rebate for you and up to three Authorized Users† and earn 10% cash back for the first 4 statements on net purchases of up to $2,000†.

Then, it's one of the best cash back credit cards on the market where you can earn 4% cash back on gas, EV charging and groceries.^† You'll also earn 2% cash back on dining, commuting (transit, Ubers, etc.), recurring payments and other bills^†, and 1% cash back on everything else.^†

CIBC also gives you mobile device insurance, purchase security, and extended warranty insurance. Great for all your tech. If you travel, they also give you the highly coveted emergency medical, $500,000 in travel accident insurance, and credit card rental car insurance.^†

Disclosures:

• †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer is not available for the residents of Quebec.
• The information for the CIBC Dividend® Visa Infinite* Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
  

For a $139, it comes loaded with perks:

It's one of the best CIBC travel credit cards for its value. Earn 1.5 Aeroplan points on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries and with Air Canada directly, including through Air Canada Vacations®† and 1 Aeroplan point on all other purchases†. Even better, you can maximize your Aeroplan miles with 2 points at over 150 Aeroplan partners and more than 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore.

The card also provides Air Canada and an annual fee waiver: . Plus, enjoy comprehensive travel insurance for flight delays, baggage, medical emergencies, trip cancellations, auto rentals, and more.

Disclosures:

• Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed on this page are those of the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by our advertising partners.

  
  

With a lucrative welcome offer, solid earn rates, a valuable lounge access package, and comprehensive insurance, the CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card offers very well-rounded value for any traveller.  

The card’s combined travel value is particularly notable given its low minimum annual household income requirement of $15,000^†; travel credit cards of this caliber usually require a $60K minimum annual income or more.  

The Aventura Points that the card earns are noteworthy because, unlike with many travel rewards programs, Aventura Points can be used to cover taxes and fees, and they can be redeemed at a max value of up to $0.02 per point. That’s double the redemption value you’ll get for most travel rewards programs.  

There are a number of competitive travel credit cards in Canada, but what makes this card stand out to us is its accessibility. If you have a good credit score and are willing to pay the annual fee, you can most likely qualify for it regardless of your income, which is very rare among travel credit cards at this level.  

 While it doesn't cover all major types of insurance (for example, no flight cancellation), it does give you the highly coveted out-of-province emergency travel medical insurance, even if your trip was not charged to the card. It also offers travel accident, flight delay and baggage insurance, and credit card car rental insurance. Then it gives you purchase security, extended warranty, mobile device insurance and hotel burglary insurance.  

Disclosures:

• †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
• The information for the CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
  

  Because it's the only Mastercard CIBC offers. Well, they also have a CIBC Costco^® Business Mastercard.

While the 3% cash back at restaurants and at Costco gas†, and 2% cash back at other gas stations, electric vehicle charging stations and at Costco.ca† is nice, it's biggest benefit comes if you're only buying gas at Costco^®. A friend of mine stalled his car trying to get to Costco^® for gas. After walking to the station, the attendant told him to buy a jerry can from Costco^® because he didn't supply one.  

If you're a Costco^® member and buy big items from them online, it's worth it for the no annual fee.  

Disclosures:

• †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
• The information for the CIBC Costco Mastercard® has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
  

The CIBC Select Visa* Card is one of Canada’s best low interest credit cards overall, and is particularly notable for its best-of-both-worlds balance transfer deal: get up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee† and a fFirst year annual fee rebate† $0 for up to 3 additional cards.†. (terms apply).  

Aside from its balance transfer promotion the card also offers a competitive 13.99%† purchase annual interest rate, 13.99%† cash advance annual interest rate, as well as 13.99%† a balance transfer annual interest rate on balance transfers made outside the special promotion. The $29 annual fee makes it relatively low risk to try out.

The CIBC Select Visa* Card is a solid low interest card overall, and a market leader in balance transfer credit card promotions. It’s a great option for those who are carrying high-interest credit card debt and need a window of opportunity to pay it off, without worrying about it accumulating more interest in the process.

Disclosures:

• †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
• The information for the CIBC Select Visa* Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
  

This is the best CIBC newcomer credit card. Though the CIBC Dividend® Visa* Card is the most appealing no annual fee card among the CIBC card suite, it’s not super competitive with other best no annual fee cards pound for pound, and its cash back structure is a bit complicated.  

Get 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases† and up to 1% cash back on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, transportation, dining and recurring payments^†, and 0.5% on everything else†.  

The CIBC Dividend^® Visa* Card is an option if you absolutely need a Visa card, as, for whatever reason, most of the top no annual fee cards in Canada are Mastercards. But if you’re willing to compromise on that front, we suggest exploring other options. There are other no annual fee cards that can potentially earn back as much or more on groceries, like the BMO CashBack Mastercard or the PC Financial World Elite Mastercard, and there are also alternative no annual fee cash back cards that earn 1% or more on all spending, all the time, like the AMEX SimplyCash.  

Other features: Get cash back on demand – redeem your cash back at any time when you have a minimum of $25 through CIBC Online and Mobile Banking^®†

Disclosures:

• †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
• The information for the CIBC Dividend® Visa* Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
  

If you're looking for a CIBC credit card for balance transfers, look no further than the CIBC Select Visa* Card.

Reduce interest payments with this low interest rate credit card: 

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‡

Once you take advantage of this offer, you'll have a promotional rate balance on your account. As a result, you will lose your interest-free grace period on new purchases unless you pay your amount due, including any promotional rate balances, in full each month. While you will enjoy the promotional rate on the balances you transfer by using this offer, new purchases will be subject to the purchase interest rate.

Disclosures:

• †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
• The information for the CIBC Select Visa* Card has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.

CIBC appears to be one of the few banks where students are actually given preferential treatment; the welcome bonus that comes with this student version of the Aventura card makes the card perhaps even more appealing than the regular version. Plus it has added advantages for eligible student clients of an SPC+ membership (normally $10 per year).^† Overall it’s one of the best student cards in Canada.

While it doesn't earn you cash back, it does reward your spending with one of the most flexible travel rewards programs. Check out the CIBC Rewards Centre to book your flights and watch your points add up on everyday purchases like gas, groceries and drug store purchases.

Disclosures:

• †Terms and Conditions Apply. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
• The information for the CIBC Aventura® Visa* Card for Students has been collected independently by Money.ca. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
  

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.

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.

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:

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.

CIBC offers a variety of credit card types to suit different financial needs and preferences. The main categories of CIBC credit cards include:

1. 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. 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 has a range of choices depending on your income and credit score. 
   

3. 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. Examples include the CIBC Aventura^® and CIBC Aeroplan^® card lines.
   

4. 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. 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. 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. 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, like the CIBC Select Visa*. 
   

8. 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. CIBC does not currently offer a secured credit card. 
   

9. 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. 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.

Dividend cash back

Redeeming cash back with CIBC is simple and straightforward. You'll earn cash back rewards on purchases (with enhanced rewards in bonus categories) plus through generous CIBC welcome bonuses. That cash back balance will accumulate every year until December, when it will be applied to your statement balance.

Aventura rewards

CIBC Aventura Rewards, more commonly known as Aventura, is CIBC's travel rewards loyalty program. The program lets Aventura cardholders earn Aventura points they can use towards numerous travel rewards, including flights, hotels, car rentals, and vacation packages.

The easiest way to quickly rack up Aventura points is with a CIBC Aventura credit card. These cards offer impressive welcome bonuses typically valued at hundreds of dollars for the more elite offerings. Plus, you can earn even more points with everyday purchases on key categories, which typically include travel through the CIBC Rewards Centre, gas, groceries and drug stores. 

Learn more about CIBC Aventura  in our comprehensive Aventura rewards guide.

^Aeroplan

CIBC, like TD Bank and American Express, is an official partner of Aeroplan. Aeroplan is arguably one of the very best travel programs in Canada and lets you earn airline miles that apply not just to Air Canada but also other carriers in the Star Alliance network, which includes leading names like Avianca, Lufthansa, United Airlines, Turkish Airlines, ANA and more. 

How to link your CIBC credit card to Aventura

To link your CIBC credit card to your Aeroplan account, start by confirming that your CIBC card is eligible for Aeroplan point accumulation. With any of these credit cards above, you're good to go.

  Next, If you don't have an Aeroplan account, you'll need to create one on the Aeroplan website and obtain your Aeroplan number. Once you have your account, you can link your credit card in several ways:

1. 1.

   You can do this through CIBC’s online banking or mobile app by navigating to the credit card section and entering your Aeroplan number.

2. 2.

   Alternatively, you can link your card via the Aeroplan website by logging into your account and adding your CIBC credit card under the appropriate section.

3. 3.

   If you prefer, you can also accomplish this by contacting CIBC or Aeroplan customer service over the phone.

After linking, it’s wise to verify that the process was successful by checking your Aeroplan account or getting in touch with customer service. It’s also important to understand how the Aeroplan points accrual works with your specific CIBC card, including the rate at which you earn points and any related benefits or limitations. Keep updated with any changes or promotions that might affect your points earning potential to make the most out of your card.

For more info on Aeroplan, read our comprehensive Aeroplan Points Guide.