For most Indians on H1B, the right pick depends on your spending pattern:
The short answer
For most Indians on H1B, the right pick depends on your spending pattern:
- If you spend heavily on dining + groceries + travel → Discover It Cash Back
- If you want simplicity (one card, flat rate) → Citi Double Cash
- If you have limited credit history → Discover It Cash Back
Read on for the full breakdown.
Side-by-side comparison
| Citi Double Cash | Discover It Cash Back | |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $0 | $0 |
| Sign-up bonus | $200 bonus | Cashback match |
| Rewards | 2% all | 5% rotating |
| Best for H1B | Yes | Yes |
| Foreign transaction fee | 3% | 3% |
When to pick Citi Double Cash
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Citi Double Cash wins if:
- Your monthly spend matches 2% all's bonus categories
- You want simple, predictable cash back without juggling categories
- You're in your first year and want easy approval
When to pick Discover It Cash Back
Discover It Cash Back wins if:
- You're newer to credit and want easier approval
- You don't want a $95 annual fee
- This is your first US card or your only US card
Approval odds for H1B holders
| Card | Approval requirement | H1B-friendly? |
|---|---|---|
| Citi Double Cash | Score 650+ usually approves | Yes (from month 6) |
| Discover It Cash Back | Score 650+ usually approves | Yes (from month 6) |
Bottom line
For an Indian on H1B in 2026, the safer first move is the lower-fee card with easier approval. Build your score for 6-12 months, then add the higher-rewards card as your second.
Most readers end up with both cards eventually — they're complementary, not competitors. The real question is which one to start with.
Want the full plan?
Download the H1B Credit Card Decision Tree (free PDF) — a 5-page roadmap showing exactly which card to apply for in months 0-3, 4-6, 7-12, and 13-24.
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