At a glance
- An RSI account is free; you do not need to buy a Game Package when you sign up.
- A Free Fly is ideal for testing; if you later decide to buy, an entry-level Starter Pack is enough.
- Star Citizen is an alpha, so bugs, wipes, crashes and performance issues are possible.
Frequently asked questions
What is a Star Citizen referral code?
A referral code links a new RSI account to the official referral program. The registration guide explains where and when to enter it.
What does a referral code give me?
A new account created with a valid code receives RSI’s standard 50,000 UEC enlistment bonus. Any limited-time incentives are separate from this regular bonus.
Is a referral code free to use?
Yes. Using a valid referral code costs nothing and does not change the price of anything you may buy later.
Where do I enter the referral code?
Use the Referral Code field during RSI registration. The official referral link pre-fills the code, but you should still check it before completing sign-up.
Can I add a referral code after creating my account?
Yes, but only for a short time. Entering it during sign-up is safest because RSI Support cannot add it after the grace period.
How long do I have to add a referral code?
The official RSI Referral Program FAQ currently gives new accounts a 24-hour window. Check the current RSI rule and, if possible, add the code during sign-up instead.
Does a referral code work with Free Fly?
Yes. You can create a free RSI account with a referral code and use it during an active Free Fly. A Free Fly alone does not make the account a qualified referral.
Do I have to buy anything?
No. Creating an RSI account is free. You can sign up without buying anything, wait for a Free Fly, test Star Citizen and only then decide whether to purchase a Game Package.
What is 50,000 UEC?
It is RSI’s standard enlistment bonus for a new account with a valid referral code. UEC is game currency, not real money or a discount on a Game Package.
When does a player count as a qualified referral?
Under RSI’s current rules, the referred account needs a Game Package and at least $40 in eligible Pledge Store spending. Store credit and received gifts do not count; check RSI’s current terms before buying.
Does the person who referred me receive anything?
If the new account meets RSI’s requirements, the referrer can receive a recruitment point. Extra limited-time referral rewards only apply when RSI explicitly announces them.
Is the bonus the same with every valid referral code?
Yes. Every valid referral code provides the same standard enlistment bonus. No individual code has a larger base bonus; separate RSI promotions may occasionally add their own conditions.
What is the difference between a referral code and a promo code?
A referral code belongs to RSI’s referral program and is linked to a new account. A promo code is a separate promotional code; the terms are not interchangeable.
Can I switch to a different referral code later?
No. RSI says a referral code already linked to an account cannot be replaced with another one. Check the code before completing registration.
Is sc-start.com an official RSI website?
No. sc-start.com is an independent, multilingual fan guide and is not affiliated with Cloud Imperium Games or Roberts Space Industries.
Do I need a Game Package right away?
No. You do not need a Game Package to create a free account. You will need a package with game access later to play outside a Free Fly.
Can I create an account now and buy later?
Yes. A sensible path is to create the account with a referral code, avoid buying anything yet, try a Free Fly when one is available and decide afterwards.
Is a Free Fly worthwhile for beginners?
Usually, yes. It lets you test performance, controls and the alpha state without buying. Dates and included ships vary, so always rely on the latest official RSI information.