REFERRAL CODE: STAR-QP2M-YLS3

Star Citizen Referral Code: Get Free UEC and More From Day One

Star Citizen can feel overwhelming at first, especially with all the in-game currencies, upgrades, and customization options. But did you know you can start your journey with a free bonus of 5000 UEC just by using a referral code when signing up? That’s a quick win for any new player — and it doesn’t cost anything. Whether you’re just curious about Free Fly events or ready to buy a starter pack, this small bonus can make a noticeable difference in your first hours of gameplay.

futuristic pilot holding a digital referral code in a sci-fi hangar


What Is a Star Citizen Referral Code?

A referral code in Star Citizen is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to every player. When a new user creates their account using this code, both the new player and the code’s owner receive specific in-game rewards. For you, the bonus is instant: 5000 UEC (United Earth Credits), added directly to your account, even if you’re on a free trial.

These codes are part of the broader referral program created by Cloud Imperium Games (CIG) to promote the game and reward community-driven growth. Using a code is optional — but there’s no downside to entering one. You don’t commit to anything, and you don’t spend more. It’s just free in-game currency added to your profile.

How to Use a Referral Code

When you register on the official RSI (Roberts Space Industries) website, the account creation form includes a field labeled “Referral Code.” That’s where you paste your chosen code. If you don’t see the box immediately, click the “Add Code” button to enable it.

Here’s a code you can use right away:
STAR-QP2M-YLS3
You can copy it and paste it during the signup process, or use this direct link to open the form with the code already filled in.

Just remember: this is a one-time opportunity. You can’t apply a referral code retroactively. Once your account is created, that’s it. If you forgot to add a code and haven’t made any purchases yet, your only option is to create a new account.

What You Get: The 5000 UEC Bonus

UEC (United Earth Credits) is Star Citizen’s primary in-game currency. With your standard starter pack, you’ll receive a basic setup:

  • Flight suit and helmet
  • Basic sidearm with one magazine
  • Medpack
  • Your first ship
  • 1000 UEC

Adding 5000 UEC to that gives you a significant head start. You could buy improved FPS gear, ammo, or tools — or simply save it for later. Need to refuel, pay fines, repair your ship, or deal with insurance after an unexpected crash? That extra cash gives you a safety cushion.

While it’s not a fortune, it can prevent your first gameplay session from being cut short by a lack of credits.

Referral Bonus Events: More Than Just Credits

While 5000 UEC is the default reward, CIG sometimes runs special promotions where additional bonuses apply. For example, new users might also receive:

  • A Greycat PTV vehicle
  • A Dragonfly Black hover bike

These extras are usually time-limited and tied to the purchase of a starter pack during specific promotional windows. So if you see one of these offers, it’s a great time to join.

What’s In It for the Code Owner?

The referral program also rewards the person whose code you used. That’s how Star Citizen builds its player base. The more players someone refers, the higher they rank in the referral system — and the bigger their star citizen referral rewards become.

visual chart of Star Citizen referral ranks and their UEC rewards

Here’s a breakdown of the rank-based rewards:

RankRequirementsRewards
Recruiter1 recruit4 UEE Squadron Badges, 1 Badger Repeater
Private2 recruits2 Gimbal Mounts, 2 Bulldog Repeaters
Corporal5 recruitsGreycat PTV, Fish Tank for Hangar
Sergeant10 recruitsAegis Gladius LTI, 5 Gold Ship Models
Lieutenant25 recruits15,000 UEC, Permanent access to 3 ships in Arena Commander
Captain50 recruits30,000 UEC, Permanent access to 4 ships in Arena Commander
Major100 recruits1 Misc Razor LTI
Lt. Colonel200 recruits1 Vanduul Blade LTI
Colonel500 recruits1 Vanduul Glaive LTI
Brig. General1000 recruitsAnvil Terrapin LTI, Anvil Hurricane LTI
Major General1500 recruitsAccess to Million Mile High Club
Lt. General2000+ recruitsAegis Javelin LTI

Every recruit must use your referral code during signup and spend at least $40. Only then will it count toward your star citizen referral rewards progress.

Can You Sponsor Others?

Yes — once your account is active, you’ll get your own referral code. You can share it with friends, family, or anyone interested in playing Star Citizen. You’ll find your code in your RSI account under:

  • Settings > Referral Program
  • Or directly on the Referral Program page

There’s no limit to how many people you can refer, but remember: only new accounts and users who purchase a starter pack will count toward your rank.

Can You Sponsor Yourself?

Technically, yes. Some players create multiple accounts and use their own referral code. While this is possible, it’s best not to abuse it. CIG allows it but keeps an eye on suspicious referral activity. Self-sponsoring works only if the secondary account meets the spending threshold and complies with all game terms.

Referral Rewards Are Non-Transferable

Anything you receive through the referral system — whether it’s UEC, ships, or exclusive gear — is bound to your account. You can’t gift it, transfer it, or sell it. These items are yours alone.

However, you can use referral ships as the base for upgrades. For example, if you get a Gladius with LTI (Lifetime Insurance), you can upgrade it to a better ship and keep the insurance. Just don’t expect to trade your star citizen referral rewards — they stay locked to your profile permanently.

Upgrades and Support Requests

Want to reverse an upgrade? Ships earned via referrals don’t come with a “Melt” option. But there’s still a workaround. Contact RSI support, and they can revert the upgrade manually. They’ll return the original ship and refund any upgrade cost as store credit. Just don’t expect it instantly — support requests take time.

How to Check If You Used a Referral Code

Maybe you signed up months ago and forgot whether you used a referral code. There’s a simple way to check: log in to your RSI account and go to:

  • Billing & Subscription

If your UEC total is 5000 or more, you probably used a referral code. To be absolutely certain, click the UEC Log. Look for the line:

“5,000 UEC – UEEREC enlistment bonus”
If it’s there, you’ve received the bonus from a referral code.

Final Tips: Start Smart, Save Credits

If you’re curious about trying Star Citizen, don’t skip the referral code step. It’s a one-time opportunity that can set you up with early-game resources. With 5000 extra UEC, you have more breathing room to explore, test gear, and handle the surprises that the ‘verse throws at you.

player looking at a star map displaying referral bonuses and ship icons

And if you’re the one inviting friends? Those ranks and star citizen referral rewards stack up fast — and one day, you might even reach the elite Javelin tier.


Use this working referral code to get started:
STAR-QP2M-YLS3
Add it when you sign up and check out your bonus right away.


If you’d like to support independent Star Citizen fan content, consider visiting citizen-logbook.com, a dedicated site created by longtime player “ile-avalon.” The site covers game updates, tips, and detailed player experiences — all built from passion for the game.

Let your adventure in Star Citizen begin — with an edge.