5 Best Credit Cards for OFWs and Their Families in the Philippines (2025)

Tim Alcantara

Tim Alcantara

Last updated August 13, 2025

Managing household finances from abroad is a reality for many Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs). Whether it’s paying tuition, handling medical bills, or managing day-to-day expenses, finding the right tools to stay financially connected to your family is essential.

A reliable credit card—especially one with OFW-friendly features—can make this much easier. From sending support to enabling smarter spending, a credit card empowers you to manage your family’s needs from anywhere in the world.

Below are five credit cards in the Philippines that stand out in 2025 for OFWs and their families.


What OFWs Should Look for in a Credit Card

Not every credit card is designed with overseas workers in mind. When you’re choosing one, here are six features to prioritize:

Feature

Why It Matters

No Annual Fee for Life

Eliminates ongoing costs, especially for light card users

Low Foreign Transaction Fees

Keeps charges minimal when shopping online or abroad

Free Supplementary Cards

Helps family members access credit without additional cost

Cashback or Rewards

Gives value back on regular expenses like groceries, bills

Low Interest Rates

Minimizes the burden of occasional delayed payments

Easy Approval Requirements

Ideal for first-time users or family members with no credit history

Use the Moneymax Credit Card Comparison Tool to find cards that match these criteria.


5 OFW-Friendly Credit Cards to Consider in 2025

Credit Card

Annual Fee

Supplementary Cards

Key Features

Best For

PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard

₱0 (NAFFL)

Up to 9 (free)

No penalty fees, low interest rate, global use

Big families on a tight budget

UnionBank Cash Back Visa

₱3,000 (often waived)

Add-on cards available

6% grocery cashback, 2% on Meralco bills

Daily household expenses

BPI Blue Mastercard

₱1,550

1st supplementary card free

Global access, installment plans, easy application

New cardholders and travelers

Metrobank Titanium

₱2,500

Up to 6 cards

0% installment, secure payments, rewards

Education, healthcare, and bills

UnionBank U Visa Platinum

₱0 (NAFFL)

Unlimited

10% interest rebate, no late fees

Responsible spenders on a budget

Want a deeper dive into no-fee cards? Visit Moneymax's guide to credit cards with no annual fee.


How Each Card Helps Your Family

PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard

With zero annual fees for life and no penalty fees, this card is tailor-made for OFWs supporting large households. Supplementary cards (up to nine) are free, allowing your spouse or parents to manage daily spending easily. It's a stress-free option if you want full control over family finances while minimizing costs.
Explore the PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard

UnionBank Cash Back Visa Platinum

Save as you spend. This card offers 6% cashback on groceries and 2% on Meralco bills—ideal for remittances used for everyday essentials. It’s also great for maximizing your money, especially if your family spends consistently on food and utilities.
Learn about UnionBank’s cashback cards

BPI Blue Mastercard

A trusted choice for first-timers, this card has worldwide acceptance, flexible installment terms, and an easy application process—even for those with limited credit history. With BPI’s strong local presence and mobile banking tools, it’s also easy for your loved ones to manage the card from home.
See how to apply for BPI credit cards online

Metrobank Titanium Mastercard

This card supports 0% installment options for high-value needs like tuition, hospital bills, or major appliances. It also offers strong security features, including fraud protection and secure mobile access. For families with large recurring expenses, this card provides both convenience and peace of mind.
Compare Metrobank credit cards

UnionBank U Visa Platinum

Unique for rewarding responsible users, this card offers a 10% interest rebate and no late fees—perfect for budgeting-conscious OFWs. It’s a great option for teaching family members responsible spending habits through positive reinforcement instead of penalties.
View more UnionBank cards


Remote Management Tips for OFWs

You can manage a Philippine credit card easily—even while working overseas. Here’s how:

1. Set Spending Limits

Control spending by setting monthly caps on each supplementary card. This keeps expenses predictable and within budget.

2. Monitor Accounts via Mobile Apps

Use UnionBank Online, Metrobank Mobile, or BPI Online to track purchases, pay bills, and monitor due dates in real-time. Most of these apps offer SMS alerts and e-statements, so you’ll always be in the loop.

3. Automate Household Bills

Link your card to pay for electricity, tuition, water, and internet. Some cards even offer cashback for these transactions. Automating payments also ensures bills are never missed, even if you’re busy abroad.

4. Build Credit as a Family

Activity from supplementary cardholders contributes to your credit profile. Responsible usage can improve approval chances for future loans or housing. It also sets a strong financial foundation for your children or spouse.

5. Communicate Regularly

Make it a habit to check in with your family about the card’s usage. Setting ground rules and reviewing statements together helps build financial discipline and trust—especially when multiple supplementary cards are in use.

Want more advice? Check out Moneymax's guide to earning credit card points fast.


Is It Safe to Apply for a Credit Card Online?

Yes—but choose trusted platforms. Moneymax partners directly with major banks, offering a safe and secure application process. You can compare card features, submit your application, and receive exclusive promos—all in one place.

Still unsure? Read this guide on how to apply for a credit card online.


Final Thoughts

The right credit card can simplify life for OFWs and their families—offering financial control, added rewards, and peace of mind. Whether your priority is earning cashback, avoiding fees, or helping your loved ones build credit, there’s a suitable card for your situation.

Just remember: choose a card with the right features, educate your family on responsible use, and take advantage of mobile tools to stay informed.

Compare and apply for the best OFW credit cards on Moneymax today.


References

Timothy Alcantara has spent the last decade immersed in the ever-evolving world of digital marketing. Based in the Philippines, he works with businesses around the world to help them connect with their audiences in meaningful ways. His expertise spans a wide range – from the strategic side of social media and SEO to the nitty-gritty of email marketing, crafting compelling copy, and collaborating with influencers. Off the work clock, he likes to spend his day reading, cooking, watching thriller and non-fiction flicks an dotting on his two daughters.

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