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Fast and Easy: How to Apply for a Credit Card Online

Rouselle Isla

Rouselle Isla

Last updated January 24, 2024

Card payments in the Philippines increased by 39% to ₱853 billion in the first half of 2023, according to the Credit Card Association of the Philippines (CCAP).[1] Apart from the wide variety of credit cards and many perks offered by banks, the convenience of credit card online applications may have played a part in this growth.

Can you apply for a credit card online? Traditionally, you'd need to head to your bank’s nearest branch to apply for a credit card. You'd have to fall in line to submit your requirements and wait for approval, which can be time-consuming.

But thanks to modern technology, long queues for credit card applications are now a thing of the past. Potential customers can now apply over the internet from the comfort of their homes.

Here's how to apply for a credit card online in the Philippines.

Why You Should Apply for a Credit Card Online

how to apply for a credit card online - why you should apply for credit card online

Is it better to apply for a credit card in person or online? In the Philippines, an online credit card application offers various advantages compared to the traditional method. Here are some of them:

✔️ Convenience

A lot of people prefer to go through an online credit card application because it saves them time, money, and effort.

You don’t have to spend time going to your preferred bank’s nearest branch and waiting in line. Just submit the credit card requirements through your preferred bank’s website. All you need is a computer with internet access.

✔️ Access to a Wide Range of Credit Card Products

Traditionally, if you want to compare credit cards from various issuers, you need to visit each institution separately or call up different hotlines to review their offerings.

These days, you can look up credit cards offered by various issuers through the internet. Online platforms like Moneymax let you compare credit cards and find the right one based on your needs and lifestyle. You can also directly apply for a credit card through these websites.

✔️ Shorter Processing Time

In the Philippines, credit card online applications are usually faster to process. Simply fill out the application form and upload a soft copy of your requirements.

Unless there are issues with your documents, your application can be approved as fast as a day after submission.

✔️ Safer Application Process

Is data security one of your primary concerns when using the internet? Fortunately, online applications are generally safe and secure. Banks and other credit card application platforms ensure that their systems protect each customer’s private information.

✔️ Welcome Gifts

One of the perks of applying for a credit card online is the welcome gift you'll receive once you get approved and meet the spending requirement. If you start your credit card application through Moneymax, for example, you can get exciting freebies like an annual fee waiver!


🎁 Free Gift from Moneymax: E-Gift, Wireless Earbuds, or Headphones!

moneymax unionbank credit card welcome gift

Eligible card: Any UnionBank credit card 

Promo period: Until March 31, 2024

Get a pair of Apple AirPods 2 worth ₱8,490, a JBL Tune 720BT worth ₱4,699, or a Giftaway eGift worth ₱4,000! Just apply for any UnionBank credit card via Moneymax, get approved within the promo period, and then meet the ₱10,000 spend requirement within 60 days from your card approval date.

This Moneymax UnionBank welcome gift promo runs until March 31, 2024 only. Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-187582 Series of 2024. 

Note: The promo is exclusive to carded applicants who do not have an existing principal credit card issued by UnionBank and/or Citi.


What to Do Before Applying for a Credit Card Online

how to apply for a credit card online - what to do before applying online

While it takes only around 20 minutes to fill out your online application, preparing the requirements takes longer than that.

Here are a few pointers to consider before applying for a credit card:

👉 Identify Your Needs

There's no one-size-fits-all credit card. Different credit cards suit different individuals, so you need to consider what you want, need, and can afford.

The following can help you determine which type of credit card may best suit you:

  • Purpose of the card. What do you plan to use the card for? If you need a credit card for general spending, a low-interest credit card may suit you the best. However, if you need a card for debt consolidation, you may have to do more research as there are a lot of options in the market.
  • Your spending habits. How much can you afford for monthly repayments? Apart from your would-be credit card, what other debts do you need to pay? Determine how much of your monthly budget goes to paying debts. If loans take up most of your finances, perhaps adding a credit card to the mix isn’t a good idea.

👉 Compare the Different Types of Credit Cards

Different credit card types appeal to different people. Here are some of the types available in the market:

  • Basic credit card. This is the easiest card to qualify for because of its low minimum requirements. It also comes with more affordable annual fees compared to other credit card types. However, it also usually doesn’t offer any rewards.
  • No annual fee credit card. As the name suggests, this kind of credit card doesn’t have any yearly fee to maintain.
  • Rewards credit card. This type of card offers rewards on purchases made using a credit card. You can earn points every time you use your card and redeem them for cash rebates, gift certificates, and other perks.
  • Cashback credit card. Get some of your cash back when you make a purchase using your credit card. It's ideal if you want to save some money every time you use your card.

If you're ready to explore credit cards, check out some of the best options for beginners:

Credit Card for First-Timers Features and Benefits
UnionBank Rewards Credit Card
2023 UnionBank Rewards VISA
APPLY-NOW - UnionBank Rewards Visa
  • 3x points when you shop and dine here and abroad
  • 1 never-expiring point per ₱30 spend
  • Monthly income requirement: ₱15,000
  • Interest rate: 3%
Metrobank Titanium Mastercard®
 METROBANK TITANIUM MASTERCARD
APPLY-NOW - Metrobank Titanium
  • 2x rewards points on dining, department store, and online purchases
  • 1 point for every ₱20 spend
  • Monthly income requirement: ₱15,000
  • Interest rate: 3%
Security Bank Gold Mastercard
Security Bank Gold Mastercard 2023
APPLY-NOW - Security Bank Gold
  • 1 rewards point per ₱20 spend
  • Secure online shopping with SecureCode
  • Monthly income requirement: ₱30,000
  • Interest rate: 3%
BPI Rewards Card
credit cards for beginners - BPI rewards card
APPLY-NOW - BPI rewards card
  • 1 BPI Point per ₱35 spend
  • Up to 36 months of installment terms
  • Up to ₱2 million travel insurance coverage
  • Monthly income requirement: ₱15,000
  • Interest rate: 3%
BPI Edge Card
BPI Edge
APPLY-NOW - BPI Edge Mastercard
  • 1 BPI point per ₱50 spend
  • Flexible installment plans and payment options
  • Low forex conversion rates at 1.85%
  • Monthly income requirement: ₱15,000
  • Interest rate: 3%
PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard
pnb zelo
COMPARE NOW - PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard
  • Zero annual fees for life on principal and supplementary cards
  • No late payment or overlimit fees
  • Monthly income requirement: ₱10,000
  • Interest rate: 2.5%
AUB Easy Mastercard
AUB-EASY
COMPARE NOW - AUB Easy Mastercard
  • No annual fee for life
  • 0% interest on new purchases
  • Flexible credit card payment due date
  • Monthly income requirement: ₱50,000
  • Interest rate: 3%
AUB Classic Mastercard
AUB_CLASSIC
COMPARE NOW - AUB Classic Mastercard
  • No annual fee for life
  • 0% interest on new purchases
  • 1 rewards point per ₱50 spend
  • Monthly income requirement: ₱50,000
  • Interest rate: 3%

 

👉 Don’t Rush Your Application

Take your time and research various credit card products and issuers in the market. Don’t jump at the first credit card deal you see on your search results. Spend time comparing credit cards to find the best one that suits your financial needs.

You can compare your credit card choices based on the following:

  • Interest rate
  • Annual fee
  • Penalty charge
  • Supplementary card and additional fees
  • Rewards program and other perks

Related reading: What Fees Are Charged on a Credit Card? Here’s an Up-to-Date List

👉 Check the Requirements

It’s futile to submit an application if you don’t qualify. Check the eligibility and requirements of your preferred bank before filling out an online form. Prepare any documents you may need beforehand as well.


🎁 Free Gift from Moneymax: ₱2,500 eGift, Xiaomi Redmi Soundbar, or JBL Wave Beam True Wireless Earbuds 

moneymax metrobank credit card promo - giftaway egift xiaomi redmi soundbar jbl wireless earbuds

Eligible cards: Metrobank Titanium Mastercard®, Platinum Mastercard®, and World Mastercard®

Promo period: Until March 15, 2024

How do you get a Metrobank credit card welcome gift? Simple! Just apply and get approved for any eligible card through the Moneymax website.

Choose from a ₱2,500 eGift voucher via Giftaway, a Xiaomi Redmi Soundbar worth ₱2,499, or JBL Wave Beam True Wireless Earbuds worth ₱3,799 as your free special gift.

This Moneymax Metrobank eGift/Xiaomi/JBL promo runs until March 15, 2024 only. So hurry and apply now!

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-184526 Series of 2024. Terms and conditions apply.

Note: Applicant must be an existing credit cardholder in good standing for at least nine months.


Basic Requirements to Apply for a Credit Card Online 

Here are some general conditions to meet and requirements to collate before applying for a credit card online:

  • Must be at least 21 years old
  • Must be a Filipino citizen or a foreigner residing locally
  • Must have a gross annual income of at least ₱120,000, depending on your chosen card
  • Accomplished online application form
  • Government-issued valid ID
  • Proof of income: payslips, latest BIR form 2316, and Certificate of Employment
  • DTI or SEC registration (for self-employed applications)
  • Alien Certificate of Registration (for foreign applicants)

Your issuing bank may ask you to submit additional requirements and fulfill other eligibility criteria. Check the website before submitting your online application.


🎁 Free Gift from Moneymax: Giftaway Credits, Xiaomi Photo Printer, or JBL Tune 520 BT

moneymax hsbc credit card promo

Eligible cards: HSBC Red Mastercard, Gold Visa Cash Back, and Platinum Visa Rebate

Promo period: Until March 31, 2024

Not an HSBC credit cardholder yet? Apply for an HSBC card through Moneymax during the promo period (and get approved subsequently) to receive an exciting free welcome gift! Choose from free Giftaway credits worth ₱2,500, a Xiaomi Photo Printer worth ₱3,399, and a JBL Tune 520 BT worth ₱3,349. 

This Moneymax HSBC Giftaway/Xiaomi/JBL promo runs until March 31, 2024 only. So hurry and apply now!

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-186974 Series of 2024. Terms and conditions apply. 


How to Apply for a Credit Card Online in the Philippines

how to apply for a credit card online

Now you're ready to start your credit card application in the Philippines! Here are the steps on how to apply for a credit card online:

  1. Visit your preferred bank’s official website and go to its credit card online application page.
  2. Fill out the online application form. Ensure that you provide your complete information to avoid delays in processing.
  3. Take photos of the required documents and upload them as part of your application.
  4. Double-check the details you provided in your online application form.
  5. Once you’re sure everything is complete and accurate, submit your application.
  6. Wait for the bank to reach out to you regarding your application.

Apart from your preferred bank’s official website, you can also file your credit card application online through comparison websites like Moneymax.

Moneymax partners with different banks in the country to provide a tailored and hassle-free application process. It also lets you narrow your credit card choices based on the information you provide. More importantly, Moneymax is also safe to use, making sure that your information is secure.

Wondering how long credit card applications take? The processing time can take as fast as one business day after you submit your form. As for the credit card application approval time, it typically takes three to 10 days.

How to check the status of your credit card application? Simply reach out to your chosen provider for an update.


🎁 Free Gift from Moneymax: ₱2,500 eGift, Sony Wireless Headphones, or JBL Bluetooth Speaker

security bank welcome gift - egift sony wireless headphones jbl bluetooth speaker

Eligible cards: Select Security Bank credit cards

Promo period: Until March 31, 2024

Want a credit card from Security Bank? You're in for a treat if you apply and get approved for an eligible card through Moneymax and meet the minimum spend requirement. Pick your free Security Bank welcome gift: a ₱2,500 Giftaway eGift voucher; Sony WH-CH520 wireless headphones worth ₱3,299; or a JBL Horizon 2 Bluetooth Clock Radio Speaker worth ₱5,354.

This Moneymax Security Bank Giftaway/Sony/JBL credit card promo runs until March 31, 2024 only. Apply now!

Per DTI Fair Trade Permit No. FTEB-186695 Series of 2024.  Terms and conditions apply


How to Use Your Credit Card Responsibly

how to apply for a credit card online - how to use card responsibly

After you learn how to apply for a credit card online and get approved, you can now use your card. But before you go on a swiping spree, be mindful of credit card debt. According to Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) data, credit card delinquency rates were at 3.26% in the first quarter of 2023.[2] 

However, when used wisely, a credit card can help you build your finances. Here are a few tips to help you become a responsible credit cardholder:

👍 Pay Your Bills on Time

Delays in credit card payments can result in penalty charges. Some banks charge up to ₱1,000 for delayed payments.

Pay your bills in full every month to avoid any penalties. It's also a great way to keep your interest rates low and improve your credit history.

👍 Spend What You Can Afford

If you don’t want to end up with any delinquency, you need to stay out of credit card debt altogether. Use your card only for what you can afford and pay your bill in full.

It may seem challenging, but it can help you avoid getting into debt and paying hefty penalty charges.

Read more: Avoid Maxing Out Your Credit Card With These Tips

👍 Track Your Spending

Stay on top of your expenses so you can plan your monthly budget and see if you’ve reached your credit limit. Track your credit card spending by checking your online account frequently, saving your receipts, and maintaining a ledger.

👍 Check Your Credit Card Statement Properly

View your credit card statement monthly. It contains important information such as your credit card balance, monthly charges, deadlines, and points earned, which you can redeem for perks. 

Related reading:

Final Thoughts

Applying for a credit card is easier than ever because of the internet. While it only takes a few minutes to learn how to apply for a credit card online, you must do your due diligence to find the card that fits your needs the best.

Once you have your credit card, use it wisely to avoid any debts that may strain your finances.

Compare credit cards with Moneymax

Sources:

Rouselle has over eight years of writing experience in the personal finance niche. She has written feature stories, articles, and how-to guides on various personal finance and trending lifestyle topics. Before that, she briefly worked in banking and was a licensed life insurance advisor. When not writing, Rouselle likes to read books and binge-watch films and series. Follow Rouselle on Linkedin.

FINANCIAL TIP:

Use a personal loan to consolidate your outstanding debt at a lower interest rate!

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