What are the Requirements for Getting a Credit Card in the Philippines?

Rouselle Isla

Rouselle Isla

Last updated September 05, 2023

Credit cards can help you build a good credit history and save money with numerous benefits and rewards. Despite these perks, only around 10 million credit cards are in circulation in 2022, which is significantly lower than the 126 million debit cards in the Philippines.[1] Many may be discouraged by credit card requirements imposed by banks.

In addition, many individuals are deterred by the risk of incurring credit card debt—even if debt and credit cards don't actually come together.[2] When used responsibly, credit cards can be great for your financial well-being.

Credit Card Requirements Per Bank in the Philippines

list of credit card requirements philippines

To ensure you get the best chance of approval, check if you meet the bank’s eligibility criteria and submit all the required documents. Here’s a list of the credit card requirements from some top banks in the Philippines, so you can get your application ready.

UnionBank Credit Card Requirements

Got your eye on a UnionBank Rewards Credit Card? You can own one or any UnionBank credit card of your choice if you meet the following eligibility requirements and provide the required documents.  

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 18 to 70 years old
  • Filipino citizen or foreign resident

📝 Required Documents for UnionBank Credit Cards:

  • Valid ID
  • Accomplished application form
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, bank statements, etc.)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants

⏲️ Processing Time:

12 to 14 working days upon submission of complete requirements

credit card requirements unionbank

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Metrobank Credit Card Requirements

Interested in getting a Metrobank credit card like the Titanium Mastercard®, Platinum Mastercard®, or World Mastercard®? Check out the minimum eligibility and documentary requirements below.

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 18 to 70 years old
  • Landline number 
  • Valid TIN, GSIS, or SSS number
  • Filipino citizen or resident foreigner
  • Gross annual income of at least ₱350,000

📝 Required Documents for Metrobank Credit Cards:

  • Proof of identification
  • Accomplished application form
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, etc.)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants

⏲️ Processing time:

Two to three weeks upon submission of complete requirements

credit card requirements metrobank

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HSBC Credit Card Requirements

Take your pick from HSBC credit cards such as the HSBC Red Mastercard, Gold Visa Cash Back, and the Platinum Visa Rebate. To apply, meet the eligibility qualifications and submit the credit card requirements below. 

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 18 to 70 years old
  • Filipino citizen or resident foreigner
  • Have a primary credit card for at least six months
  • Minimum annual income of ₱200,000

📝 Required Documents for HSBC Credit Cards:

  • A mobile number or a landline number
  • Two valid IDs
  • Accomplished application form
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest ITR, Certificate of Employment, Audited Financial Statements, etc.)
  • Proof of residence (valid ID with the address of the applicant, utility bills, etc.)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants

⏲️ Processing Time:

Five to 10 working days upon submission of complete requirements

credit card requirements hsbc

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Security Bank Credit Card Requirements

Ready to own a Security Bank credit like the Gold Mastercard, Platinum Mastercard, or World Mastercard? Make sure you qualify for the credit card of your choice and submit the documentary requirements for a hassle-free application. 

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 21 to 65 years old
  • Filipino citizen or resident foreigner
  • Gross annual income of at least ₱480,000
  • For employed: must be a regular employee for at least a year
  • For self-employed: business must be operating for at least three years

📝 Required Documents for Security Bank Credit Cards:

  • A landline number
  • Government-issued ID
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, etc.)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants

⏲️ Processing time:

At least five working days upon submission of complete requirements

credit card requirements security bank

BPI Credit Card Requirements

You, too, can be a BPI credit cardholder―if you meet the eligibility requirements and submit the following proof of identification and income. So if you plan on getting a rewards credit card like the BPI Gold Rewards Card or one that earns cashback like the BPI Amore Cashback Card, take note of the following requirements: 

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • At least 21 years old
  • Gross annual income of at least ₱180,000
  • Filipino citizen or foreigner with local residence
  • Have an active home phone or mobile number

📝 Required Documents for BPI Credit Cards:

  • Accomplished application form
  • One valid ID
  • Proof of income (latest two pay slips, latest BIR form 2316 or 1701, Certificate of Employment, latest audited financial statements)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants

⏲️ Processing Time:

One to two weeks upon submission of complete requirements

credit card requirements bpi

PNB Credit Card Requirements

Is a PNB credit card your preferred credit card? You can apply for one that fits your lifestyle. From the beginner-friendly PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard to the prestigious PNB-PAL Mabuhay Miles World Mastercard, check out the requirements to qualify and apply. 

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 21 to 65 years old
  • Filipino citizen or resident foreigner
  • Gross annual income of at least ₱120,000
  • For employed: must be a regular employee
  • For self-employed: business must be operating for at least two years

📝 Required Documents for PNB Credit Cards:

  • Valid ID
  • Accomplished application form
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, etc.)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants

⏲️ Processing Time:

Four to six weeks upon submission of requirements

credit card requirements pnb

RCBC Credit Card Requirements

You can choose from a variety of RCBC credit cards, like the Gold Mastercard, the Flex Gold Visa, or the Visa Infinite Card. Check out the minimum eligibility and documentary requirements below to kickstart your application. 

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 18 to 65 years old
  • Filipino citizen or resident foreigner
  • Employed or self-employed: must be employed for at least a year
  • Should have an active landline or mobile phone number

📝 Required Documents for RCBC Credit Cards:

  • Accomplished application form
  • Valid ID
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, etc.)
  • Latest Audited Financial Statements and bank statement for self-employed applicants

⏲️ Processing time:

10 to 15 days upon submission of requirements 

credit card requirements rcbc

AUB Credit Card Requirements

Whether you’re getting an AUB Classic Mastercard or a Gold Mastercard, here are the eligibility and documentary requirements you need to meet and submit.  

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 21 to 65 years old
  • Minimum gross annual income of ₱600,000
  • Filipino citizen or resident foreigner
  • Employed for at least a year as a regular employee or operating a business profitably for at least a year
  • For licensed professionals: must be practicing for at least a year
  • Have a mobile phone, office landline, and active email address

📝 Required Documents for AUB Credit Cards:

  • Valid ID
  • Accomplished application form
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, etc.)
  • ITR (Form 1701, 1701Q), latest Financial Statements, DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants

⏲️ Processing Time:

11 to 14 working days upon submission of complete requirements

credit card requirements aub

Bank of Commerce Credit Card Requirements 

Experience what it’s like to have a Bank of Commerce credit card, from the Classic Mastercard to the World Mastercard. Meet the eligibility requirements and submit your proof of identity and income to get started on your application. 

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 21 to 65 years old
  • Filipino citizen or resident foreigner
  • Minimum annual income of ₱120,000
  • Should have an active landline or mobile phone number

📝 Required Documents for Bank of Commerce Credit Cards:

  • Accomplished application form
  • Valid ID
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, etc.)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants

credit card requirements bank of commerce

Maybank Credit Card Requirements

One of Maybank’s eligibility requirements is an existing credit from other banks, and it should have a credit limit of at least ₱30,000. Check the other requirements below: 

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 21 to 65 years old
  • Filipino citizen or resident foreigner
  • Existing credit cardholder of other banks for at least 10 months and with a credit limit of at least ₱30,000

📝 Required Documents for Maybank Credit Cards:

  • A mobile number or a landline number
  • One valid ID
  • Accomplished application form
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, etc.)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants
  • Active credit card

⏲️ Processing time:

10 to 15 working days upon submission of complete requirements

credit card requirements maybank

Robinsons Bank Credit Card Requirements 

There’s a Robinsons Bank credit card that will fit your lifestyle. See if you can apply for the Robinsons Cashback or DOS Mastercard and prepare the following documentary requirements.  

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • 21 to 65 years old
  • Filipino citizen or resident foreigner
  • Minimum annual income of ₱180,000 (₱240,000 if married)
  • Should have an active landline, mobile phone number, and email address 
  • Residing or working near a Robinsons Bank branch

📝 Required Documents for Robinsons Bank Credit Cards:

  • Accomplished application form
  • Valid ID
  • Proof of income (latest pay slip, bank statements, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, etc.)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants
  • Alien Certificate of Registration for foreign applicants

credit card requirements robinsons bank

China Bank Credit Card Requirements

To be eligible for a China Bank credit card, you must be an existing principal credit cardholder of another bank. Here are the minimum eligibility and documentary requirements you must meet and submit along with your credit card application.  

✅ Eligibility Criteria:

  • Filipino or foreigner working and residing permanently in the Philippines
  • 21 to 65 years old
  • Gross annual income of at least ₱250,000
  • Have a valid landline and mobile phone number and email address

📝 Required Documents for China Bank Credit Cards:

  • Accomplished application form
  • One valid ID
  • Proof of income (pay slips, latest BIR form 2316, Certificate of Employment, Audited Financial Statement etc.)
  • DTI/SEC Registration for self-employed applicants

⏲️ Processing Time:

10 to 15 working days upon submission of complete requirements

Bonus: 5 Tips When Applying for a Credit Card

credit card requirements - Tips When Applying in the Philippines

To have a smooth credit card application process, consider the following tips:

✔️ Get a Card That Fits Your Needs and Budget

Consider applying for a credit card that fits both your needs and budget. Ask yourself: Where will I use my credit card? How much can I afford for monthly payments? Will payments put a strain on my current budget? The answers to these questions may help you determine the best card.

✔️ Compare Credit Cards

Compare credit cards in the Philippines in terms of interest rates, features and benefits, minimum repayment amount, fees, and charges. Again, consider your finances when comparing credit cards to see which suits you best.

✔️ Limit Your Credit Card Applications

Don’t apply for too many credit cards simultaneously. Banks may inquire about your recent financial history, including existing credit card applications. It may appear that you’re having difficulty getting an application approved or taking on more debt, negatively affecting your chance of getting approval.

✔️ Prepare Your Documents in Advance

Getting all the required documents in order before sending your credit card application can save you a lot of time. Make a checklist of your bank’s application requirements and tick each one off once you get them ready.

✔️ Understand the Terms and Conditions

Read the conditions to know more about the credit card fees, interest rates, and other card details. It will help you use your credit card more responsibly. It will also help you maximize the benefits the credit card has to offer that you may not be aware of otherwise.

Read more: 

Final Thoughts

Getting a card is exciting, but preparing all the credit card requirements beforehand is essential to ensure a smooth application process. Make sure to apply for a credit card you qualify for and can afford. 

Furthermore, read the terms and conditions to know what you’re signing up for. And once you get approval, use your credit card responsibly.

Use Moneymax to compare credit cards in the Philippines and find the right one.  Check out some of the best options below if you're applying for the first time:

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

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.

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