How to Apply for a Credit Card for the First Time in the Philippines

Is getting your first credit card a part of your #adulting goals? That plastic card is an excellent tool for building your credit history and managing your finances as a young professional.

But don’t dive into it yet without doing your homework. Here’s a simple credit card guide for beginners on how to apply for a credit card for the first time.

How to Apply for a Credit Card for the First Time: 4 Steps

Here’s how to get a credit card for the first time. Take note of these reminders before applying for one.

Step 1: Check If You're Qualified

A credit card application is like a typical job application that requires applicants to meet certain qualifications to be eligible to apply. With that, banks impose minimum requirements on age, income, employment/business operation status, and others for credit card applicants.

📌 Minimum Eligibility Requirements for First-Time Credit Card Applications

• Age – At least 21 up to 65 to 70 years old
• Citizenship – Filipino (for most banks) and foreigners living in the Philippines for the past two years
• Gross annual income – At least ₱120,000 to ₱252,000 (for basic credit cards)
• Contact number – An active residence or business landline number and mobile number
• Valid Taxpayer Identification Number (TIN)
• Employment/Self-employment status – At least one year of regular employment or at least one to two years of profitable business operation/professional practice

If you’re too young to qualify for a credit card, you may still be eligible for a supplementary credit card, as long as you’re at least 13 years old. You can get one if your older family members apply for a primary credit card and enroll you for a supplementary one.

If your income falls below the bank’s threshold, you can opt for a secured credit card with no minimum income requirement. However, you would need to open a savings account with the bank and deposit at least ₱10,000, which will serve as your collateral.

Step 2: Choose Your First Credit Card

To make it easier to find the best choices, look for certain qualities in a credit card. For instance, your first credit card must be something you can afford to own.

Consider these important factors when shopping for your first credit card in the Philippines:

• Annual fee - It’s the membership fee you pay for the convenience of using a credit card. Many starter credit cards waive annual fees for the first year so that you can save money as a new credit cardholder.
• Interest rate or finance charge - This interest will be charged when you carry a balance over from the past month.
• Penalty fees - The bank charges a late payment fee when you don’t pay at least the minimum balance by the due date. You also have to pay an over-limit fee when you go beyond your credit limit. If the bank doesn’t charge it, your transaction will be automatically declined when you exceed your credit limit.
• Rewards program - You can earn points for a certain amount spent using the credit card. Use the points to redeem rebates, annual fee waivers, gift certificates, air miles, and more. Credit cards with very low annual fees or interest rates usually don’t offer rewards.
• Eligibility requirements - This pertains to the minimum age, income, and other requirements to qualify for a credit card.

The best choice for credit card beginners is one with a low annual fee, interest rate, penalty fee, and income requirement. Starter credit cards that offer good rewards programs are also worth considering.

📌 Types of Credit Cards Suitable for Beginners

Each credit card appeals to specific types of users who share the same budget range, interests, lifestyle, and financial needs. This is why there are plenty of credit card types in the market.

Before going through the steps on how to get a credit card for the first time, inform yourself of the following types of cards first.

💳 Basic Credit Cards

Sometimes called classic or standard credit cards, basic cards are the easiest to qualify for because of their low minimum income requirement. They're also among the most affordable to own, as they usually come with lower annual fees than premium cards. 

Basic credit cards are also the no-frills type. Some of them don't offer rewards. They’re ideal for those who just want a simple card for daily and big-ticket purchases and are not interested in earning points.

Some examples include the PNB Visa Classic, Bank of Commerce Classic Mastercard, and the EastWest Privilege Classic Mastercard.

PNB Visa Classic

• 1% rebate on revolved interest
• Billing in Philippine Peso even for transactions abroad

Bank of Commerce Classic Mastercard

• 1 rewards point for every ₱25 spend
• Up to 5x points on dining and shopping spend
• 0% interest installment plans up to 36 months

EastWest Privilege Classic Mastercard 

• 1 rewards point for every ₱100 spend 
• Year-round discounts and deals at partner merchants 
• Accepted in over 30 million establishments in more than 200 countries

💳 No Annual Fee Credit Cards

A credit card that automatically offers no annual fee for life is a great first credit card for beginners. Because the annual fee is waived forever, you can save on credit card fees. Examples of this type of credit card are the PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard,  AUB Easy Mastercard, and Metrobank M Free Mastercard^®.

PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard

• No late payment and overlimit fees
• Lower minimum amount due

AUB Easy Mastercard

• 1 rewards point for every ₱50 spend
• 0% interest on new purchases
• Payment flexibility 

Metrobank M Free Mastercard^®

• 0% installment on a wide range of establishments
• Discounts and exclusive offers at partner merchants

💳 Rewards Credit Cards

A rewards credit card earns points per qualifying purchase made using the card. Once you accumulate enough rewards points, you can redeem them for gift certificates, cash rebates, air miles, annual fee waivers, or any other perks included in the credit card provider's rewards catalog.

If you're interested in this type of credit card, you can explore the UnionBank Rewards Credit Card, Metrobank Titanium Mastercard^®, Security Bank Gold Mastercard, BPI Rewards Card, or the RCBC Flex Visa.

UnionBank Rewards Credit Card

• 3x non-expiring rewards points when you shop and dine here and abroad
• 1 non-expiring rewards point for every ₱30 spend

Metrobank Titanium Mastercard^®

• 2x rewards points on dining, department store, and online purchases
• 1 point for every ₱20 spend
• No annual fees for carded first-time Metrobank cardholders who apply until February 29, 2024 and meet an annual spend of ₱180,000

Security Bank Gold Mastercard

• 1 rewards point for every ₱20 spend 
• Non-expiring rewards points
• Worldwide acceptance and exclusive Mastercard promos 

BPI Rewards Card

• 1 rewards point for every ₱35 spend
• Flexible installment plans with terms of up to 36 months

RCBC Flex Visa

• 2x rewards points on two preferred categories
• Change your preferred categories once every billing cycle

💳 Cashback Credit Cards

If earning credit card rewards don't appeal to you, perhaps earning cashback will. With a credit card that earns a percentage of cashback or rebate on eligible purchases, you can save as much as ₱1,000 monthly.

Typically, cashback earned for a month is credited to the credit card bill for the next month, so it lowers your total amount due for that month. Check out the BPI Amore Cashback Card and Robinsons Cashback to see how a cashback credit card works.

BPI Amore Cashback Card

• 4% cash back on supermarkets and department store spend
• Up to 1% cash back on drugstore and bills payment spend
• Up to 0.3% cash back on all other local retail spend

Robinsons Cashback 

• Up to 3% rebate at Robinsons stores and up to 1% rebate at other shops
• Exclusive discounts and promos on Robinsons Retail brands

💳 Travel Credit Cards

This is a special type of rewards credit card that helps cardholders save money on travel-related expenses such as airfare and hotel accommodations. These cards offer points or air miles that can be redeemed for free flights or hotel stays.

The UnionBank Cebu Pacific Gold, RCBC AirAsia Credit Card, and PNB-PAL Mabuhay Miles NOW Mastercard are examples of great travel credit cards.

UnionBank Cebu Pacific Gold

• 1 rewards point for every ₱200 spend
• 1 rewards point for every ₱100 spend at Cebu Pacific
• Early alerts on Cebu Pacific seat sales 

RCBC AirAsia Credit Card

• 2 AirAsia BIG points for every ₱25 AirAsia spend
• 1 AirAsia BIG point for every ₱28 domestic retail spend
• 1 AirAsia BIG point for every ₱22 international retail spend
• Access to airport lounges and other travel perks

PNB-PAL Mabuhay Miles NOW Mastercard

• 1,000 Mabuhay Miles welcome gift
• Pay in Philippine Peso even when shopping in other countries
• 5% discount on select international flights with PAL all year round 

💳 Co-Branded Credit Cards

If you always buy from a particular brand or store, a co-branded credit card linked to that brand is your best bet. It can help you maximize your savings when using the card. Plus, you'll enjoy rewards, freebies, and other privileges as a cardholder.

Aside from the co-branded travel credit cards above, other sample credit cards include UnionBank Lazada Credit Card and Petron BPI Card. 

UnionBank Lazada Credit Card

• 6x Lazada Credits for every ₱200 spent on the app
• Free shipping and discount vouchers

Petron BPI Card

• 3% fuel rebate at Petron
• ₱200 fuel voucher welcome gift

Here's a quick roundup of some of the best credit cards per category mentioned above:

Credit Card	Key Features
Basic Credit Card: PNB Visa Classic	1% rebate on revolved interest Billing in Philippine Peso even for transactions abroad
No Annual Fee Credit Card: PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard	No late payment and overlimit fees Lower minimum amount due
Rewards Credit Card: UnionBank Rewards Credit Card	3x non-expiring rewards points when you shop and dine here and abroad 1 non-expiring rewards point for every ₱30 spend
Cashback Credit Card: BPI Amore Cashback Card	4% cashback on supermarkets and department store spend Up to 1% cashback on drugstore and bills payment spend Up to 0.3% cashback on all other local retail spend
Travel Credit Card: UnionBank Cebu Pacific Gold	1 rewards point for every ₱200 spend 1 rewards point for every ₱100 spend at Cebu Pacific Early alerts on Cebu Pacific seat sales
Co-branded Credit Card: UnionBank Lazada Credit Card	6x Lazada Credits for every ₱200 spent on the app Free shipping and discount vouchers

📌 Comparing Credit Cards

The sheer number of options in the Philippine credit card market can overwhelm newbies. Make sure to do your legwork before applying for a credit card for the first time.

But if you don't have much time and patience to shop for credit cards, you can save yourself the trouble and use the Moneymax credit card comparison platform instead. It's a free and easy-to-use online tool that lets you compare credit cards in the Philippines in just a few clicks.

Step 3: Prepare the Required Documents

Once you've picked the most suitable card, prepare the requirements for a first-time credit card application in the Philippines. Go for a credit card with easy application requirements to expedite the process. It will also save you a lot of time and energy.

Step 4: Apply for a Credit Card

The most convenient way to apply for a credit card is to do it online. Many banks nowadays offer credit card applications over the internet.

👉 How to Apply for a Credit Card Online

1. Go to the official website of the issuing bank and look for its online credit card application facility.
2. Fill out an online application form, ensuring you provide complete and correct information to avoid processing delays.
3. Take photos of your supporting documents and attach them to your online application.
4. Submit your credit card application.
   

You may also opt to apply for your first credit card at the nearest branch of your chosen bank. You'll have to complete the application form on-site and submit your documents to the bank teller.

What to Do Before Getting a Credit Card for the First Time

Getting a credit card requires you to do your due diligence. You have to look into different considerations carefully so that in the end, you won’t regret that you’ve chosen to get a credit card. Here are some of the things to mull over:

✔️ Ask Yourself If You Really Need It

The most important thing that you’ll have to do is to determine if you really need a credit card. 

Are you building your credit history so that you’ll be able to qualify for a home loan in the future? Do you need a purchasing tool to tide you over in case you’re short on cash? Are you a frequent flyer who may save a lot on plane tickets if you use a credit card while earning miles and rewards? 

If you can pay your bills and buy your necessities without problems, you could probably skip having a credit card. The only reason you should own one is that you need it. A good reason is to have something for emergencies (and we’re not talking about emergencies like shoes on sale here). 

Another is if you want to make big-ticket purchases that are otherwise impossible to do with cash, like a powerful laptop or home appliance which you can pay for in installments.

But in general, people apply for credit cards to build their credit scores. Still, if you have a healthy cash flow and don’t need a loan that requires a credit score, you’re better off living without the shiny plastic card.

✔️ Don’t Overlook the Rates and Fees

Banks and credit card companies disclose their cards’ rates and fees. You can look at this information to plan your application and budget should you choose a specific credit card. 

Check how much a credit card will cost you. When you signed up for a credit card, you may have been drawn in by the promise of a zero annual percentage rate (APR).

Call your bank and ask if it’s just an introductory rate, how long will it last, and how much the regular APR is. This is important because it’s the rate you’ll pay once the promotional offer ends.

Also, ask how much the annual membership fee is and if it can be waived. Find out how much you’ll have to pay in late fees, just in case.

Other than charging annual fees and interest, banks may require you to pay for certain credit card services, such as foreign transactions, cash advances, and balance transfers.

Know that some fees are avoidable. For example, you can do away with paying foreign transaction fees by not using your card when you’re abroad. You can also take advantage of banks’ 0% balance transfers during specific periods.

Read more: What Fees are Charged on a Credit Card? Here’s an Up-to-Date List

✔️ Consider Getting a Credit Card from Your Current Bank

The application process can be easier with your current bank. If you have the bank’s app, you can apply for a credit card straight from the app.

It will also be convenient for you in the long run since you can manage your credit card transactions using the same app. No need to download a new app and go through the learning curve!

✔️ Shop Around for the Best Credit Cards

Don’t take the first card that your bank offers you. Again, this is a business, and they’ll want to earn as much money from each client as possible. You’re likely being offered a card with high interest rates and annual fees.

Shop around to find a credit card that offers lower fees and a higher credit limit. Compare the rewards programs, too.

A provider might have a very attractive miles system. But if you hardly ever travel, this might be useless to you. You might be better off with a good cashback program.

Moreover, find out how secure and protected your credit card is. You can do everything you can to avoid getting your card details stolen and used without your approval, but thieves constantly find ways to up their game. 

Ask your bank to see if your card comes with fraud protection. Some cards will allow you to not pay for charges that you report as fraudulent until a thorough investigation has been conducted.

✔️ Understand What Will Happen If You Fall Behind on Payments

It’s uncomfortable to contemplate, and you probably think it won’t happen to you. But no matter how responsible you are, something unexpected can set you back financially. 

When this happens, banks offer programs that let you pay back your debt on more manageable terms. They can give you lower interest rates and monthly payments.

It pays to know what resources you can fall back on if the worst happens instead of scrambling for them when you’re already stressed with debt.

Read more: Say Goodbye to Late Payments with These Credit Card Payment Methods

✔️ Know That Your First Credit Card Can Make or Break Your Credit 

Your first credit card can give your credit score a big boost. But if you’re not careful with your spending, it can backfire on you. 

Remember that your credit card activity forms the basis of your credit score. It includes if you’re on time or late with your payments and how much you’ve used up in your credit limit. To be on the safe side, try to keep your credit card usage under 30% of your credit limit. 

✔️ Ask for Advice

Since it’s your first time, your head will definitely be swimming in a pool of questions. It won’t hurt to ask your family and friends about their credit card experience. Listen to their stories to shape your expectations and stay grounded when it comes to making your credit card application decisions.

They may even share some tips and tricks that will help you maximize your card. You may hear a few anecdotes on mismanagement, too, which can take as credit card habits you need to avoid.

How to Get Approved for a Credit Card in the Philippines

Whether it’s your second time applying or you’re just submitting your requirements for the first time, your actions before you apply for a credit card will determine your success. Here are some things you can do to up your chances of getting approved for a credit card:

👍 Stay Employed

Applying for a credit card for the first time means that you understand the forthcoming consequences, namely debts. And the easiest way to pay off credit card debts is to secure a stable source of income.

Banks and credit card companies are likely only to approve applications of those who have a steady job. So if you’re resigning from your company and you’re planning to get a credit card, we recommend delaying the latter until you get a new job. No source of income plus a credit card is a recipe for a financial disaster.

The same applies to self-employed applicants. You must prove that your business or freelance work is active and profitable to get approved.

👍 Be Honest With Your Application

This may be a basic tip. But the truth is, some people brazenly falsify their application. Others may even forge certificates of employment and payslips.

Never attempt to do this, as banks are smart and sophisticated. They have various ways of determining a document’s authenticity. If your falsified documents and fake details are discovered, your application will be rejected. You may even be reported to the authorities.   

👍 Make Sure All Your Documents are Complete and Updated

A credit card application is often delayed—or, worse, denied—because of inconsistencies in the details. Double-check application forms, payslips, and employment-related certificates. Carefully go through everything, including your employer’s contact number, your date of birth, and your TIN.

👍 Apply for a Credit Card That Matches Your Financial Standing

If you’re asking how to get your first credit card approved, one of the most straightforward answers is to apply for a card that matches your lifestyle and financial capability. You'll be rejected if you apply for a card that doesn’t match your salary range.

As a first-time credit cardholder, you’re a newcomer to credit. This means you’re still not qualified for the best credit cards that have great perks, rewards, and enticing sign-up bonuses. These types of credit cards are usually offered to those with longer credit histories and specific income requirements. 

So you’ll need to start small with your first credit card, like a credit card with no annual fees or a no-fuss rewards program. 

👍 Apply for a Secured Credit Card  

Got a time deposit or savings account? Your credit card application may stand a chance if you choose a secured credit card. A secured credit card requires collateral, like a savings or time deposit account.

The credit limit is typically 80% to 95% of the amount deposited in your account. The deposit in your account should stay there for at least a year to keep your credit limit.

Eventually, you may ask the bank to convert your secured credit card into a regular one.

❓ What to Do If Your First Credit Card Application Gets Declined

The first and most important thing to remember when you don’t get approved the first time: never lose hope. Getting rejected for your first credit card application doesn’t mean you’ll never qualify for a credit card ever again.

But don’t make yourself appear too desperate—wait for at least three to six months before you apply again. Take that time to improve your credit score and find a credit card that suits you more. This way, you can boost your chances of getting the bank’s approval for a credit card.

What to Do Once You Get Your First Credit Card 

Now that you know how to apply for a credit card for the first time, you need to learn how to use it―that is, if your application is successful!

But let’s assume you’ve already received your card. Before you start using your first credit card, follow these steps immediately:

1. Sign the back of your card. This is for your own security and convenience.^[1]
2. Activate the credit card. The bank will send instructions for credit card activation along with your new card. Follow these instructions, which usually involve calling the bank's hotline or sending an SMS.
3. Enroll your credit card in your online banking account. This way, you can monitor your credit card transactions and view your monthly billing statements via your bank's electronic banking system. You can schedule your credit card payments online to avoid missing a due date.
4. Understand the terms and conditions before using your new card. Take note of the credit limit, rewards, annual fees, finance charges, and other credit card fees.
5. Store it in a safe place. Put your card in your wallet (if you'll use it often) or in a secure drawer in your home (if you'll use it only for emergencies or travel) to keep it from getting lost or stolen.

Read more: 

• 26 Most Common Credit Card Terms Every Cardholder Should Know
• Anatomy of Plastic Money: 13 Credit Card Parts You Should Know

❗ How to Use Your First Credit Card Responsibly

Now you're ready to use your new card and be a responsible credit card owner! Here are some reminders for first-time credit card users:

• Pay it off in full every month. If you can, pay more than the minimum amount due so you avoid paying more later. The minimum only covers the previous month’s fees and interest, so you’re not really making a significant payment to your credit card dues.
• Don't spend beyond your means, especially if you have a six-digit credit limit. Don’t max out your first credit card. It'll be harder to pay your monthly balances that way.
• Monitor your credit card transactions and statements regularly. If you notice anything suspicious, report it immediately to the bank.
• Never share your credit card details. Protect yourself from credit card fraud by making sure you don't give out your credit card and personal information to anyone.

Read more: 9 Credit Card Hacks in the Philippines to Help You Save Money

Final Thoughts

Now that you know how to apply for a credit card for the first time, don't you think it's a simple process? However, it does get more complicated when you start using it. But as long as you're careful and frugal with your credit card spending and consistent with your payments, you'll do just fine. 

Looking for more credit card options for first-timers? Compare your options below: 

Credit Card for First-Timers	Features and Benefits
UnionBank Rewards Credit Card	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®	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	Monthly income requirement: ₱30,000 Interest rate: 3% Perks: 1 rewards point per ₱20 spend Secure online shopping with SecureCode
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	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	Monthly income requirement: ₱10,000 Interest rate: 2.5% Perks: Zero annual fees for life No late payment or overlimit fees
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	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

Source: ^[1] Should I Sign the Back of My Credit Card? Is It Safe to Sign? (Nerd Wallet, 2023)