Getting a credit card shouldn’t feel like waiting in line for a theme park ride—anticipation building, only to move forward inch by inch. Whether you're gearing up for a major purchase, securing a financial safety net, or finally stepping into the world of credit, the last thing you want is a long, unpredictable wait. Luckily, some banks in the Philippines have streamlined the process, offering fast-track approvals so you can swipe, tap, and spend without the suspense.
Which Banks Offer the Fastest Credit Card Approvals?
To help you find the perfect credit card, here’s a comparison of credit cards with quick approval times:
UnionBank Rewards Visa Platinum
UnionBank leads the pack with their UnionBank Rewards Visa Platinum, which promises approval that's as fast as 24 hours—significantly faster than standard credit card applications that typically take two to three weeks.
Why Choose This Card?
- Fast approval – Get approved in as little as 24 hours!
- No annual fee for the first year – Enjoy your rewards without the extra cost.
- Earn points on every purchase – Get 1 reward point for every ₱30 spent.
- Exclusive perks – Access to exclusive offers and VIP privileges.
- Flexible credit limit – Tailored to your needs and financial profile.
- Free access to airport lounges – Travel in style with complimentary lounge access at select airports.
The catch? You’ll need a minimum yearly income of ₱150,000 to qualify. But, with rewards, VIP perks, and the fast application process, it’s the perfect card for those looking to make the most out of their spending and travel.
Metrobank ON Virtual Mastercard
Metrobank's ON Virtual Mastercard is a digital-first credit card designed for seamless online transactions. With its swift approval process, you can start shopping online in no time.
Why Choose This Card?
- Quick Approval: Get your virtual card details in as fast as 48 hours from approval through secure digital channels.
- E-Commerce Protection: Enjoy automatic worldwide insurance for online purchases, covering issues like non-delivery or damaged goods.
- Rewards Program: Earn 1 point for every ₱20 spent, redeemable for GrabPay credits, prepaid load, shopping vouchers, and more.
- Online Account Management: Easily monitor your spending and manage your account through Metrobank's online platforms.
Application Requirements:
- Age: Applicants must be at least 18 years old.
- Income: A minimum annual gross income of ₱180,000 is required.
- Employment: Must be a regular employee for at least 6 months or a principal cardholder with another bank.
- Identification: Submit a valid government-issued photo ID.
Other Quick-Approval Credit Cards
- PSBank Credit Mastercard: Known for easy approval and a simplified application process with perks like free purchase protection insurance, free travel insurance, limitless rewards vouchers, gift certificates and more.
- China Bank Prime Mastercard: Ideal for applicants with an existing credit card, as banks may fast-track approval based on credit history.
How to Speed Up Your Credit Card Application
Even with banks offering expedited services, there are steps you can take to further streamline the process:
1. Pre-Check Your Eligibility
Before applying, verify that you meet all requirements for the specific card. Comparison tools like Finmerkado (yours truly) can help you filter cards by approval speed and requirements. This pre-screening saves valuable time by preventing applications that are likely to be rejected.
2. Prepare Complete Documentation
Having all your documents ready when you apply for a credit card significantly reduces processing time:
- Valid Philippine government issued IDs (passport, driver's license, SSS/GSIS ID)
- Income documentation (Certificate of Employment, company ID, payslips, BIR forms, etc.)
- Proof of address (utility bills dated within the last 3 months)
- Completed application form with accurate information
- Alien certificate or alien certification for foreigners
Think of this as preparing for a race—you wouldn’t stop mid-run to tie your shoelaces; similarly, having everything ready prevents delays in your application process.
3. Consider Secured Credit Cards
If you’re a first-time applicant or rebuilding your credit, secured cards like Security Bank’s Fast Track offer the fastest route to approval since they pose minimal risk to the bank.
4. Apply Through Digital Channels
Many banks prioritize online applications, offering streamlined digital processes that can reduce waiting time. Digital applications often enter processing immediately, while paper applications may sit in queues before being entered into the system.
5. Follow Up Strategically
A polite follow-up call after 3-5 business days can help ensure your application hasn’t been overlooked. When calling, have your application reference number handy and ask specific questions about what stage your application is in rather than simply asking if it’s approved.
Is Immediate Credit Card Issuance Possible?
While same-day approval is rare in the Philippines, some banks are moving toward faster processing. Security Bank advertises 5-day approval for standard credit cards, but their Fast Track program cuts this down to 3 days.
Even after approval, physical card delivery typically takes an additional 3-7 business days. Some banks like UnionBank now offer digital card details for immediate use while waiting for the physical card to arrive—a great option if you need a credit card for online purchases or want to set up digital wallets immediately.
Can You Get Approved with Bad Credit?
If you have a poor credit history, secured credit cards like Security Bank’s Fast Track program offer your best chance for quick approval. Since these cards are backed by a cash deposit, they represent minimal risk to the bank and typically have less stringent credit requirements.
Another approach is to apply through a bank where you already have accounts in good standing. Some banks prioritize existing clients over non depositors and may expedite approval based on your banking history.
Conclusion
When seeking fast credit card approval in the Philippines, Security Bank’s 3-day Fast Track program currently offers the quickest guaranteed processing time. However, eligibility requirements, fees, and card features vary across institutions.
Take time to compare options based on your specific needs and financial situation. Remember that the fastest approval isn’t always the best deal—consider interest rates, annual fees, and rewards programs before making a decision.
Ready to boost your financial flexibility? Prepare your documents, check your eligibility, and choose the option that best suits your needs and timeline. Click here to begin.
References:
- Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (2023). Financial Consumer Protection Handbook.
- Lumina Homes. (2024). "Philippine Banks with Easy Credit Card Approvals." Retrieved from Lumina Homes
- 8List.ph. (2024). "Easy Approval Credit Card Application in the Philippines." Retrieved from 8List.ph
Frequently Asked Questions
Several banks are known for their expedited credit card processing:
- Security Bank Fast Track Secured Credit Card: Offers approval within three banking days.
- PSBank Credit Mastercard: Known for easy approval with minimal requirements.
- EastWest Bank Privilege Classic Mastercard/Visa: Features streamlined processing for applicants meeting the income requirement.
While requirements may vary by bank, common criteria include:
- Valid government-issued ID with photo and signature.
- Proof of income, such as payslips or Income Tax Return (ITR).
- Proof of residence, like utility bills or bank statements.
- For secured credit cards, a minimum deposit may be required as collateral.
Yes, certain credit cards are designed for first-time applicants or those building credit:
- Security Bank Fast Track Secured Credit Card: Ideal for individuals with limited credit history, requiring a deposit as collateral.
- BPI Rewards Card: Suitable for beginners with a low income requirement and straightforward application process.
Secured credit cards often have more lenient income documentation requirements:
- Security Bank Fast Track Secured Credit Card: Does not require proof of income but necessitates a deposit as collateral.
To enhance your approval prospects:
- Ensure Eligibility: Meet the bank's age, income, and employment criteria.
- Complete Documentation: Provide all required documents accurately and promptly.
- Consider Secured Cards: If new to credit, secured cards offer higher approval odds.
- Maintain Good Credit Standing: A positive credit history can expedite approval processes.
- Apply Online: Utilize digital channels for potentially quicker processing.
Fast online application process takes minutes, allowing funds to be transferred instant cash or to customers' bank accounts quickly, especially for repeat customers.
Offers a rapid online application process that takes minutes, ensuring quick approval and fund transfers to returning customers' bank accounts.
EastWest Gold Mastercard
- Earn 1 reward point for every ₱100 spent
- Travel with confidence thanks to free Travel Accident and Inconvenience Insurance
- Use your EastWest Gold Mastercard both locally and internationally
- Enjoy numerous privileges for shopping, dining, and traveling
- Ideal for cardholders who value luxury and rewards
UnionBank U Visa Platinum
- No annual fees for life!
- Earn a 10% rebate on interest charge when you pay at least the minimum amount due on or before the due date
- No overlimit and late fees
- Ideal for: cardholders who prefer cards with less fees
UnionBank Cash Back Visa Platinum Credit Card
- Earn up to 6% never-expiring cash back on groceries
- Earn up to 2% never-expiring cash back on Meralco bill payments
- Earn up to 0.20% never-expiring cash back on all other purchases
- Save us much as ₱15,000 per year
- Ideal for individuals looking to maximize savings on everyday essentials
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