10 Best Credit Cards for Expats

The life of an expat comes with its own set of financial requirements and opportunities. Recognizing this, we’ve compiled a list of the top ten credit cards that cater exclusively to the lifestyle and needs of ex-pats.

These cards are not simply pieces of plastic; they are passports to global financial flexibility, with favorable exchange rates and widespread acceptance. In this in-depth guide, you will learn:

• The Best Credit Cards for Expatriates – a List
• Which Credit Cards Give the Best Benefits to Expats
• Which Credit card is accepted internationally?
• Which is the Best Credit Card to Use while abroad?

and much, MUCH more!

10 Best Credit Cards for Expats – a Comparison

10 Best Credit Cards for Expats (2025)

1. ☑️ FNB Premier Credit Card – Overall, the Best Credit Card for Expats
2. ☑️ Capitec Global One Credit Card – Global Acceptance
3. ☑️ Nedbank Gold Credit Card – Up to 55 days of interest-free financing
4. ☑️ Old Mutual Money Account Credit Card – Low fees attached to international in-store purchases
5. ☑️ Investec Private Banking Credit Card – Seamless and High-end banking experience
6. ☑️ Virgin Money Credit Card – Accrue Virgin Points while Shopping
7. ☑️ Nedbank Platinum Credit Card – Earn Greenbacks on Purchases
8. ☑️ FNB Premier Credit Card – Access to SLOW Lounges
9. ☑️ RMB Private Bank Credit Card – Interest-free Credit for up to 30 days
10. ☑️ American Express Platinum Credit Card – Luxurious Travel Perks

FNB Premier Credit Card

The FNB Aspire Credit Card is designed to provide numerous perks, making it especially appealing to expats. The Free Comprehensive Global Travel Insurance is noteworthy, providing peace of mind while traveling internationally.

It also offers Automatic Debt Protection, a safety net in unanticipated situations. The card is tailored to specific income levels, making it accessible to many consumers.

The Pros of the FNB Premier Credit Card for Expats will include:

• ✅ It is intended for people of all financial levels, making it widely available.
• ✅ Provides free comprehensive coverage, which is an important benefit for ex-pats.
• ✅ Automatic Debt Protection offers financial protection in times of adversity.
• ✅ Travel advantages are available, designed to meet the needs of frequent travelers.

The Cons of the FNB Premier Credit Card for Expats may include:

• ✅ As a regional bank card, it may have limited global recognition compared to multinational credit card brands.
• ✅ Not all expat income groups may be eligible.
• ✅ Benefits are largely geared towards travelers, which may not appeal to other expats.

Furthermore, its emphasis on travel-related advantages and financial security makes it an excellent choice for expats who travel or live abroad frequently.

Capitec Global One Credit Card

The Capitec Global One Credit Card, powered by Mastercard®, is a flexible alternative for expats, with global acceptance at approximately 30 million establishments worldwide.

The absence of purchase or currency conversion fees on foreign transactions is a fundamental feature of this card, making it extremely cost-effective for expats who travel or transact abroad. The card also includes foreign travel insurance, which covers unforeseen medical bills when traveling.

The Pros of the Capitec Global One Credit Card for Expats will include:

• ✅ International travel insurance covers unforeseen medical bills.
• ✅ Expats can enjoy the benefits and security of a Mastercard®.
• ✅ There are no currency conversion fees, ideal for expats conducting overseas transactions.
• ✅ Accepted in millions of establishments around the world.

The Cons of the Capitec Global One Credit Card for Expats may include:

• ✅ Designed primarily for transactional efficiency rather than significant rewards or luxury features.
• ✅ Does not have the extended benefits of more premium credit cards.
• ✅ Certain restrictions or requirements may apply to travel insurance.

In addition, its emphasis on streamlining worldwide transactions and providing critical travel insurance makes it an appealing option for expats seeking a simple and efficient financial instrument.

Nedbank Gold Credit Card

The Nedbank Gold Credit Card is good for expats, with low and competitive monthly fees. This card is intended to strike a balance between affordability and perks.

Key features include up to 55 days of interest-free financing and flexible repayment choices, making it an appealing option for expats managing their finances across borders.

The Pros of the Nedbank Gold Credit Card for Expats will include:

• ✅ Chip and PIN support is available for safe international transactions.
• ✅ With a low monthly price, it is affordable to a wide spectrum of expats.
• ✅ Provides adjustable payment alternatives to accommodate a variety of financial scenarios.
• ✅ Offers up to 55 days of interest-free credit, which is useful for managing short-term expenses.

The Cons of the Nedbank Gold Credit Card for Expats may include:

• ✅ Because it is a regional card, it may not provide the same level of global acceptance as large multinational credit cards.
• ✅ Lacks significant perks when compared to premium cards, which may be a detriment to certain expats.
• ✅ Primarily aimed towards South African residents, which may limit its appeal to expats residing elsewhere.

Furthermore, the chip and PIN-enabled card provides greater security for foreign transactions. Its low cost and basic but necessary features make it an appealing option for foreigners looking for a simple credit solution.

Old Mutual Money Account Credit Card

The Old Mutual Money Account Credit Card offers expats an advantageous and economical solution. Designed to cater to the financial needs of those residing abroad, with the primary aim of reducing transaction costs when making payments overseas.

Its low fees attached to international in-store purchases make it a reasonably priced choice for recurrent expenses like accommodation and meals.

The Pros of the Old Mutual Money Account Credit Card for Expats will include:

• ✅ Designed to reduce expat costs, particularly in repeated transactions.
• ✅ Suitable for managing daily spending while traveling overseas.
• ✅ Charges a small fee for overseas purchases, which is advantageous for regular use.
• ✅ Simple and easy to use, suitable for day-to-day spending.

The Cons of the Old Mutual Money Account Credit Card for Expats may include:

• ✅ It lacks the full perks and rewards available in premium credit cards.
• ✅ This product is best suited for in-store purchases and may not be ideal for all foreign transactions.
• ✅ Limited to simple transactions and may not provide advanced financial services.

Furthermore, this credit card is particularly handy for expatriates seeking simplicity in managing their daily spending whilst living outside their home country’s borders.

Investec Private Banking Credit Card

The Investec Private Banking Credit Card is a premium offering that combines transactional banking and a Visa Platinum credit card into a single account. This card is designed for expats looking for an integrated banking solution with a luxurious twist.

It provides the ease of consolidating all daily transactions into a single account, simplifying financial administration while traveling. The card also offers additional features, such as linking additional cards to the account at no additional charge, making it ideal for family banking.

The Pros of the Investec Private Banking Credit Card for Expats will include:

• ✅ Family banking options allow linking additional cards at no extra cost.
• ✅ Offers a premium experience for those looking for a luxury banking experience.
• ✅ Combines transactional banking for simplicity of administration.
• ✅ Provides the benefits of a Visa platinum card.

The Cons of the Investec Private Banking Credit Card for Expats may include:

• ✅ The benefits and services are geared towards a more affluent customer.
• ✅ Premium services are likely to be more expensive.
• ✅ Due to its premium placement, it may not be available to all expats.

In addition, its emphasis on delivering a seamless and high-end banking experience makes it a popular choice among expats who seek efficiency and exclusivity.

Virgin Money Credit Card

The Virgin Money Credit Card benefits those from abroad, offering several features that cater to their needs. Its wide acceptance in over 20 million establishments worldwide, including shops, restaurants, gas stations, and ATMs, makes it an ideal choice for foreign travel.

One of its key advantages is eliminating non-sterling transaction fees on purchases made within and outside the European Economic Area (EEA). It is a cost-effective option for expats frequently engaging in foreign currency transactions.

The Pros of the Virgin Money Credit Card for Expats will include:

• ✅ There are no non-Sterling transaction fees, which makes international transactions more cost-effective.
• ✅ It can be utilized in millions of sites around the world.
• ✅ Expats can earn points for spending that may be redeemed for various incentives.
• ✅ Appropriate for a wide variety of foreign transactions.

The Cons of the Virgin Money Credit Card for Expats may include:

• ✅ Because the representative APR is variable, interest rates may vary.
• ✅ Only available in euros and US dollars.
• ✅ The points system especially favors customers who are interested in Virgin-related prizes.

Additionally, cardholders can accrue Virgin Points while shopping with this credit card, which enables them to choose rewards like flights or receive upgrades upon redeeming these points.

Nedbank Platinum Credit Card

The Nedbank Platinum Credit Card is designed to provide a variety of incentives and benefits, making it a good option for ex-pats looking for a blend of luxury and utility.

This card offers travel perks such as automatic basic travel insurance coverage up to R3 million, increasing expats’ travel experience. Cardholders can also get savings on movie tickets and the chance to win prizes through various campaigns.

The Pros of the Nedbank Platinum Credit Card for Expats will include:

• ✅ The rewards program allows Expats to earn on purchases.
• ✅ Expats can gain access to a variety of promotions and chances to win prizes.
• ✅ Provides automatic basic travel insurance, which is a significant benefit for expats.
• ✅ Offers savings on movie tickets and other recreational activities.

The Cons of the Nedbank Platinum Credit Card for Expats may include:

• ✅ While it provides various benefits, it may lack the exclusivity of higher-tier credit cards.
• ✅ It may not meet all expat needs, particularly those seeking broader financial services.
• ✅ Certain benefits may have special eligibility restrictions.

The card also allows you to earn Greenbacks on purchases, which adds value to each transaction. Its mix of travel insurance, entertainment benefits, and a rewards program makes it an appealing option for expats looking for a card that meets their travel and lifestyle demands.

FNB Aspire Credit Card

The FNB Premier Credit Card is the perfect choice for expats seeking an exclusive credit card that offers a variety of perks and rewards. Access to SLOW Lounges allows you to indulge in unparalleled travel experiences like never before.

Additionally, a team of dedicated Premier bankers is available 24/7 to provide personalized banking support whenever needed.

The FNB Rewards Programme has been specifically designed for those who value premium service and luxurious amenities while also earning points that never expire – making the FNB Premier Credit Card especially advantageous over time.

The Pros of the FNB Aspire Credit Card for Expats will include:

• ✅ Because points do not expire, they provide continual benefits.
• ✅ Customized to provide a high-quality banking experience.
• ✅ Premier Banking is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
• ✅ Enhances the travel experience by providing access to luxury lounges.

The Cons of the FNB Aspire Credit Card for Expats may Include:

• ✅ Certain benefits may necessitate the fulfillment of specified criteria.
• ✅ Premium positioning may incur greater fees than ordinary cards.
• ✅ While it provides luxurious amenities, it may not meet all expats’ needs.

RMB Private Bank Credit Card

The RMB Private Bank Credit Card aims to offer expatriates a compelling option that provides freedom, rewards, and premium banking services. It enables interest-free credit for up to 30 days on purchases, offering a helpful solution in dealing with short-term financial demands.

Additionally, qualified purchase transactions attract eBucks gaining as an added value proposition, making it more appealing for customers.

The Pros of the RMB Private Bank Credit Card for Expats will include:

• ✅ Provides exceptional financial services to meet the sophisticated needs of expats.
• ✅ This product is intended to provide financial flexibility and convenience.
• ✅ Card purchases are interest-free for up to 30 days, aiding financial management.
• ✅ A rewards program is offered, allowing Expats to earn eBucks, which adds value to every purchase.

The Cons of the RMB Private Bank Credit Card for Expats may include:

• ✅ Benefits are mostly centered on the rewards program, which may not be appealing to all users.
• ✅ Specific spending levels must be met to maximize benefits.
• ✅ Premium positioning may be more expensive, limiting its availability to a limited income level.

This card has been tailored towards meeting the needs of those who seek traditional banking principles blended with modern-day solutions.

Therefore, it offers an excellent alternative ensuring smart and rewarding experiences particularly targeted at early mature professionals anticipating long-term engagements overseas.

American Express Platinum Credit Card

The American Express Platinum Credit Card is well-known for its luxurious travel perks, making it an excellent expat option. This card provides unrivaled airport lounge access, significant statement credits, and travel-related benefits.

It is notable for its policy of free foreign transaction fees, which is extremely useful for ex-pats who frequent international transactions.

The Pros of the American Express Platinum Credit Card for Expats

• ✅ Widely accepted, giving worldwide convenience.
• ✅ Provides first-rate airport lounge access and travel advantages.
• ✅ Affordably priced welcome bonus and point accumulation.
• ✅ There are no foreign transaction fees, which is ideal for expats making international purchases.

The Cons of the American Express Platinum Credit Card for Expats

• ✅ A strong to excellent credit score is typically required, limiting access for certain foreigners.
• ✅ The premium features have a high annual fee.
• ✅ The benefits are mostly travel-oriented, which may not appeal to many expats.

The card also includes a robust rewards program, including a welcome bonus and purchase points. Because of its emphasis on luxury travel and global applicability, it is a perfect card for expats looking for premium experiences and convenience.

Understanding Credit Cards for Expats

Choosing the proper credit card for expatriates entails knowing essential characteristics, overcoming credit history issues, and managing overseas fees and exchange rates.

Favorable international transaction fees, excellent fraud protection, and rewards that fit their spending patterns are essential for ex-pats. Reducing or eliminating international transaction costs is critical, as these can considerably impact overall expenses.

Cards with favorable exchange rates or no currency conversion costs are especially useful for expats who frequently travel or conduct business in foreign currencies.

Furthermore, points or cashback on vacation and ordinary purchases can provide excellent value. Remote account management also requires the ease of Internet banking and digital services.

Another crucial part is dealing with credit history issues. Credit history does not typically transfer across borders, making obtaining a credit card difficult. Expats can begin with secured credit cards or ones tailored for those with poor credit.

Establishing creditworthiness can be aided by establishing a local banking relationship and beginning with modest credit products.

Furthermore, some banks may take a foreign credit report into account or offer expat-specific products. Therefore, maintaining strong credit in one’s native country might also be useful, as multinational banks may consider it.

Finally, it is critical to comprehend foreign transaction costs and exchange rate policies. Cards with low or no foreign transaction fees can help you save money.

Expats must understand a card’s currency conversion policies, as unfavorable rates might reduce transaction value. Furthermore, comparing these features across many cards might assist expats in locating the most cost-effective solutions.

Understanding Expat Banking and Finance

When South African expats travel or work abroad, they encounter a variety of banking systems and financial conditions. Understanding these distinctions and cultivating local banking ties while handling various currencies are critical for financial security and convenience.

Differences in Banking Systems Globally

Banking systems worldwide vary greatly regarding services provided, legal frameworks, and customer service practices. South African expats may discover that banking practices in their host nation differ from what they are accustomed to.

The simplicity of online banking, the availability of specific accounts, and the level of customer support, for example, can all differ. Furthermore, the documentation required to open a bank account in some countries, particularly for foreigners, can be more demanding.

Understanding these distinctions is critical for foreigners to navigate the financial world successfully. Expats should examine the financial system in their new nation, paying special attention to account types, transaction fees, online banking capabilities, and customer service.

The Importance of Local Banking Relationships

Expats must establish a local banking relationship. A local bank account not only allows for quicker bill payment and access to services but also aids in establishing a financial footprint in the new country.

Having a local bank account might make getting payslips, paying local expenditures, and securing credit easier for South African expats. Building a relationship with a local bank can also provide insights into the host country’s financial subtleties and personalized financial guidance.

In addition, local banks may offer services or products tailored to expats in some situations, which can be extremely advantageous. Furthermore, having a good relationship with a local bank will help you overcome potential credit history issues.

Managing Multiple Currencies

Managing funds in several currencies is a regular difficulty for expats. Exchange rate fluctuations can have a major influence on savings and expenses. Expats must comprehend foreign exchange rates and the fees involved with currency conversion.

Using bank accounts that support multiple currencies or currency-specific accounts can be beneficial. Expats can use these accounts to hold, receive, and spend money in different currencies without suffering frequent conversion fees.

Additionally, using credit cards with favorable overseas transaction terms might save currency conversion fees. Expats should also be aware of the economic situations in both their home and host countries since these might influence currency rates and, as a result, their financial planning.

Credit and Financial History for Expats – Discussed

Navigating the complications of credit and financial history in a new country can be difficult for South African expatriates working or traveling abroad.

Understanding how to develop and manage credit, transfer credit history from South Africa, and overcome financial history hurdles is critical for a seamless financial transition and long-term financial stability in their new environment.

Building and Maintaining Credit in a New Country

Expats must establish a credit history in their new nation. This process frequently begins from scratch because credit records are not uniformly transferable. To start, expats must create a local bank account and apply for a credit card or modest loan.

Regular, on-time payments on these early credit facilities aid in the development of a positive credit score. Expats should also comprehend their new country’s credit rating system, as criteria can differ greatly from those in South Africa.

Credit maintenance entails regular financial behavior, such as paying bills on time, keeping credit balances low, and avoiding numerous credit applications. Building a great credit history in a new nation can help you access financial products and find housing and work.

Transferring Credit History from Home Country

Transferring a credit history from South Africa to a new nation is difficult because each country’s credit systems often operate independently.

However, several global banks and financial institutions have safeguards that allow them to consider international credit records when determining trustworthiness. South African expats can check with their bank to see if they have foreign branches or partnerships that can help with this procedure.

Furthermore, a South African credit record might be advantageous when negotiating with new financial institutions, especially if it indicates a solid credit history. Some expats may also choose international credit cards, which allow them to transfer their credit history across borders.

Overcoming Financial History Barriers

Expats frequently confront challenges since they lack a local financial background. To overcome these obstacles, people can look into financial products made exclusively for newbies or those with a limited credit history.

Secured credit cards, which require a deposit as collateral, can be a good place to start. Furthermore, presenting proof of consistent income, job stability, and savings might aid in winning the trust of local financial institutions.

Networking with other expats with similar problems might provide helpful insights and tips for accommodating financial services.

Engaging with financial advisors or expat-focused financial services that understand the unique problems expatriates face and can give personalized advice and solutions is also advantageous.

The Best Credit Cards in South Africa

In this article, we have listed the best credit cards in South Africa. We have further identified the credit cards with additional cover and benefits for South Africans.

Best Travel Credit Card in South Africa

Overall, the Standard Bank World Citizen Credit Card is the Best Travel Credit Card in South Africa. The Standard Bank World Citizen Credit Card is designed for frequent travelers and provides significant travel benefits such as discounts on car rentals, hotel rooms, and various travel packages.

The card’s lifestyle perks, such as discounts at numerous online retailers and services, make it an excellent choice for frequent travelers.

Best Credit Card Rewards in South Africa

Overall, the Discovery Bank Gold Credit Card has the Best Credit Card Rewards in South Africa. Cardholders can earn Discovery Miles on qualified purchases, which can be converted to Avios and Voyager Miles, redeemed for travel on Kulula, or used to make purchases through the Discovery retail portal.

This award’s adaptability makes it appealing to expats searching for various reward choices.

Best Credit Card Interest Rates in South Africa

Overall, Capitec Global One Card has the Best Credit Card Interest Rates in South Africa. The Capitec Global One Card has a competitive interest rate of 7.25% for people who prioritize low-interest rates.

It also provides up to 55 days of interest-free purchases and a discounted credit limit of R500,000, making it ideal for expats looking for low-cost credit solutions.

Best Secured Credit Card in South Africa

Overall, the ABSA Gold Credit Card is the Best Secured Credit Card in South Africa. This card is intended for ex-pats who want to establish or rebuild their credit history.

The ABSA Gold Credit Card provides various benefits, including basic travel insurance and purchase protection. It is a viable option for anyone seeking a secured credit card with extra bonuses.

Best Credit Card For Business in South Africa

Overall, the ABSA British Airways Credit Card is the Credit Card for Business in South Africa. The ABSA British Airways Credit Card gives members access to fantastic travel and lifestyle experiences while also allowing them to earn points on approved purchases.

The card also has a low monthly charge and provides benefits like travel insurance and discounts on numerous services.

Best Credit Card to Transfer Balances in South Africa

Overall, the Nedbank American Express Gold Credit Card is the Best Credit Card to Transfer Balances in South Africa. The Nedbank American Express Gold Credit Card allows you to transfer balances from other credit cards at attractive interest rates.

Furthermore, cardholders receive automatic basic travel insurance and membership in the Membership Rewards Programme, making it appealing to expats who may need to manage debts across many cards.

Best Hotel Credit Card in South Africa

Overall, the Nedbank SAA Voyager Premium Card is the Best Hotel Credit Card in South Africa. The Nedbank SAA Voyager Premium Card is especially beneficial for those who travel frequently and prefer to stay in hotels, as it offers rewards on hotel and car rental charges and other travel and leisure perks.

Best Credit Card for Travel Insurance in South Africa

Overall, the Nedbank American Express Platinum Credit Card is the Best Credit Card for Travel Insurance in South Africa. The American Express Platinum Credit Card from Nedbank provides R3 million in travel insurance coverage.

It also gives you access to premium lounges and exclusive deals with airlines and car rental companies. This card suits expats looking for comprehensive travel insurance and premium travel benefits.

In Conclusion

In our experience, choosing the proper credit card for South African expats is a sophisticated decision dependent on understanding their new country’s distinct financial landscape.

The card’s suitability with its lifestyle, global acceptance, and associated fees, particularly for overseas transactions, are all important considerations.

According to our research, while it might be difficult to establish credit in a new nation due to non-transferable credit records, solutions such as secured credit cards or goods geared to ex-pats provide plausible beginning points.

Furthermore, ex-pats must weigh the benefits of rewards and conveniences against potential expenditures such as high borrowing rates or annual fees.

Therefore, we can conclude that the best credit card for a South African migrant should be compatible with their financial habits, make managing international spending easier, and aid in establishing a firm financial foundation in their new home.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can South African expats use their credit cards abroad?

Yes, South African expats, with approval from the South African Reserve Bank (SARB), can use their credit and debit cards abroad.

Can non-US citizens get credit cards in the US?

Yes, non-US citizens, including expats, can apply for American Express credit cards in the US even if they do not have a US credit history.

What should South African expats look for in a credit card?

They should look for credit cards with cheap foreign transaction costs, strong fraud protection, and relevant incentives.

How can South African expats build credit in a new country?

They can begin with protected credit cards or credit-building solutions for newcomers.

What are the benefits of using credit cards for expats?

Credit cards empower expats abroad with purchasing power, rewards, and benefits such as travel insurance and discounts.

Are there credit cards in South Africa that offer benefits for international transactions?

Yes, many South African credit cards have minimal or no transaction fees on foreign transactions and favorable currency conversion rates.