9 Easiest Credit Cards To Get Approved For in South Africa

Obtaining a credit card is a key step towards financial independence for many South Africans. This article examines the top ten credit cards with the simplest approval processes, making credit available to a larger range of people and helping to create a more inclusive financial system.

In this in-depth guide, you will learn:

• The 10 Easiest Credit Cards to Get Approved in South Africa – a List
• The Easiest Bank to Credit Card From with a Bad or No Credit Score
• The Easiest Credit Cards to Get with a High Limit or Without a Deposit

and much, MUCH more!

9 Easiest Credit Cards To Get Approved For in South Africa – a Comparison

9 Easiest Credit Cards To Get Approved For in South Africa (2025)

1. ☑️ ABSA Flexi Core Credit Card – Overall, the Easiest Credit Card to Get Approved in South Africa
2. ☑️ African Bank Gold Credit Card – Secure Payment Option for Online Transactions
3. ☑️ RCS Credit Card – Globally Recognized Card Option
4. ☑️ FNB Aspire Credit Card – Comprehensive Global Travel Insurance
5. ☑️ Standard Bank Credit Cards – Rewards Programs
6. ☑️ African Bank Black Card – Best Card Choice for Lifestyle Benefits
7. ☑️ Capitec GlobalOne Credit Card – 1% Reward Guarantee on all Purchases
8. ☑️ Discovery Bank Gold Credit Card – Top Credit Card for everyday spending
9. ☑️ TymeBank Credit Card – Best Credit Card for Beginners

ABSA Flexi Core Credit Card

The ABSA Flexi Core Credit Card is a great starting point for South Africans who want to establish good credit. It offers an innovative way of managing finances and enjoying the perks of owning a credit card, whether used online or in physical stores.

Additionally, by participating in ABSA’s points program, users may earn rewards using their cards. Furthermore, travelers will benefit from basic travel insurance coverage offered alongside free lost card protection measures; Visa benefits are also available along with contactless payment methods for added convenience.

Application and Approval Process

Applicants can begin applying for the ABSA Flexi Core Credit Card online. There are a few steps to the application:

• ✅ To determine eligibility for the card, applicants must first complete an assessment.
• ✅ If candidates are eligible, they can fill out the application form with their personal and financial information.
• ✅ Required documentation, such as proof of income and identification, must be supplied with the application.
• ✅ The credit card is issued to the applicant once the application has been examined and approved.

ABSA also provides telephone applications for individuals who prefer alternate application techniques. Applicants can contact ABSA at 0861 114 411 for help or to inquire about the progress of their application.

For handling card and banking needs, the ABSA Banking App and ABSA Online Banking are also accessible.

African Bank Gold Credit Card

The African Bank Gold Credit Card is a flexible financial instrument to meet South Africans’ diversified demands. It distinguishes itself with the ability to earn interest on positive balances, a unique feature that stimulates saving and spending.

The card is widely acknowledged and allows for online purchasing while providing secure payments at home and abroad. Furthermore, the card gives customers simple access to online and mobile banking services, allowing them to manage their funds while on the go.

The card’s fast issue upon acceptance at any African Bank branch adds to its attractiveness, making it a practical solution for customers looking for immediate access to credit facilities.

Application and Approval Process

The application for the African Bank Gold Credit Card is simple:

• ✅ Applicants must ensure they satisfy the eligibility criteria and have the essential documentation, such as identity and proof of income, on hand.
• ✅ You can start an application online, using the African Bank App, by dialing 120225# or phoning 0860 333 004. Applicants can also apply in person at any African Bank office.
• ✅ Once the application and the needed papers are submitted, it is reviewed. The application is approved if it fits the bank’s standards.
• ✅ The credit card is issued immediately after approval. Applicants may pick up their personalized and embossed card at any African Bank location.

The African Bank Gold Credit Card combines simplicity, security, and financial management, making it an appealing option for a wide spectrum of South African clients.

RCS Credit Card

The RCS Credit Card, issued by MasterCard and recognized globally, provides South Africans with a flexible and simple method to manage their finances. Because this card is widely recognized, users may shop anywhere MasterCard is accepted locally and globally.

It has several features to improve the shopping experience, such as transaction notifications for improved security, free SMS notifications on purchases, and the ability to get monthly bills by email or SMS.

This guarantees that cardholders may keep informed and appropriately manage their credit. RCS also provides optional Customer Protection Insurance, which adds extra card security.

Application and Approval Process

• ✅ Applicants must be 18 years old, have a South African ID or driver’s license, be employed, and earn at least R3,000 monthly.
• ✅ Proof of income paperwork must be submitted.
• ✅ The application is available on the RCS website and must be completed and submitted.
• ✅ Applicants must upload their proof of income to the website.
• ✅ Once authorized, the applicant receives the credit card by courier.

Contact RCS to activate the card and establish the PIN; the card is ready.

FNB Aspire Credit Card

The FNB Aspire Credit Card is designed to provide South Africans with outstanding value and control, particularly those earning between R84,000 and R449,999 annually. This card has many perks, including complimentary Comprehensive Global Travel Insurance and Automatic Debt Protection.

Cardholders can benefit from up to 55 days of interest-free credit and a customized interest rate, making it a versatile financial instrument.

In addition, the card provides access to exclusive discounts at chosen partners as well as benefits such as eBucks on spending. Additionally, while booking flights with eBucks trip, cardholders may enjoy two complimentary SLOW Lounge visits each year, boosting the trip experience.

Application and Approval Process

• ✅ Applicants must earn between R84,000 and R449,999 per year.
• ✅ A recent income slip, three months’ bank statements, a South African ID book/card, and evidence of domicile are required.
• ✅ Applications can be submitted using the FNB Banking App, a call-me-back form, calling FNB directly, or visiting a branch.

Once approved, the FNB App makes it easy to manage your credit card. In addition, the card has advanced security measures such as an hourly changing CVV number.

Standard Bank Credit Cards

In South Africa, Standard Bank offers a variety of credit cards targeted to various financial demands and lifestyles. The Gold Credit Card, Platinum Credit Card, and the unique World Citizen Credit Card are among the alternatives in their portfolio.

Each card has different features that appeal to spending patterns and financial goals. For example, the Gold Credit Card suits people looking for a low-cost lifestyle and travel rewards. At the same time, the Platinum and World Citizen cards provide more exclusive bonuses and greater credit limits for those with higher incomes.

Each card offers several benefits, such as travel insurance, protection against lost cards, and the ability to earn transaction rewards points. Additionally, customers enjoy convenient contactless payments and digital banking services.

Given that interest rates and monthly fees differ per card type, a suitable option is always available regardless of financial situation.

Application and Approval Process

• ✅ Go to the Standard Bank website or location to choose the best credit card.
• ✅ Complete the online application form or visit your nearest Standard Bank branch.
• ✅ Provide the required documents, such as proof of income and identity.
• ✅ Wait for credit evaluation and approval.

Once approved, you will receive the card and can begin enjoying its perks.

African Bank Black Credit Card

The African Bank Black Credit Card is a premium option that blends convenience with various South African-specific features.

This card is accepted worldwide and may be issued promptly at any African Bank branch upon acceptance. The African Bank Black Credit Card is ideal for people who want more than just a credit card; it’s a lifestyle card with more financial options.

Key advantages include earning interest on positive balances, safe online purchasing, and simple repayments via various channels.

The card also allows users to manage their accounts online or via mobile, making it an ideal alternative for people who value ease and accessibility in their financial operations.

Application and Approval Process

• ✅ Visit an African Bank office or apply online.
• ✅ Complete the application with your personal and financial details.
• ✅ Submit all required documentation, including identification and proof of income.
• ✅ Wait for feedback on your application status.

Once authorized, the card is immediately issued at the branch.

Capitec GlobalOne Credit Card

The Capitec GlobalOne Credit Card is a flexible financial instrument to meet South Africans’ diversified demands. Its credit limit of R500,000 suits various financial needs, from everyday spending to large purchases.

One of the card’s notable features is the 1% reward guarantee on all purchases, whether you tap, swipe, or scan to pay in-store or online. This functionality guarantees that every card transaction is rewarded.

Aside from the reward incentive, the Capitec GlobalOne Credit Card is intriguing since it has no currency translation costs, making it a good choice for travelers. The card provides up to 55 days of interest-free credit, which is useful for cash flow management.

The card provides a safe and secure transaction environment for online shoppers. Furthermore, cardholders may benefit from complimentary travel insurance up to R5 million, providing an added degree of security when traveling.

Another big benefit is the interest rate on positive balances, now 3.50% per year. This feature encourages cardholders to keep a positive credit balance. Capitec offers credit insurance to customers who do not have their credit insurance, offering additional financial security.

Application and Approval Process

• ✅ You must be 18 and present your original identification document to apply.
• ✅ A credit card application requires a minimum salary of R5,000 for salaried clients and R10,000 for self-employed clients.
• ✅ Applicants must present their most recent pay stub and a 3-month bank statement.
• ✅ You may apply for the Capitec GlobalOne Credit Card in-branch, online, or through the Capitec app.

There is an R100 starting charge and an R50 monthly fee. The interest rate ranges from 11.75% to 22.25%, depending on your credit profile.

Discovery Bank Gold Credit Card

The Discovery Bank Gold Credit Card has been designed to fulfill South Africans’ demands to balance cost and premium perks.  This card is intended for people who want a credit card that facilitates their everyday spending and provides incentives and bonuses that improve their quality of life.

The card usually has competitive interest rates and a rewards program encouraging good financial habits. Users may anticipate rewards on certain purchases, travel insurance, and access to unique deals and discounts.

The Discovery Bank Gold Credit Card is especially appealing to consumers already part of the Discovery ecosystem since it frequently combines with other Discovery services, adding value and convenience.

Application and Approval Process

• ✅ Go to the Discovery Bank website or download their mobile app to begin the application process.
• ✅ Personal and financial details, including your South African ID number and evidence of income, must be entered into the required fields.
• ✅ Next, Discovery Bank will conduct a credit check to determine your creditworthiness.
• ✅ If pre-approved, you will receive an offer that includes your credit limit and interest rate.
• ✅ Accept the offer and complete any extra verification processes that may be necessary.

When your application is approved, the card will be issued and mailed to you, or you may pick it up at a specified location.

TymeBank Credit Card

The TymeBank Credit Card represents a recent introduction to the South African financial market, presenting a straightforward and convenient credit option.

Designed to cater specifically to individuals new to borrowing or those seeking simplified financial transactions, this card distinguishes itself through its minimalist design philosophy. Additionally, it benefits from TymeBank’s digital-first approach, ensuring accessibility through various channels.

What sets this card apart from others is its user-friendly payment system, competitive interest rates, and transparent fee structures. These attributes provide users with easily understandable guidelines for managing their finances.

Furthermore, the bank strongly emphasizes customer convenience, offering a robust mobile application for seamless account access and expense tracking. This combination culminates in a comprehensive banking experience for users.

Application and Approval Process

• ✅ Go to the TymeBank website or download their mobile app to begin the application.
• ✅ Provide the necessary personal and financial information, such as your South African ID and proof of income.
• ✅ A credit evaluation will be performed to evaluate your eligibility and credit limit.
• ✅ If qualified, you will receive a credit offer with information on the credit limit and terms.
• ✅ Accept the conditions and provide any further verification or documents that are requested.

Once your application is approved, the credit card will be issued and can be picked up at a TymeBank kiosk or mailed to you.

The Importance of Financial Inclusion in South Africa

Financial inclusion is critical in South Africa, where a varied economy needs expanded involvement in the official financial system to encourage economic progress and alleviate inequality.

It entails ethically and sustainably delivering inexpensive and appropriate financial services such as transactions, payments, savings, credit, and insurance.

This access is critical for economic growth because it allows individuals and businesses to efficiently manage their money and invest in education, health, and risk mitigation.

Furthermore, financial inclusion is inextricably linked to social inclusion, bridging socioeconomic inequalities, particularly for historically disadvantaged groups such as women and rural areas.

This inclusiveness benefits individuals and boosts economic activity by broadening the customer and company base.

Mobile banking and digital financial services are lowering prices and expanding accessibility, particularly in rural regions, as part of South Africa’s financial inclusion goals. Given the constraints of traditional financial infrastructure, digital approaches are handy and vital.

Criteria for Easy Credit Card Application

To ensure ethical lending practices while promoting accessibility to financial products, South Africa has established criteria for basic credit card approval.

While these requirements vary between institutions, they primarily assess an individual’s eligibility and credibility by considering several fundamental factors.

Banking History

A good banking history with evidence of strong financial management might be advantageous. This covers elements such as keeping a healthy bank balance, avoiding frequent overdrafts, and managing current credit facilities wisely.

Credit Score and History

The applicant’s credit score is one of the major factors for credit card acceptance in South Africa. This score numerically represents a person’s creditworthiness based on their previous financial behavior.

A good credit score, which indicates on-time payments and appropriate credit management, often increases the likelihood of acceptance. Financial organizations also examine credit history, previous debts, repayment histories, and defaults or bankruptcies.

Income and Employment Stability

Credit card companies frequently seek proof of regular income to verify that applicants can repay their credit card bills.

This entails validating work status and income consistency. Additional paperwork may be necessary to show financial stability for self-employed people or those with variable income patterns.

Nationality and Residency Status

Credit card companies and banks may have special rules regarding applicants’ nationality and residence status. Unlike non-residents, South African nationals or permanent residents frequently find it easier to secure credit card acceptance.

Residential Stability

Applicants with a stable residential history, meaning they have resided at the same residence for an extended time, are frequently seen as more trustworthy. Frequent changes in residence might be interpreted as a sign of insecurity, which can impact creditworthiness.

Debt-to-Income Ratio

This ratio calculates the percentage of a person’s income for debt repayment. A lower debt-to-income ratio is preferred since it suggests that a substantial percentage of the individual’s income is not already dedicated to debt repayments, implying a greater capacity to manage further credit.

Age and Identification

To be considered, applicants must meet a crucial regulatory requirement of being at least 18 years old and providing suitable identification. This condition guarantees that the applicant is eligible to participate in a credit arrangement from a legal standpoint.

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. This card stands out for its extensive travel advantages, including worldwide lounge access and travel insurance.

Furthermore, it is a great companion for South African globetrotters looking for comfort and security on their travels.

Best Credit Card Rewards in South Africa

Overall, the Discovery Bank Gold Credit Card has the Best Credit Card Rewards in South Africa. The card’s dynamic rewards program, which includes cashback and health and lifestyle incentives, makes it a top pick for consumers who appreciate a rewards system beyond financial bonuses.

Best Credit Card Interest Rates in South Africa

Overall, Nedbank Gold Credit Card has the Best Credit Card Interest Rates in South Africa. Not only does Nedbank offer competitive interest rates, South Africans get 55 days interest-free on the Nedbank Gold Credit Card.

Best Secured Credit Card in South Africa

Overall, the FNB Aspire Credit Card is the Best Secured Credit Card in South Africa. With the FNB Aspire Credit Card, South Africans can expect personalized interest rates, a budget facility, and automatic debt protection.

Best Student Credit Card in South Africa

Overall, the ABSA Flexi Core Credit Card is the Best Student Credit Card in South Africa. The ABSA Flexi Core Credit Card requires a low monthly income and offers free lost card protection. In addition, South African students can qualify for ABSA rewards.

Best Purchase Credit Card in South Africa

Overall, the FNB Aspire Credit Card is the Best Purchase Credit Card in South Africa. With the FNB Aspire Credit Card, South Africans can earn eBucks rewards on certain purchases. Furthermore, FNB includes purchase protection on all credit cards.

Best Hotel Credit Card in South Africa

Overall, the American Express Platinum Credit Card is the Best Hotel Credit Card in South Africa. From R490 per month, South Africans can easily enjoy membership at Tsogo Sun Hotels, which further provides additional benefits for dining and entertainment.

Best Credit Card for Flight Miles in South Africa

Overall, the Virgin Money Credit Card is the Best Credit Card for Flight Miles in South Africa. South Africans can easily get a 10% discount on Virgin Atlantic flights using their Virgin Money Credit Card.

Best Credit Card for Online Shopping in South Africa

Overall, the Standard Bank Blue Credit Card is the Best Credit Card for Online Shopping in South Africa. Standard Bank offers a credit limit of R250,000 on the Blue Credit Card, personalized interest, and up to 55 days interest-free.

Best Credit Card for Travel Insurance in South Africa

Overall, the Capitec GlobalOne Credit Card is the Best Credit Card for Travel Insurance in South Africa. The Capitec GlobalOne Credit Card offers travel insurance of up to 5 million ZAR. Furthermore, South Africans can earn 3.50% yearly on a positive bank balance.

In Conclusion

According to our research, the easiest credit cards to get approved for in South Africa provide a unique combination of accessibility, convenience, and financial empowerment.

These credit cards, such as the Discovery Bank Gold Credit Card and the TymeBank Credit Card, are designed to fulfill the different demands of South Africans. They find a balance between providing necessary loans and encouraging prudent financial behavior.

These cards’ expedited application processes, frequently facilitated by digital platforms, dramatically decrease the barriers to credit access, particularly for first-time applicants and those with minimal credit history.

Furthermore, in our experience, integrating credit cards with broader financial services and incentive programs demonstrates a sophisticated approach to banking that appeals to today’s customers.

However, while these cards provide opportunities for financial inclusion, we urge applicants to familiarise themselves with the obligations that come with credit utilization.

Responsible credit facility management is critical to ensuring that the benefits of financial inclusion transfer into long-term financial health and stability. Overall, these credit cards are a step forward towards a more inclusive and financially empowered South Africa.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a credit card with a low credit score?

Yes, some credit cards are made exclusively for those with poor credit, with quick approval processes.

Can first-time credit card applicants get easy approval?

Yes, there are credit cards designed specifically for first-time applicants, with typically reduced approval requirements.

Are there instant approval credit cards?

Yes, many credit card companies, particularly those that accept online applications, give rapid approval, subject to eligibility and credit checks.

Do easy-approval credit cards require a credit check?

While certain quick acceptance cards do not need a thorough background check, most issuers do a basic credit evaluation.

Do easy-approval credit cards offer rewards programs?

Yes, some credit card providers and banks provide rewards programs. However, they are sometimes more basic than premium cards.

Are there unsecured credit cards with easy approval?

Yes, some unsecured credit cards, particularly ones aimed at those with a poor credit history, provide quick approval.

What are the requirements for applying for an easy-approval credit card?

Typical prerequisites include being 18 years old, maintaining a consistent source of income, and providing identification and other information.

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