Apply for a Standard Bank credit card, reviewed by our experts. On 17.02.2025, you have access to credit cards options. Increase your chances of approval by filling out a multi-application with a free credit rating check.
Update 21.11.2024
Standard Bank offers a diverse range of credit cards tailored to different financial needs, including cashback, travel rewards, and low-interest options. With choices like the Blue Credit Card for everyday spending, the World Citizen for travelers, and the Diners Club for premium benefits, clients can easily find a card that fits their lifestyle. The online comparison tool further simplifies selection, allowing users to explore features and choose the most suitable card for their goals.
Key Features
Comprehensive Rewards Program. Standard Bank’s credit cards offer rewards on eligible transactions, including the UCount Rewards program, providing value for everyday spending.
Variety of Card Options. Clients can choose from a wide range of cards like the Blue, Gold, Platinum, and Diners Club options, tailored for different needs such as travel, rewards, and low-interest spending.
Access to Global Benefits. Higher-tier cards, such as the World Citizen and Diners Club, provide benefits like airport lounge access, international travel insurance, and other global perks.
Enhanced Security Features. Standard Bank cards come with built-in security features, including chip-and-PIN technology and SMS notifications for transactions, helping to safeguard against fraud.
Credit Cards Offered by Standard Bank
Gold Credit Card. Monthly fee: R63. Minimum income: R5,000. Credit limit: up to R250,000. Key benefits include Mastercard Priceless Specials, up to 55 days of interest-free credit, and UCount Rewards eligibility.
Titanium Credit Card. Monthly fee: R89. Minimum income: R25,000. Credit limit: up to R250,000. Features enhanced rewards and protection, 15% off Emirates flights, and access to domestic lounges with UCount Rewards.
Platinum Credit Card. Monthly fee: R108. Minimum income: R58,000. Credit limit: up to R250,000. Benefits include Legacy Silver membership, lounge access, 15% Emirates discount, and up to 55 days of interest-free credit.
World Citizen Credit Card. Monthly fee: R209. Minimum income: R92,000. Credit limit: up to R250,000. Offers travel-focused benefits such as lounge access, 20% Emirates discount, 6 complimentary airport lounge visits, and UCount Rewards.
Diners Club Platinum Credit Card. Monthly fee: R128. Minimum income: R500,000. Credit limit: personalized. Provides premium access to global lounges, 24/7 concierge service, and exclusive travel insurance.
Diners Club Shari’ah Charge Card. Monthly fee: R128. Compliant with Shari’ah principles, this card includes travel benefits and exclusive dining options without interest charges.
Diners Club Beyond Credit Card. Monthly fee: R95. Credit limit: up to R250,000. Key benefits include global lounge access, concierge services, 10% off Emirates flights, and discounts with AVIS and Wine-of-the-Month Club.
Blue Credit Card. Monthly fee: R40. Minimum income: R5,000. Credit limit: up to R250,000. Offers basic credit services with benefits like UCount Rewards eligibility, 55 days of interest-free credit, and competitive rates.
Business Credit Card. Monthly fee: R45. Provides businesses with a 55-day interest-free period, 5% minimum repayment, and UCount Rewards for Business, helping manage business-related expenses efficiently.
Pros and Cons
Pros
UCount Rewards. Standard Bank credit cards allow clients to earn UCount Rewards points, which can be redeemed for a wide range of products and services, including fuel, shopping at partner stores, and even flights, offering extra value for loyal customers.
Shari’ah-Compliant Diners Club Card. Standard Bank offers the Diners Club Shari'ah Charge Card, making it one of the few banks to provide Shari’ah-compliant credit options for clients adhering to Islamic financial principles.
Travel-Focused Cards. The World Citizen and Diners Club Platinum cards provide benefits such as airport lounge access and travel insurance, distinguishing them in the South African market as ideal options for the frequent international traveler.
Cons
High Annual Fees for Premium Cards. Premium cards like Diners Club and World Citizen have high annual fees, sometimes exceeding R1,000, which may make them less accessible for clients who don’t need premium services.
Foreign Currency Conversion Fee. Transactions made abroad incur a currency conversion fee of 2.75%, which can be a drawback for frequent travelers who may find this fee to be burdensome.
Limited Benefits on Basic Cards. The Blue Credit Card and other entry-level cards offer fewer perks, such as no airport lounge access or purchase insurance, making them less attractive for clients expecting more extensive benefits even on basic products.
How to Choose a Standard Bank Credit Card?
Identify Your Spending Habits. Determine your primary spending areas, such as travel, dining, or everyday purchases. For frequent travelers, the World Citizen or Diners Club Platinum cards offer travel perks like lounge access and travel insurance.
Evaluate Interest-Free Period Needs. If you regularly pay off your balance each month, choose a card with an interest-free period to avoid additional costs. The Business Credit Card and Gold Credit Card both offer up to 55 days of interest-free credit.
Compare Rewards and Benefits. For those who value rewards, cards like the Gold and Platinum options provide UCount Rewards, allowing you to earn points on purchases. The Platinum card includes added perks, like discounts on flights, making it ideal for frequent users.
Consider the Monthly Fees and Minimum Income. Select a card that fits your income and budget. For example, the Blue Credit Card has a low monthly fee and is suitable for moderate spending, while premium cards like Diners Club Platinum require higher income but offer more exclusive features.
Use the Bank’s Comparison Tool. Standard Bank’s online comparison tool helps you assess different credit cards side by side based on fees, rewards, and benefits, making it easier to select a card tailored to your financial goals.
How to Apply for a Standard Bank Credit Card?
Visit Standard Bank's Website. Go to the official Standard Bank website and navigate to the "Credit Cards" section to explore available options. Select the card that best suits your needs and click on "Apply Now" or "Do I Qualify?" to start the application process.
Complete the Online Application. Fill out the online form with your personal information, including full name, ID number, residential address, income details, and employment information. Review the entered details to ensure accuracy before submission.
Verify Your Identity. Standard Bank may require you to upload or verify documents such as a valid South African ID, proof of residence (not older than three months), and recent payslips or bank statements. Ensure these documents are ready and meet the bank’s specifications.
Submit the Application. Once all details are provided and verified, submit the application online. Standard Bank will review your application and may perform a credit check to assess eligibility.
Wait for Approval. Standard Bank will notify you of your application status via email or SMS. If approved, you will receive further instructions on card delivery or pickup options.
Download and Apply via the Banking App. Alternatively, download the Standard Bank Banking App from the App Store or Google Play, sign in, and navigate to the "Borrow" or "Credit Cards" section. Complete the application process similarly to the website.
Apply In-Branch. If you prefer, visit a Standard Bank branch. Use the "Branch Locator" feature on the website or app to find the nearest branch. Bring your original documents, including ID, proof of residence, and recent payslips, to meet with a consultant and complete the application in person.
Activation Process. Upon receiving your card, follow Standard Bank’s activation instructions, which may involve using the app, contacting customer service, or visiting a branch.
Eligibility Requirements
Residency. Applicants must be South African residents with a valid South African ID. Foreign nationals can apply but need additional documentation, such as a valid passport and a work permit or visa.
Age. Applicants must be at least 18 years old to apply for a Standard Bank credit card.
Income. A stable and verifiable income is required. Minimum income requirements vary by card type; for example, R5,000 is required for the Blue Credit Card, while higher-tier cards may have higher income thresholds.
Creditworthiness. Standard Bank assesses applicants’ credit profiles based on their credit history, current debt obligations, and income-to-debt ratio to determine eligibility and suitable credit limits.
Documents Required. South African residents need to provide a valid ID, recent payslips, and three months of bank statements showing income deposits. Foreign nationals must provide a valid passport, work permit or visa, and proof of income.
Reasons You May Be Denied
Insufficient Credit History. Standard Bank requires a clear credit history to assess your creditworthiness. A limited or nonexistent credit history may lead to a denial.
Low Credit Score. A low credit score, which signals past payment issues or high credit risk, may not meet Standard Bank’s minimum requirement for certain credit cards.
High Debt-to-Income Ratio. If your monthly debt obligations take up a large portion of your income, Standard Bank may view you as overextended and deny your application.
Inaccurate or Incomplete Application. Missing or incorrect information, such as income details or contact information, can lead to an automatic rejection or delay in processing.
Unverified or Insufficient Income. Failure to provide proper documentation of a stable income or not meeting the minimum income requirement for a specific card can result in denial.
Non-South African Residency Without Required Documents. Foreign nationals applying for a Standard Bank credit card must provide additional documents, such as a valid work permit. Failure to meet these requirements could lead to rejection.
How to Pay Off My Credit Card Debt
Standard Bank Online Banking. Log in to Standard Bank’s online banking platform, select your credit card account, and choose the “Make a Payment” option. Follow prompts to transfer funds from your bank account to your credit card.
Standard Bank Mobile App. Access the app, navigate to your credit card account, and select “Make a Payment.” You can set up one-time or recurring payments directly from your linked Standard Bank account.
Debit Order Setup. Authorize a monthly debit order for automatic payments, ensuring that the minimum payment or full balance is covered each month. This can be arranged at a branch or through the app.
ATM Payment. Visit a Standard Bank ATM, insert your card, and select the “Pay Credit Card” option. Follow on-screen instructions to complete the payment.
In-Person at a Standard Bank Branch. Go to any Standard Bank branch, and use cash or a debit card to make a payment directly to your credit card. Bank representatives can help set up recurring payments if preferred.
Editorial Opinion
Standard Bank’s credit cards offer options for various financial needs, from basic cards like the Blue Credit Card to premium options like the World Citizen and Diners Club Platinum, ideal for frequent travelers. The UCount Rewards program adds value by allowing clients to earn points on everyday purchases. While premium cards have higher fees, the benefits - such as lounge access and travel discounts - may justify the cost for those who can fully utilize them. Overall, Standard Bank provides a versatile selection, though clients should consider income requirements and rewards to choose the best fit.
What is the minimum income requirement for Standard Bank’s Platinum Credit Card?
The Standard Bank Platinum Credit Card requires a minimum income of R58,000 per month. This card offers enhanced benefits, including lounge access and discounts on travel, making it ideal for higher earners.
How many UCount Rewards points can I earn on a Standard Bank credit card?
Standard Bank’s UCount Rewards program allows clients to earn up to 50% more rewards points on qualifying purchases when swiping their credit cards. The exact point rate varies depending on the card type and spending category.
What travel benefits are available with the World Citizen Credit Card?
The World Citizen Credit Card offers substantial travel benefits, including 12 complimentary lounge visits annually (with spending requirements), 20% off Emirates flights, and comprehensive travel insurance. These perks cater specifically to frequent international travelers.
Are there fees for international transactions on Standard Bank credit cards?
Yes, international transactions incur fees based on the card type. For instance, the Blue, Gold, and Titanium cards carry a 2.75% fee, while the World Citizen and World Elite have lower rates, making these cards more suited for global usage.
How can I set up an automatic debit for my credit card payments?
Standard Bank offers an option to set up an automatic debit order for monthly credit card payments. This feature can be arranged through the Standard Bank Mobile App or by visiting a branch, ensuring timely payments and avoiding late fees.