Obtaining a UK credit card as a non-resident is possible, but it’s also challenging. In most cases, opening accounts and obtaining cards from UK banks in jurisdictions related to the UK like the Isle of Man or Jersey is often a faster (and easier) option.
That said, in this article, we’re going to share credit card options available to foreign non-residents in the UK and the challenges that you will undoubtedly face trying to obtain them.
In the end, if you decide that you want to explore alternative options we’ll tell you how to get started with those as well. These alternatives will focus almost exclusively on low-deposit options like the Isle of Man and will avoid high-deposit options in Europe like banks in Guernsey.
Feel free to use the table of contents to jump ahead to sections that are most relevant to you.
Table of Contents
- How to Get a Credit Card in the UK for Non-Residents
- Eligibility Requirements for a Credit Card in the UK
- Alternatives to UK Credit Cards for Non-Residents
- Frequently Asked UK Credit Card Questions
- Do You Want Help Opening Bank Accounts?
How to Get a Credit Card in the UK for Non-Residents
First of all, let’s define what we mean when we say UK credit cards for non-residents. We’re talking about credit cards that non-residents can obtain from a UK bank without having an established credit history in the country.
Now, while it’s relatively straightforward to open non-resident accounts in European private banking hubs like Luxembourg or Liechtenstein, obtaining credit cards in Europe as a non-resident is much more difficult.
In fact, most people would tell you that it’s impossible to obtain such a credit card in the UK. And frankly, they aren’t too far off from the truth. While non-UK residents used to be able to apply for and access secured credit cards in the UK, these are no longer available.
Today, if you are a non-resident looking to obtain credit cards, there is really only one option available. And, it’s only available if you meet certain criteria.
What’s the one UK credit card option available to non-residents? The American Express card. But, non-residents have to meet certain criteria, including (in most cases) stating they are in the process of moving to the UK.
However, even if you are moving to the UK, we typically suggest that individuals looking to obtain a UK Amex also consider available US credit card options.
The reason for this is that US credit cards tend to offer significantly higher bonuses and more benefits – especially when compared to international options like those available in the UK.
Additionally, US credit cards are much more accessible to non-resident individuals and can even be accessed 100% remotely. This is not the case in most countries.
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Eligibility Requirements for a Credit Card in the UK
If you are looking for traditional credit cards in the UK, you’ll need to meet specific criteria, including:
- Established UK credit history
- Residential UK address (with sufficient proof)
- Phone number in the UK (also used for credit history)
- Demonstrate UK employment history
If you are unable to meet all of the criteria listed here, you are unlikely to be approved for UK credit cards as a non-resident.
That’s why we typically suggest that individuals seeking a UK credit card consider the following credit card alternatives instead.
Alternatives to UK Credit Cards for Non-Residents
Let’s talk about a few alternative options that you might want to consider instead.
Now, there are several different options available from banks in the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.
This particular alternative (explained below) still delivers many of the benefits that non-residents look for when they apply for a UK credit card, with a few caveats.
First of all, it’s not a credit card…
Instead, we’re talking about opening accounts for expats, non-residents, or foreigners and receiving a VISA debit card, which still offers some of the protections and security that you would want from a credit card.
So, in terms of raw functionality, the VISA debit card that non-residents can access via a bank account in the Channel Islands or Isle of Man operates almost the same way.
And, in most cases, these cards cater to the needs of individuals leading international lives and who require cross-border support.
Here are some of the other benefits:
- Cards denominated in GBP
- Cards with zero foreign currency transaction fees
- Cards issued by major UK financial institutions
- Cash withdrawals while you are traveling abroad
- Ability to add a card to a wallet, like Apple Pay or Curve
Frequently Asked UK Credit Card Questions
Below are a few of the most common questions we receive from people exploring how to get a UK credit card as a non-resident. If you have further questions about online offshore banking, don’t hesitate to contact us directly.
Can I Get a Credit Card in the UK as a Foreigner?
Yes, you can get a credit card in the UK as a foreigner. To get a UK credit card foreigners need to have a UK credit history, provide proof of a UK address, have a UK phone number, and demonstrate a UK employment history. Most foreigners will find that obtaining alternatives to UK credit cards is an easier option.
Can I Get a Credit Card if I Am Not a Resident?
Yes, you can get a credit card if you are not a resident. In fact, most major UK credit card providers allow non-residents to apply for credit cards. However, the credit cards available to non-residents in the UK depend on your citizenship, residency, credit score, and many other factors.
Can I Open a Bank Account in the UK if I Am Not a Resident?
Yes, you can open a bank account in the UK if you are not a resident. Each bank that accepts non-residents will have specific account opening requirements for non-resident applicants. Other UK banks will not allow non-residents to complete an application. So, bank selection will be an important factor to consider when choosing where to apply for a UK bank account.
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