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Accessing financial services has evolved over the years. Banks are now offering an array of products to meet the diverse needs of customers. And if you don’t, banks are now offering credit cards in Nigeria!
However, not all banks in Nigeria provide credit card services. While debit cards are generally offered by most banks, credit cards remain a less common option in the country
This article aims to shed light on the banks in Nigeria that offer credit cards. It will also explore the features and benefits of these financial tools.
What is a Credit Card?
A credit card is a card that your bank gives you. You can use it to buy things from shops, online, or anywhere that accepts cards.
When you use a credit card, you’re borrowing money from the bank to pay for things, but you pay it back later.
Here’s how using a credit card works:
- You take your credit card to a shop and buy something.
- The shop swipes or taps your card.
- But instead of paying immediately, the bank pays.
- Then, at the end of the month, the bank sends you a bill for all the things you bought.
- You have to pay the bank back for what you spent, plus a little extra for using their money. That extra bit is called interest.
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Credit Card vs Debit Card
In Nigeria, the choice between credit cards and debit cards determines how individuals make purchases.
However, credit cards face challenges that make them less popular compared to debit cards and cash. Some of these challenges include the dominance of cash transactions and their acceptance in the country.
While larger establishments in the country, may accept credit cards, smaller businesses tend to accept cash payments.
Why Use Credit Cards in Nigeria?
Despite the challenges, using a credit card in Nigeria still has great benefits. The good thing is that many banks across the country are now giving out credit cards to eligible customers.
Here’s why getting a credit card in Nigeria could be a good option for you:
Flexible Payments
With a credit card, you can make purchases and pay for them over time. This flexibility can be helpful for managing larger or unexpected expenses. As a result, you can spread payments out rather than paying upfront.
Build Credit History
Using a credit card responsibly can help you establish and build your credit history.
A good credit history is essential for securing loans, such as mortgages or car loans. By making timely payments on your credit card, you demonstrate to lenders that you are a reliable borrower.
Borrowing Power
Unlike a debit card, where you spend your funds, a credit card allows you to borrow money from the bank.
This borrowing power can provide a safety net in situations where you need to make a purchase but don’t have enough funds available in your bank account.
Financial Management
Credit cards can also help you manage your finances. By monitoring your credit card transactions, you can keep track on your financial habits and make informed decisions.
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List of Banks that Offer Credit Cards in Nigeria
Now that you understand the benefits of owning a credit card in Nigeria, let’s explore the options available to you. Below is a brief overview of banks that offer credit card services in Nigeria:
Access Bank
Access Bank offers a Visa credit card with dual currency denominations in naira and dollars.
The Naira Credit Card is accepted at over 2 million ATMs and 30 million merchant locations worldwide. It has an interest-free period of up to 40 days. and additional security for online transactions.
Users can access up to 50% of their net monthly salary and make a minimum monthly repayment of 15% of the outstanding balance. Classic variants with supplementary card options are available.
EcoBank
EcoBank provides two credit card services: Advantage Gold Card and Premier Platinum Card
Both cards provides 24-hour access to funds across 1200 branches in 34 countries.
Users also have access with over 2700 ATMs and 10,000 Cashless Payment (POS) terminals across Africa. It can also be used for online shopping.
Fidelity Bank
Fidelity Credit Cards are globally accepted and have no issuance fee. They offer up to 45 interest-free days and low monthly interest rates of 2.5%.
Variants include Visa Classic, Visa Infinite, and Platinum, catering to different preferences.
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First City Monument Bank (FCMB)
Denominated in Naira, The FCMB Visa Credit Card is internationally accepted, allowing transactions in any currency, with monthly repayments in Naira.
It is accepted at over 170 million outlets worldwide and cash withdrawals at any ATM displaying the VISA logo.
Cardholders can fully repay the amount used on the card, along with transaction fees, by the payment due date.
FirstBank
The First Bank Naira Credit Card (NCC) offers users an evolving credit line with up to 45 interest-free days.
NCCs are accepted globally at over 29 million locations and 1.8 million ATMs.
It has a maximum credit limit of N3,000,000 and a monthly interest rate of 2.5% on utilized amounts.
GTBank (Guaranty Trust Bank)
GTBank offers a Visa credit card in US dollars, giving you the freedom to make purchases globally. With this card, you can earn cash back on all your purchases and enjoy 24/7 customer support.
Moreover, if you’re a frequent international traveler, this card provides additional valuable perks to enhance your experience.
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Heritage Bank
Heritage Bank offers a Naira-denominated credit card accepted worldwide, wherever the MasterCard logo appears. It can be used on ATMs, POS terminals, and online transactions.
Equipped with Chip and PIN Technology, it ensures high security for users. It also has a revolving credit limit valid for 3 years, requiring a minimum monthly repayment of only 20%.
Moreover, cardholders enjoy VIP/Priority Pass treatment at hotels and access to lounges at airports accredited by MasterCard.
Keystone Bank
Keystone Bank’s Visa Naira Credit Card offers a renewable 3-year credit line with up to 45 interest-free days.
The card features 3D secure transactions for added security. Users have multiple repayment methods available, including automatic direct debit and cash payments.
Late payments may incur a fee of ₦2,000, but paying the full owed amount during the repayment period avoids interest charges.
Spending limits are set for different transactions: N150,000 for local ATM withdrawals, N2,000,000 for local POS transactions, and N1,000,000 for web transactions.
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Polaris Bank
Polaris Bank offers Visa credit cards catering to different income brackets: Classic, Gold, and Platinum.
Classic is for earners between N250,000 and N749,000 monthly, Gold for N750,000 to N1,249,000, and Platinum for N1,250,000 and above.
Each card has a 3-year validity and a 45-day interest-free period, with 10% monthly repayment. They offer Naira currency, digital channel access, and Visa benefits. Users can monitor transactions via Visa web banking.
Providus Bank
Providus Bank offers a credit card service for salaried customers, providing access to cash before payday. This card can be used internationally for payments on merchants’ terminals that exclusively accept credit card payments.
It also assists customers in building a good credit history over time. For first-time customers, there’s a generous 45-day interest-free period.
Additionally, the card offers a convenient repayment method. Customers are only expected to pay the utilized amount.
Stanbic IBTC Bank
The Stanbic IBTC Credit Card is a card in Nigerian currency that lets you shop online or in stores worldwide, with over 24 million locations to choose from. You also have up to 55 days to pay off your purchases without any extra charges.
Plus, you can reach customer service anytime, day or night. Best of all, there’s no annual fee, and you won’t pay any foreign transaction fees when using your card abroad.
Standard Chartered Bank
Standard Chartered Bank offers two credit card options: the Visa Platinum Credit Card and the Visa Gold Credit Card.
Both cards offer customers benefits such as up to 5 supplementary cards, cashback on dining, and interest-free credit for up to 50 days.
In essence, the two cards offer flexibility to meet various financial needs.
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Sterling Bank
Sterling Bank offers a credit card service with a revolving credit line and flexible repayment options. Denominated in Naira, it provides up to 45 interest-free days and is accepted worldwide at locations displaying the Visa logo.
With secure features like Chip and PIN technology and contactless capability, transactions are safe. Users also enjoy 3D secure transactions with OTP verification and access to discounts.
Sterling Bank offers Ultra Bronze and Ultra Ruby variants in its credit card lineup.
Union Bank
Union Bank Credit Cards offer a range of benefits to users, including an interest-free period of up to 45 days on POS and online transactions.
Users can make cash withdrawals from ATMs locally and internationally. They can also conduct POS and online payments both domestically and abroad.
Cardholders also enjoy additional benefits such as access to concierge services, among others.
United Bank for Africa (UBA)
The UBA Naira Credit Card offers usage both locally and internationally, at any ATM or POS outlet displaying the Visa logo.
With a credit limit of up to N3 million, cardholders benefit from up to 45 days of interest-free credit and flexible repayment options, including a minimum monthly repayment of 10%.
Additionally, users can enjoy exclusive discounts at partner restaurants, and hotels, lounge access, and other benefits when they travel.
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Unity Bank
Unity Bank’s Credit Card service requires either cash collateral (75% of fixed deposit) or salary account domiciliation for approval.
The card is denominated in Naira, and has a revolving 3-year validity. It operates on a 40-day cycle with a 10-day interest-free period, providing flexibility in repayments.
It also has a fixed interest rate of 3.5% monthly on the outstanding balance.
The Credit Card comes in Standard and Platinum variants. It is enabled for local transactions on ATMs, POS terminals, and online transactions.
Wema Bank
The ALAT Visa Signature Card, available in three variations – Black, Dollar, and Purple – can be used domestically and internationally.
It is accepted at over 33 million merchant locations and over 1 million ATMs across more than 220 countries.
Visa Signature cardholders enjoy six complimentary airport lounge accesses per year through LoungeKey.
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Zenith Bank
Zenith Bank bank has a wide range of credit cards with different features and benefits that suit the needs of every customer.
You can choose from various card types including platinum, gold, silver, and business to find the right fit for your lifestyle. You can apply for a credit card through their website or contact them at any branch nearest to you.
Conclusion
For those who were previously unaware of the availability of Credit Cards in Nigeria, we trust that you are now well-informed about the banks offering them.
If you meet the eligibility requirements and are interested in obtaining a credit card, you can reach out to your bank to request one.
With the benefits that credit cards offer, it’s worth exploring this financial tool to meet your financial needs.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply for a credit card in Nigeria?
Applications for credit cards are usually made on the bank’s website or at the bank’s branch. Normally you are expected to fill in a credit card application form with identification and proof of income.
Are there associated fees?
Yes, there are various credit card fees in Nigeria: an issuance fee of around ₦1,000, an ATM withdrawal fee of about 3%, and a late fee charged for payment of about. Some banks may charge an annual maintenance fee or insurance premium.
Can I use my Nigerian credit card internationally?
Yes, most Nigerian-issued credit cards are accepted internationally wherever payment by Visa or MasterCard is allowed. This grants the cardholder the ability to charge purchases abroad and withdraw cash via ATMs from any part of the world
What should I consider before applying for a credit card?
First of all, before applying for a credit card, reflect on your financial habits-whether you will be able to give back the lent amount in time and thus avoid high charges of interest-and whether features available in different banks’ credit cards will help you. You also need to look at the eligibility criteria and have good credit history.
