If you’re looking for a reliable credit card backed by one of the UK’s strongest banks, HSBC offers several great options.
Each card is designed to fit different needs—whether you want rewards, cashback, or flexible balance management.
You’ll discover why HSBC cards are considered a smart and secure choice for UK cardholders.
Popular HSBC Card Options
Here are the main HSBC UK credit cards designed for different needs. Choose the one that best matches your spending habits and financial goals.
- Classic Credit Card – A low-entry card aimed at building or improving your credit history.
- Balance Transfer Credit Card – Lets you move existing debts from other cards and benefit from a 0% interest period on transfers.
- Purchase Plus Credit Card – Designed for spreading the cost of purchases with an interest-free period for new buys and possibly transfers.
- Rewards Credit Card – Earn reward points on eligible spending, redeemable for travel, shopping, or vouchers.
- Premier Credit Card – For customers with higher banking status; includes travel privileges, reward points, and extended perks.
- Premier World Elite Mastercard – A premium card for top-tier users with high rewards, travel lounge access, and a higher annual fee.
Key Features and Benefits
HSBC credit cards offer features that make everyday spending easier and more secure.
You get flexibility, protection, and rewards that fit your lifestyle. Here are the main benefits:
- Worldwide Acceptance – Use your HSBC card in over 200 countries and millions of locations worldwide.
- Interest-Free Purchases – Enjoy up to 56 days of interest-free credit on purchases when you pay your balance in full.
- Contactless and Mobile Payments – Make fast, secure transactions using Apple Pay, Google Pay, or your contactless card.
- Rewards and Cashback – Earn points or cashback on eligible purchases, depending on your chosen card.
- Travel Assistance – Access global emergency card replacement and travel insurance with selected HSBC cards.
- Mobile Banking Control – Manage your account through the HSBC UK app, track spending, and set payment reminders.
- Fraud Protection – Stay safe with 24/7 fraud monitoring and instant card-lock features for added security.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
To apply for an HSBC credit card, you need to meet key criteria and provide accurate information. These requirements help improve your approval chances.
- Age Requirement – You must be at least 18 years old to apply for any HSBC credit card.
- Residency – You must be a UK resident with a valid UK address.
- Income Details – Provide your monthly or annual income, including your current employment status.
- Address History – Have at least three years of address history ready for verification.
- Bank Relationship – Some cards may require an existing HSBC current account, or you may open one during the process.
- Credit History – A good credit score increases your chance of approval; HSBC may use international credit data for new UK residents.
- Affordability Check – All applications are subject to status and HSBC’s lending and affordability criteria.
How to Apply
Applying for an HSBC credit card is quick and easy online. Just prepare your financial details and follow these steps to complete your application:
- Choose Your Card – Visit the official HSBC UK website and compare card options, such as Classic, Rewards, or Premier, to find the one that best fits your needs.
- Check Eligibility – Use the HSBC Eligibility Checker to see your likelihood of approval without affecting your credit score.
- Complete the Application Form – Fill in personal, employment, and income details accurately. Make sure all information matches your records.
- Review Terms and Conditions – Read the card’s APR, fees, and repayment policies before you proceed.
- Submit and Wait for a Decision – Submit your application online. Some decisions are instant, while others may require extra verification.
- Receive and Activate Your Card – Once approved, your card will be mailed to you. Activate it online or via the HSBC UK app before use.
Fees, Rates, and Limits
Understanding the main fees and interest rates helps you manage your card responsibly.
HSBC maintains transparency, but costs can vary by card type. Here are the key details to note:
- Annual Fee – Some HSBC cards charge £0 per year, while premium cards may have an annual fee (for example: £290).
- Representative APR (Variable) – Example rates include 26.9% APR for standard cards.
- Cash Advance Fee – A fee of 2.99% (minimum £3) applies to cash withdrawals or cash-related payments.
- Non-Sterling / Foreign Transaction Fee – For credit cards, a fee of 2.99% may apply when you spend abroad or in foreign currency.
- Late Payment, Over-Limit, Returned Payment Fees – For example: Late fee £12; Over-limit fee £12; Returned payment fee £5.
- Balance Transfer Fee – A fee applied when you transfer balances, e.g., 2.99 % (minimum £5) for some cards.
- Credit Limit – The maximum amount you can borrow depends on your status; e.g., some cards offer “up to £1,000” or higher, depending on your income.
Travel and Overseas Benefits
Using your HSBC UK credit card abroad gives you valuable travel perks for convenience and security.
Here are the main travel benefits to know:
- Airport Lounge Access – Some cards offer access to more than 1,300 airport lounges worldwide through Priority Pass or similar programmes.
- Airport Security Fast-Track – Cards like the Premier World Elite provide fast-track security lanes at selected airports globally.
- Worldwide Emergency Support – 24/7 assistance for lost or stolen cards and emergency cash advance while abroad.
- Travel Insurance Cover – For eligible account holders, worldwide travel insurance for you, your partner, and your children under certain conditions.
- Rewards for Foreign Spend – Earn accelerated reward points when you spend in other currencies, redeemable for travel or airline miles.
- Discounts on Hotels and Travel-Related Offers – Selected cards offer hotel discounts or travel partner deals (e.g., Expedia, Agoda).
Rewards and Cashback Programs
HSBC UK credit cards let you earn rewards or cashback on your everyday purchases, making them more valuable. Here are the main features:
- Earn reward points on every eligible purchase – For example, you collect points every time you use your HSBC Rewards Credit Card in-store or online.
- Bonus points offers – You can earn extra points, such as 2,500 welcome points, on your first transaction.
- Higher earn rates for foreign-currency spend – Some cards offer more points for purchases made in non-sterling currency.
- Redemption flexibility – Use points for shopping vouchers, travel rewards, or convert them into airline miles.
- Cashback option – Some rewards programs allow you to convert your points into cash or statement credit.
Customer Support and Contact Information
HSBC offers reliable customer assistance for any questions, card issues, or account support. Below are the verified details for contacting HSBC UK.
- General Inquiries: Call 03457 404 404 (available 8 AM – 8 PM, Monday to Sunday).
- Lost or Stolen Cards: Call 0800 085 2401 (24 hours a day, 7 days a week).
- From Outside the UK: Dial +44 1226 261010 for international assistance.
- Mailing Address: HSBC UK Bank plc, 1 Centenary Square, Birmingham, B1 1HQ, United Kingdom.
Final Takeaway
HSBC credit cards combine convenience, security, and rewards that suit different spending habits and lifestyles.
Whether you’re managing everyday purchases or traveling abroad, there’s a card designed to meet your needs.
Visit the official HSBC UK website today to compare options and apply for the card that fits your financial goals.
Disclaimer
Information such as rates, fees, and terms may change at any time without prior notice.
Always verify the latest details directly on the official HSBC UK website before applying.
