How to apply for a no annual fee credit card online
Credit cards with no annual fee are among the most practical financial products available in the Philippines.
They allow cardholders to enjoy the convenience of credit while avoiding unnecessary costs.
Today, most banks and fintechs let consumers apply online, making the process faster, easier, and more accessible.
Knowing the requirements, preparing documents, and choosing the right product are essential steps to ensure approval.
🌐 Why Apply Online for a No Annual Fee Card
The digital process eliminates the need for multiple branch visits. Applicants can submit forms, upload documents, and track approval directly from a computer or smartphone.
Online applications also provide real-time updates, saving time and effort. For first-time users, this accessibility makes the journey into credit management much smoother.
At the same time, online systems reduce paperwork and encourage transparency. Banks display conditions, requirements, and terms clearly on their websites.
By reviewing this information carefully, applicants can choose the most suitable card and avoid hidden charges.
🏦 UnionBank Rewards Credit Card
UnionBank offers a promotional waiver for its Rewards Credit Card. The card provides free annual fees until December 31, 2025, if the user spends at least ₱20,000 within the first 60 days after approval.
Key requirements include:
- Minimum annual income: ₱180,000 (≈ ₱15,000 per month)
- Age range: 21 to 70 years old
- Documents: government-issued photo ID, proof of income such as payslips, ITR, or Certificate of Employment
- For foreigners: passport and Alien Certificate of Registration (ACR)
Applying online involves completing the UnionBank digital form, uploading documents, and waiting for verification. The process is straightforward, but applicants must ensure they meet the spending condition to maintain the waiver.
💼 Metrobank Titanium Mastercard®
The Metrobank Titanium Mastercard® provides a first-year waiver of its ₱2,500 annual fee. The promotion applies until September 30, 2025 and requires cardholders to spend between ₱180,000 and ₱250,000 in one year.
Requirements include:
- Annual income: at least ₱180,000
- Documents: valid ID and proof of income
- Age range: not explicitly defined, but generally within standard credit card eligibility (21 to 65+)
Applications can be completed through the Metrobank online portal. While the fee waiver is temporary, the card appeals to consumers who expect to meet higher spending levels.
🛡️ PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard
The PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard is one of the most accessible products because it offers lifetime no annual fee without requiring any minimum spend.
Eligibility requirements include:
- Annual income: at least ₱120,000
- Age range: 21 to 65 years
- Documents:
- For employees: payslip, Certificate of Employment, ITR, valid ID, and proof of address
- For self-employed: ITR stamped by the BIR, audited financial statement, valid ID, and proof of residence
- For foreigners: passport, ACR, and proof of residence
The application can be completed on the PNB website, with document uploads handled digitally. This product is particularly appealing to first-time cardholders because it provides true lifetime value.
📊 Security Bank Wave Mastercard
The Security Bank Wave Mastercard offers a permanent waiver but has stricter requirements compared to other cards.
Eligibility details include:
- Citizenship: Filipino citizens and residents aged 21 to 65
- Employment: at least one year of experience for employed applicants
- Self-employed: must maintain a Security Bank account for at least 12 months
- Annual income: ₱480,000 for new cardholders, ₱360,000 for existing Security Bank credit card holders
- Documents: valid ID, payslip or Certificate of Employment, ITR for self-employed
Applicants can fill out forms directly on the bank’s official site. The Wave Mastercard targets mid-level earners and loyal Security Bank clients.
⚡ Maya Black Credit Card
The Maya Black Credit Card is a fintech product that provides permanent waiver of annual fees, but with one condition: the card must be used at least once per month after the initial six-month period.
Key highlights include:
- No minimum income officially specified
- Digital-first application process via the Maya app
- Automatic activation once approved
- Requirement to maintain monthly usage to keep the waiver
Because it is fully digital, the application is one of the fastest in the market. The card suits tech-savvy individuals who prefer managing all credit functions inside a mobile application.
📌 Practical Checklist for Applicants
When applying online for a no annual fee credit card in the Philippines, keep the following in mind:
- Check income eligibility: most cards require between ₱120,000 and ₱180,000 annual income, while some demand higher.
- Prepare documents: valid ID, payslips, ITR, and proof of residence for smoother processing.
- Confirm age requirements: typically between 21 and 65 or 70 years old.
- Review promo conditions: some products require spending within a time frame to keep the waiver.
- Choose wisely: lifetime waivers offer peace of mind, while promo-based waivers may suit heavy spenders.
❓ FAQ on Applying for No Annual Fee Credit Cards Online
1. Is it safer to apply online than in person?
Yes, provided that the application is made through official bank or fintech websites or apps.
2. Do foreigners qualify for these cards?
Yes, but they must provide a valid passport, ACR, and proof of residence.
3. Which card is the easiest to apply for?
The PNB Ze-Lo Mastercard is often considered the most accessible due to its low income requirement and lifetime waiver.
4. Do fintech cards like Maya require documents?
Yes, but the process is simplified. Verification is handled digitally through the app.
5. How long does online approval take?
Depending on the bank, it can take a few days to two weeks. Fintech applications are usually faster.