The African Bank Blue Credit Card offers a blend of convenience and financial flexibility, making it a viable option for those seeking a straightforward credit solution. With its competitive fees and manageable interest rates, this card has been designed to meet the needs of a wide range of consumers.

In this article, we will delve into the key aspects of the African Bank Blue Credit Card, including its fees, credit limit determination, advantages, disadvantages, eligibility criteria, and the application process. This comprehensive guide will provide you with all the information you need to decide if this card is right for you.

Key information about the credit card

How does the annual fee work?

One of the notable aspects of the African Bank Blue Credit Card is its straightforward fee structure. The card comes with a monthly service fee of R69.00, which is consistent across various credit card offerings from African Bank. This fee covers the basic maintenance of the account and provides access to essential services.

How is the credit limit determined?

The credit limit for the African Bank Blue Credit Card is determined by a combination of factors, including the applicant’s credit history, income level, and overall financial health. For conventional credit cards like the Blue Credit Card, the bank reviews the applicant’s credit score and income documentation to set a responsible and sustainable credit limit.

Advantages of the credit card

• No annual fee: The card does not charge an annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for those who want to avoid additional expenses.
• Free purchases in South Africa: Cardholders can make purchases at points of sale (POS) within South Africa without incurring additional fees, which is a significant advantage for everyday transactions.
• SMS messaging service: This service is provided for free, allowing cardholders to stay updated on their account activities without any extra cost.
• Flexible ATM withdrawal fees: The card offers competitive fees for ATM withdrawals, with specific rates for transactions above and below R100, helping users manage their cash flow efficiently.

Standout advantage

One standout feature of the African Bank Blue Credit Card is its customizable transaction limits. This feature allows cardholders to set their own limits for ATM withdrawals, point-of-sale transactions, and card-not-present (CNP) transactions.

This level of control is particularly beneficial for individuals who want to maintain a strict budget or who have specific security concerns, as it enables them to limit potential exposure to fraud or overspending.

Disadvantages

• Monthly service fee: Although there is no annual fee, the card does charge a monthly service fee, which could add up over time.
• Limited international usage: The card does not offer international transaction services, which could be a significant drawback for those who travel frequently or make purchases from international retailers.
• ATM withdrawal fees: Although the ATM withdrawal fees are competitive, they can still be a consideration for users who frequently withdraw cash.

A standout disadvantage

A significant drawback of the African Bank Blue Credit Card is its lack of international transaction capability. This limitation means that cardholders cannot use the card for purchases or cash withdrawals outside of South Africa, which could be a major inconvenience for frequent travelers or those who shop from international online stores. This restriction may make the card less appealing to users with global financial needs.

Who can apply for this card?

The African Bank Blue Credit Card is accessible to a broad range of applicants, but there are certain eligibility criteria that must be met. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, which is the legal age for entering into credit agreements in South Africa.

Additionally, potential cardholders need to have a stable income source, as this will be assessed during the credit evaluation process to determine both eligibility and the appropriate credit limit. Another key requirement is a good credit history.

However, individuals with a less-than-perfect credit history may still have a chance of approval, depending on the overall assessment of their financial situation. Moreover, applicants must have a South African ID and a valid proof of residence. 

How to apply for the African Bank Blue Credit Card

For the website

To apply for the African Bank Blue Credit Card online, applicants need to visit the official African Bank website. Once on the site, they should navigate to the credit card section, where they will find detailed information about the Blue Credit Card, including its features, benefits, and fees.

The online application form requires applicants to fill in personal information, including their full name, contact details, and identification number. Additionally, they will need to provide details about their employment status, income, and any existing credit obligations.

Once the form is completed, applicants must submit it for review. African Bank will then conduct a credit assessment to determine the applicant’s eligibility and to set an appropriate credit limit.

Through the app

Applying for the African Bank Blue Credit Card via the mobile app is another convenient option. To start, applicants need to download the African Bank app, available on both Android and iOS platforms. Once the app is installed, users must create an account or log in if they already have one.

Within the app, users will find an option to apply for credit products, including the Blue Credit Card. The application process through the app is similar to the online process, requiring the submission of personal and financial information.

One of the advantages of applying through the app is the ability to upload required documents directly from the phone’s gallery or by taking a photo in real-time. After submitting the application, African Bank will conduct a credit assessment, and if approved, the credit card will be sent to the applicant’s address.

At the branch

For those who prefer a more personal approach, applying for the African Bank Blue Credit Card at a branch is a viable option. Applicants can visit any African Bank branch, where they will be assisted by a bank representative throughout the application process.

At the branch, applicants will need to provide identification, proof of residence, and income documentation. The bank representative will help fill out the application form, ensuring that all required information is accurately captured. This method is particularly beneficial for individuals who may have questions or need assistance with the application process.

The bank representative can provide insights into the likelihood of approval and answer any questions the applicant may have about the credit card’s features or terms. If approved, the credit card may be issued on the spot or mailed to the applicant’s address, depending on the branch’s capabilities.