The Nationwide Credit Card offers flexible options for everyday spending, balance transfers, and rewards.
Whether you want to manage debt or earn cashback, it’s designed to suit different financial needs.
This guide explains how to apply, highlights key features, and offers tips to boost your approval chances.
Types of Cards Available
Nationwide Building Society offers credit cards exclusively to its members, providing options tailored to different financial needs.
1. Purchase and Balance Transfer Credit Card
- 0% interest on purchases for 15 months.
- 0% interest on balance transfers for 15 months (1.5% fee).
- No annual fee.
2. Balance Transfer Credit Card
- 0% interest on balance transfers for 18 months (1.5% fee).
- 0% interest on purchases for 3 months.
- No annual fee.
Benefits
The Nationwide Credit Card comes with practical benefits to help you manage spending and save on fees.
- No annual fee – You won’t pay to keep the card.
- 0% interest offers – Introductory 0% on purchases and balance transfers.
- No foreign transaction fees – Spend abroad without extra charges.
- Contactless payments – Quick and secure tap-to-pay option.
- Mobile and online banking – Easily manage your card anytime.
- Fraud protection – Your account is monitored for suspicious activity.
Interest Rates and Fees
Nationwide offers credit cards with various interest rates and fees, tailored to different financial needs. Below is a summary of the key rates and charges:
Interest Rates:
- Representative APR: 24.9% APR (variable).
- Purchase Rate: 24.9% per annum (variable).
- Balance Transfers: 0% interest for 15 months with a 1.5% fee (min £5) if done within 90 days; 2.4% fee (min £5) after.
Fees and Charges:
- Balance Transfer Fee: 1.5% of the amount transferred (minimum £5) if made within 90 days of account opening; 2.4% (minimum £5) thereafter.
- Cash Advance Fee: 2.5% of the amount withdrawn (minimum £3) for each cash advance.
- Foreign Currency Transactions: No fee for purchases made in a foreign currency.
- Late Payment Fee: £0.
- Over Limit Fee: £0.
Please note that interest rates and fees are subject to change. For the most current information, refer to Nationwide’s official credit card rates and details page.
How to Apply for a Nationwide Credit Card
Applying for a Nationwide Credit Card is a straightforward process designed to be completed online or over the phone.
Before you begin, ensure you meet the eligibility criteria and have the necessary information at hand.
Eligibility Criteria:
To apply, you must:
- Be aged 18 or over.
- Be a UK resident.
- Earn £5,000 or more per year before tax.
- Have a Nationwide current account, savings account, or mortgage.
Application Steps:
- Check eligibility online without affecting your credit score.
- Gather details about your income, expenses, and address history.
- Log in to Nationwide Internet Banking to start your application.
- Submit the form and wait for a quick decision.
- Alternatively, apply by phone at 0800 30 20 10 during business hours.
Important Notes:
- You cannot apply if you already have a Nationwide credit card or have been declined for any credit card within the last 30 days.
- If you had a Nationwide credit card within the last 12 months, you won’t be eligible for the introductory offer on a new card.
Soft vs Hard Credit Check During Application
When applying for a Nationwide Credit Card, you may come across two types of credit checks—soft and hard.
Knowing the difference helps you better protect your credit score and understand the process.
Soft Credit Check:
- Used during the eligibility checker.
- Does not affect your credit score.
- Only you can see it on your credit report.
- Helps you see your chances before applying.
Hard Credit Check:
- Happens when you submit a full application.
- Visible to lenders and can impact your credit score.
- Stays on your credit report for up to 12 months.
- Too many hard checks in a short time may lower your score.
Tips to Get Approved Fast
Getting approved for a Nationwide Credit Card depends on your financial profile and how well you prepare your application.
Use these quick tips to improve your chances.
- Check your credit score before applying to know where you stand.
- Pay off existing debts to lower your credit utilization.
- Avoid multiple applications within a short period.
- Ensure your income details are accurate and up to date.
- Use the eligibility checker to see your chances without affecting your credit file.
What Happens After You’re Approved
Once your Nationwide Credit Card application is approved, you must complete a few essential steps before using your card.
Here’s what to expect next.
- You’ll receive a confirmation by email or post with your card details.
- Your physical card arrives within 5 to 7 working days.
- Activate your card online or through the Nationwide mobile app.
- Set up a PIN if needed, or use the one provided in a separate letter.
- Start using your card for purchases or balance transfers once activated.
Common Reasons for Rejection
If your Nationwide Credit Card application is declined, it’s usually due to issues with your credit profile or the information provided.
Here are the most common reasons.
- Low credit score or history of missed payments.
- Too much existing debt or high credit utilization.
- Recent multiple credit applications.
- Inaccurate or incomplete information on your application.
- Not meeting eligibility criteria, such as income or residency requirements.
What to Do If You’re Declined
If your Nationwide Credit Card application gets declined, don’t panic. You can take steps to understand why and improve your chances next time.
- Check your credit report for errors or issues that may have affected your application.
- Wait 30 days before applying again to avoid further credit score impact.
- Improve your credit profile by paying bills on time and reducing existing debt.
- Use a credit builder card or service to strengthen your credit history.
- Contact Nationwide to ask if they can explain the reason for rejection.
How Nationwide Credit Cards Compare to Other UK Cards
Nationwide credit cards offer competitive features, but it’s helpful to see how they compare to similar options in the UK market.
Here’s a quick comparison with other popular credit cards.
- Lower fees abroad – Unlike many UK cards, Nationwide doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees.
- Decent 0% intro offers – The 15–18 month 0% interest periods are competitive, but some cards offer longer terms.
- Limited availability – Only Nationwide members can apply, while other banks are open to all applicants.
- Fewer reward options – Some UK cards offer better cashback or point systems.
- No annual fee – Like many entry-level cards, Nationwide charges no yearly fee.
The Bottomline
Nationwide credit cards offer features like 0% interest periods, no annual fees, and no foreign transaction charges.
Understanding how to apply and improve your chances of approval can help you get the most out of it.
Check your eligibility online today to see if a Nationwide Credit Card suits you.
Contact Information
f you have inquiries or require assistance regarding your Nationwide Credit Card in the UK, you can reach Nationwide through the following channels:
- Phone (UK): 03456 00 66 11
- Phone (Abroad): +44 2476 43 89 97
- Operating Hours: Monday to Saturday, 8am to 8pm; Sundays and bank holidays, 9am to 5pm
- Correspondence Address: Nationwide Building Society, Nationwide House, Pipers Way, Swindon, SN38 1NW, United Kingdom.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice.
Always check the latest terms and conditions directly with Nationwide before applying for any credit product.