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Credit card for foreigners: how to get one?

Being a foreigner can often bring enormous difficulties. One of them is having access to banking services. But it is possible to obtain a credit card in Portugal as a foreigner. See how!

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Discover how to get a credit card without being Portuguese

Pessoa segurando mala de viagem com cartões de crédito ao lado
After all, is it possible to request a card? Source: Pixabay.

If you are a foreign citizen living in Portugal, know that you can acquire a credit card to facilitate your financial transactions.

Sometimes it can be very difficult to be a foreign citizen. It is often difficult to find work and have your rights recognized. But, with credit card possibilities available, moving becomes much simpler!

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Because, continuing to use the card from your country of origin, even if it is international, can be a hindrance due to currency conversion rates.

But, which cards and financial institutions offer interesting options for foreigners in Portugal? If you want to discover this and other questions on the subject, keep reading this text!

Advantages and disadvantages of having a Portuguese credit card

Firstly, it is important to understand how credit cards work in Portugal for foreigners. Because this service offers differences compared to other places in the world. In other words, let's understand the particularities of credit cards in Portugal.

Benefits

Thus, one of the main advantages of having a credit card in the country is the possibility of purchasing online.

Most stores and brands that sell through e-commerce only offer credit card options.

Additionally, credit cards offer discounts, cashbacks and miles. In other words, great financial advantages to save!

Disadvantages

Therefore, the main disadvantage of having a Portuguese card is that purchases in the country cannot be paid in installments.

On the other hand, you pay your bill in installments at the end of the month, allowing you to split it into several months. However, this is an extremely costly action, as interest rates are usually very high.

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So, the main tip for foreigners who want to have a credit card is: establish yourself financially first. Because, with your accounts in order, you can make payments at once.

This way, you can enjoy the benefits of the card, without having to face the costs! In fact, know your financial situation, plan your expenses and income!

How to get a credit card as a foreigner?

Maquininha de cartão com cartões embaixo
So, find out how you can get it! Source: Pixabay.

Well, now that you know what's at stake when applying for a credit card as a foreigner in Portugal, know that applying for one may not be so easy.

Firstly, you need to choose the financial institution that best serves you. Most traditional banks ask for several documents. For example, Tax Identification Number, proof and passport.

So, often, some of these documents are not available to you right away. So, if you don't need a card right away, you can wait until you gather all the necessary documents and make your request.

On the other hand, if you know you'll need a credit card right away, you might want to consider other options, like digital banks.

Digital banks

Digital banks are a global trend. With it, the facilities for opening an account and accessing banking services were expanded.

So, even if you are aware and aware of the possible disadvantages of having a credit card in Portugal, you want a card, you can look for a digital bank.

This way, you can apply with just your passport, proving your identity. In other words, the bureaucracy involved in the request is much less.

Furthermore, find out about some digital institutions that you can look for to open your account and request your credit card:

  • N26;
  • Wise;
  • Revolution;
  • Activo Bank;

Disadvantages of your first credit card as a foreigner

To conclude, you will face some disadvantages with your first credit card as a foreign person.

Therefore, the main problem is your limit and the benefits you will be entitled to. Well, you need to have a good income history to avoid becoming a risk for the bank.

However, this situation changes little by little, as you build your financial history in the new country!

Is it worth having a credit card in Portugal as a foreigner?

Pessoa segurando cartão junto com notebook
But is it worth it? Source: Pixabay.

Well, that's not an easy question to answer. Well, each person has a different financial situation. The important thing is that you understand what issues are at stake when applying for a credit card.

Furthermore, it is also important that you are aware and fully aware of your finances. And, above all, it's important to be careful with your spending to avoid getting into a debt spiral.

So, sometimes, it may be more advantageous to save your money for a while and hold back on spending to be able to buy what you need. In fact, always remember the interest included in the split payment of the card!

Discover an easy credit card option for foreigners: Activo Bank

Furthermore, if you think that in your situation as a foreigner it is worth having a credit card, don't waste time and apply for yours!

So, how about getting to know the Activo Bank digital bank credit card. It offers several advantages and benefits to its user! Like, for example, cashback and an exclusive points program!

So, with it you can make international purchases, get cash advance and free annual fees. Furthermore, it is very simple to acquire yours!

Do you want to know more information about this card and find out step by step how to request it? So click on the link below and check it out right now!

modelos de cartão de crédito Activo Bank

How to request and activate the Activo Bank credit card?

Learn step by step how to request and activate the Activo Bank card online and without leaving home and enjoy various advantages, such as a points program, international coverage and more!

About the author  /  Filipe Travanca

Bachelor in History and Audiovisual from the University of São Paulo. Passionate about writing and literature, he works as a screenwriter, editor and short story writer, exploring the most varied themes and subjects. A very curious person, who likes to study a little bit of everything and share this learning in his texts.

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