Best Credit Cards for Foreigners in Singapore (2025): Your Expat Guide

Whether you’re looking to settle in Singapore for good or for just a couple of years, using the right credit card can help each hard-earned dollar of yours go further. As it stands, all credit cards aren’t created equal. Some are more rewarding than others, while some require no effort at all when it comes to usage. 

Depending on what you’re looking for, there are different credit cards for foreigners in Singapore you can apply for. Their income eligibility requirements vary, too. This is why it’s important that you choose the right credit card for your own spending habits and needs.

Here’s the lowdown on the best foreigner credit cards worth their salt in Singapore.

Eligible visa types

• Employment Pass (EP): You’re in a strong position with an EP.

• S Pass: Still eligible, though income requirements might be higher.

• Dependent Pass: You can apply as a supplementary cardholder.

• Student Pass: Limited options exist, often through secured or student-specific cards.

Credit card income requirements for foreigners

Banks in Singapore generally expect foreigners to meet higher income thresholds compared to locals. Here is a quick overview: 

Keep your eyes peeled for some of the newer digital banks, like Trust, popping up here. They sometimes have cards with lower or even no minimum income requirements specifically aimed at expats. 

>> More : What are the best low-income credit cards in Singapore?

Having these ready will make the application process a whole lot smoother.

Use this checklist to ensure a smooth application:

• Passport

• Work Pass (EP, S Pass, etc.)

• Proof of Local Address (tenancy agreement or utility bill)

• 3 Months' Payslips or Income Tax Notice

• SingPass/MyInfo (if available, to speed up application)

>> More : Step-by-step guide to applying for a credit card online in Singapore

Here are a few common hurdles you might encounter:

No local credit history

Your international credit score doesn't carry over. Start with entry-level or secured cards to build a local track record.

Higher income requirements

As we mentioned earlier, most banks in Singapore tend to set their income bar a bit higher for expats. It's just something to be aware of when you're browsing your options.

Approval delays or rejections

Factors like short visa validity or your job industry may impact approval. MyInfo-linked applications are typically processed faster and more favourably.

>> More : Compare Singapore's best credit cards

Product details

• Miles are credited to your rewards account can be converted to various airline and hotel loyalty programmes 

• No minimum spend required to earn the base miles earn rate.

• The enhanced 4 mpd rate for online and contactless spend is subject to a monthly cap.

• Supported by various payment platforms

SingSaver’s take

The HSBC Revolution Card is attractive to expats who do a lot of online shopping and digital transactions. The waived annual fee and no minimum spend make it a cost-effective way to earn rewards on everyday digital spending.

Read Full Review 

>> More : Best cashback credit cards in Singapore

Product details

• 10% cashback on various spending categories.

• No annual fee for the life of the card.

• Relatively accessible income requirement for foreigners.

• May have specific cashback caps or minimum spending requirements to unlock higher rates.

SingSaver’s take

The CIMB Visa Signature Card can be a good option for budget-conscious expats looking for cashback rewards without the burden of an annual fee. The lower income requirement makes it relatively easier to obtain.

Foreigners are unable to apply directly for a CIMB Visa Signature credit card. However, primary cardholders can recommend a foreign supplementary card applicant.

Read full review 

>> More : Credit cards with no annual fee in Singapore

Product details

• Earn up to 3 miles per S$1 spent on eligible transactions.

• Complimentary travel accident insurance.

• Airport lounge access benefits.

• Welcome bonus miles for new cardholders.

SingSaver’s take

The Standard Chartered Journey Card can appeal to expats who travel and want to earn miles while also getting some travel insurance coverage. The income requirement is moderate.

Read full review 

>> More : Best travel credit cards in Singapore

Product details

• Citi Miles never expire.

• Complimentary travel insurance coverage up to S$1,000,000.

• 2 complimentary airport lounge visits per year via Priority Pass.

• Citi Pay with Miles: Use miles to offset purchases.

SingSaver’s take

The Citi PremierMiles Card is a strong choice for expats who travel frequently, offering a solid miles earn rate and valuable travel perks. The miles that never expire and the travel insurance are significant benefits.

Read full review

Product details

• Fast track to KrisFlyer Elite Gold membership possible. (Until 31 July 2025)

• Receive a Foreign Spend Miles Redemption Voucher.

• Receive a Renewal Miles Redemption Voucher.

• Complimentary one-night stay at participating Hilton properties each year.

SingSaver’s take

The AMEX KrisFlyer Ascend Card is ideal for expats who frequently fly with Singapore Airlines and want to maximize their KrisFlyer miles earnings. The fast track to KrisFlyer Elite Gold is a valuable perk for frequent flyers.

Read full review

Product details

• Make payments in 150+ currencies. 

• Store up to 12 currencies in-app. 

• 0 ATM fees

• Discounts and cashback with merchant partners.

• Ability to transfer money to users in other currencies

• Supports bank withdrawals to your bank account. 

• SmartExchange feature for automatic currency conversion.

SingSaver’s take

YouTrip is a great option for expats who travel frequently or need to make international payments. The ability to hold multiple currencies and the lack of foreign transaction fees are major advantages.

Read full review

Here are some cards that might suit specific expat lifestyles here in Singapore:

For frequent travellers

• Citi PremierMiles: Excellent for earning air miles.

• AMEX KrisFlyer Ascend: Great for Singapore Airlines flyers.

For online spenders or remote workers

• HSBC Revolution: 4 mpd on online transactions.

>> More : Smart ways to save money in Singapore (2025): 10+ proven tips that actually work

For budget-focused foreigners

• CIMB Visa Signature: No annual fee and solid cashback.

• StanChart Smart: Simple rewards on everyday spend.

FX savings and remittances

YouTrip: Multi-currency cards ideal for global payments and transfers.

>> More : What is a personal credit line in Singapore?

Try a secured credit card in Singapore

Put down a deposit that acts as your credit limit. Great for building local credit from scratch.

Use debit or multi-currency cards

As mentioned before, cards like YouTrip can be lifesavers, especially for travel and dealing with different currencies. They might not help you build a credit score, but they're great for managing your spending and avoiding hefty bank fees.

Apply for a supplementary card

If your spouse or a close family member has a credit card in Singapore, you can often be added as a supplementary cardholder. It's a quicker way to get access to a card and start getting used to the local financial system.

Alright, you've got a card – now how do you make sure you're building up a positive credit history here?

Use this checklist:

• Use your card monthly (don’t leave it inactive) – even small purchases show you're using it responsibly.

• Always pay on time – this is the golden rule of credit scores everywhere. Set up direct debits if you tend to forget.

• Don’t max out your limit – try to keep your spending well below your credit limit. Banks like to see you're not over-reliant on credit.

• Avoid multiple applications in a short time – applying for lots of cards at once can make you look a bit desperate to the banks.

>> More : How to build credit score in Singapore

Ready to take the plunge? Here's a general idea of how the application process usually goes:

1. Choose a foreigner-friendly credit card: Based on your income and lifestyle, pick a card that seems that sweet spot between what you're eligible for and what offers the best perks for you.

2. Gather required documents: Get all your bits of paper in order – passport, work pass, proof of address, payslips, the whole shebang.

3. Apply online (preferably with MyInfo): Most banks have online application portals these days. If you've got SingPass, using MyInfo can really speed things up as it auto-fills a lot of the forms with your verified details.

4. Wait for approval (3–7 working days): Approval times can vary. Some banks are quicker than others, especially if you applied via MyInfo.

5. Activate and start using your card responsibly: Once you get the thumbs up and your card arrives, follow the instructions to activate it and then, well, start swiping – but remember to be a responsible spender!

Keep an eye on your email and SMS. Banks usually update you on your application status through these channels. Some also have online portals where you can track progress.

>> More : How much of your income should you set aside?

Getting a credit card in Singapore as a foreigner might take a bit more effort, but it’s far from impossible. With the right documents, a little patience, and the tips in this guide, you’ll be swiping your way around Singapore in no time – smartly and securely.