Approval for any credit card depends on your status. The representative APRs shown represent the interest rate offered to most successful applicants. Depending on your personal circumstances, the APR you're offered may be higher, or you may not be offered credit at all. Fees and rates are subject to change without notice. It's always wise to check the terms of any deal before you borrow. Most of the data in Finder's comparison tables is provided by Moneyfacts.
HSBC is one of the world’s largest banks and so has the expertise and support that goes along with this, such as 24/7 customer service, fraud detection and global acceptance.
It also offers a range of cards with clear interest rates and charges to suit a variety of financial needs, while providing an innovative reward scheme with holidays, shopping, eating out and fun experiences on offer.
Compare the HSBC UK range of credit cards
Types of credit cards from HSBC
HSBC has a range of cards to suit most financial needs, whether you are looking to pay off existing debt or want an everyday card for daily spending.
- Balance transfer cards. HSBC offers these balance transfer cards to enable you to transfer existing expensive debts and to pay them off at a better rate. These cards usually have a zero or low rate of interest for an initial promotional period, but then have a monthly or annual fee applied which can vary from card to card and person to person. Learn more about HSBC balance transfers.
- General reward and cashback cards. The bank typically offers a range of other cards that are suitable for a range of uses including balance transfer and general day-to-day spending. These have a range of low interest rate promotional periods along with a set monthly or annual fee, although these are subject to change from person to person. You can then build up points through everyday spending and convert them to rewards and benefits with HSBC’s reward programme, which is available across the globe. Learn more about rewards cards.
- Student cards. These are offered exclusively to those in full time education. They have no annual fee and a lower rate of interest available than for many other cards as students will typically have less income. They are used in much the same way as a reward or cashback card. Learn more about 0% purchase cards.
The benefits of credit card banking with HSBC
HSBC was very helpful when I needed the direct debit date and current account details updated.”
- Rewards systems. HSBC has a large reward scheme which provides access to benefits across the globe. You build up points from everyday spending on your card and once you have enough points these can be redeemed for everything from travel and holidays, dining out at restaurants, fun experiences and shopping, to health and fitness. You can also get frequent flyer points on select cards which can be converted to flights or upgrades.
- Online management. With HSBC’s online management service you can get constant, secure access to your account so you can see your balance and latest transactions, make payments and easily oversee your finances from any internet-connected device.
- Additional cards. If you need more than one card, HSBC can provide this so that you can easily add a partner or family members aged over 18 on your account.
- Mobile Banking App. The mobile banking app is one more way you can stay on top of your finances. The app is a simple and secure way to see your latest transactions, make payments check you balance.
- Global usage. HSBC’s credit cards are all provided with Visa or Mastercard so you can pay for items and take cash out in a huge number of countries throughout the world. You just need to check that they have the correct logo to ensure you are eligible.
- Round the clock assistance. With HSBC, you get 24/7 service from the customer service team, should you need it. You can simply call them at any time, day or night, from anywhere in the world and they will be able to help.
How to apply for a HSBC credit card
With HSBC you have three routes of application for a credit card: online, by phone or in store. If you opt for online, you should look at eligibility requirements and then apply with a free no-footprint credit report which is not seen by other firms.
Eligibility requirements
Every application is looked at by HSBC on an individual basis but the basic eligibility requirements give you an idea of whether you will be able to apply. These are:
- You must be over 18, and not hold an HSBC Basic Bank Account.
- You must be a resident of the UK, Channel Islands of Isle of Man
- You must have an annual income or pension before tax of £8,500 or more.
If you are rejected, HSBC recommend getting a credit report from one of the major credit agencies to check why you have been rejected.
Why might you not be approved?
On the whole, if you meet the eligibility requirements but have a history of bad debt or no credit history at all, you may be rejected. Equally if you are in an IVA or have had a CCJ you may not be accepted. If you have ever declared bankruptcy you are also unlikely to receive a card.
HSBC customer reviews
In our 2024 customer satisfaction survey, 84% of HSBC credit card customers stated that they’d recommend it to a friend. Several customers said that the brand had good customer service as well as good rates. One customer said that their credit card was “easy to use, contactless, and easy to pay off every month using the app or online banking.”
However, on Trustpilot, the bank overall received a score of just 1.5 out of 5, with several HSBC customers citing problems accessing their bank account when abroad (updated February 2024).
Contact HSBC customer support
Live chat support | Live chat support offered through the HSBC app and online. |
---|---|
Telephone support | HSBC customers can call 03457 404 404 from 8am to 8pm every day, and those who aren’t customers can call 03455 873 444 (except on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day) |
Closing your account | Call the customer service number for support. |
Report card lost or stolen | You can temporarily block your card through the HSBC app or online. If you still can’t find it, HSBC will cancel it and send you a new card. You’ll get this by post within 7 working days or, if you’re outside the UK, within 10 working days. If your card does turn up, you can unblock it through the app and start using it again. |
Overview of HSBC credit cards
Representative APR | From 18.9% to 59.3% |
---|---|
0% balance transfer offer | Up to 29 months |
0% purchases offer | Up to 20 months |
0% money transfer offer | No money transfer offer available |
Cashback with brand | Up to 10% |
Cashback elsewhere | Up to 2% |
Cash advance | From 18.9% |
Introductory bonus offer | Up to 40,000 |
Frequently asked questions
Finder credit card ratings
Finder scores, in blue, are based on our expert analysis. We also show reviews from users, where we've received more than 10, with a score in yellow. We gather more reviews from customers every year in Finder's customer satisfaction survey.
To find out more, read our full methodology.
More guides on Finder
-
How HSBC balance transfer offers work
All the 0% balance transfer deals currently available from HSBC.
-
HSBC Premier Points
How to earn and redeem HSBC Premier Reward Points using a credit card plus the pros and cons of this reward scheme.
-
HSBC Premier Credit Card review
Existing HSBC Premier customers can enjoy generous perks and 0% deals on both purchases and balance transfers with this deal.
-
HSBC Rewards Credit Card review
Existing HSBC Advance customers can enjoy a lengthy 0% balance transfer deal and generous perks with this popular credit card.
-
HSBC Student Credit Card review
Cover unexpected expenses and build a good credit history if you’re an existing HSBC student account holder.
-
How to cancel an HSBC credit card without calling
Want to cancel your HSBC UK credit card, but don’t know how? Here are your options.
-
HSBC Classic Credit Card review
Looking for a credit-builder credit card which also offers cashback rewards? Compare rates, fees and alternative credit builder cards.
-
HSBC Purchase Plus Credit Card review
Looking to score 0% on balance transfers and upcoming purchases? Find out if this card is right for you and check out the alternatives – with live rates, fees and terms.
-
HSBC Premier World Elite Credit Card review
Learn more about this rewards credit card with travel perks for high-earning HSBC Premier customers. Compare live rates and alternatives.
-
HSBC Balance Transfer Credit Card review
Everything you need to know about the HSBC Balance Transfer Credit Card. Fast and simple overview of rates, fees, credit limits and eligibility requirements. Compare this card against similar products from a range of lenders.