Credit Cards That Don’t Require Income Documents (2025 Updated Guide)
Worried about getting a credit card but don’t have payslips, a Certificate of Employment (COE), or an Income Tax Return (ITR)? Don’t worry — you’re not alone.
Many Filipinos — especially freelancers, online sellers, OFWs, fresh graduates, and homemakers — struggle to get approved because banks usually require proof of income.
The good news? There are credit cards in the Philippines that don’t require income documents. 🙌
In this 2025 updated guide, we’ll cover:
How credit cards work and why banks ask for income proof
The best credit cards that don’t require income documents
Tips to get approved faster
A Credit Card Cost Calculator to plan your payments
FAQs for first-time applicants
1. What Is a Credit Card and Why Do Banks Ask for Income Documents?
A credit card lets you borrow money from the bank to pay for purchases, bills, or emergencies. You spend first, pay later — either in full or in installments.
Banks ask for income documents like payslips, COE, or ITR because:
They want to check your ability to pay
They need to assess your financial stability
It helps them decide your credit limit
But if you don’t have these documents, don’t panic. Some banks provide alternative credit card options designed for beginners and first-time users.
2. Can You Really Get a Credit Card Without Income Proof? ✅
Yes! There are three main ways:
Secured credit cards — you deposit money, and the bank uses it as your collateral
Pre-approved or companion cards — offered by banks if you already have an account or investment
Special entry-level cards — designed for students, OFWs, and freelancers
Let’s go through the best options in 2025.
3. Best Credit Cards That Don’t Require Income Documents (2025)
Here are the top banks offering credit cards you can apply for without payslips, COE, or ITR:
3.1. Secured Credit Cards (Easiest to Get Approved)
Secured cards have the highest approval rate. You just deposit a fixed amount in the bank, and they’ll give you a credit limit based on your deposit. Perfect for first-time users!
Bank
Card Name
Required Deposit
Approval Time
Best For
BDO
BDO Secured Mastercard
₱10,000+
3–5 days
Freelancers, beginners
RCBC
Instacard
₱10,000+
5 days
No documents needed
Security Bank
Fast Track Secured Card
₱15,000+
7 days
Self-employed users
EastWest
Secured Visa
₱10,000+
5 days
Students & online sellers
💡 Tip: Use your secured card responsibly for 12 months, and banks may upgrade you to an unsecured credit card.
3.2. Pre-Approved & Companion Credit Cards 🏦
If you already have a savings account or investment with a bank, you can request a companion card — often no income documents needed.
Bank
Card Type
Requirement
BPI
Pre-approved Classic
Must have an active deposit account
Metrobank
Account Holder’s Card
Existing savings/current account
BDO
Kabayan Mastercard
For remittance clients
3.3. Credit Cards for OFWs and Remittance-Based Applicants 🌎
Some banks allow remittance slips instead of payslips or ITR.
Bank
Card Name
Required Proof
BDO
Kabayan Mastercard
Remittance slips for the last 6 months
RCBC
OFW Card
Proof of overseas remittances
Metrobank
OFW Classic Card
Employment contract or remittance receipts
4. Documents You Can Submit Instead of Payslips or ITR 📄
If you want better chances of approval, prepare alternative documents like:
Bank statements (last 3–6 months)
Remittance slips for OFWs
DTI business registration for entrepreneurs
Barangay business permits for small sellers
Proof of recurring deposits or savings
These documents prove your capacity to pay without needing traditional income papers.
5. How to Apply for a Credit Card Without Income Documents 📝
Follow these steps for a smoother approval process:
Step 1: Choose the Right Card
Pick a secured card or bank companion card designed for beginners.
Step 2: Prepare Alternative Proof of Funds
Even if not required, submitting bank statements or remittance slips increases your approval odds.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Online: Faster and more convenient
In-branch: Best if you need guidance
Step 4: Wait for Approval
Processing takes 3–7 working days depending on the bank.
6. Use the Credit Card Cost Calculator Before Applying 📊
Before applying, make sure you can afford the monthly payments.
