👉 Unfortunately, the Apple Card is NOT available in the UK. That's because the website says "You must be a U.S. citizen or a lawful resident with a valid, physical U.S. address that's not a P.O. Box."
Here is Apple's official application page if you want to check if you can apply. Our favourite alternative right now is the Revolut because it's mobile-first, connects to Apple Pay, and offers up to 30% cashback on eligible purchases. You can learn more below.
Apple Card vs. Alternatives
Apple Card
Revolut Metal
Starling Bank
When Is The Apple Card Coming To The UK?
While there is no official release date, there are rumours that the Apple Card will launch in the UK. Tim Cook confirmed interest in rolling out the Apple Card internationally but he noted that banks and regulations vary worldwide. And in 2022, Apple acquired British startup, Credit Kudos, a credit scoring agency.
The Apple Card would make sense in the UK. There are 59 million credit cards in circulation and over 51% of smartphones are Apple devices in the UK. Despite international demand in the UK, Canada, Australia, and more, the Apple Card has not left the USA.
What Is The Apple Credit Card?
The Apple Card offers 1%-3% cash back, no fees, and it can link with Apple Pay or be used as a traditional credit card. In true Apple fashion, it's designed to work with all of your iOS devices. Your card info can be accessed with the iPhone, iPad, Mac, and Apple Watch.
The card itself is made of titanium and has no numbers on the front or back. The issuing bank is Goldman Sachs. As of 2022, it has 6.7 million American cardholders.
Apple Card's Best Features
How to Apply For The Apple Card
It only takes a couple minutes to apply for the Apple Card on your iOS device. You can also see the official application page here. It's worth noting that if you're based in the UK, the card is not available yet. Therefore, you won't see an option to apply for it in the Wallet app.
- Open the Wallet App
- Tap the + in the top right to add a new card
- Tap "Apply For Apple Card"
- Fill out your personal information
- Review the details and tap "Accept Apple Card"
Apple Card Alternatives
The Apple Card offers 1-3% unlimited cashback, helpful spending insights, and a mobile-first experience. Here are the best credit cards in the UK market that let you earn rewards and have similar benefits.
Header |  Apple Card | Revolut Metal | Starling Bank | Header |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Monthly Account Fee | Free | £12.99 | Free | Cell |
Add Money | Free | Free | Free | Cell |
Overdraft Fees | None | N/A | 15%-35% | Cell |
Min. Cash Back | 1% | Up to 1% | None | Cell |
Max. Cash Back | 3% | 30% | None | Cell |
Domestic ATM | Free | *Free | Free | Cell |
International ATM | Free | *Free | Free | Cell |
Foreign Currency Transaction Fee | Free | Up to 2% | Free | Cell |
Card Type | Credit | Debit | Debit | Cell |
Website | Cell |
*Free up to a certain limit
1. Revolut Metal
Revolut offers four card plans, but the Metal tier which costs £12.99/month is the most similar to the Apple Card because of its cashback and interest rates.
While it's not a free card, some of the similar features are that you can create spending limits, receive instant notifications, and enjoy up to 3.54% interest on your savings. However, if you prefer a free card, you can opt-in for Revolut's Standard plan but you will get less benefits.
Additionally, you will get up to 1% cashback on purchases, up to 30% cashback when you eat out, and 10 free commission-free stock trades per month, and many other benefits like purchase protection and more. The card itself is made of "solid reinforced steel" but if you don't want to use the physical card, you can spend with Apple Pay or Google Pay as well.
With over 28 million users worldwide, Revolut is one the most popular super apps in the UK that goes far beyond its card. From stocks, to crypto, to banking, money transfers, and more, there are endless reasons to consider trying Revolut.
2. Starling Bank Virtual Card
While Starling Bank does't offer cashback, it's similar to the Apple Card with it's mobile-first experience, budget planner, instant payment notifications, and 3.25% high interest savings account. You can also use the virtual card seamlessly with Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Additionally, their Current Account lets you enjoy a fast online sign up, no monthly fees, and every financial product you need in one place (mortgage, insurance, etc). Starling also lets you enjoy no ATM or transaction fees overseas.
If you want a free account with high interest savings and mobile banking, Starling might be a good choice. It's fully regulated and has millions of accounts opened in the UK, proving to be a popular choice.
Hopefully Apple Card Comes To The UK!
Overall, it would be very exciting to see the Apple Card in the UK. Assuming it keeps the same features, no-fees, and 2-3% daily cash back, it would be one of the best credit cards on the market with no annual fee. We'll definitely keep a close eye on Apple UK announcements!
Apple Card FAQ
Is The Apple Card A Real Credit Card?
Yes, the Apple Card is a real credit card. It requires approval and has a credit limit. Apple uses Mastercard as the payment network and Goldman Sachs is the issuing bank.
What Countries Is The Apple Card Available In?
The Apple Card is available exclusively in the United States. It launched in August 2019 and has not expanded internationally.
Is The Apple Card Worth It?
If you're an avid Apple Pay user and looking for a fee-free card with cash-back options, the Apple Card is a great choice. It's designed to work seamlessly with all of your iOS devices and you'll get 1% to 3% cashback on all purchases.
Why Isn't Apple Card Available In The UK?
The Apple Card is not available in the UK because it is only available for U.S citizens or lawful residents with a valid, physical U.S address. There is no official release date but Apple looks like it has planse to bring the card to UK in the future.