Is Apple Card Available in UK?

Unfortunately, the Apple Card is NOT available in the UK. Apple's website states, "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 Revolut because it's mobile-first, connects to Apple Pay, and offers up to 30% cashback on eligible purchases.

Apple Card vs. Alternatives

When Is The Apple Card Coming To The UK?

There is currently no official release date for the Apple Card in the UK. While the card was launched in 2019, it is still only available to customers in the US.

Tim Cook, Apple's CEO, has expressed interest in expanding the Apple Card internationally but mentioned that it depends on banks and regulations in each country. In 2022, Apple acquired Credit Kudos, a British credit scoring agency, further indicating their potential plans for expansion.

The UK market would be a suitable fit for the Apple Card, considering that over 51% of smartphones in the country are Apple devices, and there are over 59 million credit cards in circulation.

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.

1. Open the Wallet App
2. Tap the + in the top right to add a new card
3. Tap "Apply For Apple Card"
4. Fill out your personal information
5. 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 great cards in the UK market that let you earn rewards and have similar benefits.

*Free up to a certain limit

1. Wise's Multi-Currency Account

If you want to get the best exchange rates, open bank accounts in multiple currencies for free, and send and receive money abroad, Wise.com is the best app to do that. It's quick, easy and most importantly, low cost.

Wise first started as a money transfer app but has expanded to offer a free Wise Visa Card, allowing you to spend in 150+ currencies (including British pounds), withdraw from ATMs anywhere (with no fees), and get the real exchange rate. It's a great travel card and offers a great mobile-first experience with no monthly account fees.

Wise has grown to over 10 million users and the currency exchange rate it offers is very good compared to expensive platforms like banks or PayPal. It's also free to sign up and charges no monthly account fees. 

2. 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.

3. 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.

Conclusion

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.

When Was The Apple Card Released?

The Apple Card launched on August 20, 2019 for all US customers. It has still yet to launch outside of the United States into other countries.

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.

More Apple Card Resources