UnionBank Credit Cards: Top 5 Credit Cards With Easy Approval This Month (And How They Compare to Other Options)
When it comes to managing your finances effectively in the Philippines, a credit card linked to USD can offer significant advantages — especially when combined with low interest rates and cashback rewards.
Many global banks, including Citibank and HSBC, provide credit cards that cater to both local and international needs, all while helping you manage your spending smarter.
This guide highlights the best credit cards with cashback and low interest, specifically for Philippine residents who want a USD-based option, and explains how these cards can help you reduce interest costs and maximize rewards.
Credit cards linked to the U.S. Dollar (USD) are especially beneficial for people who travel, shop internationally, or manage businesses with cross-border transactions. These cards are often accepted globally and offer a straightforward way to earn cashback while keeping costs manageable.
Key benefits include:
If you often purchase items in foreign currencies or make USD-based transactions, a USD-linked credit card will allow you to avoid FX fees and manage your finances more efficiently.
When evaluating the best low-interest credit cards with cashback rewards, consider the following key factors. These will help you choose the right card that fits both your spending habits and financial goals.
The purchase APR is one of the most important factors to consider when carrying a balance. For USD-linked cards in the Philippines, competitive APRs are generally below 15% p.a., and many cards offer introductory 0% APR for balance transfers.
For example:
A difference of just 5% in APR can mean substantial savings, especially for cardholders who typically carry a balance.
Interest-free days allow you to make purchases and avoid interest charges, provided you pay your full statement balance on time. Most USD-linked credit cards in the Philippines offer up to 55 days interest-free on new purchases.
To maximize your interest-free days:
This strategy gives you more time to pay and keeps your interest costs as low as possible.
Many USD-linked credit cards from global banks come with low or no annual fees. Typically, fees range from $0 to $35, but the real value lies in the savings on interest and cashback you can earn throughout the year.
Always compare:
Some cards may have a small fee, but if the APR is low enough, the savings on interest often outweigh the cost.
For those who frequently shop internationally or travel, foreign transaction fees (typically 2%–3%) can quickly add up. Some USD-linked cards, such as those from Citibank and HSBC, waive FX fees, making them a better option for international spending.
If you make cross-border transactions regularly, consider a card with no foreign transaction fees to avoid unnecessary charges and keep your expenses down.
We assess credit cards based on their global accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and how well they serve both local and international spending needs.
Here’s how we evaluate these cards:
| Criteria | Weight | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase APR | 65% | The most important factor when carrying a balance. |
| Interest-Free Days | 10% | Helps reduce or eliminate finance charges when managed well. |
| Annual Fees | 15% | Impacts long-term cost efficiency. |
| FX & Other Fees | 10% | Important for international and online spending. |
Look for cards with the lowest APR and minimal fees.
Set up auto-pay to pay your full statement balance and maintain interest-free days.
Pair two cards:
This strategy minimizes international spending costs and prevents debt buildup.
Seek 0% intro APR offers for several months.
Plan to repay before the revert rate applies to avoid high interest.
If you carry an average balance of ₱85,000 (about $1,700 USD) for a year, here’s how different cards compare:
| Card Type | Purchase APR | Estimated Annual Interest | Savings (vs. 19.99%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Typical Credit Card | 19.99% | ≈ ₱11,500 | — |
| Citibank Low Rate | 12.99% | ≈ ₱7,400 | ₱4,100 saved |
| HSBC Low Interest | 10.99% | ≈ ₱6,600 | ₱4,900 saved |
Switching from a 19.99% APR card to a 12.99% APR card could save ₱4,100 annually, or more with higher balances.
Q1: What are the benefits of USD-linked credit cards in the Philippines?
These cards offer global acceptance, lower FX fees, and are ideal for those who frequently make USD transactions or travel internationally.
Q2: Are there credit cards with no foreign transaction fees?
Yes. Citibank and HSBC offer USD-linked cards with no FX fees, making them perfect for frequent international spenders.
Q3: How do I choose the right card for my needs?
Focus on cards with the lowest APR and no-FX-fee options. Combine a low-rate card for balance management with a no-FX card for international purchases.
Q4: What’s the difference between a 0% intro APR and a low ongoing rate?
A 0% intro APR is ideal for large, planned purchases you’ll pay off quickly. For long-term balance carriers, a low ongoing APR is more cost-effective.
USD-linked low-interest credit cards offer a winning combination of global flexibility, low rates, and cashback rewards. They’re especially valuable for Filipinos who frequently shop or travel internationally, or who need to manage cross-border finances efficiently.
By choosing the right credit card and using it responsibly, you can significantly reduce interest costs, keep your finances on track, and earn rewards on everyday purchases.
Whether you’re consolidating debt, planning major purchases, or simply managing your expenses smarter, these cards are your ticket to financial efficiency and global convenience.
