BPI Credit Card Requirements for OFWs: How to Apply from Abroad

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If you’re looking to apply for a BPI credit card as an OFW, you’re not alone. Applying whilst living and working abroad might seem complicated, but it doesn’t have to be: applications can be done entirely online, and you can nominate someone else to pick up your card on your behalf¹.

In this article, we’ll go through everything you need to know about BPI credit card applications for OFWs, including the differences between applying abroad and whilst living in the Philippines. We'll also introduce the Wise card, a handy travel companion to make seamless card payments when you're overseas.

Can OFWs apply for a BPI credit card?

Overseas Foreign Workers can apply for a BPI credit card with similar criteria to those living in the Philippines. The application process is broadly the same, but you’ll need to give slightly different proof of income documents, and you may need a lower monthly income to qualify, depending on the credit card you choose.

If you are approved for a credit card, but aren’t in the Philippines to collect it, you can authorise a representative to pick it up on your behalf. You’ll need to fill out a BPI Card Delivery Authorisation Form. Your representative will then need to provide the form, along with a copy of your ID and their ID, to collect the card.

BPI credit card requirements for OFWs

As credit cards offer a line of credit, banks generally have some requirements to open an account, to make sure that you’ll be able to pay them back.

Basic requirements

For all BPI credit cards, you’ll need to meet the following eligibility requirements²:

• Be at least 21 years old
• Have a business or residence contact number and an email address
• Have an employment tenure of at least two years, or work for a top 1,000 company and have a minimum monthly income of 20,000 PHP

You’ll also need the following documents:

• Filled out and signed application form
• Photocopy of at least one valid ID
• Proof of income

The proof of income requirements are slightly different for OFWs - see the list of acceptable documents below. You can find the full list of ID documents accepted by BPI on their website, but common ones include:

• Passport
• SSS ID
• Driver’s license

Additional requirements for OFWs

You’ll need to provide proof of income to BPI in order to qualify for a credit card. This depends on the type of OFW you are:

*Applicable for beneficiaries only
**Applicable for OFW and beneficiary

For those based in the Philippines, the minimum monthly income required for different cards varies. However, for OFWs, there is a fixed minimum monthly income of 15,000 PHP.

How to apply for a BPI Credit Card as an OFW

If you’re living abroad and can’t get to a physical BPI location, you can still apply for a credit card, either through the BPI website or the Lazada app³. To apply through the BPI website:

1. Choose your card: You can fill out the questionnaire and get a recommendation from BPI, or choose it yourself.
2. Fill out the application form on the website: you’ll need to give some personal and financial information, as well as information about any additional cardholders.
3. Upload proof of ID for yourself and any additional cardholders, and proof of income.

You can apply for up to two cards with a shared credit limit at the same time. To apply on the Lazada app⁴:

1. Choose your card on the verified BPI Lazada shop - depending on the card, you’ll need to pay either 1 PHP or 99 PHP.
2. Complete the application on the email you’ll receive.
3. Claim your Lazada gift card.

You cannot order the BPI Gold Rewards Card from Lazada.

Online applications typically take 5 to 10 minutes⁵, but are still subject to normal approval processes, which can take up to 15 banking days.

Common reasons OFW applications get rejected

If you’re struggling to be approved for a credit card, it is worth contacting the bank to understand why. Common reasons for rejected applications include:

• Not having all the required documents - for example, if some are out of date
• Not meeting minimum income requirements
• Unstable income or not having a tenure of at least two years
• Having a poor credit history or unpaid debts

Several declined applications may make it harder to get approved in the future, so make sure you meet all the eligibility criteria before you apply.

Alternatives if you can’t get a BPI credit card

If you can’t get approved for a BPI credit card, there are still a few ways to manage your spending and build your financial profile.

Some banks offer secured credit cards, such as ChinaBank⁶. These require a security deposit, but can help you build or rebuild your credit history over time, making it easier to qualify for a regular credit card later. In many cases, they also come with similar features and perks.

You can also rely on debit cards for everyday spending. Since these use your own funds, they don’t require a credit check or minimum income, making them a simple and accessible option.

For OFWs earning in foreign currencies, it can also help to use a multi-currency account. This lets you hold and manage money across different currencies in one place, which can make it easier to send money home, spend internationally, or convert funds when needed.

Send, spend and manage your money across borders at the mid-market rate with Wise

The Wise account is an easy way to hold and exchange 40+ currencies, including PHP, USD, CNY, and more. All you need to do is create a free account to get started.

With Wise, you can exchange currencies at the mid-market rate each time, with low, transparent conversion fees from 0.57% and absolutely no markups. Plus, you can order a Wise card for convenient spending at the same great rate, without any foreign transaction fees. At times you need cash, you can also make up to 2 free ATM withdrawals to the value of 12,000 PHP when you're overseas. You'll even get 8+ local account details to get paid conveniently to your Wise account in PHP and a selection of other major global currencies.

Sending money or making payments abroad? Wise also offers fast, low cost transfers to 140+ countries - you can track your transfer in your account and your recipient will also be notified when a transfer reaches them.

✍️ Sign up for a free account now