A guide to instant approval credit cards

Some credit card issuers let applicants know within minutes whether they’re approved for or denied a credit card. That quick decision is why you might hear people talk about “instant approval credit cards.”

Find out how instant approval works and what you may need to consider before applying.

What you’ll learn:

• Credit card instant approval typically refers to a quick or near-instant approval decision. But approval isn’t always automatic or guaranteed. 

• Even if you’re approved instantly, you may still need to wait for the physical credit card to arrive before using the account.

• While you wait for a physical card to arrive, virtual card numbers or digital wallets might be options that enable you to use the account instantly.

With instant approval credit cards, the issuer provides an approval decision soon after you submit your application—sometimes within seconds, minutes or the same day. If you’re looking for fast access to a line of credit, instant approval credit cards could be a place to start. 

But despite its name, instant approval doesn’t always mean automatic or guaranteed approval. It refers to getting a decision about your application quickly or almost instantly. To be instantly approved for a credit card, you’ll have to meet the card issuer’s eligibility criteria, such as having a certain credit score or income threshold.

Yes, certain credit cards enable you to access your card details as soon as you’re approved. These are often known as instant-use credit cards. You might be able to start using an instant-use card within minutes of getting approved. With certain credit cards, you can access your credit line using a virtual credit card number or by adding your card information to a digital wallet. 

But instant approval doesn’t guarantee instant use. If it’s not an instant-use credit card, you may have to wait for your card to arrive in the mail before you can use it. For example, you can expect to receive your Capital One card within approximately seven to 10 business days after approval.

Some cards offer near-instant decisions, but whether you’re approved can depend on a few factors:

• What you apply for: Knowing your credit scores and targeting a card designed for your credit level could improve your chances of being approved.

• How you apply: If you apply for the card online, you may get a quicker decision than if you apply by mail or over the phone.

• What information you submit: By providing all the information the lender needs, you could avoid delays.

The application process for instant approval cards may not be much different from the application process for any other credit card. Applying online is common and may be the fastest option. Card issuers may accept applications via mail or phone too.

If you have lower credit scores or no credit at all, you still may have options. You might consider checking whether you’re pre-approved for card offers so you can see what cards you may be eligible for, with no impact on your credit scores.

Keep in mind that applying for a credit card typically results in a hard credit check, which can temporarily lower your credit scores. If you’re hoping to build your credit, you may want to consider a secured credit card.

If you apply online or by phone for a Capital One credit card, you could find out whether you’re approved or declined in minutes. But it could take longer if Capital One needs more information. You can expect a written response within seven to 10 days of Capital One receiving your application.

Applying for cards that offer instant approval could be a good option if you need quick access to new credit. Just remember that a decision isn’t always instantaneous. And it doesn’t always mean you’re guaranteed approval. That’s up to the card issuer. If you’re interested in a new credit card, check out credit cards from Capital One and see if you’re pre-approved today—it’s quick and easy, and it won’t harm your credit score.

New to credit or looking for your next credit card?

• See whether you’re pre-approved with no risk to your credit scores.

• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on every purchase, every day, with a Quicksilver card.

• Explore Capital One’s credit cards for building credit with responsible use.