The NatWest Reward Black credit card is a premium product offered by the British bank NatWest, designed for UK residents with a minimum annual income of £15,000. Backed by the Mastercard® network, this card provides global acceptance, making it an excellent choice for frequent travelers and consumers who want more than just a basic card.
This article provides a comprehensive analysis of the NatWest Reward Black credit card, covering its main features, eligibility requirements, benefits, drawbacks, and how to apply. If you’re considering a Black-tier credit card that offers a combination of rewards and travel advantages, this guide will help you decide whether this option suits your financial goals.
Key features of the NatWest Reward Black credit card
As a Black-tier credit card, the NatWest Reward Black positions itself among the most exclusive offerings within the NatWest portfolio. It runs on the Mastercard network, ensuring worldwide usability both in-store and online, ideal for international purchases and frequent travel. The card comes with an annual fee of £84. However, this fee is waived entirely if you have a Reward Black current account with NatWest, adding extra value for existing customers.
Eligibility requirements
To apply for the NatWest Reward Black credit card, you must be a UK resident, at least eighteen years old, and earn at least £15,000 annually. During the initial application process, NatWest performs an eligibility check that informs you whether you’re likely to be approved and estimates your potential credit limit. This step doesn’t impact your credit score, giving applicants peace of mind before proceeding with a full application.
Benefits of the NatWest Reward Black credit card
One of the card’s standout features is its generous rewards program. Every time you use the card, you accumulate “Rewards,” which can later be redeemed or donated. You earn 1% back at supermarkets, 0.5% at their affiliated petrol stations, and 0.5% on all other purchases. You can also earn between 1% and 15% at selected partner retailers, which change based on personalized offers sent monthly.
Exclusive highlight
A major advantage of the NatWest Reward Black credit card is that it charges no foreign transaction fees. This makes it particularly valuable for international travelers who want to avoid the typical 2–3% surcharge applied by most cards on overseas purchases. Whether you’re booking hotels online, shopping abroad, or dining during your travels, this feature ensures that you get the exact exchange rate with no hidden costs.
Drawbacks and considerations of the NatWest Reward Black credit card
Despite its perks, the NatWest Reward Black credit card does have some limitations. The £84 annual fee, although waived for Reward Black current account holders, may not offer sufficient value to those who don’t use the card often or spend enough to generate meaningful rewards.
Application process
Applying for the NatWest Reward Black credit card is straightforward. It begins with an online eligibility check where you provide basic information. NatWest then lets you know whether you’re likely to be approved and what your credit limit might be.
This pre-check has no effect on your credit score, so you can evaluate your chances safely. If you choose to proceed, a full credit check is conducted, and your application is formally assessed. You’ll also need to confirm that you’ve read and agreed to NatWest’s key legal documents, including the summary box and terms of the Rewards program.
Who is the NatWest Reward Black credit card ideal for?
This card is ideal for UK-based individuals with stable income and moderate to high monthly spending. It works especially well for people who shop frequently at supermarkets, travel internationally, and want a card that offers cashback without complexity. Users who already have a Reward Black current account with NatWest gain the most, as they avoid the annual fee and maximize value through integrated services.
