The Santander World Elite™ Mastercard® stands as a premium offering in Santander’s credit card portfolio, designed specifically for those who seek exceptional benefits, particularly in travel and lifestyle experiences. As part of the World Elite Mastercard range, this card is tailored for high-end customers, offering numerous exclusive features and perks.
This credit card brings forward an array of rewards and advantages, positioning it as an attractive choice for those who qualify. From cashback on purchases to extensive travel benefits, this card aims to elevate your financial experience to a world-class level. But what exactly makes it so appealing, and how does it stand out among the competition? Let’s dive deeper into the key aspects of this card.
Key information about the credit card
How does the annual fee work?
While many credit cards on the market boast no annual fees, the Santander World Elite™ Mastercard® comes with a £15 monthly fee, translating to £180 per year. The relatively high cost reflects the premium nature of this card and the exclusive benefits it provides. Unlike some cards that offer fee waivers under certain conditions, this one doesn’t present any immediate option to waive or reduce the fee.
How is the credit limit determined?
As with most premium credit cards, the Santander World Elite™ Mastercard® determines the credit limit based on a combination of factors. These include the applicant’s credit history, income level, and their overall financial standing. Typically, high-income earners and those with an excellent credit score will have access to a higher limit.
Advantages of the credit card
- Airport lounge access: LoungeKey grants access to more than 1,400 airport lounges globally, making travel more comfortable and luxurious.
- Mastercard® Airport Security Fast Track: Cardholders can bypass long security lines at selected airports.
- Global Data Roaming by Flexiroam: Stay connected worldwide without worrying about exorbitant data roaming charges.
- 0.5% cashback on all purchases: Accumulate up to £15 per month in cashback, which is ideal for those who frequently use their card.
- 0% interest on purchases and balance transfers: For the first 18 months, enjoy interest-free transactions and balance transfers with no associated fee.
- No foreign transaction fees: Use your card abroad in local currencies without the worry of foreign transaction charges.
- 40% discount on Santander Travel Insurance: When purchased online, this discount can make your travels more secure at a lower cost.
Standout advantage
A standout feature of the Santander World Elite™ Mastercard® is the comprehensive travel benefits package, including airport lounge access, fast-track security, and data roaming services. This makes the card particularly attractive to frequent travelers who value seamless and premium experiences.
Disadvantages
- Monthly fee: The card’s £15 monthly fee may be steep for those who don’t frequently use its premium features.
- Eligibility restrictions: You must be a Santander Select or Private Banking customer, which limits its accessibility to a broader audience.
- High APR: The card comes with a representative APR of 49.8% variable, which is higher than many other cards, making it costly for those who carry a balance.
A standout disadvantage
One of the major drawbacks of the Santander World Elite™ Mastercard® is its eligibility limitation. To apply, you must already be a Santander Select or Private Banking customer, meaning that not everyone has access to this premium offering. This exclusivity may deter many potential applicants who do not meet these requirements but would still like to enjoy the card’s benefits.
Who can apply for this card?
To apply for the Santander World Elite™ Mastercard®, you must meet certain criteria. First, applicants need to be at least 18 years old and permanent residents of the UK. Additionally, the card is exclusively available to Santander Select or Private Banking customers, meaning that if you’re not already a member of these banking categories, you will not be eligible to apply.
There are no specific income requirements mentioned, but as the card targets high-net-worth individuals, it’s safe to assume that a solid financial profile is expected. Applicants must also have a satisfactory credit score, as the application is subject to a full credit check. Non-residents of the UK, those under 18, and people who do not meet the bank’s credit criteria are ineligible to apply for this card.
How to apply for the Santander World Elite™ Mastercard®
For the website
To apply for the Santander World Elite™ Mastercard® via the website, you can start by navigating to the Santander UK credit card page. From there, you will find the application process streamlined with a step-by-step guide. You’ll first need to complete a pre-qualification form, which allows Santander to check whether you are eligible for the card without affecting your credit score.
If approved, you will need to fill out an online application form with your personal details, including your name, address, employment information, and financial details. After submitting your application, Santander will carry out a full credit check before deciding whether to approve your application.
Through the app
Applying through the Santander mobile banking app offers a more convenient and mobile-friendly option. If you’re already a Santander Select or Private Banking customer, simply log in to the app and navigate to the credit card section. From there, you can select the World Elite Mastercard® and begin the application process.
The app allows you to upload necessary documents, such as proof of income, directly from your phone, making it a seamless experience. Once you’ve submitted your application, you can track its status directly through the app, and if approved, your card details may become available for immediate use via a virtual card, even before the physical card arrives.
At the branch
For those who prefer a more personal touch, you can apply for the Santander World Elite™ Mastercard® at a local Santander branch. It is advisable to schedule an appointment with a bank representative, especially since this card is targeted at high-net-worth individuals. During the appointment, you will need to provide your personal information, proof of residency, and any other required documentation.
The bank representative will guide you through the application process and, if all goes well, your card will be mailed to you after approval. This in-person method might take a little longer, but it can provide valuable face-to-face assistance, especially for customers who have specific questions or concerns about the card.
