Looking for a simple, low-rate credit card for daily spending and trips abroad? The NatWest Credit Card is a straightforward option issued by NatWest, on the Mastercard network, designed for UK residents who want predictability over perks.
It advertises a representative 12.9% APR (variable) and does not charge foreign transaction fees on purchases made overseas. In this guide, you’ll find a clear, impartial overview—what the card offers, where it falls short, who it suits best, and how to apply without hurting your credit score at the outset.
Main features of the NatWest Credit Card
This is a no-annual-fee, low-rate card rather than a rewards, Gold/Platinum/Black product. The representative APR is 12.9% (variable). Purchases and balance transfers can be as low as 12.9% p.a. (variable), though your actual rates and credit limit depend on NatWest’s assessment and may be higher (potentially up to 18.9% p.a. variable). It runs on Mastercard, so you can use it worldwide in-store and online.
Approval requirements
Eligibility is aimed at UK residents aged 18+ with a minimum annual income of £10,000. NatWest begins with an eligibility check that gives an indication of approval odds, an indicative credit limit, and likely rate—without impacting your credit score. If you proceed, a full credit check with UK credit reference agencies is performed, and you’ll be asked to provide valid ID.
Benefits of the NatWest Credit Card
The card’s value proposition is cost control rather than points. You get a competitive representative APR for a mainstream product, no annual fee to carry the card, and no foreign transaction fees on purchases—helpful for holidays, study abroad, and online shopping in other currencies. Global acceptance via Mastercard makes it practical for travel and everyday use.
Account management is streamlined through the NatWest mobile app. You can monitor spending, set up or adjust payments, and manage the card “wherever, whenever” (eligibility and device criteria apply). For many, that convenience is as important as headline rates.
Standout highlight
Few entry-level, no-annual-fee cards combine a low representative APR with zero foreign transaction fees on purchases. If you value simplicity and travel flexibility over rewards, this combination is hard to beat in its niche.
Drawbacks and watch-outs of the NatWest Credit Card
If you’re chasing cashback, air miles, or premium travel perks (airport lounges, insurance packages), this card doesn’t offer them. Its strength is affordability and ease, not extras. Also remember: cash advances and ATM withdrawals (especially abroad) incur fees and immediate interest, and local ATM owner charges may apply.
How to apply, step by step
Start online with NatWest’s eligibility check. You’ll answer a few quick questions and get an indication of approval, a likely credit limit, and the rate you might receive—without affecting your credit score. If you choose to continue, review the key documents (including the Summary Box and information on how your data is used), then submit a full application with ID verification. A full credit check is run at this stage, and NatWest will confirm your outcome and next steps.
Who is the NatWest Credit Card ideal for?
This card fits applicants with stable income who want a dependable, low-maintenance credit line for everyday spending—and who travel or shop in foreign currencies. If you occasionally carry a balance, a low representative APR can be gentler than reward cards that offset perks with higher rates.
On the other hand, if your priority is maximizing rewards, VIP perks, or locking in long 0% promotional windows, consider alternatives built for those goals. Likewise, frequent cash withdrawals are better handled with a debit card to avoid credit-card cash fees and interest.
