How Long Does It Take to Get a Credit Card?

Applying for a credit card? Find out how long approval takes, when you’ll receive your card, and tips to speed up the process with Aqua.

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Written by Hayley Bevan and Victoria Smith

Published on November 26th, 2025

Last reviewed on November 26th, 2025

4 mins read

Understanding credit cards

Even if your application is instantly approved, it usually takes seven to ten working days to get your new card in the post. If you apply for a credit card by mail or phone, it could take longer.

But waiting for a new card doesn’t necessarily mean you can’t use it straightaway. Depending on your lender, you might have access to credit before the card is in your hand.

If you need instant access to credit, there are also ways to potentially get your card sooner. In this guide, we’ll explain how it’s done, along with tips on how to get approved for credit.

How long does it take to get approved for a credit card?

Provided you meet lender requirements, getting approved online for a credit card can be instant. Should you apply by phone or mail, the process may take a little longer.

When you apply for an Aqua credit card, digital applications are usually actioned faster than other methods. You can also find out if you’re eligible with no impact on your credit score.

If there are any concerns with your application, it might be necessary to do a manual check which can take up to five days. As part of the process, you’ll usually be asked for supporting documentation such as proof of income.

How long does it take to get a credit card?

Getting approved for credit and receiving your new card are two different things. Although you might get approved instantly, it typically takes between five to ten working days before your credit card will arrive in the post.

With Aqua, your credit card is usually dispatched within five to seven business days from the application approval date. For security reasons, your personal identification number (PIN) will arrive separately.

In some instances, it might take longer to receive your card if there are postal delays or you’ve made an application over the weekend or during a public holiday.

How to get your credit card faster

To speed up the process of getting a credit card, check your eligibility using a pre-approval tool. With an Aqua eligibility check, you’ll be asked to share basic details such as your name, address history, annual income, and employment status.

By starting with an eligibility check, you’re in a stronger position to protect your credit score from one or more hard searches. It also helps to speed up the process of finding a lender where your application is more likely to be approved.

Other ways to get a card sooner could include applying for credit early in the week or opting for digital account set-up to avoid delays with manual paperwork. You could also register for in-app alerts to stay on top of the approval process.

How to get approved for a credit card

Before you’re approved for a credit card, lenders will review a combination of factors including your credit score, credit report, and previous payment behaviour.

To improve your chances of credit approval, it’s wise to compare your current credit score against the indicative score requirements set out by individual lenders.

If your score falls short of where it needs to be, you could consider improving your credit score through a range of methods, such as:

Registering for the electoral roll
Checking your credit report for errors
Making upcoming payments on time
Clearing outstanding debt where possible
Reducing your credit utilisation ratio.

Even if you have bad credit or a limited credit history, it’s still possible to get approved for an Aqua credit card. You’ll also get free access to expert help and support to help you improve your score over time.

How does applying for a credit card impact credit?

When you apply for a credit card, lenders will perform a hard credit check which can stay on your credit file for up to 12 months. Unlike a soft search, it can also cause a temporary dip in your credit score.

For that reason, it’s wise to be selective by shortlisting lenders where you’re better placed to secure credit. That way, you’re more likely to avoid multiple hard searches which can signal to lenders you’re struggling financially and potentially a higher risk for lending.

Free eligibility checks can reduce credit card application impact on your credit score, such as Aqua’s, which offer a clearer picture on the likelihood for approval and whether it’s worth making an application.

Although you might get approved for credit instantly, it typically takes between seven to ten working days before your credit card will arrive in the post.

But before you apply for credit, it’s important to check your credit score meets the requirements stipulated by your chosen lender. Not only will it save you time making unsuccessful applications, but it’ll also protect your credit score from avoidable hard checks.

If you currently have bad credit, a limited credit history, or are worried your current credit score might limit your chances of a successful application, check your eligibility for free with Aqua. Our checks are over in as little as 60 seconds, with no onward impact on your credit score.

Representative 39.9% APR (variable) for Aqua Classic.

Failure to make payments on time or to stay within your credit limit means that you will pay additional charges and may make obtaining credit in the future more expensive and difficult.

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