Discover How to Apply for the Rakuten Credit Card

The Rakuten Credit Card offers a simple application process, competitive benefits, and a rewarding points system for everyday spending.

Understanding the eligibility requirements, required documents, and approval process can help applicants increase their chances of success.

This guide provides a clear step-by-step breakdown to make the application process more manageable.

Features and Benefits

The Rakuten Credit Card provides numerous advantages for everyday spending.

Rakuten Points System: Earn points on Rakuten purchases, partner stores, and select services.
No Annual Fee: The standard card does not require a yearly fee, making it cost-effective.
Wide Acceptance: Usable for domestic and international transactions.
Mobile App & Online Management: Check balances, track spending, and make payments easily.
Cashback and Discounts: Special promotions are available on Rakuten services and partnered brands.
Installment Payments: Flexible repayment options, including revolving credit.
Security Features: Fraud protection, two-factor authentication, and card-locking options.

Interest Rates and Fees

Understanding the costs associated with the Rakuten Credit Card helps cardholders manage their spending and avoid unnecessary charges.

Interest rates and fees vary depending on the type of transaction and the specific Rakuten card chosen. Below is a breakdown of the key costs:

Standard Purchase Interest Rate: 13.0% – 18.0% annually, depending on creditworthiness.
Revolving Credit Interest Rate: 15.0% annually, applied to unpaid balances carried forward.
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 18.0% annually, charged from the withdrawal date.
Late Payment Fee: 14.6% annually on overdue balances.
Foreign Transaction Fee: Up to 3.0% of the purchase amount for international transactions.
Cash Advance Fee: 200–300 yen per transaction, depending on the withdrawal amount.
Balance Transfer Fee: May apply when transferring outstanding balances from another credit card.
Annual Fee:
- Rakuten Standard Card: ¥0 (no annual fee)
- Rakuten Gold Card: ¥2,200 per year
- Rakuten Premium Card: ¥11,000 per year
- Rakuten Black Card: ¥33,000 per year (invitation-only)

Eligibility Requirements

Applicants must meet specific conditions to be considered for this card.

Age Requirement: Must be at least 18 (some cards may require 20+ years).
Residency: Only available for Japan residents, including foreign nationals with valid visas.
Employment & Income: Stable employment and a regular source of income improve approval chances.
Credit History: A favorable credit record is essential for approval.
Bank Account: A Japanese bank account is required for payments.
Additional Requirements: Some premium cards may have higher income thresholds.

Required Documents

Preparing the necessary documents in advance can speed up the application process.

Identification Documents: Passport, residence card, My Number card, or driver’s license.
Proof of Income: Payslips, tax records, or bank statements showing salary deposits.
Bank Account Information: Required for automatic bill payments.
Address Verification: Utility bills or official documents showing the current address.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for the Rakuten Credit Card involves simple online steps.

Online Application

Visit the Rakuten Card official website.
Click on the application button and select the desired card type.
Enter personal information such as name, address, date of birth, and contact details.
Provide employment and income details for credit assessment.
Review and confirm all details before applying.

Identity Verification

Upload scanned copies or photos of identification documents.
Some applicants may receive a confirmation email or phone call for verification.
Ensure the information on uploaded documents matches the application details.

Credit Check and Approval Process

Rakuten reviews the applicant’s financial and credit history.
Approval time varies but usually takes a few business days.
Application status can be checked via email notifications or the Rakuten website.

Receiving and Activating the Card

Once approved, the Rakuten Credit Card is mailed and requires activation.

Delivery Time: The card arrives within 1-2 weeks after approval.
Activation Process: Activate via Rakuten’s website, mobile app, or customer service.
PIN Setup: Set up a secure PIN code for ATM and in-store use.
Enable Online Transactions: Adjust security settings for safer online shopping.
Register for Rakuten Services: Link the card to Rakuten Pay or Rakuten Ichiba for more rewards.

Common Reasons for Rejection

Applicants can avoid rejection by understanding why applications fail.

Low or Poor Credit Score: A history of late payments or unpaid debts lowers approval chances.
Incomplete or Incorrect Information: Errors in application details or missing documents may cause rejection.
Unstable Employment or Low Income: Applicants with irregular income or part-time jobs may face difficulties.
Too Many Recent Credit Applications: Quickly applying for multiple credit cards may signal financial instability.
Existing Credit Card Debt: High balances on other cards increase the risk of rejection.

How to Improve Approval Chances

Taking the proper steps can increase the likelihood of getting approved.

Maintain a Good Credit Score: Pay bills on time and keep debt levels low.
Double-check Application Details: Ensure all information is accurate before submitting.
Use a Rakuten Account: Having an active Rakuten account may increase credibility.
Reduce Debt Before Applying: Paying off existing credit card balances improves eligibility.
Apply at the Right Time: Submitting an application after a stable income period increases chances.

Rakuten Card Variants and Their Differences

Rakuten offers multiple credit card options, each catering to different spending needs.

Rakuten Standard Card: No annual fee, essential point accumulation.
Rakuten Gold Card: Annual fee of ¥2,200, offers higher points and airport lounge access.
Rakuten Premium Card: Annual fee of ¥11,000, includes travel benefits, concierge services, and increased rewards.
Rakuten Black Card: Invitation-only offers exclusive perks for high-spending customers.

Managing Payments and Avoiding Fees

Proper management ensures financial stability and avoids extra charges.

Set Up Automatic Payments: Prevents missed payments and late fees.
Pay in Full Monthly: Avoids high-interest charges on unpaid balances.
Monitor Monthly Statements: Check transaction history for unauthorized purchases.
Use the Rakuten App: Manage spending easily via mobile tracking.

Using the Rakuten Credit Card Internationally

The Rakuten Credit Card is convenient for overseas travel but requires some considerations.

Foreign Transaction Fees: Some purchases may include additional charges.
Currency Exchange Rates: Transactions are converted at bank exchange rates.
International Customer Support: Rakuten offers assistance for lost or stolen cards abroad.
Travel Insurance (For Premium Cards): Higher-tier cards include travel coverage.

Customer Support and Assistance

Rakuten Card provides multiple customer support channels to assist cardholders with inquiries and issues.

Support is available for account inquiries, transaction issues, or travel assistance.

Customer Call Center:

Domestic Phone Number: 0570-66-6910
- Available from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., including weekends and national holidays.
Alternative Domestic Number: 092-474-6287
- Use this number if the primary line is unavailable.
- Follow the voice guidance:
  1. Press “1” for cardholder.
  2. Press “7” for inquiries about card issuance status and delivery.
  3. Press “0” to connect to an operator.
International Phone Number: +81-92-474-6287
- For calls from outside Japan.
- Representatives, including weekends and national holidays, are available from 9:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
Head Office Address: Rakuten Card Co., Ltd. Rakuten Crimson House, 1-14-1 Tamagawa, Setagaya-ku, Tokyo 158-0094, Japan
Email Support: For customer service inquiries, you can email [email protected]

Final Takeaways

Applying for the Rakuten Credit Card is simple but requires meeting requirements and accurate details.

Understanding its benefits, fees, and responsible usage ensures a smooth experience.

Visit the official website of the Rakuten Card to start your application today.

Disclaimer

Approval for the Rakuten Credit Card is subject to the company’s review process and credit evaluation.

Terms, fees, and benefits may change, so applicants should check the official Rakuten Card website for the latest details.