What’s the best credit card to have in Kenya? Find out the answer and more about Kenyan banks with the best reliable credit cards for individuals and business owners in Kenya.

Types of Credit Cards available in Kenya:

Kenyan banks now offer a variety of credit card options, so it’s important to understand and compare them before deciding which one to apply for.

Here are some of the common credit card types available in Kenya:

1. Visa Credit Cards

Visa credit cards are widely accepted globally, and most Kenyan banks offer them.

These cards can be used for both local and international transactions.

2. Mastercard Credit Cards

Mastercard is another widely used credit card network. Many Kenyan banks issue Mastercard credit cards, each offering different features and benefits based on the issuing bank.

3. American Express (Amex) Credit Cards

Although less prevalent than Visa and Mastercard, some Kenyan banks provide Amex credit cards. These typically offer premium perks and reward programs.

4. Business and Corporate Credit Cards

These cards are designed for business use and are issued to employees for business-related expenses.

They often include features like expense tracking and reporting.

Best Credit Cards In Kenya:

1. Standard Chartered Platinum Visa Credit Card

Standard Chartered offers a diverse selection of credit cards, including the Platinum Visa, which is designed to enhance your lifestyle and provide convenience.

Key Features and Benefits:

• Comprehensive Rewards: Earn points on shopping, travel, and dining through the 360° Rewards program.
• Fuel and Dining Cashback: Enjoy 5% cashback on fuel purchases and dining expenses.
• Credit Life Insurance: Benefit from coverage that protects your card balance.
• Extended Warranty: Get an extra 90-day warranty on items bought with your card.
• Seamless Fund Transfers: Use the SC Mobile app or online banking to transfer money from your Platinum card to your M-Pesa or Airtel Money accounts.
• Flexible Payments: Convert purchases of KES 20,000 or more into 6 or 12-month installments without additional fees.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Minimum age: 21 years
• Monthly income: At least Ksh 50,000
• Required documents: Pay slip, national ID or passport copy, work permit (for foreigners), and a bank statement.

Fees and Charges:

• Annual Fee: Ksh 7,000
• Interest Rate: 3% per month
• Late Payment Fee: Ksh 1,500

2. Cooperative Bank Gold Visa

The Cooperative Bank Gold Visa card is one of the top credit cards in Kenya, tailored for high-income earners with its generous spending limits.

Benefits of the Cooperative Bank Gold Visa Credit Card:

• Exclusive Discounts: Enjoy special discounts at select hotels, airlines, and hospitals.
• No Joining Fees: Apply without any initial fees.
• High Cash Withdrawal Limits: Withdraw up to KES 500,000 monthly from ATMs.
• Interest-Free Period: Benefit from a 50-day interest-free period on purchases.
• Monthly Statements: Receive detailed monthly email statements.
• Online Payments: Compatible with various online payment systems.

Application Requirements:

• National ID or passport
• Copy of KRA PIN
• Recent pay slip
• Certified bank statements from the past three months

3. Equity Gold Credit Card

The Equity Gold Credit Card is tailored for high-income individuals, offering them exclusive packages and higher spending limits.

Key Benefits of the Equity Gold Credit Card:

• Enhanced Security: Equipped with a chip and PIN for secure transactions.
• No Transaction Fees: Pay for goods and services at merchant outlets without any additional costs.
• ATM Access: Withdraw cash from any ATM.
• Interest-Free Period: Enjoy up to 45 days without interest on purchases.
• SMS Notifications: Receive transaction details via SMS for easy monitoring.
• Life Insurance: Affordable access to life insurance.

Application Requirements:

• KRA PIN
• An existing approved credit limit or cash cover
• National ID or passport

4. KCB Platinum Visa Card

The KCB Platinum Visa Card is a highly sought-after credit card in Kenya, offering premium benefits.

Available to both KCB and non-KCB account holders, it caters to both employees and sole proprietors.

Benefits of the KCB Platinum Visa Card:

• ATM Access: Deposit and withdraw cash at any KCB ATM nationwide.
• Exclusive Membership: Join the Visa business club.
• Flexible Repayment: Repay between 10% and 100% of the outstanding balance.
• Interest-Free Period: Enjoy up to 45 days without interest on purchases.
• Exclusive Discounts: Access special discounts at KCB partner merchants.
• Reward Points: Earn points redeemable for cash, airtime, and other rewards.

Eligibility Requirements:

• Kenyan national ID or passport
• KRA PIN
• Completed application form
• Bank statements for the last six months (for self-employed individuals)
• Three months’ salary account bank statement
• Latest pay slip showing a minimum net salary of KES 300,000

5. I&M Visa Infinite Credit Card

The I&M Bank Visa Infinite Credit Card is designed to provide exclusive services both locally and internationally.

Key Benefits of the I&M Visa Infinite Credit Card:

• Reward Points: Earn attractive reward points that can be redeemed for cash.
• Enhanced Security: SMS alerts for all transactions.
• Airport Lounge Access: Unlimited access to over 1,200 airport lounges for free.
• Travel Insurance: Comprehensive benefits for travel-related issues. Qualify for up to $1 million in Emergency Medical Expenses cover
• Purchase Protection: Coverage for items bought using the card.
• Global Acceptance: Accepted at over 23 million merchant establishments worldwide.
• Medical and Legal Referral: Assistance available during international travel.

Application Requirements:

• National ID or passport
• Valid Work Permit (for non-Kenyans)
• Certified latest pay slip
• Certified bank statements

Fees:

• Joining Fee: Ksh 5,000
• Annual Fee: $75

Conclusion on The Best Credit Cards in Kenya To Choose from:

Credit cards in Kenya offer a wide array of options to suit various needs, from everyday spending to business expenses and luxury perks.

With choices like Visa, Mastercard, American Express, and prepaid cards, you as a consumers can select the best fit based on your financial habits and requirements.

Understanding the features, benefits, and requirements of each type is crucial for making an informed decision and maximizing the advantages of using a credit card especially here in the country.