Virtual credit card

  1. Check your eligibility and get a decision in seconds - it won’t impact your credit score

  2. If approved, you could get access to the virtual credit card right away

  3. Zable cards are compatible with Google Pay and Apple Pay

Representative 29.9% APR (variable). Subject to eligibility. If you don't qualify, we may offer you a different card with its own terms.

Apply online

Representative example:

Based on assumed borrowing of ÂŁ1200 at an interest rate of 29.9% (variable) p.a. your representative APR will be 29.9% (variable).

Credit card on phone
Credit card on phone

Why choose a virtual credit card with Zable?

  1. Spend instantly

    If approved, you can start using your virtual card immediately, without waiting for your physical card to arrive

  2. Repay easily

    You can repay any balances straight from your app by connecting your bank or debit card

  3. Track your spending

    View your balance and total spending in real time, and get instant transaction notifications

  4. Credit that grows with you

    We automatically review your account for credit limit increases and let you know if you’re eligible.

  5. Manage your credit card on the go

    You can do everything from changing your PIN to freezing your card in a matter of taps.

Check if I'm eligible

How to get your virtual credit card

  1. Check your eligibility in the Zable app or apply online

  2. If eligible, you'll be asked to provide some more details and link your bank account. Linking your bank account is necessary to check if you’re eligible for a virtual card, plus it could help you get a higher credit limit.

  3. We'll review your information and provide you with a quote.

  4. If eligible, most customers can add their card to their Apple or Google wallet and start spending right away.

What is a virtual credit card? 

A virtual credit card is a digital version of a traditional credit card - just without the plastic. Just like a physical card, it has a 16-digit card number, CVV, and expiry date, but it lives entirely on your phone rather than in your wallet. 

At Zable, eligible customers can start using their virtual card straight away. No waiting 5-7 days for the postman!

How does it work?

When you open a virtual credit card, you are issued card details that are linked to your existing credit line. You can use these details to make purchases online or add them to a digital wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay) for contactless payments in stores.

Why use a virtual card?

One of the main benefits of a virtual card is that you can use it once you’re approved, rather than waiting for the physical card to arrive. This is particularly useful if you need to make an urgent purchase. 

It also means you can go out without taking your wallet. Virtual cards easily sync with Apple Pay and Google Pay, so as long as you have your phone with you, you’ll be able to make payments.

Am I eligible for a virtual credit card?

To be eligible for a virtual Zable card, you will need to link your bank account. This is because Zable uses Open Banking to complete the necessary checks. 

Open Banking is a secure financial practice that allows us to see your real-time financial data, such as income and spending habits, with your consent. You can withdraw your consent and remove access at any time.

Check whether your bank supports Open Banking here. 

When you link your bank account during your application, you could be eligible for an average credit limit boost of over £500, so it’s well worth doing!

Tips for using your virtual credit card

1. Pay your balance in full each month, if you can afford to do so

If you do this, you won’t have to worry about paying any interest, which could end up saving you a lot of money in the long run.

2. Make your payments on time

Missed or late payments can negatively affect your credit score, which can make it harder for you to get approved for credit in the future. On the other hand, managing your payments responsibly can have the reverse effect, which can help you secure higher credit limits and more favourable interest rates.

3. Try not to overuse your card

Digital credit cards are so easy to use that it may be tempting to overspend. However, you should aim to use less than 30% of your total available limit to demonstrate responsible financial behaviour. This can potentially help increase your credit score. For example, if you have a ÂŁ1,000 credit limit, aim to keep your usage under ÂŁ300.

Image of a phone with the Zable app and money floating in front of it

Download the Zable app

You can track your credit score, spending habits and more using the Zable app.

Download the Zable app

FAQs about virtual credit cards in the UK

Can I get a virtual credit card instantly?

The process for getting a virtual Zable credit card is quick and simple, if eligible. First, check your eligibility for a Zable card - you’ll get a decision in seconds. Then follow the steps to link your bank account and submit your full application - this can be completed in just a few minutes. Most eligible customers then get their virtual card straight away.

Can I use my virtual card immediately?

Yes, if you’re eligible, you can start spending using your Zable card straight away. You don’t need to wait for the physical card to arrive (this takes 5-7 days).

Am I eligible for a virtual credit card?

In order to check if you’re eligible for a virtual credit card, you will be prompted to link your bank account during the application process. Until this point, we’re unable to make any eligibility guarantees.

Can I get a virtual credit card if I have bad credit?

Eligibility for a credit card, virtual or otherwise, is decided on a case by case basis. You can check your eligibility for free without impacting your credit score.

If you have a low credit score, read more about credit cards for poor credit and how our use of Open Banking enables us to take a broad view of your financial situation when determining your application, rather than your credit score alone.

Can I use my virtual card in shops in the UK?

Yes, you can use your virtual card in shops by adding it to your Apple or Google wallet. This allows you to make contactless payments. 

Is my physical credit card contactless?

Yes. Once your physical card arrives and is activated, you’ll need to:

  1. Make one chip‑and‑PIN purchase or an ATM balance check with your PIN.  

  2. After that first PIN transaction, contactless on the physical card will work for future in‑store payments.

Ready to apply?

Apply online