African Bank credit card tiers are designed for different income levels and spending needs. Each card includes digital banking access, secure payments and credit-life protection options.
This guide explains the key features of each tier, how to apply online, current fees and rates, and how to contact the bank.
Black
The Black Credit Card is the bank’s primary offering for new applicants. It works nationwide and internationally for tap, swipe and online payments.
Customers can manage the account through the app or online banking. The card also offers an interest-free period on qualifying purchases.
Key features
Up to 55–62 days interest-free on qualifying purchases if the full balance is paid on time.
Interest on positive balances (commonly around 2.5%–3% per year). Monthly service fee is usually around R60–R65.
Free SMS notifications and online statements.
Gold Card
The Gold Credit Card appears mainly in older documentation, but still exists for long-time clients.
It was previously marketed as a balanced mid-tier product with standard spending and security features.
New applications may not always be available, and customers should confirm availability directly with the bank.
Typical features previously associated
Every day, card payments are made online and in-store. Free till-point transactions in South Africa.
Credit-life insurance covering disability, retrenchment or death.
Standard monthly service fees similar to mid-tier cards.
Silver Card
The Silver Credit Card was designed for customers seeking additional spending flexibility.
It included benefits similar to the Gold tier and required the same basic application documents. Like Gold, new applications may be limited.
Common Silver-tier features
Free local till-point transactions. Optional credit-life protection.
Online and app-based account access.
Monthly fees have historically been positioned below Gold.
Blue Card
The Blue Credit Card is considered a legacy product.
It was previously linked to everyday banking accounts and used as an entry-level card. Today it is generally retained only by existing cardholders.
Blue card characteristics
Basic credit access for everyday purchases.
ATM withdrawals, POS payments and online shopping.
Older pricing schedules that no longer apply to new applicants.
Platinum Card
The Platinum Credit Card once served as African Bank’s premium option.
Pricing guides today specify that Platinum fees apply only to existing customers.
New applicants are instead directed toward the Black Credit Card.
Former Platinum-tier features commonly included
Higher credit limits.
Priority-style benefits and optional insurance.
Dedicated fee structure separate from standard tiers.
African Bank Credit Card Tier Comparison
Here is a clean, simple comparison of all African Bank card tiers based on publicly available information.
| Card Tier | Status | Typical Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | Actively offered to new customers | 55–62 days interest-free, interest on positive balances (±2.5–3%), digital banking, international payments, monthly fee ±R60–R65 | Everyday spending, travel, online payments, customers wanting the newest features |
| Gold | Legacy (availability varies) | Free SA till-point transactions, credit-life protection, online statements, mid-range monthly fees | Existing customers maintaining a stable, mid-tier credit card |
| Silver | Legacy (availability varies) | Till-point transactions, optional insurance, online access, lower fees than Gold | Existing users needing flexible but affordable day-to-day credit |
| Blue | Legacy / discontinued for new sign-ups | Basic card payments, ATM withdrawals, POS and online spending, older fee structure | Long-time account holders with entry-level credit needs |
| Platinum | Legacy (kept for old cardholders only) | Higher credit limits, premium-style benefits, separate fee schedule | Long-term customers previously eligible for high-limit credit |
For most new applicants, the Black card is the most logical and practical choice. It offers the best mix of features, transparent costs, and ongoing support.
Older cards (Gold, Silver, Blue, Platinum) make sense only if they were already issued before, and you want to maintain something familiar.
If you are eligible and want a credit card now, go with Black.
If you are under 18 or unsure about income/eligibility, wait or explore non-credit options first.
African Bank Credit Card Application on the Website
You can apply for the African Bank Black Credit Card online through the official African Bank website.
You will usually need:
- South African ID.
- Three latest payslips.
- Three-month bank statement showing income deposits.
- Recent proof of residence (not older than 3 months).
How the online application works:
- Visit the Credit Card section on the African Bank website.
- Select Black Credit Card and click Apply Now.
- Enter your personal and income details.
- Upload the required documents.
- Wait for affordability and credit checks.
- Receive an offer, request or decline depending on your profile.
- Approval is subject to the National Credit Act and individual affordability.
Interest Rates and Fees
African Bank publishes updated credit card fees regularly. Rates differ per customer because they are based on affordability and credit profile.
- Monthly service fee: Approximately R60–R65.
- Interest-free period: 55–62 days if the full balance is repaid on time.
- Purchase interest rate: Usually between 18%–24% per year, depending on profile.
- Cash withdrawal interest: Often higher, around 20%–27% depending on risk.
- Positive balance interest: Roughly 2.5%–3% per year on surplus funds.
- Late payment fee: Charged if payment is missed or delayed.
Because rates change, applicants should read the latest pricing schedule before applying.
Pros and Cons of African Bank Credit Cards
Consider each.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Up to 55–62 days interest-free on qualifying purchases. | Interest rates vary by profile and can be high for some applicants. |
| Interest earned on positive balances (about 2.5%–3% per year). | Cash withdrawal interest is higher than purchase interest. |
| Digital banking access through the African Bank app and online portal. | Legacy cards (Gold, Silver, Blue, Platinum) may not accept new applicants. |
| Wide acceptance for online, tap and international payments. | Monthly service fee applies (around R60–R65). |
| Credit-life protection options covering disability, death or retrenchment. | Strict affordability and document checks required. |
| Free SMS notifications and online statements for easier tracking. | Late payment fees apply if instalments are missed. |
Bank Phone and Address
African Bank provides several official contact channels for enquiries.
0861 111 011 (South Africa)
011 207 4500 (Head office)
Head-office address: African Bank 59 16th Road, Midrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
Additional support channels
Customer experience email (often listed as CExperience@africanbank.co.za).
Online contact form on the bank’s website.
Branch locator for in-person service.
Conclusion
African Bank credit cards offer a range of features, but new customers are primarily directed toward the Black Credit Card.
Understanding the fees, required documents and interest rates is essential before applying.
To get started, visit African Bank’s official website and complete the online application using your valid documents and income details.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only and does not provide financial advice. Credit card rates, features, fees and application requirements may change at any time. Always verify the latest details directly with African Bank or a licensed financial adviser before applying.
