First Direct Visa Credit Card: A Practical Guide for UK Buyers

Competitive 0% deals, HSBC-backed reliability and application tactics to improve approval chances

CREDIT CARD

FIRST DIRECT VISA

LONG 0% BALANCE TRANSFER WINDOW FOR DEBT CONSOLIDATION PREDICTABLE UNDERWRITING AND COMPETITIVE LIMITS

SEE FULL REVIEW By clicking you will remain on the current site

The First Direct Visa credit card is a contender for UK consumers who value clear pricing, responsive customer service and promotional rates tied to real repayment goals. As a part of HSBC’s family, First Direct markets a Balance Transfer card and a Gold (0% purchases) card exclusively to existing current account customers — each with different promotional windows and features to match common needs.

3 reasons to consider First Direct Visa

1. Long 0% balance transfer window for debt consolidation
If your priority is consolidating expensive debt, First Direct’s Balance Transfer card often offers a lengthy 0% period (example: 20 months on qualifying transfers) with a one-off transfer fee — a meaningful saving when you repay within that term.

2. Interest-free purchase option with the Gold Card
For new big purchases, the Gold Card’s typical promotional offer of 0% on purchases for up to 12 months lets you spread the cost without interest — useful for planned spending like appliances or holidays. There are no annual fees, and you can use digital wallets (Apple Pay/Google Pay) for instant security.

3. Predictable underwriting and competitive limits
First Direct publishes average credit limits for accepted applications (around £7,700 based on recent accepted applications), and their underwriting is consistent because the cards are available only to current account customers — reducing surprise rejections if you meet account criteria. This predictability helps applicants plan realistic borrowing.

2 things to watch out for

1. Must be a First Direct current account holder
You cannot apply as a standalone customer; you’ll need an active First Direct current account and typically a minimum track record (monthly credits requirement applies) before being eligible. That extra step can delay access if you’re switching banks just for the card.

2. Post-promotional APRs and fees
Promotional rates end — standard purchase and transfer APRs apply afterward (representative and offered rates vary by applicant). If a balance remains beyond the interest-free window you may face higher charges, so plan repayment schedules carefully.

Ready to take the next step? Discover how to apply and find out if this card fits your lifestyle

Curious about how to apply for the First Direct Visa Credit Card and whether it truly matches your financial goals? In our next article, you’ll find a step-by-step application guide, practical insights to increase your approval chances, and expert tips to help you decide if this is the right credit card for your spending habits and profile.

👉 Continue reading to learn exactly how to request your First Direct Visa today and make an informed, confident decision about your next financial move.

CREDIT CARD

FIRST DIRECT VISA

LONG 0% BALANCE TRANSFER WINDOW FOR DEBT CONSOLIDATION PREDICTABLE UNDERWRITING AND COMPETITIVE LIMITS

SEE FULL REVIEW By clicking you will remain on the current site