Rakuten Credit Card: Learn How to Apply Online - Features & Benefits

The Rakuten Credit Card is a smart choice if you want to earn rewards while shopping online or in stores.

It offers cashback, points, and seamless integration with Rakuten services.

Learn how to apply online and start enjoying the benefits today.

Why Choose the Rakuten Credit Card

Here’s why the Rakuten Credit Card stands out among other credit cards in Japan.

It’s especially useful if you shop frequently online or want to collect points with minimal fees.

Generous Rakuten Points Program: Earn points on every purchase, with higher rates on Rakuten services.
No Annual Fee: Most Rakuten cards have no annual fee, making them cost-effective.
Strong Online Integration: Works smoothly with Rakuten Ichiba, Rakuten Pay, and other Rakuten platforms.
Wide Acceptance: Accepted across Japan and internationally.
Mobile Payment Ready: Compatible with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless payments.
Bonus Point Campaigns: Frequent promotions for extra points and limited-time deals.
Flexible Card Variants: Choose from basic, premium, or customizable designs like the PINK card.

The features of the card make shopping more rewarding and convenient.

Whether focused on earning points or needing a card for daily purchases, it offers solid benefits.

Rakuten Points System: Earn 1% back on most purchases, with bonus points on Rakuten services.
No Annual Fee: The basic card has no annual fee, ideal for budget-conscious users.
Welcome Bonus: New users often receive thousands of bonus points after their first purchase.
Mobile Payment Support: Use with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Rakuten Pay.
Worldwide Acceptance: Use it anywhere major credit cards are accepted globally.
Fraud Protection: Includes 24/7 monitoring and secure payment systems.
Monthly Statement Management: View and manage spending via the Rakuten Card app.
Installment Payment Options: Choose to split payments when needed.

Rakuten offers several credit card options tailored to different spending habits and preferences.

Each card has its own set of benefits, so you can choose the one that best suits your lifestyle.

Rakuten Card (Basic): There is no annual fee, and you earn points on every purchase. This card is ideal for everyday users.
Rakuten Gold Card: An annual fee, including domestic airport lounge access and higher point multipliers, applies.
Rakuten Premium Card: Higher annual fee; international lounge access with Priority Pass; better travel perks.
Rakuten PINK Card: This card has the same features as the basic card but with optional services and a customizable design.
Rakuten ANA Mileage Club Card: Earn both Rakuten Points and ANA miles; great for frequent flyers.
Rakuten Bank Card: Functions as both a credit card and a cash card linked to your Rakuten Bank account.

Applying for a Rakuten Credit Card online is straightforward and can be completed in 10–15 minutes.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Visit the Official Rakuten Card Website: Go to the Rakuten Card site and choose your card type.
Log In or Continue as Guest: Rakuten members can log in; others can apply without an account.
Select Your Card Brand and Design: Choose VISA, Mastercard, JCB, or American Express, and select your preferred design.
Enter Your Personal Information: Fill in your full name, birth date, gender, and phone number.
Add Your Contact Details: Provide your email and home address in Japan.
Enter Household and Job Details: Include household size, residence type, job info, and income.
Pick Card Features: Choose if you want an Edy or an ETC toll card.
Set Up Payment Method: Link a bank account or set it up later.
Create a 4-digit PIN: Set a PIN to use your card securely.
Review and Submit: Check all info and submit your application.
Wait for Approval and Delivery: If approved, your card will arrive in about a week.

You need to meet the following eligibility requirements to apply:

Age: Must be at least 18 years old.
Residency: Must be a resident of Japan.
Identification: Possess a valid government-issued ID, such as a residence card, Japanese passport, or driver’s license.
Income: Have a stable source of income or sufficient savings.
Bank Account: Have a Japanese bank account for automatic payments.

You’ll need to provide a few documents to verify your identity and address. These are required to complete the registration and approval process.

Photo ID: You can use a Japanese driver’s license, residence card, passport, or My Number card with a photo.
Proof of Address: If your ID doesn’t show your address, submit a residence certificate, utility bill, or tax document.
Bank Account Information: Provide details of a Japanese bank account for setting up payment. The name must match your application.

Here’s a concise overview of the interest rates and fees associated with the Rakuten Credit Card:

Purchase Interest Rate: Varies by card type and creditworthiness; for example, the Rakuten Cash Back Visa may have an APR of 19.99% or 24.99%.
Cash Advance Interest Rate: 18% annually, calculated from the day of the advance until repayment.
Revolving Payments: Interest rates are similar to those of installment plans, ranging from 12.25% to 15% annually.
Late Payment Fee: Up to 20% annually.
ATM Cash Advance Fee: ¥110 for withdrawals under ¥10,000 and ¥220 for amounts over ¥10,000.

Installment Payments:

2-installment plans typically have no added fees
3 or more installments incur interest, ranging from 12.25% to 15% annually, depending on the number of installments

Annual Fees:

Using your card wisely can help you earn more points and save money. Here are simple tips to get the most out of it:

Shop on Rakuten Ichiba: Earn more points when you buy from Rakuten’s main marketplace.
Join Point-Up Campaigns: Check for limited-time promotions that help you earn more points.
Use Rakuten Pay: Link your card to Rakuten Pay for extra rewards.
Pay with Mobile Apps: Use Apple Pay or Google Pay for added convenience and security.
Redeem Points Smartly: Use Rakuten Points for bills, shopping, or travel to avoid wasting them.
Pay in Full Monthly: Avoid interest by settling your full balance every month.
Use the Card Abroad: Earn points on international purchases, too—check foreign fees.
Track Spending with the App: Monitor your transactions and manage points easily through the Rakuten Card app.

If you need assistance with your Rakuten Credit Card, here’s how to reach their customer service:

Domestic Customer Call Center: 0570-66-6910

Available daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, including weekends and national holidays.
For English support, call this number, and an English-speaking representative will call you back.

International Customer Call Center: +81-92-474-6287