You can apply for a National Bank credit card online at nbc.ca, through the National Bank mobile app (for existing clients), or at a National Bank branch. Applications take approximately 10 minutes and most receive an instant decision.
Step-by-Step: Applying Online
- Choose your card — Compare National Bank credit cards and review the income requirements below
- Go to nbc.ca — Navigate to “Personal Banking → Credit Cards” and click “Apply Online” on your chosen card
- Log in or apply as a guest — Existing National Bank clients can pre-fill personal details
- Complete the application — Full name, date of birth, SIN, annual income, employment status, address, housing costs
- Submit — National Bank runs a hard credit inquiry; most decisions are instant
Income Requirements
| Card | Annual Fee | Personal Income | Household Income |
|---|---|---|---|
| World Elite Mastercard | $150 | $80,000 | $150,000 |
| World Mastercard | $115 | None | None |
| Syncro Mastercard | $35 | None | None |
Required Information
| Field | Details |
|---|---|
| Legal name | As on your government ID |
| Date of birth | |
| SIN | Required for identity verification |
| Annual gross income | Employment, pension, self-employment, investments |
| Employment status | Employed, self-employed, retired, student |
| Employer details | Name, address, years at current employer |
| Home address | Current address (and prior if less than 2 years) |
| Monthly housing costs | Rent or mortgage |
National Bank Client Advantage
Existing National Bank personal banking clients can log in to speed up the process. If you already have a savings or chequing account with National Bank, you may also see pre-approved credit card offers in your online banking dashboard.
After You Apply
| Outcome | Timing | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Approved — instant | Seconds | Card mailed; arrives within 7–10 business days |
| Pending review | 1–5 business days | National Bank may contact you for income documentation |
| Declined | Immediate or up to 5 days | Consider the World Mastercard ($115, no income req.) |
To follow up on an application: contact National Bank at 1-888-483-5628.
Tips
- The World Elite is a standout — If you meet the $80K income threshold, the World Elite’s $150 travel credit and travel insurance often make the annual fee self-funding. See World Elite benefits
- Québec-based applicants — National Bank is headquartered in Montréal and many branches are in Québec; branch applications are common for NB clients in that province
- First-year offers — Check nbc.ca for first-year annual fee waiver promotions on the World Elite
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Process current as of June 2026. National Bank may update its application process at any time. See our Advertiser Disclosure.