How Long Does It Take to Get a Credit Card?

Getting a new credit card can be a quick process, but the timeline depends on how you apply and how long it takes for the issuer to review and approve your application. In many cases, you can receive a decision the same day you apply, and the physical card typically arrives within one to two weeks.

This guide explains how long each step typically takes, what can delay it, and what you can do to get your card or start using your credit line sooner.

How long does it take to receive a credit card?

How long it takes to get a credit card depends on how you apply, how quickly your application is reviewed, and how long delivery takes after approval.

Time to get approved

The online application process for a credit card is relatively quick, and you may be approved right away if you meet the issuer’s credit requirements. If not, the issuer may take up to a week to review your application.

If your application is under review, it means the issuer needs more time to decide whether to approve you. This can happen for several reasons, such as missing information or the need to verify certain details. You can contact the issuer to check the status of your application or provide additional information to help with the review.^[1]

Factors that can delay credit card approval times

Credit card approvals can take longer when an application requires additional review. This often happens when information is incomplete, incorrect, or needs verification before the issuer can make a decision.

Delays can also occur if the issuer requests supporting documentation, such as proof of income or identity verification. In some cases, credit checks or system errors can add extra processing time.

Mailing delays or issues with the address on your application may also slow down delivery once the card has been approved. Ensuring that all personal details are accurate before submitting your application can help reduce these risks.^[2]

Time to get the card

Once your application is approved, it usually takes 7-10 business days for the card to arrive in the mail. Some issuers may send it sooner, while others can take a little longer depending on their processing and delivery times.

A few card issuers offer expedited shipping, which can shorten the wait to a few business days. Others may provide a digital card number that allows you to start using the account before the physical card arrives. ^[3]

How long will it take to use the credit card?

Once you activate your new credit card, you can begin using it immediately. Activation confirms that the account is open and ready for purchases.

Some issuers also provide virtual card numbers that let you start using your credit line before the physical card arrives in the mail.

If you haven’t activated your card, the account may still remain open, but leaving it inactive for too long could lead the issuer to close it. You’re still responsible for any transactions made through the account, such as purchases with a virtual card number, even if you haven’t activated the physical card.^[4]

What to do if it is taking too long

If it has been more than 10 business days since approval and your card hasn’t arrived, Capital One recommends contacting your issuer. Confirm that your card has been mailed, verify that the address on file is correct, and ask whether they can track or reissue the card.

As previously mentioned, some issuers offer expedited shipping for a new or replacement card as well as digital access via a virtual card number while you wait for the physical card to arrive. If you’re waiting too long, then you could explore these options.^[2]

How to get a credit card faster

Applying online is generally the quickest way to receive a credit card. Online applications can often be processed immediately, while mailed applications may take longer to reach the issuer and be reviewed.

After approval, most cards arrive within 7 to 10 days, but some issuers allow customers to request faster shipping. There may also be ways to either get your card faster or start using your credit line sooner.^[2]

Digital or virtual card number

Some issuers provide a digital or virtual card number that lets you start using your credit line right after approval. This can be useful if you need to make online purchases or add your card to a digital wallet while waiting for the physical card to arrive.

Virtual cards do not shorten the time it takes for your physical card to arrive, but they allow you to access your account earlier.^[2]

Apply online

Taking out a credit card could help build credit – this can be done via a secured credit card for those with a bad credit score or no credit history.

Submitting an application online can help speed up the process. Online applications are reviewed automatically, which can result in an instant decision if you meet the issuer’s criteria.
Mailing a paper application takes longer because it must first be received and entered manually before review.^[3]

Make sure your application information is correct

Providing complete and accurate information helps avoid delays caused by verification issues. Errors such as incorrect addresses or missing details may cause the issuer to pause your application for review.

Checking your information before submitting can help ensure faster approval and mailing times.^[2]

Get prequalified

Prequalification can help streamline the process by letting you know which cards you’re more likely to qualify for.

Issuers use a soft credit inquiry that doesn’t affect your score to estimate approval likelihood. If you proceed to apply, they’ll perform a hard inquiry and review your income and other factors before making a final decision.

While prequalification doesn’t guarantee acceptance, it can reduce the time spent applying for cards that don’t fit your profile.^[1]

Choose a card that offers instant access

Some cards allow you to use your account immediately after approval. This option is common with store cards, co-branded cards, or digital-first products that provide instant access for online or in-store use.

Instant access does not speed up the physical delivery of your card, but it allows you to make purchases sooner using your account.^[1]

How long to receive a replacement credit card?

The time it takes to receive a replacement credit card can differ from the timeline for getting a new one. When you apply for a new credit card, the issuer must review your application and open a new account before mailing the card. A replacement card is linked to an existing account, so it often arrives more quickly.

For some issuers, replacement cards are typically delivered within four to six business days after the request is processed. Delivery times can vary depending on the issuer, postal delays, or whether the card is being shipped to a new address.

If your replacement card has not arrived after a week, contact the issuer to confirm it was mailed and that your mailing address is correct. Some issuers also offer expedited shipping or a digital card number that lets you make purchases while waiting for the physical card to arrive.^[5]

Sources

1. Experian. “How to Apply for a Credit Card.” https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-to-apply-for-a-credit-card/. Accessed on October 21, 2025.
2. Capital One. “How Long Does It Take to Get a Credit Card?” https://www.capitalone.com/learn-grow/money-management/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-a-credit-card/. Accessed on October 21, 2025.
3. Experian. “How Long Does It Take to Get a Credit Card?” https://www.experian.com/blogs/ask-experian/how-long-does-it-take-to-get-a-credit-card/. Accessed on October 21, 2025.
4. Capital One. “How to Activate a New Credit Card.” https://www.capitalone.com/learn-grow/money-management/how-to-activate-a-new-credit-card/. Accessed on October 21, 2025.
5. Capital One. “Replacement Card Support.” https://www.capitalone.com/help-center/fraud-disputes/replacement-card-support/. Accessed on October 21, 2025.

About the author

Becca has over 10 years of experience as a content writer, working across various industries including finance, digital marketing, education, travel, and technology. Her work has been featured in publications including Forbes, Business Insider, AOL, Yahoo, GOBankingRates, and more.