Unionbank Rewards Platinum Visa No Annual Fee?

Looking for a rewards credit card that doesn’t burden you with annual fees? The UnionBank Rewards Platinum Visa is one of the Philippines’ most popular credit cards, offering no annual fee for life along with generous rewards points on every purchase. Whether you’re a frequent shopper, diner, or traveler, this comprehensive guide will help you understand everything about this feature-packed credit card.

What is the UnionBank Rewards Platinum Visa?

The UnionBank Rewards Platinum Visa is a rewards-based credit card designed for Filipinos who want to earn points on their everyday spending without worrying about annual fees. Unlike many credit cards that charge annual fees ranging from ₱1,500 to ₱3,500, this card offers lifetime freedom from annual fees when you meet certain conditions.

Why Choose UnionBank Rewards Platinum Visa?

This credit card stands out in the Philippine market for several compelling reasons that make it attractive to both first-time credit card users and experienced cardholders:

1. Lifetime Zero Annual Fee

Save money every year by avoiding annual fees. When you meet the ₱180,000 annual spending requirement, you’ll never pay an annual fee for as long as you hold the card. This alone can save you ₱2,000-₱3,000 per year compared to other premium cards.

2. Generous Rewards Points System

Earn rewards points on every purchase with one of the most competitive earn rates in the Philippines. Your points never expire, giving you unlimited time to accumulate and redeem them for valuable rewards.

3. Triple Points on Shopping and Dining

Get 3x rewards points when you shop at department stores, boutiques, and restaurants both in the Philippines and abroad. This accelerated earning makes it perfect for lifestyle enthusiasts.

4. Non-Expiring Rewards Points

Unlike many credit cards where points expire after 2-3 years, your UnionBank Rewards points have no expiration date. This means you can take your time accumulating points for big-ticket redemptions.

5. Wide Range of Redemption Options

Redeem your points for cash credits, merchandise, gadgets, airline miles, hotel stays, and more. The flexibility in redemption options ensures you get value that matches your preferences.

Rewards Points Earning Structure

How You Earn Points:

• All Regular Purchases: 1 point per ₱30 spend
• Shopping (Local & Abroad): 3 points per ₱30 spend (3x rewards)
• Dining (Local & Abroad): 3 points per ₱30 spend (3x rewards)

Example Calculations:

• Grocery shopping ₱5,000: Earn 166 base points × 3 = 498 points
• Restaurant dinner ₱3,000: Earn 100 base points × 3 = 300 points
• Online purchase ₱2,000: Earn 66 base points
• Gas station ₱1,500: Earn 50 base points

No Annual Fee for Life: How It Works

The “no annual fee for life” benefit is one of the most attractive features of this card. Here’s exactly how it works:

Annual Fee Waiver Requirements:

• Spend Requirement: Spend at least ₱180,000 within 12 months
• Frequency: This spending requirement applies every year
• Calculation: Based on your total purchases from your anniversary date
• Automatic Waiver: The fee is automatically waived when you meet the requirement

Is ₱180,000 Annual Spend Achievable?

Absolutely! Here’s how the math breaks down:

• Monthly: ₱15,000 per month
• Weekly: Approximately ₱3,500 per week
• Daily: Around ₱500 per day

If you use your card for groceries, dining, utilities, online shopping, gas, and other regular expenses, reaching ₱180,000 annually is very manageable for most households.

Eligibility Requirements: Who Can Apply?

Basic Requirements:

• Age: 21 to 70 years old
• Income (with existing card): Minimum ₱180,000 annually (₱15,000/month)
• Income (without existing card): Minimum ₱250,000 annually (₱20,833/month)
• Employment: Employed, self-employed, or with stable income

Required Documents:

For Employed:

• Valid government-issued ID
• Proof of income (ITR, Certificate of Employment, or payslips)

For Self-Employed:

• Valid government-issued ID
• Business registration documents
• Latest ITR
• Bank statements (6 months)

How to Apply for UnionBank Rewards Platinum Visa

Method 1: Online Application (Fastest)

1. Visit www.unionbankph.com/cards/credit-card
2. Select “UnionBank Rewards Platinum Visa”
3. Click “Apply Now”
4. Fill out the application form
5. Upload required documents
6. Submit application
7. Wait for approval (can be as fast as 5 minutes!)
8. Receive virtual card immediately

Method 2: Visit UnionBank Branch

1. Locate nearest UnionBank branch
2. Bring all required documents
3. Request credit card application form
4. Fill out and submit
5. Wait for approval notification

Method 3: Call Customer Service

• Metro Manila: (632) 8841-8600
• Toll-Free: 1-800-1888-2277

Rewards Redemption Options

Your UnionBank Rewards points are incredibly flexible. Here are all the ways you can redeem them:

1. Cash Credits and Bill Rebates

Convert points directly into cash credits applied to your credit card statement.

2. Merchandise and Gadgets

• Electronics (smartphones, laptops, tablets)
• Home appliances
• Fashion accessories
• Sports equipment

3. Airline Miles Transfer

• Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles
• Cebu Pacific GetGo Points
• Other partner airlines

4. Hotel Points

Convert to hotel loyalty programs for free nights and upgrades.

5. Gift Certificates

Redeem for gift certificates from popular retailers and restaurants.

Card Features and Benefits

Interest-Free Period

• Up to 53 days interest-free when you pay in full
• Calculated from transaction date to payment due date

Minimum Payment

• 4% of outstanding balance or ₱400, whichever is higher
• Flexibility during tight budget months

Installment Options

• Convert purchases to installments
• 0% installment promos at partner merchants
• Flexible terms: 3, 6, 9, 12, 18, or 24 months

Virtual Card Feature

Use your card immediately upon approval with the virtual card feature!

What is Virtual Card?

A digital version of your credit card available instantly in the UnionBank app. Use it for online shopping while waiting for your physical card.

Where to Use:

• Online shopping (Lazada, Shopee, Zalora)
• Food delivery (GrabFood, foodpanda)
• Subscriptions (Netflix, Spotify)
• Travel bookings
• Any online merchant accepting Visa

Managing Your Card

UnionBank Online App Features:

• View real-time balance and transactions
• Pay bills instantly
• Check rewards points
• Redeem rewards
• Lock/unlock card
• Set spending limits
• Schedule payments

Security Features

Protection Includes:

• EMV Chip Technology
• Zero Liability Protection
• Verified by Visa
• SMS Transaction Alerts
• App lock/unlock feature

Tips to Maximize Your Card

1. Focus on 3x Categories

Use your card primarily for shopping and dining to earn triple points.

2. Use for All Expenses

Pay utilities, gas, subscriptions, and regular expenses to reach ₱180,000 annual spend.

3. Pay in Full Monthly

Avoid interest charges by paying full statement balance.

4. Monitor Promos

Check app regularly for merchant promotions and special offers.

5. Strategic Redemption

Save points for high-value redemptions like airline miles or premium items.

6. Set Up Auto-Pay

Never miss a payment with automatic bill payment.

7. Track Spending

Use app’s tracker to ensure you meet annual spend requirement.

Comparison with Other Cards

UnionBank Rewards Platinum vs U Visa Platinum:

• Rewards Platinum: Earn points, waived annual fee with ₱180K spend
• U Visa Platinum: No rewards, but zero late fees and overlimit fees
• Best for: Rewards Platinum if you want points; U Visa if you want zero fees

UnionBank Rewards Platinum vs Cash Back Platinum:

• Rewards Platinum: Flexible redemption, never-expiring points
• Cash Back Platinum: Automatic cash rebates, simpler
• Best for: Rewards if you want flexibility; Cash Back if you want simplicity

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the no annual fee really for life?

Yes, as long as you spend at least ₱180,000 annually, you’ll never pay an annual fee.

Do my points expire?

No, your UnionBank Rewards points never expire.

Can I use this card abroad?

Yes, accepted worldwide wherever Visa is accepted. You’ll earn 3x points on international shopping and dining too.

How long for card approval?

Can be as fast as 5 minutes for qualified applicants, typically within a few business days.

When do I receive my physical card?

Within 7-14 business days. Use your virtual card immediately while waiting.

Can I transfer points to someone else?

No, points are tied to the principal cardholder’s account.

What if I don’t meet ₱180,000 spend?

UnionBank will charge the regular annual fee for that year.

Can I get supplementary cards?

Yes, for family members 18 years and older. No additional fee when principal fee is waived.

Is there a points earning cap?

No limit on points you can earn or accumulate.

Can I convert purchases to installment?

Yes, through the app or by calling customer service.

Contact UnionBank

Customer Service:

• Metro Manila: (632) 8841-8600
• Toll-Free: 1-800-1888-2277
• Installments: (632) 8981-4700
• Email: [email protected]

Social Media:

• Facebook: Union Bank of the Philippines
• Twitter: @unionbankph
• Instagram: @unionbankph

Is This Card Worth It?

Conclusion

The UnionBank Rewards Platinum Visa offers an excellent combination of benefits: no annual fee for life, generous rewards points, triple points on shopping and dining, and flexible redemption – all with no points expiration.

If you’re a frequent shopper and diner who can comfortably spend ₱15,000 monthly, this card delivers real value without annual fees or complicated requirements.

Ready to start earning rewards? Apply today and enjoy lifetime zero annual fees while accumulating points toward free flights, gadgets, and more!

Last Updated: January 2025

Disclaimer: Terms and benefits subject to change. Verify with UnionBank before applying. This is for informational purposes only.