Some banks in Egypt offer to issue credit cards under a C2C, or Card-to-Card, scheme. It is aimed at customers who already hold a credit card from another bank and want a new card without having to submit proof of income, subject to the terms and conditions set by each bank.

The service uses the customer's existing credit card at another bank as one of the criteria the new bank relies on when assessing the application and setting the credit limit, instead of the usual proof-of-income procedures, in cases where the bank's policy allows this.

In this report, Banky explains what a C2C purchase card is, its main advantages and the requirements for getting one.

What Is a C2C Purchase Card?

A C2C purchase card is a new credit card that a customer obtains from a bank other than the one that issued their current credit card, based on the existing card and the credit limit granted on it, according to the new bank's criteria.

This arrangement gives the customer an additional credit limit and lets them use the new card for purchases, while abiding by the repayment terms, fees and interest that apply to it.

The service does not mean the old card is transferred to the new bank or that its outstanding balance moves automatically. It simply means applying for another credit card on the strength of holding an existing card at a different bank.

What Are the Advantages of a C2C Purchase Card?

The main advantage of the service is the chance to get a new credit card through procedures that may be simpler than the standard issuance process. Key advantages include:

  • No proof of income at some banks: at some banks, the service allows a new card to be issued without documents proving income, provided the other requirements are met.

  • An additional credit limit: the new card comes with a credit limit separate from the one on your current card, subject to the bank's approval.

  • The new card's benefits: the customer can take advantage of the installment programs, offers and rewards provided by the issuing bank, depending on the card type and its terms.

What Are the Requirements for a C2C Purchase Card?

Requirements for issuing C2C purchase cards vary from bank to bank, but they are usually tied to holding an existing credit card at another bank, in addition to meeting the new bank's requirements.

Criteria the bank may set include:

  • Holding a valid credit card issued by another bank.

  • Meeting the minimum credit limit required on the current card.

  • Actual usage on the existing card, if the bank requires it.

  • Submitting a valid national ID card and the documents required to issue the card.

  • Meeting the age requirements, passing the credit assessment and obtaining the bank's final approval.

Applying for the card does not mean it will be approved automatically, as issuance remains subject to the bank's policy and its assessment of the application.

Tips Before Getting a C2C Purchase Card

Before applying for a C2C card, customers should compare the terms of the available cards and check the annual fee, issuance fees, interest rate, grace period and repayment methods.

It is also worth bearing in mind that an additional credit limit does not necessarily mean greater real financial capacity, since any amounts used remain obligations that must be repaid.

Ultimately, a C2C purchase card can be a suitable option for credit cardholders who want a card from another bank through simplified procedures, provided they compare offers on cost, benefits and their ability to manage their financial obligations.