Miles vs Cashback

Best Credit Cards for Foreigners in Singapore

Foreigners typically need a higher minimum income than Singaporeans/PRs and a valid Employment Pass. Thresholds vary a lot — some cards ask for S$40,000, others S$90,000 — so it pays to start with the more accessible ones.

  1. 1
    Cashback

    Why it fits: One of the lower foreigner income thresholds, with strong everyday cashback.

    Annual fee S$196.20 · Min income S$30,000

    Pros

    • +Up to 20% cashback on dining, groceries, transport, online
    • +~10% cashback on the ongoing standard tier
    • +Visa-based, so wide acceptance in SG and overseas
    • +First-year annual fee waived

    Cons

    • −Annual fee S$196.20 from year two onwards
    • −Top rates need consistent minimum quarterly spend, not flat
    • −Headline 20% is spend-tiered + partly a new-customer boost
    Full breakdownOfficial site →
  2. 2
    Miles

    Why it fits: Accessible foreigner threshold for a travel miles card, strong on overseas spend.

    Annual fee S$261.60 · Min income S$30,000

    Pros

    • +First-year annual fee waived (S$261.60 thereafter)
    • +~2.4 mpd base on foreign spend, good for overseas use
    • +Airport lounge access included
    • +Visa option means wider acceptance than Amex variant

    Cons

    • −S$261.60 annual fee from year two onwards
    • −Local rate only ~1.4 mpd, weak for SG spend
    • −Standard foreign-currency fee still applies on FX spend
    Full breakdownOfficial site →
  3. 3
    Miles

    Why it fits: Flexible, non-expiring miles with a moderate foreigner income requirement.

    Annual fee S$196.20 · Min income S$30,000

    Pros

    • +Citi Miles never expire, so no rush to redeem
    • +~2.2 mpd on foreign spend, good for travel
    • +Wide transfer-partner list for flexible redemptions
    • +Lounge access; first-year fee waived

    Cons

    • −S$196.20 annual fee from year two onward
    • −Low ~1.2 mpd on local spend
    • −Not especially beginner-friendly
    Full breakdownOfficial site →

Frequently asked questions

What income do foreigners need for a Singapore credit card?
It varies by card — commonly around S$40,000–45,000, but some (e.g. Standard Chartered) require up to S$90,000. You'll also generally need a valid Employment Pass. Always confirm with the issuer.
Can foreigners get a no-annual-fee card?
Yes, but eligibility still depends on meeting the income and work-pass requirements. Check each card's current terms.
Find your card →Compare all cards →More best-card guides →