HSBC Elite – How to apply

By Marcos • 11/29/2024

The HSBC Credit Card Elite is a premium choice aimed at customers who value high-end experiences.

It combines benefits such as access to airport VIP lounges, loyalty rewards and special travel offers. 

The flexible points program allows you to accumulate and redeem rewards on every transaction according to your preferences. At the same time, the card has exclusive services, such as a 24-hour concierge.

Behind its sophistication, the HSBC Card also offers transparency in its rates and conditions, as well as an approach focused on security, flexibility and convenience.

How does the HSBC Credit Card Elite work?

The HSBC Credit Card Elite works like a premium credit card. With each purchase you make, you accumulate points in a rewards program that can be used for travel, products, services or bill credits. 

Points accrue at a generous rate, especially in high-spending categories like travel and leisure.

These advantages make the travel experience more comfortable and exclusive. THE credit card also includes fraud protection and travel insurance, ensuring peace of mind in every transaction.

The functionality is complemented by an online platform and intuitive mobile app, which allow you to track expenses, pay invoices and manage rewards with ease. 

Main benefits of HSBC Premium

The HSBC credit card Premium stands out by the robust benefits it offers, especially for travelers and sophisticated consumers, among the main ones is the rewards program, which allows you to accumulate points with each transaction. 

These points can be exchanged for airline tickets, hotel stays, products or even credits on invoice, offering total flexibility for the holder.

Another significant benefit is access to exclusive services, such as VIP lounges at airports through LoungeKey, allowing for more comfortable and sophisticated travel. 

The card also stands out for its 24-hour assistance through a concierge service, which helps with organizing events, restaurant reservations and travel planning. 

And the welcome bonus The 60,000 points offered by this card are equivalent to up to $900 in travel booked through the HSBC Travel portal, earned by spending $4,000 in the first three months. 

Additionally, the card offers a $400 annual credit for airline tickets, hotels and car rentals, making it easier to reduce travel costs. 

And the benefits don’t stop there: The card includes comprehensive travel insurance, baggage protection, accident coverage, and reimbursement for enrollment in programs like TSA PreCheck and Global Entry. 

Cons of HSBC Premium

Although the HSBC Premier offers impressive advantages, there are some points that may not please all consumers. 

Firstly, the card requires a high annual fee, which may not be worth it for those who do not frequently use the premium benefits. 

And to make the most of it, it’s essential to be willing to spend in categories that accumulate the most points.

Furthermore, the rewards program may have limitations, such as specific rules for redemptions and validation of points. For consumers who prefer more direct rewards, like cashback, this aspect can be a deal breaker. 

Another point to consider is the requirement of a high minimum income for approval. This makes the card less accessible to some audiences. 

APR and Fees

The HSBC Credit Card Elite has a fee structure that reflects its premium status, with a combination of competitive costs and benefits that benefit the frequent consumer. 

An annual fee is $495, a high value, but justified by the exclusive benefits that the card offers, such as access to rewards programs, travel insurance and VIP lounges at airports. 

Furthermore, there are no additional costs for adding authorized users, making it convenient for family use.

As far as APR is concerned, the card features variable rates between 20.74% and 24.74%, applicable to both purchases and balance transfers. 

These rates are in line with the premium card market and may vary depending on the credit history of the holder. 

A positive point is the fee exemption for foreign transactions, which makes it ideal for international travelers, eliminating extra costs for purchases made outside the country.

How to apply for the HSBC Credit Card Elite

To get started, you need to fill out an online application directly on the HSBC website, providing personal information, details about your income and documents proving your identity and address. The process is intuitive and fast.

Before submitting your application, it is recommended that you review the eligibility requirements, such as the required minimum income, and ensure that you meet these conditions.

After approval, the card will be sent to your registered address and you can activate it via the HSBC app or call center.