Card for under 18s: is it possible to have one?

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Igor

With over a decade of experience in SEO and digital marketing, Igor Bernardo specializes in organic traffic strategies that deliver real results—such as increased visibility, generated...

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05/07/2025

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Credit cards have become one of the main payment methods for everyone. This is due to their ease and security, as they don't require cash to complete transactions.

But a common question is regarding age. Is it possible to get a credit card if you're a minor?

In this article, we'll show you the best cards for those under 18 and show you how to get yours. Stay tuned for all the information.

Discover the 5 best credit cards for under 18s here!

How old do you have to be to get a credit card?

The question of obtaining a credit card for minors under 18 is common and raises many questions, especially regarding how to obtain a credit card for minors.

This is because the minimum age to apply for a credit card varies depending on each financial institution's policies. Generally, most require applicants to be at least 18 years old.

However, there are alternatives for young people who want to start their financial journey earlier. It's a way to gain control and learn about financial literacy from an early age.

What do you need to get a credit card for someone under 18?

Getting a credit card before you're of legal age may seem challenging, but it's not impossible. There are some strategies and alternatives that can help you get one even if you're under 18.

Many banks offer options for minors under 18, provided there is active participation by a legal guardian, usually a parent. In these cases, the primary cardholder is the adult, but the minor can use the card linked to the account.

This is the simplest way to have a card for those under 18, as the card becomes an additional card to the main card.

Another option is to open a joint savings account with a parent or guardian. Some banks allow the minor to be a joint account holder and, consequently, obtain a credit card linked to that account.

Some card issuers may consider a minor's own income as an approval criterion. This includes income from part-time jobs, internships, or allowances.

And finally, there are banks that have accounts for young people and teenagers, that is, they have an entire line of credit developed so that anyone who is a minor can have a credit card.

It is essential to remember that all cards for minors under 18 years of age require approval from a legal guardian.

What are credit cards like for those under 18?

Credit cards intended for people under 18 generally have specific features to meet the needs and limitations of this age group.

To ensure financial responsibility, cards for minors often have lower spending limits. This allows young people to gradually learn how to manage their finances.

Additionally, some cards may have restrictions on the locations and types of transactions allowed. This is to protect young people from inappropriate financial practices.

It's also worth noting that many card issuers for minors offer educational programs on financial literacy. These resources help young people understand concepts such as budgeting, saving, and responsible credit use.

Therefore, in general, credit cards for people under 18 are:

  • Prepaid cards;
  • Cards linked to a guardian's account with a usage limit;
  • Cards for national purchases;
  • Cards with restricted values and places for purchase.

The 5 best credit cards for under 18s

If you want to have one of the cards for those under 18, check out the list of the five best options so you can choose the one that best suits your profile:

Inter Gold Card

Banco Inter offers anyone the option of obtaining a Gold credit card, with no age limit. However, this card must be an additional card linked to the parent/guardian's card.

Therefore, anyone who has an account with an Inter card can request a additional card for those under 18 years old. The card is approved immediately, and you can control the limit and its usage through the app.

See the advantages of the Inter Gold card:

  • Cashback at Inter Shop: Users of additional cards have access to the Inter Shop cashback program, allowing them to get part of the amount spent back.
  • Multi-Function Debit and Credit Card: Additional cards are versatile and can be used as both debit and credit cards, offering greater flexibility in everyday transactions.
  • Investments in the Super App: Through Banco Inter's super app, cardholders and additional card users can explore a variety of investment options, contributing to the development of a solid financial education from an early age.
  • Inter Loop Points Program: Additional cards participate in the Inter Loop Points Program, allowing you to accumulate points on every transaction. These points can be exchanged for a variety of benefits and rewards.
  • Annuity: Banco Inter's additional cards do not have an annual fee.

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Pan bank card for minors

Banco PAN offers the possibility of issuing an additional credit card for minors under 18 years of age, with the minimum age set at 16 years.

In this scenario, it is important to emphasize that the account holder at Banco PAN is the one who must make the request, and can request up to 4 additional cards to benefit young people with a series of exclusive advantages:

  • Limit Adjustment by the Holder: Additional cards allow the cardholder to adjust spending limits, providing greater control and customization according to each user's needs.
  • Accumulation of Points in the Surpreenda Mastercard Program: By using additional cards, you can accumulate points in the renowned Surpreenda Program, associated with Mastercard. This program offers the opportunity to exchange points for exclusive benefits and experiences.
  • Offers and Discounts in Online Stores: Beneficiaries of additional cards have access to exclusive offers and discounts at various online stores, expanding their savings opportunities when shopping online.

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Superdigital Card

The Superdigital Card is one of the simplest ways to get a card for those under 18.

This is because the institution automatically approves you as soon as you apply for a credit card, simply by providing the details when registering.

The Superdigital card is prepaid, meaning you need to load the card first before using it for purchases. This makes it easier to maintain financial control and make the most of your credit card.

See the advantages:

  • No annual fee: The Superdigital card does not charge any type of annual fee to its customers.
  • Financial control: As the card is prepaid, to use it you need to have credit in your account, which makes financial control easier.
  • International acceptance: The Superdigital card is accepted anywhere in the world with the Mastercard brand.

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Trigg Card

The Trigg Card represents an excellent international credit card option that offers the cardholder the possibility of requesting up to 3 additional cards for children under 18, from 8 years of age.

A unique and attractive feature is the customization capability of Trigg Visa cards, which can be adorned with superhero prints, cartoons, TV series, and other available options, ensuring a unique experience for young users.

Check out some of the exclusive benefits provided by Trigg Visa cards below:

  • Attractive Cashback: Enjoy up to 1.3% cashback on card spending, providing an effective way to save while using your card for multiple transactions.
  • Personalized Cards for Teens: Trigg Visa cards offer the opportunity to personalize with iconic character designs like Scooby-Doo, Wonder Woman, Superman, the Joker, Batman, Harley Quinn, and Friends. This variety allows teens to express their personality and style through their card design.
  • Earnings Opportunity: An additional benefit is the opportunity to earn money by referring friends to Trigg. With the potential to earn up to R$7,200 per year, Trigg encourages the growth of its user community, providing financial benefits to its members.

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Nubank Card

If you're a Nubank customer, you should know that you can have additional credit cards for minors.

You can have the card linked to your main card, allowing you to control limits, spending, and more. This makes it easier to have a card for minors that's convenient to use.

Check out what it offers:

  • Cashback: You receive cashback as you use your card for purchases.
  • Annuity: Nubank's additional cards are free of annual fees.
  • Virtual Card: Want more security? Purchase using a virtual credit card.

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How do I get a credit card if I'm under 18?

To get a credit card for people under 18, there are a few ways.

If it is an additional card, the steps are as follows:

  • Access your bank's website or app.
  • Go to “Additional cards”.
  • Choose “Request additional card”.
  • Fill in the minor's details.
  • Submit the necessary documents.
  • Wait for card approval.
  • Wait to receive the credit card and activate it so that the minor under 18 can use it.

If it is a prepaid credit card, the steps are:

  • Access the website of the bank that offers the Prepaid card.
  • Register with all the details of the minor.
  • Send documentation for the minor and guardian.
  • Wait for the card to be approved before using it.

Although it may vary a little, following this step-by-step guide you can get a credit card for those under 18.

Some precautions to take with credit cards for minors

If you want to have a credit card for people under 18, there are some essential precautions you need to take to ensure there are no problems when using it:

  • Conscious Limit: When getting a credit card, it's crucial to set a conscious limit. Avoid spending beyond your means, contributing to solid financial health from an early age.
  • Regular Monitoring: Make it a habit to regularly monitor your card spending and transactions. This allows you to quickly identify any suspicious activity and maintain control over your finances.
  • Parental Participation: Encourage active participation from parents or guardians in card administration, especially if they are primary cardholders. This fosters a learning and supportive environment.
  • Financial Education Programs: Take advantage of financial education programs offered by some institutions. These resources can provide valuable guidance on how to use your card responsibly and develop healthy financial habits.
  • Focus on Educational Benefits: Choose cards that offer educational benefits, such as cashback programs or discounts on courses and books. This not only provides financial benefits but also encourages continuous learning.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Sobre o autor

Igor Bernar

Igor

Editor-in-Chief

With over a decade of experience in SEO and digital marketing, Igor Bernardo specializes in organic traffic strategies focused on real results—such as increased visibility, lead generation, and sales. He currently heads the SEO department at Geniuzz.

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