What are instant approval credit cards, exactly? They are secured, unsecured, and prepaid credit cards that provide a decision of approval or rejection in as little as 60 seconds.

Credit cards with instant approval do not guarantee approval; they are not guaranteed approval cards. But they do offer a decision within a minute or less (for most applicants, with standard credit profiles).

Within a minute you can find out whether you have been approved or not. Numerous credit cards with instant approval offer conditional approval (which may be extended to full approval once a complete credit check is done).

It's important to note that some people find that they are conditionally approved, but may be rejected once the detailed credit check is performed; or they may be fully approved, but the terms are not as ideal as those advertised (they’re based on your credit rating). Additionally, once approved, you may still need to wait to activate a physical credit card.

Credit Cards With Instant Approval: Check Your Credit Before Applying

When considering credit cards with instant approval it’s best to know your credit score before applying, that way you have an idea of whether you will be approved. And of course, it is important to read all the terms and conditions of any secured, unsecured, or prepaid credit cards with instant approval, before applying.