John Miller, Credit Cards Moderator
@john_miller
Banks like American Express, Capital One and Bank of America may offer instant approval, and even instant access to your credit card’s line of credit through features like temporary card numbers or digital cards. But not everyone may be eligible for instant approval or access, and you’ll likely have to apply online in order to have a chance.
However, note that the physical credit card will not be issued instantly. Instead, it will be mailed at the address on file and should arrive within 7-10 business days. Some banks do offer expedited shipping, but there may be a fee for that.
Popular Banks That May Offer Instant Approval & Access to Your Credit Line
- American Express: Most credit cards issued by American Express offer cardholders the chance to see their card information immediately after approval if they are eligible.
- Bank of America: Existing cardholders may get an instant card number as long as they apply through the Bank of America mobile app.
- Capital One: Many Capital One credit cards allow cardholders to access a virtual card once approved, so they can start using their credit cards immediately. Not everyone may be eligible for this feature, though.
- Citibank: You can get a temporary card number after approval, but it’s not guaranteed.
In general, processing times and policies on accessing your credit line after approval depend on the bank and card type. Not all applications are approved instantly, and even if they do, there's no guarantee that you'll be able to access your credit line before the card arrives.
If being approved right away and using your credit card immediately is important, it’s best to check with the bank before applying. That way, you can confirm their approval timelines, instant access options, and whether expedited delivery is available.

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