Building or rebuilding credit in the UK can feel like a challenging battle, especially if you have a limited or poor credit history.
Fortunately, credit builder cards like the Aquis Credit Card offer a stepping stone towards improving your financial standing. Issued by Vanquis Bank, the Aquis Credit Card is designed for those who may struggle to get approved for mainstream credit cards.
In this blog, we will look at what the Aquis Credit Card offers, its pros and cons, eligibility requirements, and whether it might fit you.
What is the Aquis Credit Card?

The Aquis Credit Card is a credit builder card issued by Vanquis Bank. It is specifically designed for individuals with a poor or limited credit history.
This card aims to help users demonstrate responsible credit use, which can improve their credit score over time. With a manageable credit limit and tools to keep track of your spending, the Aquis card makes it easier to stay in control.
Key Features of the Aquis Credit Card
Feature | Details |
---|---|
Representative APR | 29.8% variable |
Purchase Rate | 29.84% p.a. variable |
Initial Credit Limit | Between £250 and £1,000 (subject to status) |
Credit Limit Increases | Reviewed every 5 months, can increase up to £4,000 |
Annual Fee | No annual fee – no hidden yearly charges |
Contactless Payments | Enabled – fast and secure transactions |
eVanquis Mobile App | Check balance, manage account, and make payments on the go |
Eligibility Criteria for Aquis Credit Card
To be eligible for the Aquis Credit Card you must satisfy the below criteria:-
- Be 18 years or older
- Be a UK resident
- Not currently hold or have applied for a Vanquis card in the last 6 months
- Have a stable source of income
Vanquis offers a soft eligibility checker, allowing you to see your chances of approval without affecting your credit score. Top 5 Credit Cards with Lowest Interest Rates in UK
Pros and Cons of the Aquis Credit Card
This table helps you understand the Pros and cons of Aquis Credit Card:-
Pros | Cons |
---|---|
No Annual Fee – Saves money in the long run | High APR – Costly if balance isn’t paid in full each month |
Credit Building Tool – Ideal for poor or no credit history | Fees on Cash Withdrawals – 3% or £3 minimum (whichever is higher) |
Credit Limit Reviews – Opportunity for higher limits over time | Foreign Transaction Fees – 2.99% on non-sterling transactions |
Soft Search Tool – Check eligibility without impacting credit score | No Rewards or Cashback – Offers no incentive benefits |
User-Friendly App – Manage everything easily via eVanquis mobile app | Limited Global Use – Not ideal for frequent international travel |
Benefits of the Aquis Credit Card
Here are some of the listed benefits of Aquis Credit Card:-
- Improves Credit Score: Timely payments and low credit usage can boost your score
- Track Spending: App notifications and monthly statements help budgeting
- Designed for Newcomers: Friendly to those new to the UK credit system
- Credit Education: Learn about credit management through experience
Things to Remember
The Aquis card can be helpful if used it responsibly:-
- Interest on Cash Withdrawals: Charged immediately.
- Carrying Balances: Can lead to significant interest charges
- Missed Payments: May negatively impact your credit instead of helping it
Aquis vs Other Vanquis Credit Cards
Vanquis offers other cards like the Classic and Chrome. Here’s how Aquis compares:
Feature | Aquis Credit Card | Classic Credit Card | Chrome Credit Card |
---|---|---|---|
Representative APR | 29.8% variable | 34.5% variable | 29.5% variable |
Initial Credit Limit | £250 – £1,000 | £500 – £1,200 | £250 – £1,500 |
Credit Limit Increases | Reviewed every 5 months, up to £4,000 | Reviewed every 5 months, up to £4,000 | Reviewed every 5 months, up to £4,000 |
Annual Fee | £0 | £0 | £0 |
Cash Withdrawal Fee | 3% or £3 (whichever is greater) | 3% or £3 (whichever is greater) | 3% or £3 (whichever is greater) |
Foreign Transaction Fee | 2.99% | 3% | 2.99% |
Interest-Free Period | Up to 56 days on purchases if paid in full | Up to 56 days on purchases if paid in full | Up to 56 days on purchases if paid in full |
Mobile App Access | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Eligibility Checker | Yes (Soft Search) | Yes (Soft Search) | Yes (Soft Search) |
Best For | Building credit with a moderate APR | Individuals with limited or poor credit histories | Those seeking the lowest APR among Vanquis cards |
Tips for Using Aquis Responsibly
- Pay More Than the Minimum: Helps reduce interest and build credit faster
- Avoid Cash Withdrawals: Due to fees and immediate interest
- Set Payment Reminders: Avoid late fees and credit damage
- Monitor Usage: Keep usage below 30% of your credit limit
How to Apply for the Aquis Credit Card
Follow the below steps to Apply for Aquis Credit Card without any hassle:-
- Check Eligibility: Use the soft search tool on Vanquis website
- Fill Out the Application: Provide accurate personal and financial info
- Submit Documents: Proof of ID and income may be required
- Wait for Approval: You will typically hear back within a few days
Conclusion
If you are looking to build or rebuild your credit in the UK, the Aquis Credit Card by Vanquis Bank is a strong contender.
Aquis Credit Card doesn’t offer flashy rewards or low interest rates. Its primary focus on accessibility, credit building, and user-friendly tools make it the best choice for those starting their financial journey.
Always remember to pay on time, avoid unnecessary fees, and monitor your usage and you will be well on your way to a healthier credit profile. 10 Best Start up Business Credit Cards
If you have any question do write in the comment section and if this article is helpful to you then do share it on your social media handles.
What is the minimum credit limit on the Aquis Credit Card?
The minimum credit limit is around £250.
Does the Vanquis Chrome Card charge an annual fee?
No, it has no annual fee.
Can I increase my Vanquis credit limit?
Yes, reviews happen every 5 months.
Is there a foreign transaction fee on Vanquis cards?
Yes, 2.99% on non-sterling transactions.
Hello! I’m Ella Patel, a blogger based in India with a strong specialization in the finance sector. My journey into the world of finance and writing is a blend of academic achievements and professional experiences, which I am excited to share with you