The Rakuten Card is a great option for those new to credit cards because it has no annual fee and allows for easy point accumulation. Additionally, the eligibility requirements for the card include consideration of both the individual and household annual income, meaning unemployed individuals, housewives, and students can still apply.
This article will detail the steps for obtaining a Rakuten card and provide information about the ideal time to apply and take advantage of any ongoing campaigns.
Rakuten Card
Recommended point
- No annual fee for life
- Earn points by signing up and using
- Worry-free security
| First year annual fee | Annual membership fee 2nd year ~ | Point redemption rate |
| free | free | 1.0% to 16.0% |
| Issuing speed | international brands | Electronic money |
| About 7 business days |      |  |
Ancillary service: ETC card, Family card, shopping insurance, Overseas travel insurance, Domestic travel insurance
How To Obtain A Rakuten Card
It’s extremely simple to apply for this card. As shown in the TV commercial, you can easily apply online from your smartphone or computer anytime, without providing a copy of your driver’s license or seal.
Here is a quick overview of the process.
How to obtain a Rakuten card
- Fill in and send the application form
- Receive an e-mail notifying you that the application process has been completed
- Same day or next day examination
- Receive an email just before delivery
- Receive your card by mail (present your identity verification documents)
- Get 2,000 points for new membership benefits
According to Rakuten’s official website, the application processing time for the Rakuten Card usually takes about a week to 10 days.
The screening is done immediately using AI on the same or the following day of application submission. If there are any mistakes or questions about the information you’ve provided, the company will call you at your workplace or home to confirm.
The timing of the card issuance depends on how quickly you respond to the confirmation call.
[With Images] Rakuten Card Application Form Input Flow
Applying for this card is very easy! You can easily complete the application in just 6 steps.
You don’t need any documents to apply for the card, and the application process can be completed entirely online.
- On the official website, click the category “Make a card” → click the button “Make a Rakuten card”
- Click the “Click here to apply for Rakuten Card” button on the “Application page”
- Enter “basic” information
- Enter “workplace” information
- Enter “Rakuten member” information
- End with “Confirm” and “Complete”
Please refer to the image below for instructions on how to apply. The application procedure is similar for both PCs and smartphones. However, we will only provide instructions for PC applications this time.
1. Click the category “Make a card” on the “Official website” → click the button “Make a Rakuten card”
To get this card, go to the official website and click on the “Make a card” category located at the top of the page. Once you do that, the “Create Rakuten card” button will appear on the page below the image. Click on it to proceed to the next page.
2. Click the “Click here to apply for Rakuten Card” button on the “Application page”
After this, you will see the “application page” screen. Look for the “Click here to apply for Rakuten Card” button inside the image frame and click on it to proceed.
If you are not yet a Rakuten member, select the “Non-Rakuten member” option. However, if you already have a Rakuten account, please select the “Rakuten member” option.
This time, I will explain assuming those who are not members.
3. Enter “basic” information
When you reach the application screen, the first page will ask for your “basic” information. On this page, you will need to input the following information.
“Basic” information input items |
|---|
| ・Select brand ・Select card ・Name ・Gender ・Date of birth ・Telephone number ・E-mail address ・Address ・About family・Deposit amount ・Bill destination ・Purpose of use after joining the card ・Amount borrowed from other companies ・Rakuten Edy electronic money function attached |
Please note that all fields are required and must be entered accurately.
On the information input page, there are four types of brands available for selection: VISA, MasterCard, JCB, and American Express. So, if you haven’t chosen a brand yet, you’ll need to do that first.
When you choose a payment account, you can select from a list of designated banks or credit unions. If you can’t find your bank or credit union among the options displayed, you can click on the image to see the available regional bank list or credit bank list (underlined in blue).
4. Enter “work place” information
Enter the following items at your place of employment.
Input items for “place of work” information |
|---|
| Name of place of work (company name), name of place of work, name of prefecture where place of work is located, phone number of place of work (outside line), years of service, occupation, occupation, industry, confirmation of driver’s license |
“Confirmation of driver’s license” is a confirmation of the presence or absence, so there is no problem even if you do not have it.
5. Enter “Rakuten member” information
If you are not already a member of Rakuten when you apply for the card, you will automatically be registered as a member at that time.
The registration process only requires you to enter your Rakuten member password and choose whether to receive Rakuten member news. This shouldn’t take much time.
6. End with “Confirm” and “Complete”
Once you reach this point, the procedure will end after you click on the “Confirm” and “Complete” buttons. On the “Confirmation” screen, you will be able to see a confirmation of the application contents.
Please keep in mind that the appearance of this ‘confirm’ screen will be different depending on the account you selected at the beginning when you entered your ‘basic’ information.
To confirm the accuracy of this application, please ensure that you scroll down the page and select all three checkboxes.
As you scroll down, you will see the “Agree to the terms of use of the web statement service” and “Agree to the terms of use of the web document service” fields, so check the contents and check them.
To complete the application and become a Rakuten member, check the “I agree” box at the bottom of the page for each agreement. Then, press the “Complete application and Rakuten member registration” button. Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll receive a confirmation email at the registered address and the review process will begin.
Apply for Rakuten Card online only! No store or document delivery
To apply for a Rakuten Card, you must do so online as paper applications are not accepted. The Rakuten Group has eliminated annual fees and offers a 1% point return rate due to its paperless system. However, if you struggle with using technology, the online-only application process may be a drawback. To address this, Rakuten has established a customer service website that includes frequently asked questions and a contact point for inquiries. You may also reach out to Rakuten Card through email or chat.
Why is it not necessary to provide identity verification documents and a seal when applying for a Rakuten card?
When applying for Rakuten Card, there are various forms of identification that can be used for verification such as a driving record certificate, health insurance card, passport, and My Number card (with face photo) among others. Sending a copy of your driver’s license is not necessary.
For a regular credit card, you must submit a copy of your identification document, but for Rakuten Card, you can verify your identity by presenting your identification document to the delivery person when they bring the card to your doorstep.
Specifically, there are three delivery services: Sagawa Express “Recipient Confirmation Support”, Japan Post “Receipt Limited Mail”, and Japan Post “Simple Registered Mail”, you can choose the option that you prefer.
When applying this card, it is not necessary to affix a registered seal when registering a debit account.
When you use it, you don’t have to use a physical stamp. Instead, you can register your bank account online and withdraw money that way. When you input your payment account information on the application, you will be directed to your financial institution’s website where your identity will be verified.
For example, MUFG Bank has two methods for identity verification. One method requires you to enter your date of birth, cash card PIN, and the one-time password used for Internet banking. The other method requires you to enter the final balance printed on your passbook, as well as your date of birth and cash card PIN.
As you can see, the this card can be easily processed online, without the need to visit a convenience store or mail a copy of your driver’s license, unlike other credit card companies.
Rakuten Card
Recommended point
- No annual fee for life
- Earn points by signing up and using
- Worry-free security
| First year annual fee | Annual membership fee 2nd year ~ | Point redemption rate |
| free | free | 1.0% to 16.0% |
| Issuing speed | international brands | Electronic money |
| About 7 business days | | |
Ancillary service: ETC card, Family card, shopping insurance, Overseas travel insurance, Domestic travel insurance
About Rakuten Card Examination
Anyone over the age of 18, excluding high school students , can apply for the Rakuten Card . However, in the case of minors , as I touched on earlier, the consent of their parental authority is required .
The Rakuten Gold Card and Rakuten Premium Card, which require an annual fee, are for people over the age of 20 with a stable income.
Even students and housewives with zero income can apply for the Rakuten Card!
Even if anyone can apply for a Rakuten card, you might think that it would be difficult if your income is 0 yen.
But don’t worry. When applying for the Rakuten Card, not only the person’s annual income but also the household’s annual income is entered, so even if the person’s annual income is 0 yen, they can still apply for the Rakuten Card.
It is not necessary to enter the amount of annual income accurately to the nearest 1 yen. Since it is a self-declaration, there is no problem if you fill in the rounded-down amount or the amount that is less than 1,000 yen.
What Rakuten Card checks in the examination is “a person who will return the monthly payment of the card used”, and “Does the family have a family member who can pay up front even if the person himself cannot pay?” is.
This card is said to be the easiest credit card to pass the examination. On the other hand, if you cause a problem after making a Rakuten card, you will be dealt with severely.
For example, if you repeatedly make late payments, your card will be banned.
People who are likely to fail Rakuten card screening
Even with Rakuten cards, which are said to be easy to pass the examination, there are some people who fail the examination.
Such people may have the impression that they are sloppy in repayment, have financial problems, or cannot be trusted. For example, the following people apply.
person who is susceptible to judgment
- Applying for multiple credit cards in a short period of time
- Applying for multiple credit cards in a short period of time
- Applying for multiple credit cards in a short period of time
- Have you ever filed for bankruptcy or debt consolidation?
- There is a mistake or a lie in the information entered in the application form
Although it is not limited to Rakuten Card, in credit card screening, in addition to the personal information entered at the time of application, we also check the borrowing history of money managed by a “personal credit information agency”.
Even if you don’t remember registering with such an institution, if you have experience creating a credit card, cashing out, or purchasing a mobile phone or smartphone in installments in the past, you will definitely be registered with a personal credit information agency. increase. Registration is required under the Money Lending Business Act.
What you need to apply for Rakuten Card
Check what you need to apply for Rakuten Card. You can quickly fill out the application form.
It is a good idea to write down your PIN and password so that you do not forget them.
What you need to apply for Rakuten Card
- Cash card or passbook for withdrawal account
- my annual income
- household income
- Savings amount
- Name of place of work, name of prefecture, length of service, phone number
- driver’s license
- mail address
- 4-digit number PIN
- 6 or more half-width alphanumeric passwords
Points to check before making a Rakuten card
Aim for a campaign where you can get up to 8,000 points
Rakuten Card is always holding campaigns where you can get Rakuten points for new memberships and usage.
Below is a list of campaigns that have been held so far.
year | event date |
|---|---|
| 2018 | February 19-26 |
| May 16th to May 21st | |
| August 22nd to August 27th | |
| November 12th – November 19th | |
| 2019 | February 18-25 |
| May 20th to May 27th | |
| August 19th – August 26th | |
| November 11th – November 18th | |
| 2020 | February 18-25 |
| November 9-16 | |
| December 14-21 | |
| 2021 | February 15-24 |
| May 17-24 | |
| September 14-21 | |
| November 15-22 | |
| December 13-20 | |
| 2022 | March 1-8 |
| May 16-23 | |
| September 9-20 (10,000 points) | |
| November 11-21 | |
2023 | February 17th – February 27th |
| May 12th – May 22nd | |
| June 9th – June 30th | |
| August 11th to August 21st (estimate) | |
| November 10th to November 20th (estimate) |
Looking at the 5-year campaigns, we can see the trends in the months when the 8,000 points campaign runs.
In 2018 and 2019, it was held every three months in February, May, August and November, and in 2020 it was held in February, November and December.
A total of 5 campaigns were held in 2009 and 4 campaigns in 2010, and the month of each year has not changed significantly.
Although there are some gaps in the timing, based on the trend so far, it is predicted that the third week of February, May, June, August, and November in 2023 will be the most likely time. will be
It’s only a 5-year track record, so there’s no guarantee that the 8,000 point campaign will be held in the same month every year, but it’s worth checking out.
In addition, this privilege point can only be obtained at the time of the first enrollment. Even if you join once, cancel, and then join again, you will not be able to receive bonus points.
[Continuing in June 2023! ] Campaign to receive up to 8,000 points for new members only
As introduced above, in June2023we are holding a campaign to get up to8,000 pointsonly for new members
It’s a limited-time campaign until June 30th, so it’s recommended to join during the advantageous period.
New membership campaign target period: June 9, 2023 10:00 to June 30, 2023 10:00
Rakuten Card
Recommended point
- No annual fee for life
- Earn points by signing up and using
- Worry-free security
| First year annual fee | Annual membership fee 2nd year ~ | Point redemption rate |
| free | free | 1.0% to 16.0% |
| Issuing speed | international brands | Electronic money |
| About 7 business days | | |
Ancillary service: ETC card, Family card, shopping insurance, Overseas travel insurance, Domestic travel insurance
[Benefits] Rakuten Card has two types of bonus points
Common mistakes when applying for this card are cases such as “I failed to receive bonus points!”
In fact, even if you apply for this card, you cannot receive all the points at once.
It’s a little complicated, but the system is divided into two stages and you get two types of points.
Please note that the method of receiving and the expiration date are different for each.
Let’s take a look at an example of a campaign where you can get 5,000 points, which is always held.
| Privilege | [Benefit 1] New Membership Benefit | [Privilege 2] Card use privilege |
| breakdown | 2,000 points | 3,000 points |
| Acquisition conditions | People who have applied for a new Rakuten Card and have received the card | First-time users of Rakuten Card (1 yen or more) and those who have completed account registration (by the end of the month after the application date) |
| kinds | Normal point | Limited time points |
| Expiration date | 1 year (usually extended by 1 year each time points are earned) | Until the end of the month following the point acquisition date |
How to receive | After the card arrives, you need to log in to “Rakuten e-NAVI” and follow the procedures to receive it. | Automatically granted around the 20th of the month following the month in which the acquisition conditions are cleared |
What you want to be careful about with Privilege 1, “New Membership Privilege Points,” is how to receive it .
When you receive your card, log in to the management screen for Rakuten Card members called “Rakuten e-NAVI” and register for the first time, then press the “Apply to receive points” button to earn 2,000 points. increase. If you do not receive your card within six months after it was issued, it will expire.
What you want to pay attention to in Privilege 2, “Card use privilege points”, is the acquisition conditions and the expiration date of the points .
In order to receive the remaining 3,000 points,
- it is necessary to make purchases of 1 yen or more with the Rakuten Card within 2 to 3 months after receiving the Rakuten Card.
- At this time, it is also a condition that the registration of the withdrawal account has been completed.
And these 3,000 points are limited-time points, and will expire if they are not used by the end of the following month after they are earned.
By the way, in the case of the 8,000 point campaign, Benefit 1 is 2,000 points and Benefit 2 is 6,000 points.
[Issuance days] Rakuten cards cannot be issued on the same day
Rakuten cards can only be applied for online and cannot be issued on the same day.
As I mentioned earlier, it takes a minimum of 1 week to 10 days for the card to arrive after you apply.
By the way, credit cards that can be issued on the same day are cases where an application window is set up at the store. Specifically, Saison Card, Aeon Card, Bic Camera Suica Card, Epos Card, Takashimaya Card, etc.
These cards have physical stores such as department stores, supermarkets, and electronics stores. If you apply for a credit card at a store counter, a “temporary card” will be issued, and you can use the card on the same day if you shop at the company’s store.
[Withdrawal account] Only the account in the name of the person. Rakuten Bank is packed with great deals!
Only accounts with the same name as the person who applied for the card can be registered as a Rakuten Card withdrawal account . There are three benefits to registering Rakuten Bank as your Rakuten Card withdrawal account .
merit
- Earn 1x more points when shopping at Rakuten Ichiba
- Earn 3-9 points for every direct debit
- Applying for multiple credit cards in a short period of time
The third merit is that you need to enter Rakuten Bank’s Happy Program, a free preferential program.
As the membership stage of Rakuten Bank rises, the number of points that can be obtained increases.
You can easily change your withdrawal account at any time by logging into the Rakuten e-NAVI management screen of your Rakuten Card.
You can apply to open a Rakuten Bank account when you apply for the card, but it is not too late to apply for the Rakuten Card first and then consider Rakuten Bank later.
[International brand] Choose Mastercard if you have a variety of designs, or VISA if you have two cards
When filling out the card application form, the first choice is the international brand of a credit card. If you decide in advance which one suits you, you can apply smoothly.
In addition to Mastercard, JCB, and VISA, American Express joined the ranks in 2018, and currently, there are 4 international brands to choose from.
Each international brand that can be selected with Rakuten Card has its characteristics.
VISA can only choose a simple normal design. However, if you choose the normal design silver, you can add 1 Rakuten card and you can have 2 cards.
Mastercard has the most designs to choose from, so if there is a design that interests you, go with Mastercard.
Compared to VISA and Mastercard, JCB can be used at fewer stores, but it is the only Rakuten card that allows you to choose a Disney design.
Compared to VISA and Mastercard, American Express can be used at fewer stores in Japan and overseas.
However, you can use unique services such as “LUXA”, an American Express member-only restaurant and product sales discount site.
You can add another Rakuten card by selecting VISA Silver.
As introduced in the VISA explanation, it is not well known that you can make an additional Rakuten card only if you select the Rakuten silver VISA card.
To add a new card, log in to the Rakuten e-NAVI management screen for Rakuten Card and click “Application (Card/Service)” → “Create a second card/add/switch cards” to display the application screen. comes out.
Cards that can be added are Rakuten Premium Card, Rakuten Gold Card, Rakuten Pink Card (regular design and panda design only), and Rakuten Card (panda design and FC Barcelona design only). Select either JCB or Mastercard for international brands.
Please note that Disney, YOSHIKI, Vissel Kobe, and Rakuten Eagles’ designs cannot be added.
What is Rakuten PINK Card?
The basic functions of all Rakuten cards are the same, even if the designs are different. However, as an exception, additional services can be added to the pink Rakuten Pink Card.
To receive additional services, you must apply for the Rakuten Pink Card Customization Service. There is a monthly fee
to use the service. After applying for a new Rakuten PINK card, it is free for up to two months, so it would be nice to try it out.
Additional Rakuten Pink Card services
- Rakuten Group Service
- RAKUTEN PINKY LIFE
- Insurance for women “Rakuten PINK Support”
Rakuten Group services cost 330 yen (tax included) per month, and you can get discount coupons that allow you to use Rakuten Group services, such as a 500 yen off coupon that can be used at Rakuten Ichiba, and a 1,000 yen off coupon that can be used for domestic lodging on Rakuten Travel.
RAKUTEN PINKY LIFE is 330 yen (tax included) per month, and you can get 500 yen off tickets that can be used at movie theaters nationwide, 20 to 50% off at popular hotels, restaurants, and restaurants such as everyday lunches. . In addition, you can receive discounts for lessons, nursing care and childcare services.
Finally, Rakuten PINK Support allows you to enroll in four types of insurance exclusive to Rakuten PINK Card members. The monthly premium varies depending on the coverage plan.
By the way, the Rakuten Pink Card is advertised as being for women, but men can apply for the Rakuten Pink Card.
Rakuten Card
Recommended point
- The charm of the Rakuten card remains the same
- Available in 4 cute designs
- Customized benefits for women
| First year annual fee | Annual membership fee 2nd year ~ | Point redemption rate |
| free | free | 1.0% |
| Issuing speed | international brands | Electronic money |
| About 7 business days | | |
Ancillary service: ETC card, Family card, shopping insurance, Overseas travel insurance, Domestic travel insurance
[Examination] How to fill in revolving payment and cash advance fields
The Rakuten Card application form has two essential items that you should be aware of: the “automatic revolving service application” and the “card cashing frame“.
Automatic revolving service application
The automatic revolving service allows you to set a fixed amount for your credit card payment each month. While this service may seem convenient, using it will result in a revolving fee being charged.
Some people say that it is easier to pass the Rakuten Card review if you apply for the automatic revolving service.
Card cashing frame
Using a cash advance means taking a loan and it’s suggested that you avoid it whenever possible due to the interest charged on the amount borrowed.
If you have an annual income of 0 yen, you are not eligible to use cash advances. Additionally, the maximum amount you can withdraw is limited by law to one-third of your annual income.
If you’re concerned about the approval of your Rakuten card, it’s advisable to keep the cash advance amount low, for example, 100,000 yen or less.
[Additional/Supplemental Cards] About Family Cards, ETC Cards, and Rakuten Edy
The Rakuten Card application form contains questions about which cards and functions can be added to the card. Knowing the answer to these questions can help you apply more easily. Let me explain them to you.
Family card
The family card is a credit card that is available to people who have a Rakuten card contract and live on the same household budget.
The annual fee for the family card is also free, like the Rakuten. However, the Rakuten Card subscriber’s account will be debited for the billing of the family card.
If you want to create a Rakuten card under your name and allow your spouse to make withdrawals from the account, it’s better to apply for a family card. Your spouse should apply for the such a card first and then request a family card.
However, if you make a new family card, you’ll get 1,800 points. If you have a Rakuten card and 200 points if you have a family card.
To receive more bonus points, it is recommended that you withdraw from an account in your name and participate in the Rakuten’s new card application campaign where you can receive between 5,000 to 8,000 points.
ETC card
To use toll roads like expressways without stopping at the toll booth, it’s essential to have an ETC card if you’re driving a car. With this card, you can pay tolls automatically, without having to use cash.
Rakuten cardholders have the option to create one ETC card. This allows them to earn 1 point for every 100 yen spent on tolls.
An annual fee of 550 yen (including tax) is required for an ETC card, which is its sole disadvantage. However, if you are a diamond member or a platinum member with a higher Rakuten member rank, you can have the annual membership fee waived.
Accompanying Rakuten Edy function, auto charge setting
The Rakuten Card comes with a free Rakuten Edy e-money function in addition to its credit card feature.
Rakuten Edy is a type of prepaid electronic money. We suggest charging your Rakuten Edy with a Rakuten card to maximize your benefits. For every ¥200 charged to your Rakuten Edy with a Rakuten card, you will earn 1 point.
You can also earn 1 point for every ¥200 spent on Rakuten Edy. Essentially, you will receive 2 points for every ¥200 spent, which is equivalent to a 1% point redemption rate, the same as the Rakuten card’s point redemption rate.
When you apply for a new Rakuten Card, you can choose to add the Rakuten Edy function. If you select the “Yes” option, you will receive a Rakuten card with 500 yen charged to Edy. It is recommended that you choose this option.
[Details] If you apply for the WEB statement service, you can save 984 yen annually!
The Rakuten Card provides a “Web Statement Service” that enables you to receive billing statements online. You can review statements going back up to 13 months. You can obtain the details either in “PDF data” format that can be printed at convenience stores, or in “CSV format” that can be used with Excel spreadsheet software.
If you have not signed up for the WEB statement service, your statement will be mailed to you around the 20th of each month. However, you will be charged an 84 yen (including tax) statement issuance fee every time, resulting in a yearly cost of 1,008 yen.
If you already have a Rakuten Gold Card, Rakuten Premium Card, Rakuten Business Card, or Rakuten Black Card membership, there will be no fee for issuing a statement. When applying for a new account, you can opt for the “WEB statement service,” so we suggest that you apply for it.
Rakuten Card
Recommended point
- No annual fee for life
- Earn points by signing up and using
- Worry-free security
| First year annual fee | Annual membership fee 2nd year ~ | Point redemption rate |
| free | free | 1.0% to 16.0% |
| Issuing speed | international brands | Electronic money |
| About 7 business days | | |
Ancillary service: ETC card, Family card, shopping insurance, Overseas travel insurance, Domestic travel insurance
Reasons for delay in the arrival of Rakuten Card
As stated in the instructions for making a Rakuten card, the card typically takes 7 to 10 days to arrive after application. Nevertheless, some individuals have reported not receiving their card within that timeframe in rare instances.
Because I applied just before the long vacation
If you apply for a card right before a long holiday like the year-end and New Year holidays or Golden Week, your card may be delivered later than expected.
So if you need your card early, plan when to apply.
There is an error in the input content
If you make an error in the information you enter, the delivery of your card may be delayed. This is because the card company verifies the information to prevent fraudulent applications.
Note that with Rakuten Card, if there is an error in the information entered, you will receive a phone call to confirm the correct details.
The review process may take some time.
Besides the reasons mentioned before, it’s possible that the review process could take longer due to other reasons. Frequently, credit information is thoroughly examined by credit card company through information agencies. If there had been any financial issues or actions that damaged the credibility of the applicant, the review process may take longer.
If you want to cancel your Rakuten Card application
There may be cases where you have applied for a new card but want to cancel and apply for another international brand Rakuten card.
If you want to cancel after applying for such a card, call the Rakuten Card Contact Center and cancel the application.
- Automatic voice dial (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- 0120-30-6910 (free)
- 092-474-9255 (charged)
- 0570-66-6910 (charged)
- 092-474-6287 (charged)
*When calling the contact center, if the phone number provided is not working, an automated voice will guide you through the necessary steps. Keep in mind that the contact center experiences high call volumes between 11:00 and 13:00. It would be easier to connect with them during the periods of 10:00-11:00 and 15:30-17:30. Consider selecting those times for better chances of connecting with them.
How to get Rakuten points after applying for a Rakuten card
The specific timing and tasks required may vary based on the current campaign, but in general, you should use your card and complete your account registration by the deadline. It’s easy to forget about the card once you start using it, so it’s best to take care of everything as soon as possible after receiving it. Additionally, there are regular campaigns where you can earn points and benefits, so remember to participate in those as well.
How to use Rakuten points
When you apply for the Rakuten Card, you receive Rakuten Points which are equivalent to one yen. These points can be used at Rakuten Ichiba and local drugstores.
Regular points for Privilege 1 are valid for one year, while limited-time points from Privilege 2 have a shorter expiration date. It’s best to use them as soon as possible.
Also, please note that limited-time points cannot be exchanged for Rakuten Edy electronic money. Regular Rakuten points can be used in three main ways.
How to use Rakuten points
- Use with services provided by Rakuten
- Redeem ANA miles, Rakuten Edy gift certificates, etc.
- Use 1 Rakuten point = 1 yen for card payments
It is better to decide how to use the points in advance so that the points you have received will not expire due to expiration.
Rakuten Card Point Cash Back Campaign [June 2023]
This card is running a special membership campaign. They also have a limited-time campaign where you can cash back 8,000 points depending on the season. This campaign isn’t held regularly, so be sure to check for the latest information. Even current card members should check for a point-back event.
Rakuten’s New Card Enrollment Bonus Campaign
Rakuten Card is offering a cashback campaign where you can get 5,000 points for signing up and using the card. As a new member, you can receive 2,000 points by applying for the card and receiving it within a week. Additionally, if you use the card for the first time, you can earn another 3,000 points as a usage privilege. Take advantage of this great opportunity to get value out your card.
Card referral campaign
We are currently running an introductory campaign for the Rakuten card. You can earn points by introducing the card to others or by signing up as a new member. New members can receive 5,000 points for joining the campaign. If you refer others, you will receive 1,000 points for each person introduced. You can earn up to a maximum of 10,000 points for introducing up to 10 people. Please note that this offer may be linked with other campaigns, so make sure to check the official website before using it.
In June 2023, a campaign is underway to receive up to 8,000 points for new members only!
From now until June 2023, new members can receive up to 8,000 points through our limited-time campaign. Since 8,000-point campaigns are rare, we suggest you join during this period if you’re not already a member.
New membership campaign target period: June 9, 2023 10:00 to June 30, 2023 10:00
Rakuten Card
Recommended point
- No annual fee for life
- Earn points by signing up and using
- Worry-free security
| First year annual fee | Annual membership fee 2nd year ~ | Point redemption rate |
| free | free | 1.0% to 16.0% |
| Issuing speed | international brands | Electronic money |
| About 7 business days | | |
Ancillary service: ETC card, Family card, shopping insurance, Overseas travel insurance, Domestic travel insurance
Frequently asked questions about how to make a Rakuten card
We will also provide explanations regarding the inquiries about the application of the Rakuten card.
How to obtain a Rakuten card? Can you make it to your store?
You can only apply via online. Applying for it at a store is not possible.
Here is the application process.
- Fill in and submit the application form
- Receive an email notifying you that the application process has been completed
- Examine on the same day or the next day
- Receive an email just before delivery.
What if the identity verification document and the current address are different?
If you’ve recently moved and haven’t updated the address on your driver’s license, be cautious when applying for a Rakuten Card. Providing a different address on your application form can make it impossible to verify your identity and hinder the delivery of your card. When this happens, you’ll need two documents – one for identification purposes and one for current address verification, like a passport and a utility bill.
How can I check the card application status (result)?
You can expect to receive your Rakuten card by mail about a week after applying. If you want to check the status of your card before it arrives, there are two ways to do so.
The first way is to access the dedicated web page. This can be done online and is available 24 hours a day. Once you access the web page, you can enter your card application reception ID, date of birth, and last four digits of your phone number to check the “issuance status” and “card delivery status”.
The second way is to call the Rakuten Card Contact Center directly and inquire about the issuance status of the Rakuten Card. Business hours are limited to 9:30 to 17:30.
What is the "reception ID" that checks the application status of the Rakuten Card?
To check the status of your Rakuten Card issuance, you will need the “reception ID” which is displayed on the card application completion screen. In case you forget to note it down, you will receive an email confirming that your application has been received after you submit it. If you haven’t received the application completion email, please check if you have set up your email to reject messages from Rakuten Card or if the email has gone to your spam folder.
What is the phone number for inquiries about Rakuten Card applications?
Rakuten Card has set up an “Automated Voice Dial” and a “Contact Center” where operators respond to inquiries about application status, questions, etc.
- Automatic voice dial (24 hours a day, 7 days a week)
- 0120-30-6910 (free)
- 092-474-9255 (charged)
- 0570-66-6910 (charged)
- 092-474-6287 (charged)
*To save time and phone bill charges when calling the contact center, simply press “0” immediately after calling to bypass the automated menu and connect directly to an operator. You can still get help even if you don’t know your Rakuten card number.
Also, the contact center is very busy from 11:00 to 13:00. 10:00-11:00 and 15:30-17:30 are relatively easy to connect, so it’s a good target.
How to cancel your card?
To cancel your Rakuten Card, contact the “contact center” mentioned earlier and speak with the operator. Make sure to check for any automatic payments deducted from your card and ensure that payment for your card usage has been made. If you have automatic debits, it may affect your credit score negatively.
What if I want to change the design of my Rakuten card?
To change the design of your Rakuten Card, you’ll have to cancel the existing one. Contact the “Contact Center” and follow the cancellation procedure. After that, you can apply again from the Rakuten Card website.
Note that if you have a Rakuten Card silver-colored VISA, you can create an additional card with a different design by choosing from Mastercard or JCB international brands.
What if you notice an input error after applying for Rakuten Card?
If you make a mistake in your application and notice it later, please call the “Contact Center” mentioned above. If there are errors in your application but you don’t notice them, Rakuten may still contact you by phone. However, be careful because scammers may try to deceive you, which could negatively affect your application process.
I applied for Rakuten Card, but what if I want to cancel it?
If you applied for a Rakuten card but now want to apply for a different Rakuten’s international brand card, you may need to cancel your original application. To do this, call the “Contact Center” and cancel the application in the same way that you would cancel a Rakuten card.
Can I have both a Rakuten card and a Rakuten Bank card?
The Rakuten Bank Card serves as both a cash card and a credit card from Rakuten. This means that if you possess a Rakuten Bank card already, you cannot receive a separate Rakuten Card. While you can include an ETC card, you cannot add functionalities such as a family card, Rakuten Edy, or Rakuten point card.
To switch from a Rakuten Bank card to a Rakuten card, log into Rakuten e-NAVI and use the card management screen to switch or add cards. If you wish to switch to a paid card such as the Rakuten Card Academy (for students), Rakuten Gold Card, or Rakuten Premium Card, you will need to cancel your Rakuten Bank Card by contacting the Rakuten Bank customer center.
Rakuten Bank Customer Center (9:00-17:00)
- 0120-776-910 (free)
- 03-6832-2255 (charged)
*From mobile phones, IP phones, and overseas
After that, wait 2-3 business days before contacting Rakuten again. Apply from the card website.
Summary
So far, we have explained the flow (procedure) of the Rakuten Card application and points to note.
For many people, this card is the first time they apply for a credit card. You don’t need a copy of your driver’s license or personal seal to apply for this card, so it’s much easier than other companies’ credit cards.
When applying for a such card, it is important to be mindful of the bonus point system as well as the expiration date to avoid missing out on additional points. This card is a great option for those seeking a cashless lifestyle as it includes electronic money and point card functions. Don’t hesitate to apply!
