The idea of a “black card” has always been associated with exclusivity, high income requirements, and elite perks. Maya is changing that narrative with the Maya Black Credit Card—a digital-first, premium-looking credit card that promises rewards, travel perks, and app-based convenience without the usual banking hurdles.
But is it actually worth applying for? Or is it just a black card in name and design? Let’s break it down.
What Is the Maya Black Credit Card?
The Maya Black Credit Card is a Visa credit card issued by Maya Bank, fully managed through the Maya app. Unlike traditional banks, the application, approval, card controls, and rewards tracking are all done digitally.
Once approved, you get:
- An instant virtual credit card
- A numberless physical card delivered to your address
- Full control of your credit card directly inside the Maya app
This card is positioned as a “premium” option, but Maya markets it as more accessible than traditional black or platinum cards.
Key Features of the Maya Black Card
1. Digital-First Credit Card Experience
Everything happens inside the Maya app:
- Card application and approval
- Viewing card details (card number, CVV, expiry)
- Locking and unlocking your card
- Tracking transactions in real time
The physical card does not show any card number, which adds an extra layer of security.
2. Maya Miles Rewards System
Every time you use your Maya Black Card, you earn Maya Miles.
- Miles are earned on regular spending
- You can earn up to 10× more miles at selected Maya Black Preferred merchants
- Miles can be tracked in real time inside the app
Maya occasionally offers welcome promos, such as bonus miles when you meet a minimum spend within a specific period.
3. Airport Lounge Access
One of the standout features of the Maya Black Card is airport lounge access through DragonPass.
This includes:
- Access to select airport lounges in the Philippines
- Access to international lounges worldwide
For a card that doesn’t require traditional high-income documentation, this is a surprisingly strong perk.
4. No Annual Fee (With Conditions)
The Maya Black Card is advertised as no annual fee, provided you use the card at least once per month.
If you’re already using credit cards regularly, this condition is fairly easy to meet.
5. Global Acceptance
The card runs on Visa, meaning it’s accepted at millions of merchants worldwide, both online and offline.
What Is Maya Black Express?
If you don’t qualify for the regular Maya Black Credit Card, Maya may offer Maya Black Express instead.
This works like a secured credit card:
- You deposit a certain amount with Maya
- Your credit limit is typically 80% of your deposit
- You still get the same Black Card experience
This option is particularly useful for:
- First-time credit card users
- People rebuilding their credit history
- Freelancers or self-employed individuals without traditional proof of income
Pros and Cons of the Maya Black Card
Pros
- Easy application through the app
- No traditional income documents required for some users
- Airport lounge access
- Real-time app controls and security
- No annual fee if used monthly
- Good entry-level “premium” card
Cons
- Rewards value depends heavily on Maya Miles redemption options
- Credit limits may start low
- Some users are routed to the Express (secured) version
- Not as reward-heavy as high-end traditional bank cards
Who Should Consider the Maya Black Credit Card?
This card is ideal if you:
- Want a modern, app-based credit card
- Are a first-time credit card user
- Don’t want to deal with traditional bank requirements
- Travel occasionally and value lounge access
- Already use Maya for payments and savings
It may not be ideal if you:
- Want maximum cashback or premium travel rewards
- Already qualify for elite cards from traditional banks
- Rarely use digital wallets or banking apps
Blogger’s Corner
The Maya Black Credit Card isn’t trying to compete with ultra-exclusive black cards—and that’s actually a good thing. Instead, it offers a taste of premium perks without the usual gatekeeping.
For beginners and digitally inclined users, this card makes a lot of sense. Lounge access alone is impressive for an app-issued card, and the no-annual-fee condition is reasonable. Just don’t expect it to outperform top-tier rewards cards from traditional banks.
If you’re already using Maya, the Maya Black Card feels like a natural upgrade.