There is a difference between applying for a credit card online and by regular means. Most of the differences are minor. It’s much like sending your resume in by email or going to apply in person. But there are small differences and applicants should be aware of these.
The first difference is the application fee. Many companies offer different charges for online applications as opposed to regular applications. If you are applying online, read the details and make sure that you understand the charges involved so you can make comparisons. You should also check interest rates and transaction fees which may differ for credit cards obtained through online applications.
The second difference is in card selection. It is true that while many more companies are using the online application process, not all types of credit cards can be obtained. Review all the options given by your prospective credit card provider and find out if you can apply online for the type of card you want.
The third difference is the question of time. While in theory online applications are supposed to be processed faster, this is not always true. There are exceptions to this. The first is the largest credit card companies, who have the financial means to support online applications. The second involves relatively new credit card providers who have set their initial operations up with the latest technology.
Check your credit history. Some credit card companies will automatically disapprove online applications made by people with poor credit ratings. Many credit card companies grant concessions for people with a bad credit history, but the option of applying online is aimed at those with clean records. If you've got a bad record you will do better to apply personally.
There is an exception. Some credit card providers will let you apply online and will provide credit cards with no background credit check. This sounds great for people with bad credit histories, but be sure to read the small print and study the conditions when applying for that credit card, because there's probably a catch somewhere.
The catch may involve high interest rates or high charges for delayed payments, both of which are aimed directly at you if you fall into the same financial pattern that got you a bad credit record in the first place. Be warned.