The Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Visa isn’t just another airline credit card — it’s a high-performance financial tool that lets you turn everyday purchases into free flights, faster. With generous point-earning opportunities, annual anniversary bonuses, and zero blackout dates, this card is built for people who want to travel more and spend less.
But how exactly do you qualify for this travel card? What do you need before applying? And how can you maximize your chances of approval?
This guide answers all those questions and more — including insider tips and strategic steps to help you get approved and start earning bonus airline miles today.
More Hidden Benefits of the Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Visa
While the sign-up bonus and 2X points on Southwest purchases are well known, here are some additional perks you may not find on most review sites:
✔️ Tier Qualifying Points (TQPs) Toward A-List Status
With this card, you can earn 1,500 TQPs for every $10,000 spent annually (up to 15,000 TQPs). These count toward A-List elite status, which gives you priority boarding, check-in, and stand-by benefits on Southwest flights.
✔️ Point Transfers to Family or Friends
Most users don’t realize that Rapid Rewards points earned through the Premier Visa can be transferred to other members (for a small fee) — making it easier to pool points for group travel.
✔️ Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver
When you rent a car using your Southwest card, you’re covered for collision damage, saving you from paying for insurance at the rental counter — especially useful for frequent travelers.
What Are the Requirements to Apply?
To be eligible for the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Visa, here are the typical prerequisites:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Credit Score | Recommended 690+ (Good to Excellent) |
| Income | No official minimum, but a stable income above $30,000/year is ideal |
| Residency | Must be a U.S. resident with a valid Social Security Number |
| Credit History | At least 2–3 years of credit history, with low utilization and no recent delinquencies |
| Chase 5/24 Rule | If you’ve opened 5 or more credit cards in the past 24 months (with any bank), you will likely be denied |
💡 Insider Tip: If you’ve previously held a Southwest personal card, you must wait 24 months since receiving the last bonus to qualify for a new one.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a minimum spending requirement to earn the welcome bonus?
Yes. You typically need to spend $1,000–$3,000 within the first 3 months to receive the sign-up bonus (exact amount varies based on promotions).
Can I use my points for international travel?
Yes. While Southwest flies mostly in the U.S., it also offers flights to Mexico, the Caribbean, and Central America — and your Rapid Rewards points apply.
Does the card offer airport lounge access?
No, the Southwest Premier Visa does not include lounge access. However, its Companion Pass benefit often outweighs this for most travelers.
Will applying hurt my credit score?
As with any credit card, Chase performs a hard inquiry when you apply, which may cause a temporary dip in your score — usually less than 5 points.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply for the Southwest Premier Visa
Here’s a simplified application process to help you move quickly and confidently:
Step 1: Check Your Credit Score
Use tools like Credit Karma or your bank’s free monitoring service to ensure your FICO score is 690 or higher.
Step 2: Visit the Official Chase Application Page
Navigate to the official Southwest Rapid Rewards Premier Visa application page via the Southwest website or Chase Bank.
Step 3: Fill Out Your Personal and Financial Information
You’ll need to provide:
- Full name and address
- Social Security number
- Annual income
- Monthly housing payments
- Employment details
Step 4: Review Terms and Submit
Double-check the APR, rewards details, and annual fee before submitting.
Step 5: Receive Instant Decision (in Most Cases)
Many applicants receive approval within 60 seconds. If your application goes to review, expect a response within 7–10 business days.
📈 Pro Tips to Increase Your Approval Odds
If you want to maximize your chances of getting approved — especially if you’re close to the credit limit — here are a few power moves:
1. Pay Down Existing Card Balances
Your credit utilization ratio should be below 30% — ideally under 10% — before applying.
2. Pause New Credit Applications
Avoid applying for any other credit products at least 90 days prior to this application.
3. Become a Chase Customer First
Having a checking or savings account with Chase can improve your internal profile and build trust with the issuer.
4. Request a Smaller Credit Line
If you’re on the edge, requesting a modest credit limit (e.g., $2,000–$3,000) can increase your chances of approval.
5. Use Pre-Qualification Tools
Use Chase’s pre-qualification tool to see if you’re eligible before submitting a hard inquiry.
By following these actionable steps and understanding the hidden perks of the Southwest Rapid Rewards® Premier Visa, you’ll position yourself for success — both in getting approved and in earning maximum travel rewards.
