Want 0% interest on purchases, balance transfers, or foreign transactions? Compare interest free credit offers and save with this guide.
If you're looking to cut down your interest costs and avoid racking up credit card debt, an interest-free credit card provides access to credit without the extra interest costs you'd usually have to pay. Whether you're looking to save on interest on balance transfers, purchases or foreign transaction fees, you can use this guide to compare the different types of 0% interest offers in the market and to find the best* credit card for you.
Exclusive ANZ Platinum Credit Card Offer
Exclusive to this site, pay no any annual fee in the first year and take advantage of 0% p.a. for 12 months on balance transfers and 0% p.a. for 3 months on purchases.
- $0 p.a. annual fee for the first year ($87 p.a. thereafter) annual fee
- 0% p.a. for 3 months (reverts to 19.74% p.a.) on purchases
- 0% p.a. for 12 months on balance transfers
- Cash Advance Rate of 21.49% p.a.
- Up to 55 days interest free
- Minimum Income Requirement of $35,000 p.a.
Compare interest-free credit cards
The finder.com.au best* interest-free credit cards
Compare the interest free credit cards below to find out more
| Name | Purchase rate (p.a.) | Annual fee |
|---|---|---|
| ANZ Platinum Credit Card - Exclusive Offer | 0% p.a. for 3 months (reverts to 19.74% p.a.) | $0 p.a. annual fee for the first year ($87 p.a. thereafter) |
| Westpac 55 Day Platinum Credit Card | 0% p.a. for 6 months (reverts to 19.84% p.a.) | $0 p.a. annual fee for the first year ($90 p.a. thereafter) |
| Westpac Low Rate Card | 0% p.a. for 6 months (reverts to 13.49% p.a.) | $59 p.a. |
| Virgin Australia Velocity Flyer Card - 0% Interest Offer | 0% p.a. for 12 months (reverts to 20.74% p.a.) | $129 p.a. |
0% purchase credit cards
This type of credit card allows you to make new purchases without paying interest during the introductory period. This period varies between cards but is usually the first 3 to 15 months. After that, the standard interest rates for that card will apply to any remaining balance.
A 0% purchase credit card can be useful if you have a large expense coming up, such as a big-ticket household item, an overseas holiday or the Christmas spending period. These interest-free offers are only in place for an introductory period, though. So make sure to check the standard interest rate and any other fees that may apply so you can budget for repayments when they are due.
When will I be charged interest on a 0% purchase credit card?
- The 0% offer only applies for a promotional period and will revert to the standard interest rate when the offer ends. So if the card comes with 0% for 6 months, the interest-free period will end 6 months after your card was activated and any remaining balances will begin to collect interest.
- If you use your card for a transaction that isn’t considered a “purchase”, such as a cash advance or a cash equivalent transaction.
- If you don’t maintain your credit card payments each statement period.
Compare 0% purchase credit cards
0% balance transfer credit cards
A 0% balance transfer card offers an interest-free period on existing credit card debt that you move onto the new card. The 0% interest rate can last anywhere from 3 to 24 months depending on the offer. This gives you the opportunity to repay your debt without collecting any additional interest, hopefully allowing you to repay your debt faster and save hundreds to thousands in interest.
Once the promotional offer ends, the card’s standard interest rate will apply to the remaining balance. This could be as high as 22% p.a., so it’s important to pay off as much of the debt as possible during the interest-free period.
When will I be charged interest on a balance transfer credit card?
- If you make a purchase on the card, the purchase rate of interest will apply from the time the transaction is made.
- If you use your card for a cash advance or cash equivalent transaction.
- If the balance transfer interest-free period ends and you have an outstanding balance to pay.
Compare interest-free balance transfer credit cards
0% purchase and balance transfer credit cards
There are also some credit cards that offer 0% interest on both balance transfers and purchases. However, the interest-free periods may be different lengths depending on whether you use the card for a balance transfer or purchases. For example, a card could offer 0% interest on balance transfers for up to 15 months, but only 0% interest on purchases for the first 3 months. Again, you have to pay the card’s standard purchase or balance transfer interest rates if there is still a balance after the introductory period has ended.
Compare credit cards with both 0% on balance transfers and purchases
Credit cards with interest-free days
Many credit cards offer a certain number of interest-free days for each statement period. For instance, you may see “up to 55 days interest-free” included as a standard feature.
This 0% interest period is only available if you pay your balance off in full by the statement due date. If you carry a balance or make a late payment, you lose access to this feature and interest is applied for that statement period. You will only be able to access interest-free days again after you have paid your balance in full for at least one statement cycle.
When will I be charged interest on this card?
- If you don’t pay your balance back in full each statement period.
- If you use your card for a transaction that’s considered a cash advance or an ineligible purchase, unless otherwise specified.
Compare credit cards with 55 interest-free days
0% foreign transaction fee credit cards
Most credit cards apply foreign transaction and currency conversion fees to purchases made overseas or online with an international merchant. The fees are usually between 2% and 3.5% of the total transaction cost and are in addition to any interest charges that may apply for the balance – even if you are using a credit card with 0% interest on purchases.
Credit cards with 0% foreign transaction fees allow you to use your credit card for international transactions without paying these fees. This type of card is ideal if you’re planning a trip overseas or if you want to use a credit card to shop online.
Compare 0% foreign transaction fee credit cards
Charge cards
Similar to a credit card, a charge card gives you access to funds for a set amount of time and may include features such as rewards programs or complimentary insurance. But unlike credit cards, charge cards don’t apply an interest rate to the balance. Instead, you must pay off the total amount owing by each statement due date – and there are hefty fees and other penalties if you don’t.
While charge cards offer an interest-free way to make purchases with credit, they do not offer the same repayment flexibility as credit cards. They also have high income and credit rating requirements.
Compare business and corporate charge cards
How to compare interest-free credit cards
While interest-free credit cards offer a number of benefits, there are a few factors that you'll need to consider to help find the right one for you and your finances:
- Introductory period. Check how long the introductory period is available for so you can factor this into your repayments and budget. Consider the size of your debt or your budget and calculate whether or not you could repay that entire amount while the introductory offer is in place. If not, you might want to look for a card with a longer promotional period. Note that cards offering 0% interest on purchases and balance transfers may have different introductory periods for each option.
- Standard interest rates. The standard variable purchase and balance transfer rates for credit cards can be as high as 22% p.a. Make sure you check the revert rate when comparing options in the event that you have a balance remaining when the introductory offer ends.
- Interest-free day requirements. Credit cards that offer up to a certain number of interest-free days for each statement cycle usually have specific conditions around eligible purchases and repayments. For example, cash advances are not eligible for interest-free days and you must pay your balance in full for each statement cycle.
- Rewards programs. Some cards earn rewards or frequent flyer points for every $1 spent on the card. These programs can provide extra value, particularly if you have an interest-free credit card for purchases. But be careful you don’t overspend in order to get more rewards, otherwise you may add unnecessary debt.
- Complimentary extras. Many cards offer complimentary extras such as international travel insurance, purchase protection, extended warranty coverage and concierge services. These perks may add value, but only if you think you will use them.
- Annual fees. These can range from $20 to over $700. However, some cards do not incur an annual fee for the first year, or even for the life of the card. Make sure that the cost of the annual fee doesn't offset the interest savings you'll make from the interest-free offer.
- Balance transfer fees. Some cards have a one-off processing fee of around 2% to 3% when you apply for a balance transfer. If you choose an interest-free card for your existing debt, make sure you look for this fee when comparing options so you can find one that’s affordable.
- Other fees. Be aware of fees such as cash advance charges, as well as late payment, overlimit and overseas transaction fees.
Interest-free credit cards can be a convenient and affordable way to access additional funds in a wide range of situations. But it’s important to compare your options to find the right type of card for your needs.
Answers to the most popular questions about Interest-free credit cards from our users
What happens if I don’t repay my balance on an interest-free credit card?
Regardless of the type of interest-free credit card you choose, you still need to make repayments by the statement due date each month. If you fail to maintain these regular repayments, some of the repercussions you could face include:
- Interest charges. If you don’t pay your balance in full by the statement due date, interest will be applied to the remaining debt.
- Late payment fees. If you don’t make a payment by the statement due date, a late payment fee may be applied. This can be $10 to $30 on a standard credit card, or more on a charge card.
- Overlimit fees. A fee of between $10 and $30 can apply if you don’t repay your credit card balance and go over your available credit limit.
- Cancelled promotional interest rates. If you don’t pay the balance, the interest-free promotion may no longer apply. This penalty varies depending on the card, so make sure you check the terms of your offer.
- Bad credit. Failing to make repayments could have a negative impact on your credit history – especially if your account goes into default.
If you’re struggling to make a repayment by the due date on your statement, it’s important to contact your credit card provider as soon as possible. Customer service staff will assess your situation and discuss repayment options based on your individual circumstances.
Which interest-free credit card is right for me?
Interest-free cards provide 0% on purchases, 0% on balance transfers and 0% foreign transaction fees. Depending on your needs, your ideal credit card may feature one or more of these promotions and include other features and benefits. Compare your options and consider what you need and are eligible to apply for. It is important to consider the features and costs of the card to ensure that the benefits outweigh the costs.
How long is the interest-free period?
The interest-free period varies from card to card. In general, it can range from 6 to 24 months if you have a card with a promotional 0% balance transfer offer, or up to 62 days if it’s an interest-free days credit card. Make sure you read the terms and conditions of the card to ensure that the interest-free period complements your spending habits and financial situation.
Which credit cards can I balance transfer to?
You can usually balance transfer to any bank and credit card, excluding banks you currently have a credit card with. See this guide for a complete list of banks that don’t allow balance transfers between each other.
When does the interest-free period start?
Promotional interest-free periods begin when your credit card is approved and your balance transfer or new transactions are processed. Interest-free days begin on the first day of your statement cycle.
Can I transfer my outstanding balance after my promotion has ended?
Yes. Transferring your existing balance after a 0% purchase or 0% balance transfer promotion has ended is allowed. Note that any balance transfer request will be subject to lending criteria and approval from the issuer.
If I pay off my credit card balance during the interest-free period, can I cancel the credit card?
Yes, this is generally accepted across balance transfer credit cards. Once you have repaid your outstanding balance, you can cancel the credit card anytime.
Hi,
I am needing an amount of $6800 and will be able to pay it back over a year. I will not be using the card for anything else but this one off overseas payment. What would be the best thing for me to do?
Hi Hayley,
Thanks for reaching out.
If you are looking for a credit card for overseas payment, you may want to consider the cards listed here as they do not charge foreign currency conversion fee.
You may also want to consider cards with 0% purchase interest rate listed here. These cards allow you to save on interest payments during the promotional period in case you don’t intend to pay your balance in full at the end of the billing period.
Cheers,
Anndy
if i pay out the balance in the interest free period can i then cancel the card with no fees.
Hi David, thanks for your inquiry!
Yes this is generally accepted across balance transfer credit cards. Once you have repaid your outstanding balance you can cancel the credit card anytime.
Cheers,
Jonathan
Good morning, I read with interest the balance transfer credit cards with no interest for a period of time. I, like many people have that problem of having not paid my CC on the due date and now have a big balance. I currently have an ANZ Platinum CC, can I apply for a balance transfer with no interest?
Thank you
Hi Sharon, thanks for your inquiry!
Balance transfers can be a great way to repay an outstanding credit balance interest free. You may like to compare balance transfer offers and cards on this page.
Cheers,
Jonathan
Hi, I’m looking for a credit card to allow me to pay bills between payments from work. Would use it very little only when my funds are a bit tight. Any recommendations? Suggestions
Hi Billy,
Thanks for your question.
As an online comparison service, we can’t provide you with any specific recommendations. Instead, we provide our users with the comprehensive information they need to make comparisons and develop their own informed decisions.
However, if you’re only planning on using your credit card sporadically, you may wish to consider a credit card with low interest or no annual fee or a low income credit card.
Credit cards with high annual fees and rates usually come with extra features such as concierge services, complimentary insurance, and rewards programs. However, if you’re after a credit card to use as a backup for your finances, some of these no-frills options may be of interest.
I hope this has helped.
Thanks,
Sally
hello,
im looking at having stomach surgery and I have most of the money but I am still needing about another $10,000 for this and I was wondering what credit card would be the best way for me to go as I would like to pay it off with in 12 months of having surgery.
thank you so much
Hi Sarah,
Depending on whether the surgery is billed as a purchase or cash advance (would be best to confirm with the medical company) this would determine whether a would be ideal. Please also refer to our page on comparing medical loans on this page.
I hope this has helped.
Cheers,
Jonathan
I have an existing credit card that I am trying to pay off. I am finding it hard as the interest I get charged each month is almost the same amount as my monthly repayments, which means I am getting no where. I have talked to some friends that have mentioned I should transfer my debt to an interest free credit card that way I can pay it off within the time of the interest free offer. Will this be beneficial for me? Is there any hidden charges I should be looking for? I am confident I can pay this off within 6-12months, as long as I don’t get charged interest.
Hi Angela,
Thanks for your question.
Your friends were likely referring to a balance transfer, which allows you to bring over an existing credit card balance to a new card and pay 0% p.a. interest on it for an extended amount of time. You can compare and apply for balance transfer credit cards on this page as well as learn more about them. A few things to be aware of with balance transfer credit cards:
- Balance transfer rate: The rate you will be charged on the balance you bring over.
- Annual fee: Will you be charged an annual fee to use this product?
- Balance transfer revert rate: This is the rate you are charged after the balance transfer promotional period is over. Most of these cards revert to either the cash advance rate or purchase rate.
- Balance transfer period: How long you will receive the promotional balance transfer rate for.
- Balance transfer fee: Some cards may charge you a fee to bring over your credit card balance. This fee is often a percentage of the balance you bring over (eg. 3%)
This information can all be found in our credit card review pages, which can be found by clicking on ‘more info’ from the comparison table on the page I linked above. After you’ve reviewed your options and found the best card for your needs and situation, you can click ‘Go to Site’ to apply.
I hope this has helped.
Thanks,
Elizabeth
If you pay my card right out what interest rate will you charge me?
Hi Michael. Thanks for your question, but I’m not sure I understand. Are you referring to the balance transfer rate of interest? You can find this information in the comparison tables and in the review pages for each card. Jacob.