JAL USA Card
- Annual fee
- $0 for the first year, $20
- Recommended credit
- Good
- Card network
- Mastercard
- Regular purchase APR
- 23.24% variable based on the Prime Rate
At a glance
The JAL USA Card is an airline rewards card targeted to frequent Japan Airlines travelers, as well as those relocating to the United States and looking for a card that offers rewards back home. The card provides 5,000 JMB bonus miles after first international Japan Airline travel, and 1 mile for every dollar spent after that. Premium members (an additional $50 per year cost) earn double the miles.
Our review of the JAL USA Card
The JAL USA Card is the official co-branded credit card of Japan Airlines, designed specifically for U.S. residents who frequently fly to Japan. Issued through First National Bank of Omaha (FNBO®), this card offers a decent signup bonus and no annual fee for the first year.
Who Is This Card Designed For?
The JAL USA Card is targeted towards those who regularly fly with Japan Airlines and live in the United States. It also extends acceptance to foreign nationals without a U.S. credit history, verifying key metrics such as time with current employer, income in the home country, and U.S. income.
International Airline Credit Card Comparison
Comparing the JAL USA Mastercard with other airline cards for the Japanese market:
| Card | JAL USA Card | ANA Card USA |
|---|---|---|
| Annual fee | $0 first year, $20 after | $70 |
| Rewards | 1X (Basic), 2X (Premium) | 1X |
| Welcome offer | Up to 15,000 miles | 5,000 miles |
| Perks | 10% sector bonus miles for every flight JAL | 25% flight bonus miles on every ANA flight |
| Alliance | Oneworld | Star Alliance |
| Network | Mastercard | Visa |
Introductory Bonus
New accounts with the JAL USA Card can earn up to 15,000 Bonus Miles by meeting spending requirements in the first three months. Additionally, a 5,000 Bonus Miles can be earned after making the first JAL international flight as a card member.
How to Earn Rewards
Basic rewards members earn 1X miles for every dollar spent, while premium rewards members earn 2X miles for every dollar spent with a $50 annual charge. Miles apply to the JAL Mileage Bank program and expire three years after they are earned.
Other Card Features
In addition to JMB frequent flyer benefits, cardholders receive discounts on in-flight purchases and at partner airport shops. The card also offers typical Mastercard benefits such as Zero Liability Protection, Mastercard Global Services, and ID Theft Protection.
Should You Apply for the JAL USA Card?
Overall, the JAL USA Card is a suitable option for frequent Japan Airlines flyers or those looking to build their U.S. credit score. However, for others, there may be better options available with other Oneworld airlines. Explore other card offers such as SKYPASS Visa Signature® Card, Delta SkyMiles® Gold American Express Card, China Airlines World Elite™ Mastercard® Blue Card, and Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card.
Card features
Benefits as listed on the original card page. They can change; confirm details with the issuer.
- Enjoy MasterCard travel assurances like extended warranty, insurance coverage, and 24-hour emergency services
- Up to $100 Amazon Gift Card after approval
- 10% sector bonus miles for every flight
- Choose your own rewards earning potential
Who this card may suit
- You are a Japanese citizen who has relocated to the U.S. and want to build credit
- You want access to JMB rewards and benefits in the U.S.
- You want to earn 5,000 bonus miles after your first international flight as a cardholder
Rates, fees and terms
| Annual Fee | $0 for the first year, $20 |
|---|---|
| Regular Purchase APR | 23.24% variable based on the Prime Rate |
| Balance Transfer APR | 23.24% variable based on the Prime Rate |
| Balance Transfer Transaction Fee | Either $10 or 5% of the amount of each transfer, whichever is greater |
| Cash Advance APR | 30.49% variable based on the Prime Rate |
| Cash Advance Transaction Fee | Either $15 or 5% of the amount of each cash advance, whichever is greater |
| Foreign Transaction Fee | 3% of the transaction amount in U.S. dollars |
| Late Payment Penalty Fee | Up to $40 |
| Return Payment Penalty Fee | Up to $35 |
Confirm before you apply: rates, fees and offers change often. The figures above are the ones listed on the original card page, not a current quote from the issuer. APRs are typically variable, and the rate you receive depends on your creditworthiness. Recommended credit: Good Credit.
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JAL USA Card
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