How to open a PrivatBank card online

Today you can open a PrivatBank card entirely online — in a few minutes and without visiting a branch. All you need is a smartphone, a passport and a tax number (RNOKPP). In this guide we explain in detail what to prepare, how to open a card step by step in the Privat24 app, which products are available online and what to pay attention to so you don't waste time.

What you need to open a card online

Before you start, make sure you have everything at hand — this saves time and lets you complete the process in one go:

• a smartphone (iOS or Android) with internet access;
• a passport of a citizen of Ukraine (ID card or booklet) or a foreign passport;
• a tax number (RNOKPP);
• a Ukrainian SIM card to confirm your phone number via SMS.

Citizens of Ukraine can open a card remotely thanks to remote identification in the Privat24 app and via BankID. This means visiting a branch to open a card is not required.

Screenshot: Privat24 app page in the App Store / Google Play

Step-by-step guide

The whole process happens inside one app and takes a few minutes. Here is how it looks step by step:

1. Install the Privat24 app from the App Store or Google Play and open it. Download only from official stores to avoid fakes.
2. Register with your phone number. Enter your number, receive an SMS code and confirm it. Then set a password or sign in with biometrics (Face ID / fingerprint).
3. Pass identification. If you are not yet a client, the app will ask you to verify your identity: photograph your document and take a selfie, or use BankID (if you are already a client of another bank).
4. Choose a card. In "Cards" → "Open a card" select the product you need — for example, the universal "For Life" card or a virtual card.
5. Confirm the order. Review and accept the terms and tariffs. After that the virtual card becomes available immediately — with its number, expiry date and CVV in the app.
6. Order a physical card if needed. Arrange delivery or pick it up at a convenient branch.

Screenshot: registration and phone confirmation screen in Privat24

Screenshot: choosing a card type in "Open a card"

Which cards can be opened online

Privat24 offers all the main products. The most popular:

• Universal card — a basic card for everyday purchases, payments and cash withdrawal, with cashback.
• "For Life" card — a universal product with free servicing and cashback up to 20% in selected categories.
• Credit card — with a credit limit and a grace period of up to 55 days.
• Junior card — a card for children with parental control.
• Virtual card — for secure online purchases and subscriptions; usable right away.

It is convenient to add the virtual card to Apple Pay or Google Pay and pay with your phone — even while the physical card is on its way.

How to get a physical card

If you also need plastic besides the virtual card, there are two options:

• delivery — the card is delivered to your address (terms and cost depend on the product and region);
• pickup — collect the card at a chosen PrivatBank branch with your passport.

After receiving it, the plastic card must be activated — usually in the app or during the first transaction with a PIN.

Screenshot: the ready virtual card and the Add to Apple Pay / Google Pay button

How much it costs and when the card starts working

Opening and maintaining basic PrivatBank cards is usually free, though some premium products and extra services may carry fees. A virtual card is activated instantly after issuance, a physical one — after you receive and activate it. Since tariffs change from time to time, always check current terms directly in the Privat24 app or on the bank's official website.

Security tips

• download the app only from the official App Store and Google Play;
• never share your PIN, CVV, passwords or SMS codes — bank staff never ask for them;
• enable biometric login and push notifications for transactions;
• for online shopping use a separate virtual card with a limited balance.

FAQ

Can I open a card without a branch?

Yes. For citizens of Ukraine the whole process happens online in the app. A branch is only needed if you want to pick up a plastic card in person or if additional document verification is required.

How long does it take?

Usually a few minutes: registration, identification and issuing a virtual card all happen in one app.

Can a card be opened for a minor?

There is a separate Junior card opened by parents with a spending-control feature. Conditions depend on the child's age.

Is it safe to submit documents through the app?

Privat24 uses a secure connection and official identification mechanisms (BankID). The key is not to share card details or passwords with third parties and to download the app only from official stores.

Terms, tariffs and the list of available cards may change — check current information in the Privat24 app or on the bank's website before applying.