For Small Businesses
For Large Businesses
Ready to apply?
- Follow this step-by-step guide to gather the information and documentation needed to apply for an American Express Business Card. The more information you’re able to provide, the faster we can process your application.
How it works
Determine Eligibility
Use the checklist below to make sure you meet the application requirements for your business type.
Complete Application
Fill out your application and attach the proof(s) of eligibility listed for your business type.
Next Steps
Once your application is complete, it will be assessed and if we need more information we will be in touch.
Receive Card
You'll receive your Card in the mail once it's been approved.
If you need more time, you can save your application and return to it when ready.
If applying for a Card with a limited time offer, you'll receive the offer valid on the date of application submission.
Application requirements by business type
Sole Traders
A sole trader is an individual running a business. Money earned is considered individual income and you are responsible for all taxes and liabilities.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
- New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- At least 18 years old
- Personal Income of $75,000+
YOU WILL NEED:
- An active New Zealand Business Number (NZBN)
- Your annual gross personal income from the previous financial year
YOU MAY NEED:
- A copy of your driver’s licence
- Bank Statement or Utility bill with your name, business name, business address (Less than 90 days old).
- If a Trust is in your structure, enhanced due diligence will be required.
Companies
A company is a for-profit business that is registered with the New Zealand Companies Office. It may be privately owned or publicly traded.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
- New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- At least 18 years old
- Registered to New Zealand Companies Office
- Business revenue of $60,000+
YOU WILL NEED:
- An active New Zealand Business Number (NZBN)
- Understanding of the Company structure
- Personal details of all Directors and Shareholders
- Your annual gross personal income from the previous financial year
YOU MAY NEED:
- A copy of your driver’s licence
- Bank Statement or Utility bill with your name, business name, business address (Less than 90 days old).
- If a Trust is in your structure, enhanced due diligence will be required.
Partnerships
In a partnership, two or more people or entities conduct business and receive income jointly. Partnerships are usually legally binding agreements and for-profit businesses.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS:
- New Zealand citizen or permanent resident
- At least 18 years old
- Partner or controller of the partnership
- Business revenue of $60,000+
YOU WILL NEED:
- An active New Zealand Business Number (NZBN)
- Certified Partnership Agreement -OR- A letter from a registered accountant confirming partnership details (where no formal Partnership agreement exists)
- Your annual gross personal income from the previous financial year
YOU MAY NEED:
- A copy of your driver’s licence
- Bank Statement or Utility bill with your name, business name, business address (Less than 90 days old).
- If a Trust is in your structure, enhanced due diligence will be required.
Now it's time to apply
Once you've gathered all your information and documents, it's time to apply for the Card that backs businesses like yours. Return to the information page for your card of choice and click Apply Now to get started.
Terms & Conditions
American Express approval criteria applies. Subject to Terms and Conditions. Fees and charges apply. All information is correct as at 01 January 2023 and is subject to change. This offer is only available to those who reside in New Zealand. Cards are offered, issued and administered by American Express International (NZ), Inc. Incorporated in Delaware, USA. Principal Place of Business in New Zealand, Jarden House, Level 5, 21 Queen Street, Auckland 1010. Please see our Card pages for more details® Registered trademark of American Express Company.