3 rules
Citi application rules
Citi has 3 application and bonus rules worth knowing before you apply: 2 are in Citi's own terms, and 1 is reported by applicants.
- In the issuer's terms
- The issuer states this, in a card's terms or an official statement.
- Reported by applicants
- The issuer has never stated this. It is a pattern many applicants have reported, consistent enough to plan around, but not a guarantee.
How often can I apply?
One card in 8 days, two in 65
Citi usually approves no more than one card every 8 days, and no more than two in any 65 days.
Reported by applicants
Will I get the welcome bonus?
48 months between bonuses
On most Citi cards you can earn a card's welcome bonus again once 48 months have passed since you last received it.
In the issuer's terms
Strata cards, once per lifetime
Citi's Strata cards now pay their welcome bonus once per lifetime: the bonus isn't available if you have or have ever had that Strata card.
In the issuer's termsChanged September 20, 2026
Citi cards these apply to
Questions about Citi's rules
What is Citi's One card in 8 days, two in 65?
Citi usually approves no more than one card every 8 days, and no more than two in any 65 days. Citi has never published this; it is reported by applicants.
What is Citi's 48 months between bonuses?
On most Citi cards you can earn a card's welcome bonus again once 48 months have passed since you last received it. This is in Citi's own terms.
What is Citi's Strata cards, once per lifetime?
Citi's Strata cards now pay their welcome bonus once per lifetime: the bonus isn't available if you have or have ever had that Strata card. This is in Citi's own terms.