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HSBC Credit Card Agreement Terms

HSBC Credit Card Agreement Terms

If you do not understand anything in these Terms there is a glossary section at the back to help you. If you still do not understand anything in these Terms, you should contact us and we will help you. You should not sign our application form or agree to accept these Terms if you do not understand anything within them. Before deciding whether to enter into this agreement you should consider seeking independent financial, taxation and legal advice.

How do these Terms apply?

You have a 5 Business Day cooling-off period starting on the Business Day after we have confirmed your Card is approved. This means that you may cancel this Agreement during this period without penalty and we will refund any fees we have charged you and not charge you any interest which has accrued under these Terms during this period. Before exercising your right to cancel, you must repay your Card balance and any other amounts outstanding in connection with your Card. This means that you will not be able to cancel the Agreement if the Card has an outstanding balance. If you chose to cancel this Agreement after the expiry of the cooling-off period, you may do so as described in section 16.5.

1. When do these Terms Apply?

1.1 What do these Terms apply to?

These Terms apply to your HSBC Credit Card in Qatar, whether Visa® or MasterCard®.

1.2 From when do these Terms apply?

These Terms apply:

  1.  if you have received these Terms because you are applying for a Credit Card with us, from the date that you accept them on your application form; or
  2.  if you are an existing customer and these Terms have been changed, from the effective date in the notice that we give to you of the changes to such Terms.

These Terms replace any Credit Card terms with HSBC in the past, whatever the name of those Terms.

1.3 How do I show that I agree to these Terms?

You can show that you agree to these Terms by:

(i) signing our application form acknowledging that you have read and understood
these Terms; or

(i) accepting the Terms digitally, for example using an electronic checkbox. 

1.4 What do I need to submit to apply for a Credit Card?

You are required to provide us with certain documents before being eligible for a Credit Card in Qatar, such as a residency visa and Qatar ID. We will tell you the latest requirements when you apply.

Should we ask you for a security cheque please ensure you understand the consequences of providing us with a security cheque before doing so, which could include criminal liability if that cheque bounces. If you do not understand the consequences please seek independent legal advice before agreeing to these Terms.

2. What other documents do I need to read?

2.1 What other documents do I need to read?

These Terms apply along with our Tariff of Charges, which can be found on our website www.hsbc.com.qa.

Your relationship with us is also governed by the HSBC Personal Banking General Terms and Conditions (Qatar), available at www.hsbc.com.qa. By agreeing to apply for a Credit Card you will be agreeing to accept the HSBC Personal Banking General Terms and Conditions (Qatar), as well as these Terms, these Terms shall prevail in the event of a conflict between these Terms and the HSBC Personal Banking General Terms and Condition (Qatar) so please take the time to read and understand them both before agreeing to apply.

These Terms should also be read in conjunction with Cashback Credit Card Terms and Conditions and any other terms and conditions that apply to credit cards or any features or services if and where applicable.

Separate Terms apply to some of our services like Personal Internet Banking, or Mobile Payment Terms and Conditions and to credit card related features such as FIP. We will make you aware of these Terms if they apply to you and give you an opportunity to read and understand them. These Terms are available on our website at www.hsbc.com.qa.

3. Where can I find out about the Credit Card Features?

3.1 Where can I find out the features of my Credit Card?

You can find out the Credit Card Features on our website, by calling us or at one of our branches. These features may change from time to time in accordance with clause 15 of these Terms.

If you breach these Terms you will not be able to take advantage of the Credit Card Features.

3.2 Am I eligible for other Credit Cards?

You may be eligible for another Credit Card with special features. Your eligibility for these Credit Cards is subject to our internal policies and procedures and your individual circumstances. We can change the policies and procedures at any time or decide to replace your Credit Card with a different Credit Card for any reason. If we change your type of Credit Card we will give you 30 days’ notice if the change results in an increase in fees and charges. If there is no increase in fees and charges, the change may take place without notice. Your new credit card may have a new card number, expiry date and/or CVV. You will need to ensure you update any stored card details or payments with these new details.

3.3 What if a third party offers me additional features for using my HSBC Card?

We are not liable for representations or commitments to you made by third parties, including our business alliance partners. If we advertise an offer to you, we will tell you if the feature is made available by a third party.

3.4 Am I eligible for any credit card benefits?

Yes. The benefits associated with your Credit Card can be found on our website. You are eligible for these benefits as soon as you receive your Credit Card (in digital or physical form) and, if applicable, meet the eligibility criteria for the benefit. If you close your Credit Card Account, stop using your Credit Card, do not make your payments on time, you have exceeded your credit limit or your Credit Card is restricted, then we may remove these benefits.

4. Using my Credit Card

4.1 How can I use my Credit Card?

We will open a Credit Card Account in your name to record transactions under this Agreement. Once you have your Credit Card and any PINs that are required have been set up, you may use it and draw credit under these Terms.

Transactions using the Credit Card may be authorised by you using, as the circumstances require, a combination of the Credit Card, PIN or other security details associated with the Card or the Credit Card Account or in other ways advised to you by us from time to time. Where the transaction is executed at a distance, for example over the internet or phone, other security details may be requested from you.

You may draw down credit by using your Credit Card to make Purchases or Cash Advances and we may allow you to make any instalment plans.

4.2 Can a third party use my Credit Card?

No. You can nominate a third party for a Supplementary Card, but no one should use your Credit Card apart from you.

4.3 What should I do when I receive my Credit Card?

Please sign it immediately and if applicable, set up your PIN. If you have applied for a Supplementary Card, the Supplementary Cardholder should also sign their Credit Card immediately.

4.4 How will I know what I have been charged?

We will provide you a statement each month (and this may be an online statement, by email, other electronic means, or another digital/electronic platform chosen by us, or a paper statement if you asked us for this) if there are transactions or activities on your Credit Card Account. It is your responsibility to review your statement. You must tell us immediately if anything on your statement is incorrect. If you do not query a transaction on your statement within 30 days of the statement date we will assume you agree with every transaction included in the statement.

4.5 When will I receive a statement?

We will provide you a statement each month, unless there has been no activity on your Credit Card Account for that month. If there has been no activity, we may not send you a statement.

4.6 What will the statement include?

Details of all activities on your Credit Card Account during the billing period, the total amount outstanding on your Credit Card, the minimum repayment due and the excess credit limit amount will be included in the Statement. We will also tell you the due date for payment.

4.7 How can I make Purchases on my Credit Card?

When using your Card for Purchases, you (or the Supplementary Cardholder) must validate the transaction by entering the security information we have provided you with, whether PIN, signature or alternative method of authorisation. In some instances, you may be able to make purchases using only the contactless feature of your Credit Card.

4.8 Can I take Cash Advances on my Credit Card?

Yes. You can use your Credit Card to take a Cash Advance up to your Cash Advance limit at our branches, at an ATM or through other participating venues.

For the relevant fees and charges which apply to a Cash Advance please see the Tariff of Charges on www.hsbc.com.qa. Please note that any interest for a Cash Advance will be charged from the date of the transaction until the day that the Cash Advance is repaid in full.

4.9 Are there any Purchases which will be charged as if they were Cash Advances?

Certain transactions will be charged as if they were Cash Advances, including purchases at exchange houses, any purchase of foreign currency or any other transactions classified by Visa®, MasterCard® or us as a transaction which should be charged as if it were cash.

4.10 Can I use my Credit Card at ATMs?

You can use your Credit Card at HSBC ATMs or other institution’s ATMs on selected networks.

You can also use your Credit Card at ATMs on the same networks abroad, so long as they are situated in countries where withdrawals are permitted pursuant to the laws of Qatar and such use would not involve a breach of any international financial sanctions.

We will not be responsible if you are unable to use your Credit Card in any other institution’s ATMs. In addition, there may be particular countries where, due to local legal or regulatory reasons, you cannot use your Credit Card.

Our record of ATM transactions, be it a HSBC ATM or non HSBC ATM is conclusive. If you would like to dispute an ATM transaction please call us within 30 days of your last statement date.

4.11 Can I use my Credit Card at an ATM to withdraw money from my HSBC current or savings accounts?

You can choose to link your Credit Card to your HSBC saving or current account to allow you to use your Credit Card to make withdrawals from those HSBC accounts. The Supplementary Cardholder may not be permitted to make such withdrawals. There is a fee charged for this service, as set out in our Tariff of Charges.

We will debit the account nominated by you to be linked to the Credit Card with the amount of any transaction performed at that ATM.

4.12 Can I revoke a Purchase?

You cannot rescind or revoke a Purchase or other transaction made by use of the Credit Card or Credit Card details once you have authorised the transaction to us or the payee (for example, a retailer or supplier). We will credit the Credit Card Account with a refund only if the payee refunds us.

4.13 Can I make payments to put the Account in credit?

You should not make payments that place the Credit Card Account in credit. If you do, we may restrict the use of the Credit Card completely or restrict the account to the amount of your credit limit. We may also return the excess to you.

5. Supplementary Cards

5.1 Can I apply for a Supplementary Card?

Yes, you can apply for a Supplementary Credit Card. We may also require the Supplementary Cardholder to sign an application form or provide further information.

There may be limits on the number of Supplementary Cards you can apply for and charges may apply for Supplementary Cards, as set out in the Tariff of Charges.

5.2 Will you issue separate statements for Supplementary Credit Cards?

We will only send the Supplementary Cardholder a separate statement if you have asked us to create a separate limit for the Supplementary Cardholder. The same provisions under these Terms shall apply to any statements issued to the Supplementary Cardholder.

5.3 Who is liable for the outstanding amount on the Supplementary Card?

You are responsible for all use of the Credit Card by the Supplementary Cardholder, including any use in breach of these Terms. You must ensure that the Supplementary Cardholder complies with these Terms, including the relevant

Terms regarding the use, safeguarding and preventing misuse of the Credit Card. At any times, whether you share your limit with the Supplementary Cardholder or segregate the limit you are liable to pay the entire balance on both cards

5.4 Can you cancel a Supplementary Card?

Yes, we may cancel any Supplementary Card or restrict its use or cancel the limit at any time and ask for return of all Supplementary Cards without notice.

5.5 When will a Supplementary Card be renewed?

We will provide renewal Credit Cards for the Supplementary Cardholder on expiry unless you tell us in writing to stop doing this.

5.6 What happens if I have a dispute with my Supplementary Cardholder?

The Bank will not get involved in any dispute between you and the Supplementary Cardholder. We may share information about the Supplementary Card, with each of you upon request until the supplementary card is closed. Only the primary cardholder is permitted to close the supplementary credit card and the supplementary cardholder’s consent is not required.

6. Credit Limits

6.1 How will my credit limit be assigned?

We will assign a credit limit to the Credit Card Account based on our internal evaluation of your circumstances.

6.2 Can you change my credit limit?

We will not increase your limit without your written consent. However, we may cancel or decrease your limit at any time, at our discretion. We will notify of any such changes as soon as is reasonably practicable.

You can either choose to share your credit limit with the Supplementary Cardholder or to segregate part of your credit limit so that the Supplementary Cardholder has a separate limit.

6.3 What happens if I exceed my credit limit?

You may not exceed your credit limit. However in some cases, your credit limit may be exceeded by your outstanding balance due to either (a) charging of any interest and fees, (b) transactions being authorized in excess of your credit limit,

(c) your credit limit has decreased (either by us or upon your request), or (d) any other valid reason.

If you do exceed your credit limit the balance in excess of your credit limit will be immediately due and payable. This amount will appear in your statement if it remains unpaid when we generate your statement.

We will charge an overlimit fee to your Credit Card Account if you (or the Supplementary Cardholder) exceed the credit limit. Details of this fee can be found in in our Tariff of Charges and this might change from time to time. This fee will continue to be charged for each billing period until you clear the balance in excess of your credit limit at the beginning of the next cycle.

In some circumstances, we may cancel the Credit Card (or Supplementary Card), without notice. In these cases, the outstanding balance and any outstanding liabilities become due and payable immediately.

7. Charges

7.1 What will you charge my Credit Card Account?

We will charge your Credit Card Account with:

a)  all amounts incurred by the use of the Credit Card and all interest, fees, charges,
costs and liabilities referred to in these Terms or the Tariff of Charges;

b)  our costs of seeking to enforce our rights under this Agreement, any costs we incur in tracing you, any costs of using a collection agency and any legal costs; and

c)  the amount of any tax or other duty imposed upon this Agreement or the use of your Credit Card(s).

7.2 Where can I find out which fees and charges apply to me?

In our Tariff of Chargeswhich may change from time to time therefore please ensure you refer to the most up to date version which can be found at www.hsbc.com.qa.

7.3 How will international transactions (other than ATM transactions) be charged to my Credit Card?

Where you choose to pay in a currency other than your billing currency, the transaction will be converted into your billing currency by the card scheme (Visa® or MasterCard®) using their applicable exchange rates on the day conversion is made (which may involve a conversion to US dollars first). Where you choose to pay in your billing currency at the time of the transaction, the transaction will be converted by the relevant merchant or their service provider using their applicable exchange rates on the day the conversion is made.

International transactions include online transactions initiated in Qatar which are processed by a merchant outside of Qatar. This may occur for example where a merchant processes their payments through an overseas intermediary or, where a merchant is registered as an overseas merchant irrespective of its actual location.

In addition to this exchange rate conversion, we may charge a processing fee (as a percentage of the transaction amount) as set out in our Tariff of Charges, and may also pass on to you any costs incurred by us as a result of your transaction.

7.4 How will foreign currency or international withdrawals from ATMs be charged to my Credit Card?

International Foreign Currency Transactions performed at an ATM will be converted into your billing currency by us using our applicable exchange rate. The transactions may have first been converted to US dollars or Hong Kong dollars either by us or by the card scheme (Visa® or MasterCard®) using their applicable exchange rates on the day conversion is made. When making Foreign Currency Transactions at ATMs on certain networks, such as GCCnet, the conversion may be completed by a local network at a rate and time determined by them. Where you make a withdrawal at an international ATM, and at the time of the transaction you choose to be billed in your billing currency, then the transaction will first be converted by the ATM operator using their applicable exchange rate on the day the conversion is made.

In addition to this exchange rate conversion, we may charge a processing fee as a percentage of the transaction amount as set out in our Tariff of Charges, and may also pass on to you any costs incurred by us as a result of your transaction. The usual Cash Advance fee will also apply, as set out in the Tariff of Charges.

Some cash machine operators may apply a direct charge for withdrawals from their self-service machines (ATM). This should be advised and accepted on screen at the time of the withdrawal.

For all applicable fees and charges, please see the Tariff of Charges, which can be found at www.hsbc.com.qa

7.5 Will I be charged an annual fee for my Credit Card?

We may charge an annual fee for the Credit Card (and any Supplementary Cards). Annual fees are included in the Tariff of Chargesif applicable. This annual fee is non-refundable.

7.6 Are there any additional fees for cash withdrawals or advances?

We will charge a fee for each cash withdrawal/advance as set out in the Tariff of Charges.

8. Interest

8.1 What will the interest rate be?

The interest rate you will be charged is set out in the Tariff of Charges, sometimes also referred to as a “Finance Charge” or as we may advise you from time to time. The rate we will charge you may differ for Purchases, Cash Advances and Flexible Instalment Plans.

8.2 When and how will interest be charged?

Interest will be charged to your Credit Card Account if:

(a)    you do not pay us the full Credit Card outstanding amount in cleared funds by the due date; or

(b)    you have taken a Cash Advance or any other Credit Card Feature where we have stated we will charge interest; or

(c)    you have accepted an interest bearing instalment product on your Credit Card Account.

The interest is calculated and charged from the date of the transaction based on your daily outstanding balance. We calculate interest on the basis of a 360 day calendar year and it accrues daily unless otherwise specified. Interest is payable monthly.

Card features we offer from time to time may be subject to interest, in accordance with the individual terms and conditions.

8.3 Is there an interest free period?

The interest free period is a maximum of up to 56 days from the date of the Purchase if you pay your whole balance in full and on time. The exact duration of an interest free period will depend on the time between your transaction date and your next payment due date. There is no interest free period for the Cash Advances. These are charged with interest from the date of the transactions.

8.4 Will interest be charged on fees and interest?

We will charge interest on fees which remain unpaid by their due date. We will not charge interest on accrued interest.

8.5 Will you charge interest on unpaid insurance premiums?

Yes. We will charge interest on unpaid insurance premiums charged to the Credit Card Account at the same rate which applies to the relevant transaction to which they relate or, if there is no relevant transaction, at the rate applying to Purchases.

8.6 Do you offer promotional rates?

We may offer promotional rates from time to time to a selected set of customers based on our internal criteria. The conditions for taking advantage of these rates will be included in the offer terms and conditions. Promotional rates are conditional upon you complying with the offer Terms.

8.7 Is interest charged where I make a partial payment by the payment due date?

Yes. We calculate and accrue interest on a daily basis from the date of your transaction. If you do not pay us the full Credit Card outstanding amount in cleared funds by the due date, then we will charge you the accrued interest that we have calculated. Interest will also continue to accrue on your outstanding principal balance until the transaction is fully repaid. We will not charge interest on accrued interest. Any partial payments made will be allocated to your Credit Card Account in accordance with these Terms to reduce your outstanding balance.

9. Repayments

9.1 When do I have to pay my balance?

You must pay us at least the minimum payment due shown as due for payment by the due date indicated on your statement. However, any amount over your credit limit will need to be paid immediately. This amount will only show in your statement if it remains unpaid at the time your statement is generated.

Charges relating to paper and e-statements (including extra copies) if any, are set out in the Tariff of Charges.

We may allow other persons to make payments to the Credit Card Account on your behalf.

9.2 What is the minimum repayment?

This is the minimum amount you need to repay to us by the due date indicated on your statement.

Your minimum repayment shall be the total of:

(A) The total of the monthly instalments due under FIP and any other flexible instalment monthly payment plan and any relevant insurance premium; and

(B) For each purchase, Cash Advanceor any other Credit Card Features you have taken out, the greater of:

i.     the total plan balance or QAR 50 (whichever is lower); or

ii.     5% of the balance of that category of transactions on your Credit Card Account (which includes any excess amount over your credit limit); and

(C) the total monthly interest and fees charged including any annual membership fee; and

(D) any unpaid minimum amounts from the previous billing period.

You can at any time, subject to making the minimum monthly repayment, repay all or any sums owing under these Terms.

We recommend that you pay more than the minimum payment whenever possible. If you make only the minimum payment each month, it will take you longer and cost you more to clear your balance.

9.3 How will my payments be allocated?

Payments by you will only take effect when received by us in cleared funds.

Payments received from you are applied to pay off (i) the minimum payment shown on your statement of accounts (which may only include a portion of the amount over your credit limit as explained in clause 9.2 of these Terms), (ii) then the remaining balance on your statement of accounts and (iii) then items not yet included in your statement of account.

We apply your payment to categories of balance in the following order from highest interest to lowest interest plan after clearing the minimum repayment amount:

  •  Fee and Charges
  • Finance Charge/interest
  • Outstanding principal balance (comprising of different categories of balance e.g. Purchases, Cash Advancesand any other Credit Card Features you have taken out etc. from highest interest to lowest interest plan).

If you make multiple payments in the billing period they will be treated separately in the order in which we receive them as cleared funds.

9.4 What happens if I pay by cheque?

The funds will be credited to your Credit Card Account once the cheque is cleared (including for cheques deposited at ATMs). Please allow a reasonable amount of time (and we would recommend at least 4 Business Days) for the cheque amount to be credited to your Credit Card Account.

Please note that if you choose to pay by cheque and this cheque bounced, you may be charged as set out in our Tariff of Charges.

9.5 What about cash deposits?

Any cash deposit towards repayment of your outstanding balance at an ATM shall only be regarded as having been received by us upon verification and crediting of the cash deposit to your Credit Card Account.

9.6 Can I issue a standing instruction to pay my outstanding balance on my Credit Card? How will standing instructions be applied for payment to my outstanding balance?

You may issue a standing instruction on your HSBC savings or current account to settle the amount outstanding (in full or in part) on your Credit Card Account on the payment due date.

If there are insufficient funds in your savings or current account at the date of the standing instruction, your Credit Card Account may become overdue. If you are overdue you will have to pay a late payment fee.

We will determine the priority of the standing instructions against any cheques presented for payment.

You will be debited for the amount/percentage specified in your standing instruction regardless of any manual repayments that were made within 1 Business Day of the date of the standing instruction.

We ask that you notify us of any changes to standing instructions at least 5 Business Days before the next payment due date.

9.7 What about direct debits?

We may permit you to make repayments to your Credit Card using direct debits or to make payments to third parties using a direct debit from your Credit Card Account. In each case a separate form containing additional terms will need to be completed by you.

10. What happens if I do not pay on time?

10.1 What happens if I do not make payment in full by the due date?

If you do not pay us the whole of the outstanding amount in cleared funds by the due date interest which has accrued will be charged to your Credit Card Account. Interest will be calculated based on your average daily balance, which shall include any relevant fees and exclude any accrued interest.

Any standing instruction you give us for the whole amount outstanding or the minimum payment may be processed more than once and on different days. You may be charged for this failure to have available funds when the standing instruction is applied to your account.

10.2 What happens if I do not make the minimum payment by the due date?

If you do not make the minimum payment by the due date, one or more of the following will occur:

(a)    your Credit Card may immediately stop working and you will be considered in breach of these Terms;

(b)    we will charge you the interest that has accrued in accordance with clause 8. Interest will continue to accrue on the unpaid principal balance until is repaid to us in full;

(c)    you will be charged late payment fees at the rate set out in the Tariff of Charges from the day after the due date;

(d)   you may be charged a higher interest rate from the day after the due date;

(e)   your credit worthiness with us and with other banks could be impacted negatively;

(f)    you may be denied credit by us or other banks in future, since we may inform a credit bureau;

(g)   you may be contacted by us or third party agencies for debt collection purpose and we may take enforcement action against you;

(h)   your instalment plans may be converted to retail plans and treated as purchases;

(i)    you may be required to pay the total outstanding balance on your Credit Card Account in full. Please see section 16 for more information; and/or

(j)    any rewards, benefits, card features, accrued Air Miles or accrued cashback may no longer be available or provided.

10.3 Will you use debt collection agencies?

Yes, we might appoint debt recovery agents in Qatar or overseas if you do not pay on the due date. You will be liable for the cost of appointing a debt recovery agent and any related expenses we incur. You will also be liable for our legal costs if we have to take legal action.

To facilitate debt recovery overseas, we may appoint another member of the HSBC Group to act on our behalf. You agree that we, or our third party agents, may visit you at the address you have provided us for your home or office or such other address as we (or you and our third party agent) may from time to time agree to meet.

10.4 What does “set-off” mean?

If you:

·   have money in sole or joint accounts with us or if we owe you money, and

·   owe us money on another sole or joint account (such as your Credit Card)

We can use this money you have with us to reduce or repay the amount you owe us.

This is our right of “set-off”. We might use this right if you do not repay us in accordance with these Terms.

There are detailed clauses in our HSBC Personal Banking General Terms and Conditions (Qatar), about our right of set-off and how we might use this. Please make sure you read and understand those clauses before applying for a Credit Card.

11. Insurance

11.1 Is there personal insurance coverage with my Credit Card?

It may be an optional feature of your Credit Card that you receive insurance. This may cover you or the Supplementary Cardholder in the event of different types of loss, but this will depend on the features available on your Credit Card and the policy terms. Both the features and the policy terms can be found on our website, www.hsbc.com.qa. These might change from time to time and we will communicate these to using a method we believe is appropriate.

The insurance policy is made available by a third party insurer, so it is important that you read the policy Terms and understand that any claim you have under any insurance which is a feature of your Credit Card will be against that insurer, not HSBC Bank Middle East Limited or any member of the HSBC Group.

The insurance company who provides the policy will have access to your personal information and if you agree to apply for your Credit Card you are giving your consent for them to have this access.

12. Lost/Stolen Credit Cards

12.1 What happens if my Credit Card is lost or stolen, or I think there is an unauthorized transaction?

You must call us straight away using the numbers listed on our Website, on the back of your Card or on HSBC Mobile Banking or visiting one of our Branches. You might be charged a card replacement fee for a new Credit Card. Your new card may have a new number, expiry date and/or CVV. If we charge you a fee it will be set out in our Tariff of Charges.

13. Misuse of the Credit Card

13.1 When am I responsible for Unauthorised Transactions?

We will be responsible for any money lost due to an Unauthorised Transaction after you have reported the loss, theft or Unauthorised Transaction of/on your Credit Card to us. We will also be responsible for any Unauthorised Transactions on your Credit Card before you receive it. Where we are responsible we will refund the amount of the Unauthorised Transaction, including any resulting interest or charges relating to the transaction. If we later become aware of evidence that shows we are not responsible for the transaction, we will recover an amount equal to the refund from your account.

You are responsible for all losses if

a)   you act fraudulently

b)   you act without Vigilant Care (described below)

c)   any Unauthorised Transactions which occurred before you reported the loss, theft or Unauthorised Transaction.

We may decide to investigate any Unauthorised Transactions. You must co-operate with us and the police to recover lost or stolen Credit Cards and to investigate any Unauthorised Transactions. If you are asked to report Unauthorised Transactions, lost or stolen cards to the police, you must do so immediately and in any event within 7 days of being asked. If you recover the Credit Cards you must not use them and should cut them in half and return them to us. 

13.2 What does exercising Vigilant Care mean?

Exercising Vigilant Care means taking the following precautions as a minimum:

a)     Signing the Credit Card as soon as it is received and complying with any security instructions;

b)     Protecting the Credit Card and the Credit Card security details;

c)     Not allowing anyone else to have or use the Credit Card (and this includes disclosing your PIN, passwords (including, but not limited to, OTP passwords) to anyone or allowing anyone else’s biometrics to be stored on your mobile device).;

d)     Destroying any notification of the Credit Card security details;

e)     Not writing down the Credit Card security details nor disclosing them to anyone else, including the police and/or our staff;

f)      If you change your Credit Card security details to make them more memorable to you, do not choose sequences of letters or numbers that may be easy to guess;

g)     Not tampering with the Credit Card;

h)     Keeping Credit Card receipts secure and disposing them carefully;

i)       Cutting any old Credit Cards into at least 6 pieces;

j)       Keeping your Credit Card in your sight at all times; and

Not allowing anyone else to use your Credit Card.

13.3 Can I use my Credit Card for business purposes?

You cannot misuse your Credit Card for business purposes. If you do misuse your Credit Card, we may cancel your Credit Card.

13.4 What happens if I dispute a transaction which is valid?

You may be charged a fee in line with the Tariff of Charges.

14. Flexible Instalment Plan, Air Miles, Credit Shield

14.1 What additional terms apply for special features?

You can find on our website www.hsbc.com.qa the following additional terms: Flexible Instalment Planand Air Miles. Please make sure you read and understand these Terms before agreeing to accept one of these special features. Please visit the Download Centre on the website to find the additional terms. These Terms may be updated from time to time so please ensure you visit our website for the latest terms that apply.

15. Changing these Terms

15.1 Will you change these Terms, fees or charges?

We will not change the terms and conditions for granting the Credit Card without your written consent. For these purposes, you agree that any electronic method of acceptance shall constitute your acceptance of our terms, and changes to our terms, as if you had accepted in writing.

Notwithstanding the above, we may change these Terms, or any other Card terms that you subsequently enter into and reference in this section:

(i)    Immediately if required under Laws or applicable regulation; or

(ii)   By providing you with 30 days’ notice in advance to reflect:

1)    a change in industry code or market practice;

2)    a change to our way of doing business including the introduction of new technology or changes to our existing technology or any of the platforms on which our Services are provided;

3)    changes to our product or Services features (including how we operate them),
or internal policies;

(4)   changes for your benefit; or

(5)   to make them clearer to you.

For these purposes, you agree that your non objection during the notice period, or continued use of the Credit Card, will be considered as your acceptance to these changes.

Notwithstanding anything else in this Agreement, you agree that we may change:

(a)    fees and charges described in the Tariff of Charges (or introduce new fees and charges, or remove them) by providing you with 30 days’ advance Notice; and/or

(b)    interest rates (either generally or on specific promotions) subject to us providing you with 30 days’ advance notice; and/or

(c)    the method we use to calculate fees, charges and interest rate by providing you with 30 days’ advance notice.

In particular, we may vary the interest rate(s) depending on our assessment of your ability to meet your financial commitments (including considering your credit history and information held about you by credit reference agencies) and how you conduct your Credit Card Account from time to time. These changes may be personal to you and we do this to ensure a fair allocation of the risks and costs of borrowing between our different customers.

You agree that we may make changes to the eligibility criteria, terms and conditions, fulfilment and scope of the benefits, rewards and loyalty programs offered with your Card. Where these are offered and managed solely by us, we’ll provide you with 30 days’ advance notice. Where these are offered or managed (including in part) by third party providers, we’ll provide you with notice where it is reasonably practicable for us to do so.

15.2 How will you notify me of a variation?

We will always contact you using methods we think are appropriate, which might include a notification online via our Website, email, courier, messages through Personal Internet Banking and Mobile Banking or via SMS alerts etc.

15.3 Could the Credit Card, account number and PIN change if there is a variation?

If we change the Terms of this Agreement, we might change your Credit Card and Credit Card Account number and cancel the Credit Card that the new Credit Card replaces. The balance on the Credit Card Account will become subject to the new Terms.

15.4 What if I do not agree with the variation?

If:

(i)   We ask for your consent to change terms relating to the granting of your Credit Card and you do not provide this to us; or

(ii)  We provide you with notice of a change, and you tell us you do not agree within this notice period,

then we shall have the discretion to either suspend your Credit Card or terminate this Agreement. If we terminate your agreement, you shall immediately be liable to pay any and all outstanding balance liabilities on your Credit Card Account.

At any time during this Agreement, if you are unhappy with any changes made by us you have the option to end this Agreement and close your Credit Card Account in accordance with section 16 of these terms.

16. Restricting Credit Card use and ending this Agreement

16.1 Can you ask me to pay the outstanding balance on my Credit Card Account in full at any time?

Your Credit Card debt is repayable on demand. This means that the Bank could choose to demand repayment of the entire amount on demand at any time. We will communicate this to you through a channel we believe is appropriate, which may include statements.

16.2 When will my Credit Card be refused or restricted?

In accordance with our right to demand the Credit Card balance back in full at any time we have the right to restrict or refuse a transaction on your Credit Card at any time. Without restricting this general right, we are likely to restrict or refuse a transaction on your Credit Card in the following circumstances:

situations such as you applying for a settlement plan, bankruptcy/insolvency or any other similar proceedings commenced (or about to be) against you;

c if any of the information you have given us turns out to be incorrect or is suspected to be untrue;

d if your bank account with us or any member of the HSBC Group is frozen;

e if adverse information is received from a credit reference agency about you;

f your residence visa has expired or is cancelled;

g we have reasonable grounds for suspecting that you, any Supplementary Cardholder or third party has committed or is about to commit a crime or other abuse, including a regulatory, international sanctions, bribery or money laundering offence, in connection with use of the Credit Card or the Credit Card Account;

h we suspect fraud or misuse of your Credit Card. (you may be asked for further information, including verification of your identity, when we are asked to authorise a transaction);

i if you do not use your PIN when you use your Chip and PIN Credit Card at a facility which requires you to use a PIN;

j    if you do not provide us with up to date and valid ID documentation; or

k for any other justifiable reason.

If a transaction is refused by us we will give notice of this refusal via the supplier, retailer or other organisation with whom you try to make the transaction. We are not liable for any loss you suffer as a result of this action. If a merchant or third party refuses to accept your Credit Card, we are not responsible to you (or the Supplementary Cardholder). If you have a complaint you should discuss this with the third party or merchant.

If we restrict your Credit Card we will try to give you reasonable notice, but there may be circumstances where we are not able to give you notice (e.g. for regulatory reasons) or provide you with the reasons for this, and your Credit Card will be restricted immediately. We will not be liable for any loss you suffer as a result of this action.

16.3 Does this Agreement have a fixed duration?

No. This Agreement has no fixed or minimum duration. 

16.4 Can you cancel my Credit Card?

Yes. Cards belong to us and while we will try to give you reasonable notice if we cancel your Card, there may be circumstances where we need to cancel your Card straightaway without notice.

You will be responsible for all of the amounts you owe us under these Terms, even if we have cancelled your Credit Card or closed the account(s) linked to your Credit Card. The outstanding amounts would become due and payable immediately.

16.5 How can I cancel my Credit Card?

You may cancel your Credit Card and close your Credit Card Account at any time by written notice to us or by calling us. Details of cancelling your Credit Card during the cooling off period can be found at the front of this Agreement. If you cancel your Credit Card after the expiry of the cooling off period, you may return to us your Credit Card and all Supplementary Cards we issued on your Credit Card Account or cut the Credit Cards into at least 6 pieces. You must also pay your total outstanding balance and any outstanding liabilities on your Credit Card Account in full immediately. This includes repaying us for any transactions posted to your Credit Card Account after closure.

16.6 What happens to my outstanding amounts upon cancellation?

We might debit your account for any transaction made by you before or after the Agreement ended. We will require immediate repayment of the account.

You must not use your Credit Card (or any Supplementary Card) after we have cancelled or suspended it.

These Terms still apply to you until all amounts are repaid in full.

16.7 What happens if I breach these Terms or any other terms applicable to my Credit Card?

It is important that you, and any Supplementary Cardholder, meets these Terms and any other terms applicable to your Credit Card before and during the term of your Credit Card. The following consequences may apply in case you do not:

(a)   we may not approve your Credit Card;

(b)   we may immediately block your Credit Card and/or suspend a transaction or payment;

(c)   we may proceed to close your Credit Card Account, in which case the total outstanding balance and any outstanding liabilities are immediately due and payable in full. Interest, fees and charges will continue to accrue until you have fully repaid us;

(d)   any rewards, benefits, card features, accrued Air Miles or accrued cashback may no longer be available or provided;

(e)   please see section 10 of these Terms for more information on what happens if you do not pay in full on time. It contains important information in relation to our right to take legal action, set off against monies in our accounts you hold with us, appoint debt collection agents and report your account status to credit reference agencies/bureaus.

(f)    we may charge you the relevant interest and fees that apply until you have fully repaid us. Please refer to theTariff of Charges; and/or

(g)   you will be responsible for transactions where you have not exercised Vigilant Care. Please see section 13 of these Terms for more information. 

17. Death and Bankruptcy

17.1 What happens if I die?

In the event of your death, your heirs need to give us notice as soon as possible, along with any documents necessary under the applicable law. Your heirs will be responsible for settling the balance, unless you have taken out insurance cover.

17.2 What happens if I become bankrupt?

If you file for, or are subject to proceedings relating to, a settlement plan, insolvency, or any other similar insolvency or bankruptcy proceedings in Qatar then:

-    You must let us know immediately;

-    the balance and any outstanding liabilities shall become immediately due and payable; and

-    you (and the Supplementary Cardholder) must immediately stop using the Credit Card and return it to us immediately.

17.3 What happens if a Supplementary Cardholder dies?

You remain responsible for settling the outstanding balance and any outstanding liabilities on the Supplementary Card.

If a Supplementary Cardholder dies and they are a joint holder of the bank account linked to your Credit Card, you must immediately stop using the Credit Card and all Credit Cards must be returned to us.

18. Your Information

18.1 What information you need from me and when can you disclose information about me?

If we make request for information, you must give it to us as soon as possible. If you don’t, or we suspect fraudulent or criminal activity of any kind:

•  We might try to get it from another source;

•  We could block or close your Account(s); or

•  You might not be able to access some banking services or keep banking with us.

You must make sure the information you give us is accurate and up to date and tell us immediately if any changes occur to any of your information.

Our Privacy Notice explains how we collect, use, disclose, transfer and store your information and sets out your rights to your information. We have provided our Privacy Notice to you separately and we will inform you when we make any changes to it. You can also find this at www.hsbc.com.qa or you can ask for a copy in branch.

We will also give your information to others if required by law (e.g. if we believe you may have tax obligations in other countries, we may have to disclose that information directly to tax authorities or we may disclose it for the purpose of detecting or preventing fraud and financial crime). We may also disclose it if we need to protect our own interests (e.g. in any legal proceedings) or we have your specific agreement.

18.2 Will you use Credit Bureaus?

Yes. You agree that:

-      we can use information obtained from public sources and credit reference agencies/ bureaus:

  • to verify your identity;
  • to assess your suitability for an Account;
  • for the provision of services and to approve, manage, administer or effect any transactions that you request or authorise;
  • to collect any amounts due and outstanding from you; and
  • to maintain our overall relationship with you (including marketing or promoting financial services or related products and market research); and

-            during the term of your Account or any facility we provide to you, we may on

an ongoing basis request a report from a credit reference agency/bureau to assess your ability to meet your financial commitments, without any further consent from you. You understand that to request multiple reports from credit reference agencies/ bureaus may negatively impact your credit score which may make it difficult for you to obtain credit in the future. Let us know if you believe any information we have reported to the credit reference agencies/bureaus is incorrect. We’ll acknowledge your request, verify it and where required, correct this.

In addition, we may share your information with:

(i)     HSBC authorised external debt collection agencies for the purposes of collection of any overdue debts you may owe to us; and

(ii)    with credit reference agencies/bureaus where we are under a legal, regulatory or government requirement to do so.

18. 3 What about banking secrecy laws and regulations?

By agreeing to these Terms, you are expressly giving us your consent to share your information as described in these Terms and you are expressly giving up any right to secrecy you have under banking secrecy laws and regulations in Qatar and in other jurisdictions (“Banking Secrecy Laws and Regulations”). You expressly agree not to hold us or any member of the HSBC Group (including any officers, staff and third party agents) liable in relation to such Banking Secrecy Laws and Regulations, unless we have acted fraudulently or with willful misconduct or gross negligence.

We might ask you for more information about your financial situation. We may verify this information. If you do not provide us with the information we ask for, we might refuse to renew your Credit Card or cancel your Credit Card. 

19. General

19.1 What happens if there is a malfunction or failure of the Credit Card or an ATM?

We will not be liable to you for a malfunction or failure of the Credit Card or ATM.

We will not be liable to you for any loss if an ATM has insufficient funds to process your request.

19.2 What should I do if my details change?

Please fill in our change of details form at one of our branches as soon as possible. We need to know about any change of employment, home or office address or any contact details. This applies to your information or information about the Supplementary Cardholder. You may be required to visit the branches and provide additional documentation.

19.3 What happens when we renew or replace your Credit Card?

We can renew or replace your Credit Card for any reason. We will send you a new Credit Card and in the event of replacement, this may have a new expiry date and in some instances, a different card number and/or CVV. You may not be able to use your existing Credit Card and we recommend you cut your old Credit Card into at least 6 pieces.

19.4 What if I dispute a transaction on my Credit Card?

You must continue to make payments to us whilst you are resolving any dispute you may be having with someone else in relation to a transaction made with your Credit Card. We are not responsible in any way for any goods or services supplied to you by third parties.

If the merchant or third party gives you a refund of any amount we will credit this to your Credit Card Account when we receive notice in writing from them.

If you suspect that there is a fraudulent activity on your Credit Card Account you must notify us within 30 days from your last statement which detailed the fraudulent activity.

19.5 What happens if I use my Credit Card for unlawful purposes?

You must not use your Credit Card for unlawful purposes, including purchasing goods or services which are illegal in Qatar. If you do so, we may cancel your Credit Card immediately and may report you to the relevant authorities. You will be responsible for any unlawful use and you may be required to reimburse us or Visa®or MasterCard® for any amount which we or they incur as a result of your use.

19.6 What happens if there is a strike, industrial action, power failure, failure of supplies or equipment or any other events beyond or outside our control?

We will not be liable to you for the loss you suffer if any of these events happen.

These events may mean that we cannot send you a statement. You will still be liable to pay us any outstanding amounts, even if we are unable to send you a statement.

19.7 Can you transfer my Credit Card to a different bank?

We can transfer our rights and/or obligations in relation to your Credit Card to someone else. If we do this, it will not affect your rights and/or obligations.

If we are considering transferring your Credit Card we may share your personal information with third parties in relation to the transfer. 

19.8 Can I transfer my Credit Card balance to another bank?

Yes you may transfer your Credit Card balance if another Bank is willing to accept this balance. Please contact us to understand the process.

You may not, however, assign your rights and obligations under this Agreement to anyone else.

19.9 Who does the Credit Card belong to?

It is our property at all times.

19.10 How will you send me notices?

If we need to send you a notice under this Agreement, for example, if we are varying the Terms, we may send you a notice and we will generally choose the most appropriate method of notice to communicate with you, including but not limited to registered post, courier, statement messages, email, SMS, secure e-message via Personal Internet Banking, telephone, notices on our Website and Mobile Banking app, notices in branch and notices on our social media channels. For any notices addressed to you personally we will use the last contact details you notified us of and this will be a valid notice, even if those details have changed.

19.11 What law applies to this Agreement and where would a legal dispute be settled?

In the event of a dispute between us, we both agree to settle our dispute in the Courts of Qatar. The laws of Qatar will apply to these Terms and how we dealt with you before we opened your Credit Card Account.

19.12 Is this Agreement in Arabic or English?

This Agreement is in English and Arabic. We will communicate with you in English. In the event of a conflict between the Arabic and English, the Arabic prevails.

19.13 Will you contact me with marketing information?

Yes, if you agree. We’ll ask for your permission when you apply for a new Card, other product or service with us, and may also contact you on an ongoing basis to see if you’ve changed your mind. You can also contact us at any time to change your preferences. We’ll use your contact details registered with us and send you marketing materials and promotional offers on products or services we think you may be interested in.

20. How can I complain?

20.1 How can I complain?

If we do not deliver the standard of service you expect, or if you think we have made a mistake, please let us know. Details of how to get in touch can be found on our website or alternatively calling the number on the back of your card. We will then investigate the situation and, if necessary, set about putting matters right as quickly as possible.

In addition, we will take steps, where appropriate, to prevent a recurrence. Please allow your Branch manager or the manager of the department concerned the first opportunity to answer your concerns and put matters right.

20.2 What do I do if you cannot resolve my complaint or I am still unhappy after receiving your final response?

If you remain dissatisfied and would like further information about our process for resolving complaints, please contact us at ceqatarretail@hsbc.com.

If we are unable to resolve your complaint to your satisfaction you may then complain to our regulator Qatar Central Bank.

These Terms are issued by HSBC Bank Middle East Limited, PO Box 57, Doha,

Qatar. HSBC Bank Middle East Limited is regulated by Qatar Central Bank and lead regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority.

GLOSSARY

Air Miles

means the value expressed in the form of units credited to the Air Miles activity statement issued by Rewards Management Middle East Free Zone L.L.C.

Air Miles Terms & Conditions

Means the terms and conditions issued by us in relation to earning Air Miles which can be found at www.hsbc.com.qa. The Air Miles Terms and Conditions should also be read in conjunction with the Terms & Conditions issued by Rewards Management Middle East Free Zone L.L.C. and in force from time to time which govern the award and redemption of Air Miles.

Authorities

includes any judicial, administrative, public or regulatory body, any government or government ministry or department, any Tax Authority, securities or futures exchange, court, central bank or law enforcement body, or any of their agents with jurisdiction over any part of the HSBC Group.

Business Day

means any day on which banks are generally open for business in Qatar, excluding any day which Qatar Central Bank declares is a bank holiday, unless otherwise stipulated in these Terms.

Cardholder

means you, if we have agreed to open and maintain a Credit Card Account in the country in your name and to issue to you a Credit Card (and/or a Supplementary Card at your request) to operate that Credit Card Account.

Cash Advance

means any cash withdrawal, purchase of travellers cheques or foreign currency, money order or transfer made at your request.

Compliance Obligations

means obligations of the HSBC Group to comply with: (a) Laws or international guidance and internal policies or procedures, (b) any demand from Authorities or reporting, disclosure or other obligations under Laws, and (c) Laws requiring us to verify the identity of our customers.

Connected Person

means a person or entity (other than you) whose information (including Personal Data or Tax Information) you provide, or which is provided on your behalf, to any member of the HSBC Group or which is otherwise received by any member of the HSBC Group in connection with the provision of the Services. A Connected Person may include, but is not limited to any guarantor, any beneficial owner, trustee, settler or protector of a trust1, any account holder of a designated account, any payee of a designated payment, your representative, agent, attorney, guardian or nominee, any person with whom you hold a joint account (means an account that you hold jointly with other people), any supplementary card holder, or any other persons or entities with whom you have a relationship that is relevant to your relationship with the HSBC Group.

Credit Card

means any MasterCard® or Visa® credit card issued to you at any time or to a Supplementary Cardholder under this Agreement and references include any numbers or details that allow use of the credit card without physically presenting it where the context requires.

Credit Card Account

means any account we open and maintain in the Cardholder’s name to which Credit Card Transactions for a Credit Card are posted (including Credit Card Transactions arising through the use of any Supplementary Card) together with any other liabilities of the Cardholder or Supplementary Cardholder arising under these Terms and Conditions.

Credit Card Features

means any insurance product (including but not limited to Purchase Protection, Travel Protect/Travel Insurance, Credit Shield Plus, etc), special payment Terms or facilities (including but not limited to Flexi Instalment Plan) or Credit Card Payments such Terms are explained in our Credit Card promotional material available at any of our branches or on our website), or general product benefits (including but not limited to travel benefits, valet benefits, special offers and promotions) we offer, or make available, to the cardholder from time to time in conjunction with the cardholder’s use of a Credit Card or Credit Card Account.

Credit Card Transactions

means the purchase of goods and/or services, Cash Advance, fees and charges effected or derived by the use of the Credit Card, Credit Card number and/or Credit Card Account.

Customer Information

means your Personal Data, confidential information, and/or Tax Information, or that of a Connected Person.

Financial Crime

means money laundering, terrorist financing, bribery, corruption, tax evasion, fraud, evasion of economic or trade sanctions, and/or any acts or attempts to circumvent or violate any Laws relating to these matters.

Financial Crime Risk Management

means any action required to be taken by us and members of the HSBC Group, to meet Compliance Obligations relating to or in connection with the detection, investigation and prevention of Financial Crime.

Such action may include, but is not limited to:

(a)    screening, intercepting and investigating any instruction, communication, drawdown request, application for Services, or any payment sent to or by you, or on your behalf;

(b)    investigating the source of or intended recipient of funds;

(c)    combining Customer Information with other related information in the possession of the HSBC Group; and/or

(d)    making further enquiries as to the status of a person or entity, whether they are subject to a sanctions regime, or confirming your identity and status.

FIP

means a flexible instalment plan.

Foreign Currency Transaction

means any transaction in a currency other than your billing currency. Unless you agree that the currency conversion is done at the point of sale, or withdrawal and agree the rate at that time, for example with the shopkeeper or on the ATM screen.

HSBC Group

means HSBC Holdings plc, its affiliates, subsidiaries, associated entities and any of their branches and offices (together or individually), and “any member of the HSBC Group” has the same meaning.

Laws

include any local or foreign law, regulation, judgment or court order, voluntary code, sanctions regime, agreement between any member of the HSBC Group and an Authority, or agreement or treaty between Authorities and applicable to HSBC or a member of the HSBC Group.

Personal Data

means any information relating to individuals and corporate entities from which they can be identified.

PIN

means the Personal Identification Number provided for use with the Credit Card.

Purchase

means any transaction under which payment for goods and/or services is made by use of the Credit Card or the Credit Card Number.

Qatari Riyal

means the currency of Qatar and “QAR” means the same thing when used in these Terms. “Foreign currency” means any currency which is not Qatari Riyals.

Services

includes (a) providing you with a Credit Card, processing applications, credit and eligibility assessment, and (b) maintaining our overall relationship with you, including marketing services or products to you, market research, insurance, audit and administrative purposes.

Supplementary Card

means an additional Credit Card we issue at your request to a Supplementary Cardholder to use in conjunction with the Cardholder’s Credit Card and corresponding Credit Card Account.

Supplementary Cardholder

means the holder of the Supplementary Card as authorised by the Cardholder.

Tax Authorities

means Qatar or foreign tax, revenue or monetary authorities, in existence now and in the future.

Tax Information

means documentation or information about your tax status.

Telephone Banking

means the HSBC telephone banking service provided to you through our call centres. You can register to use Telephone Banking by calling us.

Terms

means these HSBC Credit Card Terms and conditions as may be amended from time to time.

Unauthorised Transaction

means any use of your Credit Card by a person other than you, who does not have actual, implied or apparent authority for such use and for which you received no benefit.

We, our, us

refers to HSBC Bank Middle East Limited, and includes its successors and any person to whom it has assigned its rights under this Agreement.

1A trust arises in some jurisdictions when a person is the legal owner of an asset (trustee) but they hold it on behalf of another person who has an interest in it and who benefits from it (beneficiary)

© Copyright. HSBC Bank Middle East Limited 2022 ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise, without the prior written permission of HSBC Bank Middle East Limited.

Issued by HSBC Bank Middle East Limited Qatar Branch, P. O. Box 57, Doha, Qatar, regulated by Qatar Central Bank for the purposes of this promotion and lead regulated by the Dubai Financial Services Authority

CRN: 22753.