After you have applied for instant credit card, the time it takes for credit card companies to get your credit card into your wallet can vary dramatically.  Generally, it takes five to seven business days.  However, during certain times of the year, the time it takes to get a new credit card in your mailbox can vary dramatically.

For example, when you apply for a credit card during the holiday season, it can take substantially longer than usual for your credit card to arrive.  This is due to bank holidays as well as the fact that there is tons of holiday mail slowing down the post office. 

Throughout the majority of the year, national and bank holidays can delay the arrival of your instant credit card, but the slowdown is not nearly as bad as during the holiday season. 

Thus, unless you are applying for a credit card during the holiday season, expect to see your credit card within a business week, give or take a few days.  While it may take up to 30 days with some companies, the majority of credit card issuers get cards in the mail very quickly.

However, if you are applying for a credit card during the holiday season, it is best to apply as early as possible to avoid delays.