> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.helioscard.xyz/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.helioscard.xyz/the-helios-card/applying.md).

# Applying for a card

How to apply for the Helios card.

The Helios card lets you spend anywhere cards are accepted. Applying takes a few minutes.

## What you'll need

* Your personal details (name, date of birth, address)
* A phone number
* Your country of residence (and state, in the US)
* To agree to the cardholder terms

{% hint style="info" %}
The card is issued through Helios's card partner, so the application includes an identity (KYC) step. Your information is used to verify you and issue the card.
{% endhint %}

## Physical or virtual?

You can choose a **virtual** card or a **physical** card when you apply (virtual is the default). Either way, you can add the card to Apple Pay or Google Pay — see [Apple Pay & Google Pay](/the-helios-card/mobile-wallet.md).

## Step by step

1. Go to **Card** and start the application.
2. Enter your personal information.
3. Review and accept the cardholder agreement and disclosures.
4. Submit. Your application is processed — usually quick, but it can take a little longer in some cases.
5. Once approved, your card is issued and ready to fund. See [Funding your card](/the-helios-card/funding.md).

## Frequently asked

### Which countries are supported?

The card is available in most countries. It isn't available in sanctioned or otherwise restricted jurisdictions, and final eligibility is confirmed during identity verification.

### Why was my application declined or held?

Applications can be held or declined during identity verification. If you think there's a mistake, [contact support](/help-and-troubleshooting/contact.md).

### Is it a physical or virtual card?

Both are available — you choose during the application (virtual by default).


---

# Agent Instructions
This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com.

## Querying This Documentation
If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters:

```
GET https://help.helioscard.xyz/the-helios-card/applying.md?ask=<question>&goal=<user_goal>
```

`ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
`goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case.

The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.