Bank of Ceylon (BOC) has long been a beacon of trust and innovation in Sri Lanka’s banking sector. Introducing payment cards to Sri Lanka, in 1989 BOC launched the first VISA credit card in the country, and ATM card.
Among its diverse range of financial products, BOC credit and debit cards stand out for their comprehensive features, catering to a variety of financial needs. Today, BOC’s credit and debit cards are designed not just for everyday payments but also to offer unparalleled benefits, security, and access to a multitude of rewards, meeting the needs of various customer demographics while catering to both essential and luxury lifestyles.
Deputy General Manager (Product and Banking Development) of BOC, Mr. Y. A. Jayathilaka, emphasized the Bank’s dedication to enrich customer lifestyles through financial empowerment. “Our credit and debit cards are gateways to financial empowerment,” he stated, underscoring BOC’s commitment to provide solutions for seamless financial management. With over five million active debit cards, BOC users collectively perform transactions exceeding Rs. 300 billion at ATMs and Rs. 20 billion in Merchant Outlets (POS) and e-commerce monthly.
The VISA and MasterCard credit cards are designed to satisfy a variety of consumer demands. Customers can choose among Classic, Gold, and Platinum from VISA cards and Titanium, and Master World cards from MasterCard, which are accepted worldwide at more than 30 million retail locations and 3 million ATMs. In addition, cardholders can also enjoy an interest-free credit period and zero interest instalment payments for selected purchases and offers from hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, online stores and many more throughout the year. BOC credit cards provide even more substantial discounts compared to debit cards through partnerships with numerous leading merchants and e-commerce platforms, significantly enhancing the value of credit card usage.
BOC offers specialized Credit cards for specific professional groups. These credit cards cater to the unique financial needs of sectors such as doctors, chartered accountants, and government employees, providing a host of exclusive benefits and features.
State sector credit cards are designed for both government and semi-government employees, offering financial benefits that align with their requirements. They come with no joining fee and annual fee is waived off for the first year. This card ensures financial support for daily needs with credit limits tailored to each employee category.
Mr. Jayathilaka further emphasized, “Rather than waiting for monthly salary date, or until the income received to account, customers can spend from their credit cards and settle dues once the monthly income received, while enjoying all other benefits of a credit card”. Anyone can now request credit cards via ‘Apply Online’ facility available on www.boc.lk.
As the Sri Lanka’s largest Debit Cards issuer, BOC plays a crucial role in the country’s payment cards industry, holding over 26% of active debit cards of the country and facilitating over 30% of total ATM transactions. The Bank offers a diverse range of debit cards tailored to various customer needs from MasterCard and VISA, ensuring secure online transactions globally.
BOC has introduced multi-currency Travel Card designed to enhance convenience and flexibility for travelers’ overseas. Multi- currency Travel cards allow users to load multiple currencies onto a single card, eliminating the need to carry physical cash in different currencies. They offer competitive exchange rates and are accepted at millions of ATMs and merchant outlets worldwide. Equipped with security features such as chip and PIN technology, BOC’s multi-currency travel card ensures peace of mind during travel with 24/7 global assistance for any card-related queries or emergencies. These prepaid cards are reloadable online as required.
Fuel Cards of BOC help individuals and businesses manage their fuel usage efficiently. This card is a prepaid payment card that can be used exclusively at fuel stations, and the best solution for businesses that need to control fuel usage for vehicle fleets.
As Sri Lanka moves toward a cashless economy, BOC stands as a key player, not only by leading in e-commerce transactions but also by promoting digital payments across the country. By blending financial convenience, security, and luxury, BOC’s card solutions serve as essential tools for modern financial management. The Bank’s leadership in digital payments is evident as it shapes Sri Lanka’s digital economy, enabling Sri Lankans to embrace cashless transactions confidently and securely.
