The Chase Sapphire Reserve offers one of travel credit cards' richest welcome bonuses at 150,000 points, but eligibility requirements filter out some applicants.

Chase enforces specific rules before approving your application. You must have a valid Social Security number and U.S. citizenship or permanent residency status. The bank pulls your credit report, so you need a decent credit score to qualify, typically 750 or higher.

Chase also considers your recent application history. If you've opened multiple Chase accounts within the past 24 months, you face rejection odds. The bank caps rewards card approvals at two new accounts per rolling 12-month period.

Pre-existing Chase customers sometimes struggle less with approval, though no guarantee exists. If you've held a Chase card for years and maintained good standing, your application gains traction.

The 150,000-point bonus requires you to spend $4,000 within three months of opening the account. Points convert to travel credits at a 1-cent-per-point value, making this bonus worth roughly $1,500 in travel spending power.

Before applying, check your credit score and review your recent credit applications. Call Chase directly with questions about your specific situation. Getting denied costs you a hard inquiry without the rewards.