Citi Shares Conversion Timeline and Key Details for Barclays American Airlines Credit Cards

When and How the Switch will Happen?

The change from Barclays to Citi will begin in late April 2026. Citi has said that new cards will be sent out “within 6 to 8 weeks starting April 27, 2026.” This means most people should get their new Citi card by mid-June.

Citi also shared that the official transition starts on April 24. Once you get your new card, you will need to activate it. Citi says the switch should be smooth and easy for cardholders. Some of these older Barclays cards are no longer open for new users, but people who already have them can still use them and they will be included in the change.

If you already have an American Airlines credit card from Citi and also one from Barclays, the switch could leave you with two similar Citi cards. In that case, Citi allows you to link your accounts using their website or mobile app.

New Credit Card Impact on Credit Score: Short-Term vs Long-Term Effects

What Happens to Bonuses and Accounts?

After the switch, your Citi card will follow the same rules as other Citi AAdvantage cards. If your Barclays card becomes a Citi card, it does not automatically block you from earning a welcome bonus in the future. But the bonus eligibility will still follow Citi’s usual rules for that specific card.

Citi is taking over all AAdvantage credit card accounts from Barclays. Cardholders do not get a choice to stay with Barclays using a different card. Everyone will move to Citi, and each Barclays card will be matched to a similar Citi card. Citi says a benefits guide will come with the new card so users can understand what changes and what stays the same.