Germany offers a wide range of payment options for both residents and visitors. Finding the right card for your wallet depends on your spending habits, travel frequency, and preferred perks. This guide examines the top payment solutions available in 2025, breaking down their features, advantages, and potential downsides to help you select one that aligns with your financial goals.
Best credit cards in Germany: an overview
Many credit card providers in Germany are improving their offers in 2025 to attract different types of users. Some are ideal for frequent travelers, others for students or expats. While some cards have no annual fee at all, others include premium features like comprehensive travel insurance, cashback rewards, or higher credit limits. The variety is wide, and depending on how you spend or travel, one card may suit you better than another. This overview will introduce the top options based on real advantages, not just promotional slogans. It’s about finding a card that does what you need, without charging you for things you don’t use.
N26 Standard Mastercard
Overview
The N26 Standard Mastercard comes with a free digital-first account. Customers receive a virtual card immediately after opening the account, and can order a transparent physical card for a €10 delivery fee. All banking tasks are managed through the N26 mobile app without branch visits or paperwork.
Key features
- Monthly fees: No account maintenance fee. Customers receive two free ATM withdrawals in euros each month. Any further withdrawals cost €2 each.
- Foreign payments: Transactions in non-euro currencies are processed at the Mastercard exchange rate without added surcharges.
- Payment methods: Contactless payments are supported along with Google Pay and Apple Pay.
- Card type: Debit Mastercard with spending limited to the available account balance.
Security and control
- Push notifications arrive instantly for every transaction.
- Customers can lock or unlock their card, adjust spending limits, and change the PIN within the app.
- Online payments are protected by 3D Secure (Mastercard Identity Check).
- Deposits are covered up to €100,000 under the German Deposit Protection Scheme as N26 holds a full German banking licence regulated by BaFin.
Active users and markets
- At the end of 2024, N26 reported 4.8 million “revenue-relevant” customers (those who have passed KYC and actively used their accounts), up from 4.2 million in 2023.
Best for
The N26 Standard Mastercard is well suited to travellers, students, and newcomers to Germany who prefer a mobile-first banking experience. It combines transparency on fees with real-time account control, making it practical for day-to-day use and international payments.
Quick stat
Each month more than 200,000 new customers open N26 accounts, highlighting the bank’s strong and consistent growth.
awa7® Visa
Overview
The awa7® Visa is issued by Hanseatic Bank and combines a fee-free credit card with an environmental contribution model. Customers pay no annual fee and can use the card worldwide without foreign currency surcharges. Awa7 supports reforestation and forest protection: when a card is activated, seven trees are planted in Germany, and for every €100 spent one square metre of forest is preserved.
Key features
- Annual fee: none.
- Foreign payments: no surcharge on payments in non-euro currencies.
- Cash withdrawals: worldwide withdrawals are free of charge from Hanseatic Bank’s side, though ATM operators may add their own fee.
- Repayment flexibility: up to 3 months interest-free repayment or instalment payments available.
- Payment methods: supports Apple Pay and Google Pay, and can be linked to PayPal.
- Card type: revolving Visa credit card, with a credit limit that can start low and rise to €3,000 depending on approval.
- Card design: made from 85% recycled PVC.
Security and control
- Card managed through the Hanseatic Bank app, with the ability to block/unblock, change PIN, and monitor spending.
- Online payments protected by Visa Secure (3D Secure authentication).
Active users and markets
The awa7® Visa is available only to residents of Germany. Applicants must be at least 18 years old, have a German address, a SEPA current account, and a German mobile number.
As of 2025, no official number of active awa7 cardholders has been published by Hanseatic Bank.
Best for
The awa7® Visa is ideal for travellers who want to avoid fees abroad, online shoppers looking for Apple Pay and Google Pay support, and environmentally conscious users who want everyday spending tied to measurable sustainability efforts.
Quick stat
The live awa7 grow-index shows 1,089,617 trees planted worldwide, 27,094 trees planted in Germany, and 1,535,618 m² of forest protected.
TF Mastercard Gold
Overview
The TF Bank Mastercard Gold is a revolving Visa credit card issued by TF Bank AB (Sweden), accessible fully online for residents of Germany. It charges no annual fee or activation cost and has gained popularity among expats for its straightforward access and digital-first model.
Key features
- Annual fee: €0, no hidden charges.
- Foreign payments: €0 fee for purchases in non-euro currencies.
- Cash withdrawals: Worldwide ATM withdrawals are free of upfront fees, but interest of 22.35–22.96% APR begins immediately on the withdrawal amount.
- Interest-free period: Up to 51 days interest-free on purchases if paid in full by the due date.
- Non-payment rates: If not paid in full, the APR hits 24.79%, with installment minimum payments of 3% or €30, whichever is higher.
- Mobile wallet support: Works with Apple Pay, Google Pay, and includes cashback offers such as 4% on Booking.com, 5% on rental cars via douce promo.
Security and control
- Transaction alerts, card lock/unlock, and spending management are available through the TF Bank mobile app.
- Online payments use Mastercard Identity Check for added security.
Best for
Expats, frequent travellers, and digital-focused users who always pay balances on time. It’s a smart choice for fee-free international use, included travel benefits, and flexible repayment. Not suitable for frequent ATM users or those likely to carry balances due to high interest rates.
Quick stat
As of August 2025, How-to-Germany rates the TF Bank Mastercard Gold highly for its low cost and travel-friendly structure, calling it one of the best credit cards for expats in Germany.
Gebührenfrei Mastercard Gold
Overview
The Gebührenfrei Mastercard Gold is a Visa credit card issued by Advanzia Bank (Luxembourg). It comes with no annual fee, offers fee-free use abroad, and provides up to seven weeks interest-free on purchases as long as the balance is repaid promptly.
Key features
- Annual fee: €0.
- Foreign payments: No fees for purchases outside the eurozone.
- Cash withdrawals: Free of upfront fees from the issuer. However, very high interest rates apply immediately on the withdrawal amount.
- Credit type: Revolving credit card – purchases are interest-free if full payment is made within the period, or can be repaid in instalments at high-interest APR (~24.69%).
- Customer service: Free, personal 24/7 support.
Security and control
- Managed via Advanzia’s online portal or app. Allows review of expenses and statements.
- Payments are protected through standard Visa security protocols, including 3D Secure where available.
Best for
Consumers who pay their credit balance in full every month and want a fee-free card for global purchases. Less suitable for those who carry balances, withdraw cash often, or rely on instalment repayment.
Quick stat
Independent reviews rate the Gebührenfrei Mastercard Gold at 3.9 out of 5 stars (2025) for its cost structure and usability across borders.
Hanseatic Genial Credit Card
Overview
The Hanseatic Bank GenialCard is a Visa credit card with no annual fee. Card payments worldwide carry no foreign currency fee. Cash withdrawals are free abroad from the issuer side and €3.95 per withdrawal in Germany. You apply online and identify by video or e-ID in a few steps.
Key features
- Annual fee: €0.
- Foreign payments: €0 worldwide on card purchases, conversion at Visa’s rate.
- Cash withdrawals: €0 abroad and €3.95 per withdrawal in Germany; local ATM operator fees can apply.
- Repayment: instalments default to 3% or at least €20 per month. New customers get the first three months interest free on instalment purchases before the standard rate starts. After that the interest is 16.05% p.a. nominal and 17.29% p.a. effective APR.
- Wallets and online checkout: works with Apple Pay and Google Pay, and supports Visa Click to Pay.
- Extras: travel booking cashback up to 7% in the bank’s travel portal and access to the discount portal with 100+ partners. Optional add-on insurances cost €88.40 per year for “SicherReise” and €30 per year for “SicherPortemonnaie”.
Security and control
You manage the card in the Hanseatic Bank Mobile app, where you can lock or unlock the card, change the PIN and adjust security settings. Online purchases use Visa Secure for strong customer authentication. The app links are on the product page and help centre.
Best for
Travellers who want no foreign currency fee and free cash withdrawals abroad, online shoppers who prefer Apple Pay or Google Pay, and users who want instalment flexibility but plan to clear balances quickly to avoid interest.
Quick stat
The official price list confirms €0 foreign usage fee worldwide and €0 cash withdrawal fee abroad, with a €3.95 ATM fee per withdrawal in Germany.
Barclays Visa
Overview
The Barclays Visa is a revolving credit card offered in Germany with no annual fee. It is widely accepted worldwide, allows flexible repayment, and is frequently highlighted as one of the most competitive no-fee options for both residents and expats.
Key features
- Annual fee: €0.
- Foreign payments: €0 foreign transaction fees on purchases in non-euro currencies.
- Cash withdrawals: Free of charge from Barclays’ side worldwide; ATM operators may levy their own fees.
- Partner cards: Up to three free supplementary cards available.
- Repayment flexibility: Choose between full monthly repayment or instalments via “Mein Zahlplan” (payment plan). Instalments start from 3.5% of the outstanding balance, minimum €50.
- Interest-free period: Up to 59 days on purchases when paid in full by the due date.
- Wallets: Works with Apple Pay and Google Pay, plus supports contactless payments.
Interest rates and fees
- Instalment APR: approx. 22.11% effective APR.
- Cash withdrawal interest: accrues immediately, even if balances are repaid within the billing cycle.
Security and control
- Card managed via the Barclays online banking portal or mobile app.
- Online purchases are protected with Mastercard Identity Check (3D Secure).
Active users and markets
The Barclays Visa is issued to residents of Germany who are at least 18 and can complete video or PostIdent verification. Official active user numbers are not published, but the product is consistently recommended for expats due to its straightforward digital onboarding.
Best for
Travellers, expats, and residents who need a globally accepted card without annual or foreign transaction fees. Less suited to those who rely heavily on cash withdrawals or carry balances, given the immediate interest on cash advances.
Quick stat
Barclays Visa is ranked among the top 3 no-fee cards in Germany in 2025 by multiple independent reviewers.
Novum Bank Extra Karte Mastercard
Overview
Issued by Novum Bank (Malta), the Extra Karte is a card-first, app-back credit product designed for transparency and simplicity. It costs €0 annual fee, offers a fully digital application process with video verification, and is managed via the Extra Karte app.
Key features
- Annual fee: €0, with no hidden charges.
- Foreign transactions: 2.99% fee for purchases in non-euro currencies.
- Cash withdrawals: 3% fee per transaction (minimum €3); interest begins immediately on withdrawn amounts.
- Credit limit: Up to €4,000, based on income and credit check.
- Interest-free period: Up to 7 weeks on new purchases if paid in full on time.
- Cashback offers: Up to 4% on Booking.com, 10% on Rentalcars.com, and 15% at Hertz when booked via partner links.
Security and control
- App management: Use the Extra Karte app to view transactions, check balance, confirm payments, and access statements instantly.
- Authentication: Secured by Mastercard Identity Check and two-factor authentication to safeguard online transactions.
Active users and markets
Available exclusively to German residents – applicants must be over 18 and hold a SEPA bank account. The card is often praised for its ease of access compared to traditional banks.
Best for
This card suits people who value simplicity and digital control – especially newcomers, frequent booking users, or those needing a straightforward backup card. It’s not ideal for heavy ATM users or those who balance-pay, due to high withdrawal and FX costs.
Quick stat
The Extra Karte app holds a 4.3-star rating from recent users, indicating strong satisfaction with the app’s usability and the overall customer experience.
DKB Visa
Overview
DKB issues a Visa Debit card with every DKB-Cash current account and offers an optional Visa Credit Card. The account is free when at least €700 per month is paid in, otherwise a monthly account fee applies. The Visa Debit is included at no extra charge, while the Visa Credit Card is an add-on with a small monthly fee.
Key features
- Card types: Visa Debit included with DKB-Cash. Optional Visa Credit Card available on request.
- Annual or monthly fees: Visa Debit costs €0. Visa Credit Card costs €2.49 per month or €29.88 per year depending on tariff information.
- Foreign payments: With the Visa Credit Card, card payments are free worldwide. With the Visa Debit, card payments outside the euro area are free for customers with Active Status and otherwise carry a 2.20% currency conversion fee.
- Cash withdrawals: With the Visa Credit Card, ATM withdrawals are free worldwide. With the Visa Debit, worldwide withdrawals are free for Active Status customers. Local ATM operator fees can still apply.
- Mobile wallets: Apple Pay and Google Pay are supported for both Visa Debit and Visa Credit Card.
- Account opening: Fully digital onboarding via video identification or app, linked to the DKB-Cash account.
Security and control
- Visa secure adds an extra authentication step for online purchases and can be confirmed in the DKB app or via SMS.
- Card control in the DKB app lets you lock and unlock cards, change the PIN, set limits, and manage wallet settings.
DKB provides security guidance and push notifications so you can keep an eye on card activity in real time.
Best for
Travellers and expats who want fee-free payments and withdrawals worldwide with the Visa Credit Card, or with the Visa Debit when Active Status is in place. Customers who prefer a single app for card control, 3D Secure approvals, and mobile wallets will find the setup straightforward.
Quick stat
The Visa Debit is included at €0. The Visa Credit Card is listed at €2.49 per month or €29.88 per year in current independent and publisher pricing references, while the account itself is free at €700 monthly incoming funds.
Trade Republic Credit Card
Overview
This is a Visa debit card linked directly to your Trade Republic brokerage account. There are three variants – Virtual (free), Classic (one-time €5 fee), and Mirror (one-time €50 fee) – but no subscription or ongoing fees. As of mid-2025, Trade Republic customers also earn 1% Saveback on card payments that automatically invests in their chosen savings plan.
Key features
- Annual / monthly fees: None. Only physical cards have a one-off issuance fee (€5 for Classic, €50 for Mirror); the virtual variant is free.
- Foreign payments: No fees. The Visa exchange rate applies.
- Cash withdrawals: Free worldwide on amounts over €100. Withdrawals below €100 incur a €1 fee.
- Saveback: 1 % of eligible card spending is automatically invested into your chosen savings plan, up to max €15 per month (based on €1,500 in expenses). Requires at least €50 monthly new savings plan investment.
- Round-Up: Rounds your purchases up to the next full euro and invests the spare change into your chosen stock or ETF. Multipliers up to ×10 are available.
Security and control
- The card is managed entirely via the Trade Republic app, where users can monitor spending, make adjustments, and control settings.
- Real-time push notifications alert users to every transaction and decline.
- Savings and card balances are protected under German deposit insurance up to €100,000, as TR operates with a full banking licence.
Active users and markets
Available to Trade Republic account holders in Germany and other supported EU countries. In Q1 2025, Trade Republic reported 8 million total customers, including 5.3 million in Germany.
Best for
Everyday spenders who want seamless investment automation, zero fees abroad, free higher-value cash withdrawals, and a modern app-driven banking experience. It may be less suitable for renting cars – since it’s a debit card, some merchants require credit cards for deposits.
Quick stat
As of March 2024, Trade Republic offers 3.5 % interest on positive cash balances, alongside its other card benefits.
American Express PAYBACK
Overview
The PAYBACK American Express card comes with no annual fee and lets you earn PAYBACK points on every purchase – whether or not the merchant is a PAYBACK partner. It functions as both a loyalty and payment card, adding flexibility to how and where you collect rewards.
Key features
- Annual fee: €0, including unlimited supplementary cards.
- Points earning: Earn 1 PAYBACK point for every €2 spent; double the points at PAYBACK partner stores.
- Foreign transactions: 2% fee applies for non-euro currency purchases.
- Cash withdrawals: 4% fee applies, with a minimum charge of €5. Cash withdrawal acceptance may be limited.
- Rewards flexibility: Accumulated PAYBACK points can be redeemed for vouchers, products, statement credits, or converted into Miles & More miles. Points do not expire.
Security and control
- Managed via the American Express app or online portal with real-time transaction alerts.
- Contactless payments supported; card protected by standard Amex security features, including fraud monitoring and zero liability.
Active users and markets
Available to residents of Germany aged 18+ with a German bank account. Though American Express doesn’t publish active user numbers, PAYBACK is widely used in Germany with over 31 million active members – implying broad potential for card adopters.
Best for
Everyday shoppers who frequently shop at PAYBACK partners (like REWE, dm, Aral) and want to earn points on all purchases. It’s especially attractive for those who already engage deeply with the PAYBACK rewards ecosystem. However, it’s less suitable for regular travel outside Europe or users withdrawing cash often due to the fees involved.
Quick stat
As of early 2025, 100 PAYBACK points are worth roughly €1, giving a tangible value to everyday spend.
Credit card types in Germany
The German payment market features several distinct types of products, each with specific features and target audiences. Here are the main categories:
- Traditional payment cards. Allow purchases on revolving balances with monthly billing and the option to pay in full or carry a balance.
- Charge cards. Require full payment each month without the option to revolve debt.
- Debit cards. Link directly to a bank account with no line of financing.
- Prepaid cards. Require loading money in advance with no financing facility.
- Combo cards. Combine features of payment and debit plastics in a single product.
- Virtual cards. Exist in digital form without physical plastic.
- Corporate cards. Designed specifically for business expenses with enhanced reporting.
- Student cards. Offer specialised terms for young adults building credit history.
Further Reading: Virtual Cards vs. Physical Cards: What’s Better for Business?
How Schufa checks impact credit card applications
Schufa, Germany’s main financial bureau, plays an important role in payment application decisions. Most providers check your Schufa score during the application process to assess reliability and determine appropriate spending limits. This score reflects your payment history with previous loans, financial products, phone contracts, and other obligations.
A good Schufa score typically leads to higher approval chances and better terms. Newcomers to Germany face certain challenges since they lack Schufa history, often limiting their initial options to secured or prepaid products. Some specialised providers now offer “Schufa-free” payment options that use alternative evaluation methods, though these usually come with higher costs or stricter limitations.
Regular monitoring of your Schufa record is advisable, as errors can occur and negatively impact your reliability rating. German residents can request a free annual Schufa report (Datenkopie) to review their information and dispute any inaccuracies.
Charges associated with German credit cards
German payment products usually involve several potential cost categories that vary significantly between providers. Here’s what to watch for:
- Yearly costs. Range from zero for no-cost products to over €500 for premium options.
- International currency charges. Apply to transactions in non-euro currencies (0% to 3.5%).
- Cash withdrawal costs. Often structured as a percentage (2-4%) with a minimum amount (€5-10).
- Late payment penalties. Apply when minimum payments aren’t made on time (€5 to €20).
- Over-limit charges. May apply if you exceed your approved spending amount.
- One-time issuing costs. When you first receive the plastic (€10-30).
- Replacement charges. Apply if your plastic is lost or stolen (€10-25).
- Paper statement costs. €1-2 per month as banks push toward digital statements.
The difference between free and paid credit cards
The distinction between no-cost and paid payment options in Germany centers on the trade-off between expenses and benefits. No-cost products charge no yearly or monthly costs but may generate revenue through other means. These plastics often charge higher interest rates on revolving balances and may have more substantial international currency charges or cash withdrawal expenses.
Paid products, conversely, charge a yearly amount but typically offer benefits to justify this cost. These benefits may include comprehensive travel protection, airport lounge access, concierge services, and more generous rewards programs. Premium paid options also tend to offer higher spending limits and more favorable exchange rates for international currencies.
No-cost cards provide more basic customer service, while paid versions often feature dedicated support lines with shorter wait times. The optimal choice depends on your spending patterns, travel frequency, and which features you value most.
Free credit cards: why and how do banks offer them?
Banks and financial institutions can offer no-cost payment products through several revenue streams beyond yearly charges:
- Interest charges on revolving balances (10% to 20% annually)
- Interchange revenue paid by merchants (approximately 0.3% in the EU)
- International currency conversion through mark-ups above base exchange rates
- Cash advance charges and balance transfer costs
- Cross-selling other financial products to their cardholders
- Marketing partnerships and co-branded products
- Data collection on spending patterns for targeted marketing
Providing free credit cards with services
Many German banks now bundle free payment options with additional services to create more compelling offerings. These extras typically include:
- Digital wallet integration with Google Pay and Apple Pay
- Advanced security features like real-time fraud monitoring
- Temporary card locking via mobile apps
- Spending analytics tools for tracking expenses by category
- Automated savings features that round up purchases
- Dedicated travel services including discounted currency exchange
- Purchase protection covering items against damage or theft
- Extended warranty programs beyond manufacturer coverage
- Price protection refunding differences after price drops
Best free credit cards for beginners
For those new to payment cards in Germany, several beginner-friendly options stand out:
- The N26 Standard Mastercard with its intuitive mobile app
- The Hanseatic Genial Card offering graduated spending limits
- The Barclays Visa featuring clear, transparent terms
- The Novum Bank Extra Karte accepting applicants with limited history
These beginner products start with lower spending limits between €500-1,500, which helps prevent overspending while learning financial management. Many feature educational resources within their apps or websites, explaining terms and responsible usage practices.
Best student credit cards in Germany
Students in Germany have access to specialised payment options designed for their unique financial situation:
- The DKB Student Visa waives income requirements, requiring only enrollment proof
- The Comdirect Visa offers a €50 sign-up bonus for students
- The Santander BestCard Basic provides a guaranteed €500 credit line
- The Deutsche Bank Student Mastercard includes free checking and emergency cash service
These student-focused products skip yearly charges and offer more lenient approval criteria. Many include special discounts on academic software, textbooks, or transportation. Application generally requires student ID verification and proof of enrollment at a recognized educational institution.
Best travel credit cards in Germany
For frequent travelers from Germany, several products offer valuable features:
- The TF Bank Mastercard Gold with no international charges and free withdrawals worldwide
- The DKB Visa providing comprehensive travel protection including medical coverage
- The American Express Platinum Card delivering premium travel benefits despite high yearly costs
- The Miles & More Mastercard allowing Lufthansa miles earning on all purchases
The best travel options include car rental insurance coverage, saving substantial daily insurance expenses from rental companies. Many offer dedicated travel assistance hotlines for emergency support while abroad. Some premium choices also provide concierge services that can arrange dining, entertainment, and transportation at destinations worldwide.
Best cashback credit cards in Germany
Cashback payment products have grown increasingly popular in Germany, offering straightforward value returns on spending:
- The Amazon Visa providing 3% back on Amazon purchases and 0.5% elsewhere
- The PayBack American Express delivering points worth approximately 0.5-1% back
- The Santander 1plus Visa offering 1% cashback on all purchases outside Germany
- The ING Visa generating 0.5% on all spending up to €1,000 monthly
German cashback products feature automatic redemption systems rather than requiring manual point exchanges. Some offer boosted rates in rotating categories that change quarterly to encourage diverse spending. The cashback is usually applied as statement credits rather than cash transfers, effectively reducing your next credit card bill.
Best free credit cards for established expats
Expats who have lived in Germany for some time have distinct payment needs and several options cater specifically to this group:
- The Comdirect Visa offers English-language customer service and documentation
- The N26 You provides special multi-currency features for cross-border management
- The DKB Visa includes free international bank transfers and multi-currency accounts
- The Commerzbank Mastercard Standard waives usual residency duration requirements
These expat-friendly products typically offer more flexible address verification procedures, recognising the frequent relocations common among international residents. Many provide dedicated onboarding support to help navigate Germany’s unique financial system. Some also offer special exchange rate features for transferring money to family abroad.
Best business credit cards in Germany
Business owners in Germany can choose from specialised payment options that separate personal and company expenses:
- The Deutsche Bank Business Card centralises employee spending with individualised plastics.
- The Penta Business Mastercard integrates directly with accounting software.
- Wallester Business Cards allow companies to issue and manage custom virtual or physical Visa cards with real-time control over limits and expenses.
- The American Express Business Gold offers flexible payment terms and detailed spending reports.
- The Holvi Business Mastercard combines banking, invoicing, and expense management.
Business cards typically provide higher spending limits tailored to company needs rather than personal income. Many offer specialised purchase categories and reporting tools aligned with business expense tracking requirements. Some include automated receipt capture through dedicated mobile apps, simplifying tax documentation.
What is the cost of the best credit card?
The cost structure of payment products in Germany varies widely based on features and target audience:
- Yearly costs range from €0 for basic products to €600+ for ultra-premium options
- International transaction charges typically range from 0-3% of purchase value
- Cash withdrawal expenses average 2-4% with minimum charges of €5-10 per transaction
- Interest rates on revolving balances generally fall between 9-18% annually
- Late payment penalties typically range from €5-20 per occurrence
When evaluating total costs, consider your typical usage patterns rather than focusing solely on the yearly amount. A product with a €100 yearly charge might actually cost less overall if you travel frequently and save on international transaction expenses. Most providers now offer cost calculators on their websites to help estimate your personal total expense based on spending habits.
What is the best provider of credit cards?
Germany’s payment system features diverse providers with different strengths:
- Traditional banks (Deutsche Bank, Commerzbank, DKB) – Extensive branch networks.
- Digital banks (N26, Revolut, Vivid) – Innovative mobile interfaces and lower costs.
- Specialists (Barclays, TF Bank, Hanseatic Bank) – Competitive terms.
- American Express – Premium service but more limited acceptance.
The ideal provider depends largely on your specific needs – branch access, digital tools, rewards programs, or specialised features. Customer service quality varies between providers, with traditional banks generally offering more personal assistance while digital banks provide faster self-service options.
Comparison of the best free credit cards
When comparing Germany’s top no-cost payment options, several factors deserve consideration:
- International currency charges range from 0% with DKB and TF Bank to 2.95% with others.
- ATM withdrawal policies vary from completely free worldwide to 3-4% charges with minimums.
- Spending limits typically start between €500-3,000 based on income and credit history.
- Application requirements differ substantially, with varying residency length requirements.
- Mobile app functionality ranges from basic account viewing to sophisticated analytics.
- Some products require opening accompanying checking accounts while others don’t.
- Special features like travel protection or purchase coverage add substantial value.
The step-by-step guide to getting a German credit card
Obtaining a payment plastic in Germany is a straightforward but somewhat formal process:
- Research and select the appropriate type based on your needs and qualification likelihood.
- Gather necessary documentation (passport/ID, residence registration, income proof).
- Complete the application online or in person at a branch.
- Prepare for video identification or PostIdent verification.
- Submit to a Schufa financial check.
- Wait for approval (1-14 days depending on the provider).
- Receive your plastic by mail (5-10 business days).
- Activate following the provider’s instructions.
- Set up your payment method, typically direct debit from a German bank account.
Key takeaways
Choosing the right credit card in Germany comes down to comparing the details that affect everyday use:
- Fees: check whether the card has yearly costs, currency conversion charges, or ATM withdrawal fees.
- Interest terms: if you don’t pay in full each month, APR rates on revolving balances vary widely and can get expensive fast.
- Rewards: decide whether cashback, loyalty points, or travel perks matter more to your spending.
- Acceptance: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted in Germany and abroad, while American Express can be more limited outside big cities and partner stores.
- Extras: look for insurance, purchase protection, or digital wallet support if they fit your lifestyle.
The best choice depends less on marketing claims and more on your own spending habits, whether that’s frequent travel, everyday shopping, or separating personal and business expenses.
Flexible Visa card infrastructure by Wallester
For businesses looking beyond consumer products, there are also corporate solutions. Wallester, as an official Visa partner and participant of the Visa FinTech Fast Track program, offers a full-scale platform for launching and managing both physical and virtual Visa cards. Among its core products, Wallester Business stands out as a powerful tool for companies operating in Germany and across Europe.
Wallester Business enables organisations to issue and manage an unlimited number of corporate cards with complete real-time control. Companies can set individual spending limits per card or employee, assign categories, and monitor transactions instantly through a user-friendly web portal or mobile app. This helps separate personal and business expenses while improving visibility and control over company spending.
One of the key advantages is the ability to start with a free plan, which includes up to 300 virtual cards at no monthly cost. For growing teams or enterprises, scalable paid plans offer additional features like up to 15,000 virtual cards and advanced accounting integrations.
Wallester also supports white-label card issuing, allowing other companies to launch their own branded Visa cards through a fast, API-first infrastructure. With full PSD2 compliance, support for multiple foreign currencies, and instant issuance capabilities, Wallester provides everything needed to build a modern and efficient expense management solution from the ground up.
Start today with Wallester Business and experience smarter corporate expense management — sign up for the free plan or explore scalable options that fit your company’s growth.
