Credit Cards Germany

Looking for the best credit cards in Germany? Whether you’ve just arrived, are planning to move, or simply want more value from your card, the German credit card market can seem complicated. But it’s easier than you think. From zero-fee cards to cashback, travel perks, and flexible payment terms – this guide helps you compare the top choices and understand what matters before you apply.

Requirements for Getting a Credit Card in Germany

Getting a credit card in Germany isn’t always straightforward – especially for newcomers. Banks often require more than just an ID, and the process may differ from what you’re used to in other countries. Understanding the key requirements in advance can save time and increase your chances of approval.

Common credit card requirements in Germany

• Residence registration (Anmeldung)
• German bank account (Girokonto)
• Sufficient income or proof of funds
• Positive SCHUFA score
• Valid ID or passport
• German address
• Age requirement (18+)

Residence registration (Anmeldung)

Before you can apply for most financial services in Germany, including credit cards, you need to register your address with the local authorities. This process is called Anmeldung. After registering, you receive a confirmation document (Meldebescheinigung), which is often required during the application process.

Without Anmeldung, banks typically reject credit card applications. It’s a legal requirement in Germany for long-term residents, and it shows that you have a stable presence in the country. Many providers won’t even allow you to open a bank account without this step.

German bank account (Girokonto)

A local bank account is essential. Most credit card providers in Germany require you to have a Girokonto, where your salary is deposited and from which the monthly credit card payments are withdrawn.

Even if the credit card is offered by a digital or international bank, a German IBAN often simplifies the approval process and is preferred. In many cases, the provider will automatically link your new credit card to the bank account you already have.

Sufficient income or proof of funds

Most credit card issuers in Germany require proof of regular income. This can be a payslip, an employment contract, or – for freelancers and business owners – recent tax returns or bank statements. The goal is to ensure you can meet repayment obligations.

There’s no fixed minimum income, but premium cards typically require higher earnings. For students or those without income, some banks offer prepaid or secured credit cards that don’t require a credit check but still demand some form of fund verification.

Positive SCHUFA score

SCHUFA is Germany’s main credit scoring agency. A positive SCHUFA score shows that you’ve handled credit responsibly and boosts your chances of approval. A negative entry, such as missed payments or unpaid bills, can lead to automatic rejection.

If you’re new to Germany and have no SCHUFA history, some banks may still accept your application – especially for basic or prepaid cards – but many mainstream options will require at least some credit history.

Valid ID or passport

You’ll need to verify your identity during the application process. A valid passport or national ID card is accepted by all providers. Some banks require a video identification process (VideoIdent), while others may use PostIdent via Deutsche Post.

For non-EU citizens, a valid residence permit (Aufenthaltstitel) is often required in addition to your passport. Make sure your documents are up to date and that the names and addresses match across all forms.

German address

Your application must include a German residential address. Many banks send important documents and the physical card via post, so using a temporary or foreign address can cause issues or delays.

Proof of address (such as a utility bill or your registration certificate from the Bürgeramt) may be requested. Note that PO boxes are not accepted by most credit card issuers.

Age requirement (18+)

To get a credit card in Germany, you must be at least 18 years old. This is a strict legal requirement, and no bank will issue a card to minors, even with parental consent.

Some banks offer special student or youth accounts with limited debit card access, but full credit functionality is only available once you reach adulthood and meet the income or guarantee requirements.

How to Apply for a Credit Card in Germany

Applying for a credit card in Germany can seem bureaucratic, but the process is fairly standard once you meet the key requirements. Most banks offer both online and in-branch applications, and digital banks often have faster approval times.

Steps to apply for a credit card in Germany

1. Compare credit card options – Check fees, benefits, and income requirements.
2. Choose a suitable provider – Select a card that matches your financial profile.
3. Fill out the application – Complete the online or paper form with accurate details.
4. Provide documentation – Upload or submit ID, income proof, and address registration.
5. Complete identity verification – Via PostIdent, VideoIdent, or in person.
6. Wait for approval – This can take from minutes (digital banks) to several days.
7. Receive your card by post – Sent to your registered German address.
8. Activate the card – Usually done online or in your banking app.

Types of Credit Cards in Germany

Not all credit cards in Germany work the same way. In fact, many cards function more like charge or debit cards. It’s important to understand the differences before choosing a card, as repayment terms and credit limits vary significantly between types.

Comparison of Credit Card Types in Germany:

Card Type	Monthly Repayment	Credit Check	Best For	Example Providers
Charge Card	Full amount each month	Yes	Budget-conscious users	DKB, Hanseatic Bank
Revolving Credit Card	Flexible monthly payments	Yes	Users wanting payment flexibility	Barclaycard, Advanzia
Debit Credit Card	Directly from bank account	Sometimes	Everyday payments	N26, Vivid
Prepaid Credit Card	Preloaded with funds	No	Students, those with no SCHUFA	VIABUY, bunq Travel Card
Virtual Credit Card	Digital-only	Varies	Online shoppers	Wise, Revolut

Charge Card

A charge card is common in Germany. It allows you to spend up to a set limit during the month, but the full balance is debited automatically from your account at the end of the billing cycle. There’s no revolving debt or interest – as long as you pay on time.

This type is ideal if you want to avoid interest and keep spending under control. However, you must have sufficient funds in your account when the monthly payment is due. Many traditional German banks offer this model.

Revolving Credit Card

A revolving credit card lets you repay your balance in monthly installments, usually with interest. This is closer to how credit cards work in the U.S. and UK. You can carry a balance over several months, giving more payment flexibility.

This type suits those who may need to spread larger purchases over time. Interest rates in Germany can range from 12–20%, so it’s important to read the terms. Not all providers offer this option – it’s more common with international banks like Barclaycard.

Debit Credit Card

A debit credit card (often branded as a Mastercard or Visa) draws money directly from your account at the time of purchase. Although it carries the credit card label, it functions more like a regular debit card and does not involve borrowing.

These cards are widely accepted online and abroad, and don’t involve interest or debt. They’re good for everyday use and typically don’t require a full credit check. Many fintech banks like N26 and Vivid offer this type.

Prepaid Credit Card

Prepaid cards must be loaded with money in advance. You can only spend what you deposit, making them a safe option for budgeting or if you don’t qualify for traditional cards due to lack of income or SCHUFA history.

No credit check is needed, and they’re commonly used by students, newcomers, or anyone trying to build financial trust. However, some come with setup fees or monthly charges, so comparisons are key.

Virtual Credit Card

A virtual credit card exists only in digital form and is mainly used for online shopping or digital subscriptions. You receive a card number, CVV, and expiry date, but no physical card.

These are often issued instantly and can be linked to your main account. Providers like Wise and Revolut offer this service, which is ideal for added security and travel flexibility. Some virtual cards also support dynamic CVVs or spending limits for fraud protection.

Understanding Credit Card Interest in Germany

Interest rates on credit cards in Germany can vary significantly depending on the card type and repayment method. While some cards offer interest-free periods, others charge double-digit APRs that add up quickly if you’re not careful. Understanding how interest works helps you choose the right card and avoid hidden costs.

Interest-Free Periods on Charge Cards

Many German banks offer charge cards where the full balance is deducted automatically at the end of each billing cycle, typically every 30 days. As long as you pay in full and on time, you pay 0% interest. These cards are popular for their transparency and simplicity.

However, if your account has insufficient funds when the withdrawal occurs, you may be charged overdraft interest, which is usually higher than standard credit interest rates.

Revolving Credit and Monthly Interest Charges

With revolving credit cards, you can repay the balance over time – usually in flexible monthly installments. This option comes with interest, often between 12% and 20% APR, and is calculated based on the remaining unpaid balance.

Some cards allow you to adjust your monthly repayment rate (e.g., 5%, 10%, or 100% of the balance). Lower monthly repayments increase total interest paid over time. Always check whether there’s a minimum repayment amount, such as €30 per month or 3% of the balance.

Interest Example Table

Card Type	Credit Limit	APR	Monthly Repayment	Interest on €1,000 (6 mo)	Total Paid
Charge Card (0% APR)	€2,000	0%	€1,000/month	€0	€1,000
Revolving Card (14%)	€2,000	14%	€200/month	~€40	~€1,040
Revolving Card (18%)	€2,000	18%	€100/month	~€85	~€1,085

What Triggers Credit Card Interest?

Interest applies when:

• You don’t repay the full balance within the interest-free grace period.
• You choose a revolving repayment plan.
• You use the card for cash withdrawals (often charged interest from day one).
• You miss a payment or fall into overdraft.

Some providers also apply compound interest monthly, increasing the effective annual cost. Always read the card’s fee schedule (Preisverzeichnis) before applying.

Avoiding Interest Charges

To avoid paying interest entirely:

• Choose a charge card and always pay the full balance monthly.
• Set up direct debit payments to avoid missed due dates.
• Avoid cash withdrawals using credit cards unless it’s an emergency.
• Compare cards based on effective APR (effektiver Jahreszins) rather than just headline rates.

Foreign Transaction Fees and Currency Conversion

Using your German credit card abroad or on non-euro websites can come with extra charges. These costs are often hidden in fine print and can significantly impact the total you pay, especially if you travel frequently or shop online in foreign currencies.

What Are Foreign Transaction Fees?

Most German credit cards charge a foreign transaction fee (Fremdwährungsgebühr) of 1.5% to 2% on purchases made in non-euro currencies. This applies whether you’re abroad or shopping online from international stores.

Some cards advertise “no foreign fees,” but only waive these for card payments — ATM withdrawals abroad may still incur fees from both the card provider and the local ATM operator.

Currency Conversion Charges

Currency conversion often includes a hidden margin on the exchange rate. Banks may use a less favorable rate than the official market rate, adding 1–3% in indirect costs. This is often not listed as a separate fee but is embedded in the converted amount.

Fintech providers like Wise or Revolut usually offer mid-market rates with low, transparent conversion fees, making them better for international spending.

Comparison Table: Using a German Credit Card Abroad

Provider	Foreign Fee	Currency Rate Markup	ATM Fee Abroad	Notes
DKB Visa	0% (with active status)	~1%	€0–€10	Free abroad if monthly activity met
Barclaycard Visa	1.99%	~2%	€5 + local fees	Common for traditional banks
N26 Mastercard	0%	Mid-market	€1.70–€2	No markup, great for travel
Advanzia Mastercard	0%	~2–3%	3% + €5	No fee on purchases, high on cash

How to Minimize Extra Charges

• Use cards that offer 0% foreign transaction fees.
• Choose providers with low ATM withdrawal costs.
• When prompted abroad, decline DCC (Dynamic Currency Conversion) and always choose to pay in local currency.
• For frequent travelers, consider a multi-currency card like Wise.

Understanding SCHUFA and Your Credit Score in Germany

When applying for a credit card in Germany, your SCHUFA score often plays a decisive role. SCHUFA is the country’s main credit bureau, used by banks and financial institutions to assess your creditworthiness. A positive SCHUFA report increases your chances of approval, while a negative entry can lead to automatic rejection.

What Is SCHUFA?

SCHUFA stands for Schutzgemeinschaft für allgemeine Kreditsicherung. It tracks your financial behavior, including loans, bank accounts, phone contracts, and missed payments. Each activity influences your credit score, known as the SCHUFA-Score, which typically ranges from 0% to 100%.

New arrivals in Germany often start with a neutral or non-existent score, which can make it harder to get approved for credit products initially. However, your score builds up over time as you open accounts, pay bills on time, and maintain good financial habits.

How Does SCHUFA Affect Credit Card Applications?

Most banks will run a SCHUFA check as part of their risk assessment. A good score (above 90%) improves your chances of getting a standard or premium credit card. A low score or negative entry (e.g., unpaid debts) can limit you to prepaid or secured cards only.

Some fintech banks offer credit cards without SCHUFA checks, though these usually come with limits such as requiring upfront deposits or offering no credit line. These are ideal for newcomers or anyone working to rebuild their credit.

Tips for Managing Your SCHUFA Score

• Always pay bills and loan installments on time.
• Avoid taking on multiple credit products in a short time.
• Check your own SCHUFA data for free once per year via meineschufa.de.
• Don’t apply for too many credit cards at once — every application leaves a footprint.