Apply For Credit Card Germany

Looking to apply for a credit card in Germany but unsure where to start? Whether you’re a local resident, expat, student, or freelancer, getting approved can be easier than you think — if you know what banks are looking for. From required documents to credit checks and online vs. in-person options, this guide covers everything you need to get your card fast and without surprises.

Who Can Apply for a Credit Card in Germany?

In Germany, most adults can apply for a credit card — but approval depends on your financial profile, residency status, and the type of card. While banks often have strict criteria, many fintechs and prepaid card issuers offer easier alternatives for those without perfect credit.

Eligible applicant types include:

• German citizens and permanent residents
• EU/EEA citizens living in Germany
• Expats with valid residence permits
• Students and trainees (with income or guarantor)
• Freelancers and self-employed (with proof of earnings)

Even if you’re new to Germany or don’t have a long credit history (SCHUFA), you can still apply — especially for prepaid cards, charge cards, or virtual cards or cards from online banks with relaxed requirements.

Documents Needed to Apply for a Credit Card in Germany

To apply for a credit card in Germany, you’ll need to provide several documents to verify your identity, income, and legal residency. The exact requirements vary by provider, but most banks and fintechs will ask for the following:

Required documents

• Valid passport or national ID
• Proof of address in Germany
• Proof of income (e.g. payslips or tax return)
• German bank account (IBAN)
• Residence permit (for non-EU applicants)
• SCHUFA report (in most standard card applications)

Valid passport or national ID

Your primary ID is needed to verify your identity. EU citizens can use their national ID card, while non-EU applicants must provide a valid passport.

Proof of address

Most banks require recent Meldebescheinigung (registration certificate), or a utility bill/bank statement not older than 3 months.

Proof of income

For standard or premium cards, you’ll need to show stable income. Employees can use recent payslips (Gehaltsnachweise), while freelancers may need tax assessments (Steuerbescheid) or recent invoices.

German bank account (IBAN)

Most providers require a SEPA-compatible IBAN from a German or EU-based bank account for billing and identity verification.

Residence permit (if applicable)

Non-EU residents must provide a valid Aufenthaltstitel (residence permit), especially for cards issued by traditional banks.

SCHUFA report

Most full credit cards will trigger a SCHUFA credit check, and poor credit history can affect approval. However, prepaid cards and some fintech products skip this step.

How to Apply for a Credit Card in Germany

The application process can vary slightly between traditional banks and fintech providers, but most follow these standard steps:

Step-by-step overview

1. Choose a card provider
2. Compare features and fees
3. Complete online application
4. Verify your identity (VideoIdent/PostIdent)
5. Submit required documents
6. Wait for approval decision
7. Receive and activate your card

1. Choose a card provider

Start by selecting a bank or issuer based on your needs: travel perks, cashback, low fees, or no SCHUFA. Fintechs like bunq or N26 offer faster onboarding, while traditional banks offer more robust credit lines.

2. Compare features and fees

Look at interest rates, annual fees, withdrawal costs, FX fees, and benefits (e.g. insurance, bonuses). Use comparison tools or read in-depth reviews before committing.

3. Complete online application

Most providers offer a digital application form. You’ll enter your personal details, employment status, and income. Some cards may have a paper-based or in-branch option.

4. Verify your identity

Germany requires all cardholders to complete a legally compliant ID check:

• VideoIdent: Done via webcam in a few minutes
• PostIdent: Visit a post office with your ID for verification

5. Submit documents

Upload or submit your proof of income, residence, and ID documents. Some fintech cards may only need ID verification.

6. Wait for approval

Approval can be instant (for prepaid or fintech cards) or take a few business days (for standard credit cards). SCHUFA score may influence the outcome.

7. Receive and activate your card

Once approved, your physical card is sent by mail. Virtual cards are often issued immediately. Activation is done in the app or online dashboard.

Why Credit Card Applications Get Rejected in Germany

Getting denied for a credit card in Germany isn’t uncommon — especially if you’re new to the country or don’t meet all requirements. Here are the main reasons for rejection and what you can do to improve your chances next time.

Common reasons for rejection:

• Poor or missing SCHUFA score
• Insufficient income
• Unstable employment status
• No proof of German address
• Multiple recent credit applications

Poor or missing SCHUFA score

If you have a low SCHUFA rating or no file at all, most traditional banks will decline your application. To improve:

• Avoid unnecessary credit checks
• Pay all bills on time
• Check your SCHUFA report via meineschufa.de once per year for free
• Use a prepaid or fintech card first to build history

Insufficient income

Most providers require a monthly net income above a certain threshold. If your income is too low:

• Consider cards aimed at students or freelancers
• Use prepaid or secured cards
• Submit proof of other assets or financial support

Unstable employment status

Freelancers, part-time workers, or those on probation may be flagged as high-risk. To help:

• Submit tax returns or long-term invoices
• Apply after your trial period ends
• Use providers that accept self-employed applicants

Missing proof of address

Applications without valid German address proof (e.g. Meldebescheinigung) are often denied. Make sure your documents are current and correctly registered.

Too many applications

Each application leaves a SCHUFA footprint, and too many in a short period lowers your score. Limit credit applications to 1–2 per month and avoid mass applying.