Crypto Credit Cards Germany
Looking for a crypto credit card in Germany? Whether you want to earn Bitcoin rewards, spend your crypto directly, or convert it on the fly, crypto cards offer a new way to bridge digital assets with everyday payments. But fees, usability, and tax rules vary — here’s what you need to know before swiping with Satoshi.
What Is a Crypto Credit Card?
A crypto credit card allows you to spend or earn cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, or USDT through a traditional payment network like Visa or Mastercard. It bridges the gap between digital assets and real-world purchases — whether online, in-store, or at ATMs.
There are two main types of crypto credit cards:
- Spend-based cards: These convert your crypto to euros in real time when you make a purchase. You preload the card with crypto, and the provider handles the instant conversion (e.g. Crypto.com, Binance Card).
- Reward-based cards: These work like regular credit cards but let you earn crypto as cashback or loyalty points (e.g. Nexo Card, Plutus).
A third option is now emerging: bank-integrated crypto access. For example, bunq, a licensed European bank, lets users buy, sell, and manage crypto directly in their banking app. While bunq doesn’t offer a pure crypto card yet, users can fund their account with euros converted from crypto and spend via their bunq card. It’s beginner-friendly, powered by Kraken, and includes features like price alerts, biometric security, and fee transparency from as low as 0.25%.
In short, crypto credit cards — and crypto banking integrations like bunq — are making it easier than ever to use your crypto in daily life, with fewer barriers and more convenience.,
How to Get a Crypto Credit Card in Germany
Getting a crypto credit card in Germany is easier than ever thanks to digital onboarding and global card issuers. Most applications are 100% online, and you don’t need a traditional bank account to qualify. Here’s how to get started:
Step-by-step: How to get a crypto credit card
- Choose a provider
- Create an account
- Verify your identity (KYC)
- Order a virtual or physical card
- Top up with crypto or connect a wallet
- Start spending or earning rewards
1. Choose a provider
Pick a card that fits your goals. Want to spend crypto directly? Go with Binance, Crypto.com, or Bitwala. Prefer earning Bitcoin cashback? Try Nexo, Plutus, or Wirex. For bank-integrated crypto, look at bunq.
2. Create an account
Sign up via the provider’s app or website. This typically takes a few minutes and only requires an email and mobile number at first.
3. Verify your identity
Due to anti-money laundering laws, you’ll need to complete KYC (Know Your Customer) verification. This usually involves uploading your ID and doing a live video check or selfie.
4. Order your card
Most providers issue a virtual card immediately after approval. You can also order a physical Visa or Mastercard for in-store payments or ATM use.
5. Fund your card
Depending on the provider, you can:
- Load crypto to your wallet (BTC, ETH, USDT, etc.)
- Link a bank account to convert euros
- Use an exchange to preload your card balance
Some cards convert crypto at point of sale, while others require manual top-up to a euro balance.
6. Start using it
Once set up, you can start spending online, in-store, or abroad. You’ll earn crypto rewards (if included) and can track spending via the app. Many cards also support Apple Pay or Google Pay.
What Are the Benefits of a Crypto Credit Card?
Crypto credit cards offer a unique blend of flexibility, rewards, and innovation. Whether you’re holding Bitcoin or just want to benefit from the crypto economy, these cards provide real-world utility for digital assets. Below are the key benefits:
Spend crypto like euros
Crypto cards let you convert and spend your coins instantly at millions of merchants worldwide. No need to cash out manually or transfer to your bank account.
Earn crypto cashback
Many crypto cards reward purchases with Bitcoin, ETH, or tokens like CRO or NEXO instead of traditional points. This allows you to grow your holdings passively.
Access global payments
Most crypto cards are issued as Visa or Mastercard, meaning they’re accepted virtually everywhere — online, in-store, or while traveling.
No or low foreign transaction fees
Some crypto cards offer 0% FX fees, making them ideal for international use and online purchases in non-euro currencies.
Fast and digital setup
Application is usually instant and fully online. Virtual cards are often issued immediately and can be added to Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Integrated platforms
Providers like bunq now offer crypto functionality directly inside your banking app — allowing seamless buying, selling, and spending without switching platforms.
What Are the Drawbacks of a Crypto Credit Card?
Despite their appeal, crypto credit cards come with limitations and risks — especially for beginners. Understanding the downsides is crucial before relying on one for daily use or travel.
Volatility risk
Crypto values can fluctuate dramatically. If your card spends directly from a crypto balance, the euro value of your funds may drop just before or during a transaction.
Tax implications
In Germany, spending crypto triggers a taxable event. Each conversion may be subject to capital gains tax, even on small purchases, depending on holding periods.
Limited regulation
Many crypto card issuers are based outside the EU or use third-party payment processors. This can affect consumer protection, dispute resolution, and card reliability.
Complex rewards
Crypto cashback programs often involve proprietary tokens, lock-in periods, or tiered staking models, which make real-world value harder to assess or withdraw.
Not all cards support direct crypto use
Some “crypto” cards only earn rewards in crypto but don’t let you spend from your actual wallet. Others require manual top-ups or limit usage to specific crypto types.
Fees may still apply
Despite free core features, crypto cards can include conversion fees, ATM withdrawal fees, or inactivity charges, especially with prepaid models.
Popular Crypto Credit Cards in Germany
Several crypto card providers are available to German residents, each with different features, fees, and reward models. Below is a comparison of some of the most notable options.
Comparison Table: Crypto Credit Cards
| Provider | Type | Card Network | Crypto Rewards | Spending from Crypto | Monthly Fee | Supports Apple/Google Pay |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crypto.com | Spend & rewards | Visa | Up to 5% (CRO) | Yes | €0–€50 (tiered) | Yes |
| Binance Card | Spend | Visa | Up to 8% (BNB) | Yes | Free | Yes |
| Nexo Card | Rewards only | Mastercard | Up to 2% (BTC/NEXO) | No (uses credit line) | Free | Yes |
| Plutus | Rewards | Visa | 3–8% (PLU tokens) | No (EUR prepaid) | €0–€9.99 | Yes |
| bunq | Bank-integrated | Mastercard | No rewards | No (only buy/sell crypto) | €0–€18.99 | Yes |
Notes on Providers
- Crypto.com: Offers tiered cashback based on CRO staking. Also includes travel perks like lounge access at higher tiers.
- Binance Card: Converts crypto to EUR at the time of purchase. Requires Binance account and wallet balance.
- Nexo Card: Doesn’t spend from crypto but gives a line of credit based on your crypto collateral. Rewards in BTC or NEXO.
- Plutus: Offers PLU token rewards on top of a euro-loaded card. Optional staking boosts reward levels.
- bunq: Fully regulated Dutch bank offering crypto trading within the app. No crypto spending, but smooth euro integration.
What to Look for in a Crypto Credit Card
Choosing the right crypto credit card depends on how you plan to use it — whether for spending, investing, or earning rewards. Here are the most important features to consider before applying:
Type of card: spend vs. rewards
Decide if you want to spend crypto directly (e.g. Binance, Crypto.com) or prefer to earn crypto rewards on fiat purchases (e.g. Nexo, Plutus). Some cards do both.
Supported cryptocurrencies
Check which coins are supported. Some cards are limited to BTC and ETH, while others include USDT, BNB, CRO, ADA, and more.
Conversion fees
When crypto is converted to EUR at payment time, providers may charge 0.5% to 2.0% per transaction. Look for cards with transparent or low fees.
Cashback structure
Review the reward system:
- Flat rate vs. tiered rewards
- Locked tokens vs. instant rewards
- Limits on monthly cashback amounts
Regulation and reputation
Choose providers with a license or those partnering with trusted financial entities (e.g. bunq with Kraken). This ensures stronger consumer protection and stability.
Card network and usability
Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, but ensure the card also supports Apple Pay or Google Pay for mobile convenience.
Security features
Look for biometric login, 2FA, and spending alerts. Some cards (like bunq) include safety delays for crypto withdrawals.
Tax tracking
Crypto use in Germany is taxable. Some apps provide transaction history exports to help with capital gains reporting.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Crypto credit cards are legal, but using crypto for purchases is considered a taxable event. Always track your transactions for potential capital gains reporting.
Not always. Many crypto card providers operate outside traditional German banking and don’t require a SCHUFA credit check, especially for prepaid or top-up models.
Yes. Most crypto cards support ATM withdrawals, but fees may apply. Limits vary by provider and card tier.
Rewards earned in crypto are taxable as income or capital gains, depending on how and when they’re used. Consult a tax advisor to stay compliant.