Getting a credit card in the Netherlands is not as straightforward as in many other countries. The Dutch payment culture is heavily debit-focused, and the credit card application process has some unique requirements that can trip up expats. Here is what you need to know.
Why Credit Cards Are Different in the Netherlands
In most of Europe and especially in the US, credit cards are a daily payment tool. In the Netherlands, they are more of a secondary product. Most Dutch residents pay for everything with their debit card (betaalpas) or via iDEAL. Credit cards are mainly used for international travel, car rentals, and online purchases from foreign websites.
This cultural difference means that the credit card market here is smaller, approval criteria can be stricter, and the rewards programs are less generous than what you might be used to.
Requirements for Getting a Credit Card
To apply for a credit card in the Netherlands, you will generally need:
- A BSN number — Required for any financial product
- A Dutch bank account — Most credit card issuers require a Dutch IBAN for payments
- Proof of income — Usually your employment contract or recent payslips
- Dutch residency — You need to be registered at a Dutch address
- A clean BKR record — This is the big one for expats (more on this below)
Understanding the BKR Check
The BKR (Bureau Krediet Registratie) is the Dutch credit registration bureau. Every loan, credit card, and financing arrangement in the Netherlands is registered here. When you apply for a credit card, the issuer will check your BKR record.
The catch for expats: If you are new to the Netherlands, you will have no BKR history at all. Unlike in some countries where no credit history is better than bad credit history, having no BKR record can actually make it harder to get approved. Some issuers see a blank record as an unknown risk.
Tips for a successful application:
- Apply after you have been employed in the Netherlands for at least 3 months
- Have your employment contract show a permanent position if possible (temporary contracts are seen as higher risk)
- Start with a basic credit card rather than a premium one
- Consider getting a credit card through your bank if you already have a current account with them
Best Credit Card Options for Expats
Easiest to Get Approved
bunq Credit Card: If you already have a bunq account, adding a credit card is relatively straightforward. bunq's approval process is more digital-friendly and often more forgiving for expats with limited Dutch credit history.
ICS Visa World Card: One of the most popular credit cards in the Netherlands. ICS (International Card Services) is the largest credit card issuer in the country. The standard Visa World Card has no annual fee and is a solid starter card for expats.
Best for Travel
American Express Gold or Platinum: Amex cards come with excellent travel benefits including lounge access, travel insurance, and rewards points. Approval can be tougher, but Amex tends to be more accommodating of international applicants since they understand the expat demographic.
Flying Blue Credit Cards: If you fly KLM or Air France frequently, the Flying Blue credit cards earn miles directly. Available in Silver, Gold, and Platinum tiers with increasing benefits and annual fees.
Best for Everyday Spending
Revolut or N26: While technically prepaid/debit products rather than traditional credit cards, both Revolut and N26 offer Visa or Mastercard-branded cards that work everywhere credit cards are accepted. They are easy to get, have no credit check, and offer great exchange rates for international spending.
What to Do If You Get Rejected
Rejection is not uncommon for expats, especially in the first year. Here is what to do:
- Request your BKR report — You can check your BKR record for free once a year at mijnbkr.nl to make sure there are no errors
- Wait and reapply — Building a longer employment history in the Netherlands improves your chances
- Try a different issuer — Different banks have different risk appetites; a rejection from one does not mean rejection from all
- Consider alternatives — Revolut and bunq debit cards with Mastercard/Visa branding work for most situations where you would need a credit card
The key takeaway: getting a credit card as an expat in the Netherlands requires patience. Start with realistic expectations, build your Dutch financial history, and the options will open up over time. Check our full credit card comparison to find the best match for your situation.