Amex Blue Card vs ICS Mastercard Black
Two credit cards for expats in the Netherlands, figure by figure.
Amex Blue Card is the stronger pick for most expats.
- Monthly fee: €3.00/mo vs €18.75/mo
| Figure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monthly fee | €3.00/mo (better) | €18.75/mo |
| Foreign transaction fee | 2.50% | 2.00% (better) |
| Card network | amex | mastercard |
| Travel insurance | Not included | Included (better) |
| Apple Pay | Supported | Supported |
| Card type | Charge card | Charge card |
| Minimum income | €30,000 gross a year | €1,500 net a month |
| BKR checked when you apply | Yes | Yes |
| Card registered at BKR | No | No |
| Rate check | Verified 19 October 2026 | Verified 19 October 2026 |
Bold marks the better value in a row. Figures are checked daily against provider sources; each product page shows when its figures were last confirmed.
Amex Blue Card
What we like
- 54 interest-free days
- Apple Pay and Google Pay
- Basic insurance included
- Lower fee than Green Card
What to consider
- 2.5% foreign transaction fee
- No rewards program
- Limited Amex acceptance in NL
- Basic coverage only
ICS Mastercard Black
What we like
- 4 Priority Pass lounge visits/year
- 4 airport fast-track passes/year
- Comprehensive AXA travel insurance
- 365-day purchase protection
What to consider
- High annual fee (€225)
- 2% foreign transaction fee
- Limited lounge visits vs Amex
Questions
Is Amex Blue Card or ICS Mastercard Black better for expats in the Netherlands?
Amex Blue Card is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Monthly fee: €3.00/mo vs €18.75/mo
Which card has lower fees abroad, Amex Blue Card or ICS Mastercard Black?
ICS Mastercard Black is cheaper abroad, with a 2.00% foreign transaction fee.
Do Amex Blue Card and ICS Mastercard Black check or register you at BKR?
Amex Blue Card: BKR is checked when you apply; the card is not registered at BKR. ICS Mastercard Black: BKR is checked when you apply; the card is not registered at BKR.