Amex Blue Card vs ICS MasterCard Classic
Two credit cards for expats in the Netherlands, figure by figure.
ICS MasterCard Classic is the stronger pick for most expats.
- Foreign transaction fee: 2.00% vs 2.50%
- Travel insurance: Included vs Not included
| Figure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monthly fee | €3.00/mo (better) | €3.25/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 20 October 2026 | Verified 29 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 Classic
What we like
- Lowest ICS annual fee
- True credit card with credit line
- Worldwide Mastercard acceptance
- Purchase protection
What to consider
- 2% foreign transaction fee
- No rewards
- Basic coverage only
- Requires Dutch income proof
Questions
Is Amex Blue Card or ICS MasterCard Classic better for expats in the Netherlands?
ICS MasterCard Classic is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Foreign transaction fee: 2.00% vs 2.50%
Which card has lower fees abroad, Amex Blue Card or ICS MasterCard Classic?
ICS MasterCard Classic is cheaper abroad, with a 2.00% foreign transaction fee.
Do Amex Blue Card and ICS MasterCard Classic check or register you at BKR?
Amex Blue Card: BKR is checked when you apply; the card is not registered at BKR. ICS MasterCard Classic: BKR is checked when you apply; the card is not registered at BKR.