bunq Credit Card vs ICS MasterCard Classic
Two credit cards for expats in the Netherlands, figure by figure.
bunq Credit Card is the stronger pick for most expats.
- Monthly fee: €0 vs €3.25/mo
- Foreign transaction fee: 0.50% vs 2.00%
- BKR checked when you apply: No vs Yes
| Figure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monthly fee | €0 (better) | €3.25/mo |
| Foreign transaction fee | 0.50% (better) | 2.00% |
| Card network | mastercard | mastercard |
| Travel insurance | Not included | Included (better) |
| Apple Pay | Supported | Supported |
| Card type | Debit card | Charge card |
| Minimum income | Not stated by the issuer | €1,500 net a month |
| BKR checked when you apply | No (better) | Yes |
| Card registered at BKR | Not stated | 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.
bunq Credit Card
What we like
- No foreign transaction fees (ZeroFX)
- Excellent mobile app
- Instant notifications
- Create instantly in app
What to consider
- Requires bunq subscription (€2.99-18.99/mo)
- No actual credit line (prepaid)
- Must top up before use
- Lower acceptance than Visa/MC
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 bunq Credit Card or ICS MasterCard Classic better for expats in the Netherlands?
bunq Credit Card is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Monthly fee: €0 vs €3.25/mo
Which card has lower fees abroad, bunq Credit Card or ICS MasterCard Classic?
bunq Credit Card is cheaper abroad, with a 0.50% foreign transaction fee.
Do bunq Credit Card and ICS MasterCard Classic check or register you at BKR?
bunq Credit Card: BKR is not checked when you apply; it doesn’t say whether the card is registered. ICS MasterCard Classic: BKR is checked when you apply; the card is not registered at BKR.