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Expat Money

Amex Flying Blue Platinum 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.

  • Monthly fee: €3.25/mo vs €55.00/mo
  • Foreign transaction fee: 2.00% vs 2.50%
Amex Flying Blue Platinum Card and ICS MasterCard Classic compared. The better value in each row is marked.
Figure
Amex Flying Blue Platinum Card
ICS MasterCard ClassicOur pick
Monthly fee€55.00/mo€3.25/mo (better)
Foreign transaction fee2.50%2.00% (better)
Card networkamexmastercard
Travel insuranceIncludedIncluded
Apple PaySupportedSupported
Card typeCharge cardCharge card
Minimum income€30,000 gross a year€1,500 net a month
BKR checked when you applyYesYes
Card registered at BKRNoNo
Rate checkVerified 19 October 2026Verified 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 Flying Blue Platinum Card

What we like

  • 1.5 miles per €1 (2 miles at KLM/AF)
  • 60 XP points toward elite status
  • Comprehensive travel insurance

What to consider

  • High fee (€660/year)
  • 2.5% foreign transaction fee
  • Best value only for KLM frequent flyers
  • Requires €30,000 gross annual income

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 Flying Blue Platinum Card or ICS MasterCard Classic better for expats in the Netherlands?
ICS MasterCard Classic is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Monthly fee: €3.25/mo vs €55.00/mo
Which card has lower fees abroad, Amex Flying Blue Platinum Card or ICS MasterCard Classic?
ICS MasterCard Classic is cheaper abroad, with a 2.00% foreign transaction fee.
Do Amex Flying Blue Platinum Card and ICS MasterCard Classic check or register you at BKR?
Amex Flying Blue Platinum 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.