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Expat Money

ICS MasterCard Classic vs ICS Visa World Card Gold

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 €4.96/mo
ICS MasterCard Classic and ICS Visa World Card Gold compared. The better value in each row is marked.
Figure
Monthly fee€3.25/mo (better)€4.96/mo
Foreign transaction fee2.00%2.00%
Card networkmastercardvisa
Travel insuranceIncludedIncluded
Apple PaySupportedSupported
Card typeCharge cardCharge card
Minimum income€1,500 net a month€1,500 net a month
BKR checked when you applyYesYes
Card registered at BKRNoNo
Rate checkVerified 29 October 2026Verified 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.

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

ICS Visa World Card Gold

What we like

  • 365-day purchase protection
  • Travel insurance included
  • Interest on positive balance (bonus 0.5% until May 2026)
  • Higher coverage limits

What to consider

  • 2% foreign transaction fee
  • Higher annual fee than basic card
  • Same credit limit as basic card

Questions

Is ICS MasterCard Classic or ICS Visa World Card Gold better for expats in the Netherlands?
ICS MasterCard Classic is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Monthly fee: €3.25/mo vs €4.96/mo
Which card has lower fees abroad, ICS MasterCard Classic or ICS Visa World Card Gold?
Both charge the same foreign transaction fee: 2.00%.
Do ICS MasterCard Classic and ICS Visa World Card Gold check or register you at BKR?
ICS MasterCard Classic: BKR is checked when you apply; the card is not registered at BKR. ICS Visa World Card Gold: BKR is checked when you apply; the card is not registered at BKR.