ICS MasterCard Classic vs N26 Mastercard
Two credit cards for expats in the Netherlands, figure by figure.
ICS MasterCard Classic is the stronger pick for most expats.
- Travel insurance: Included vs Not included
| Figure | ||
|---|---|---|
| Monthly fee | €3.25/mo | €0 (better) |
| Foreign transaction fee | 2.00% | 1.70% (better) |
| Card network | mastercard | mastercard |
| Travel insurance | Included (better) | Not included |
| Apple Pay | Supported | Supported |
| Card type | Charge card | Debit card |
| Minimum income | €1,500 net a month | Not stated by the issuer |
| BKR checked when you apply | Yes | Not stated |
| Card registered at BKR | No | Not stated |
| Rate check | Verified 19 October 2026 | Not yet verified |
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
N26 Mastercard
What we like
- No annual fee
- No fees in eurozone
- Excellent mobile app
- Instant notifications
- Free ATM withdrawals (limited)
What to consider
- Debit card, not true credit
- ATM withdrawal limits on free tier
- 1.7% fee outside eurozone
- No rewards program
Questions
Is ICS MasterCard Classic or N26 Mastercard better for expats in the Netherlands?
ICS MasterCard Classic is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Travel insurance: Included vs Not included
Which card has lower fees abroad, ICS MasterCard Classic or N26 Mastercard?
N26 Mastercard is cheaper abroad, with a 1.70% foreign transaction fee.
Do ICS MasterCard Classic and N26 Mastercard check or register you at BKR?
ICS MasterCard Classic: BKR is checked when you apply; the card is not registered at BKR. N26 Mastercard: The issuer doesn’t say whether it checks BKR; it doesn’t say whether the card is registered.