Credit Cards for Foreigners in Germany(Kreditkarte für Ausländer - Complete Guide)
New to Germany? Getting a credit card can be tricky without German credit history. This guide explains your options and how to apply successfully.
Credit Cards in Germany: What You Need to Know
Was Sie wissen müssen / Bilmeniz gerekenler
Germany uses the Schufa credit scoring system. As a newcomer, you have no Schufa history, which makes getting a traditional credit card harder. But don't worry - there are options!
Many banks now offer prepaid cards, debit cards, or credit cards specifically for people new to Germany.
Credit Card
Kreditkarte
Pay later, requires Schufa check
Debit Card
Debitkarte
Money taken immediately from account
Prepaid Card
Prepaid-Karte
Load money first, no credit check
Key German Terms for Credit Cards
- Kreditkarte = Credit card
- Debitkarte = Debit card (linked to bank account)
- Prepaid-Kreditkarte = Prepaid credit card
- Schufa = German credit bureau (like credit score)
- Girokonto = Current/checking account
- Jahresgebühr = Annual fee
- Kreditrahmen = Credit limit
- Bargeldabhebung = Cash withdrawal
Your Options as a NewcomerOptionen für Neuankömmlinge / Seçenekleriniz
Digital Banks (Best for newcomers!)
Banks like N26, Vivid, or Tomorrow offer accounts with debit cards that work like credit cards (Visa/Mastercard). No German credit history needed!
Prepaid Credit Cards
Load money onto the card and use it anywhere. Works for online shopping, car rentals, and hotel bookings. No credit check required.
Traditional Bank Credit Cards
After 6-12 months in Germany with a job and bank account, you can apply for traditional credit cards. Your Schufa score will improve over time.
Compare Credit Card Options
Kreditkarten vergleichen / Kredi kartlarını karşılaştırın
Common QuestionsHäufige Fragen / Sık Sorulan Sorular
What is Schufa and why does it matter?
Schufa is Germany's credit bureau. It tracks your payment history, debts, and contracts. As a newcomer, you have no Schufa record (not bad, just empty). Banks use this to assess credit risk. You'll build a Schufa score over time by paying bills on time and having German contracts.
Can I get a credit card without a German address?
Most German banks require a German address (Anmeldung). Some digital banks like N26 may accept you with just your passport initially. Once you have your Anmeldung, more options become available.
Which card works best for car rentals and hotels?
Many car rental companies and hotels require a "real" credit card, not a debit card. Some accept debit cards with Visa/Mastercard logo. Tip: Check with the rental company beforehand, or get a prepaid card with a higher limit for security deposits.
How long until I can get a traditional credit card?
Usually 6-12 months after arriving in Germany, with a steady income and German bank account. Your Schufa score builds as you pay rent, phone bills, and other contracts on time. Some banks offer credit cards faster to employed professionals.
Are there cards with no annual fee?
Yes! Many digital banks offer free cards. Traditional banks may charge €20-100/year for credit cards. Our comparison tool shows the annual fee (Jahresgebühr) for each card so you can find free options.
Tips for Building Credit in Germany
Late payments hurt your Schufa score
Anmeldung is required for most applications
Start with a digital bank for easy approval
Regular payments help build credit history
Ready to find your credit card?
Compare foreigner-friendly credit cards and apply online.
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