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American Express Credit Cards
Reviewed by
Erkan Boga
Erkan Boga is the founder and CEO of qmedia GmbH, the publishing house behind How-to-Germany.com. He established the platform with the clear vision of creating...
Edited by
Sadie Voss
Content Lead & Editor
Sadie Voss is the Lead Editor for How-to-Germany.com. As an expat who carved her own way into Berlin from the United States, Sadie is deeply...
- Application requirements: German residence, valid ID and residence permit if applicable, regular income, positive Schufa history, and German bank account.
- Card options: American Express Blue, American Express Green / classic American Express Card, American Express Payback, American Express Gold, American Express Platinum — all issued directly by American Express.
- Cash withdrawals: Available upon activation; subject to a 4% fee, minimum €5, and limited ATM compatibility. Not a key feature of Amex cards in Germany.
- Foreign currency conversion fee: 2% on foreign transactions outside the euro area.
- Installments: Amex Splitpay is no longer available in Germany. The program was discontinued in 2025.
- Insurance: Varies by card; comprehensive travel insurance is included with both the Gold and Platinum cards.
- Mobile app & services: Full app access for card management; supports contactless payments, Apple Pay, and Google Pay; secure online purchases based on modern standards.
- Rewards: Most paid Amex cards earn Membership Rewards. The Payback American Express earns Payback points instead, and the Amex Blue requires a paid €30/year opt-in for Membership Rewards.
- Travel perks: Depending on the card, benefits may include airport lounge access, hotel upgrades, travel vouchers, concierge services, rental car privileges, and other valuable perks.
- Ideal for: Frequent travelers, professionals, and expats seeking premium services, flexible rewards, and international travel benefits.
Best Free Amex Cards
Best Business and Travel Amex Cards
Best Premium Amex Cards
About American Express in Germany
American Express has long been recognized as a premium credit card brand with a strong presence in global travel, finance, and lifestyle services. In Germany, Amex offers a direct alternative to traditional bank-issued cards — with its billing infrastructure, distinct reward systems, and a focus on customer service. Amex also offers strong travel card and cashback card options. However, users who are familiar with Visa and Mastercard cards, such as free cards or cards without foreign exchange fees, should pay close attention to Amex costs, acceptance, and card-specific benefits.
Brand Overview
Founded in 1850 in the United States, American Express has become a globally recognized credit card provider, renowned for its premium benefits, strong customer support, and exclusive partnerships. In Germany, Amex operates as an independent issuer — not as a bank — and provides all cards directly, including billing and customer service.
Standalone Billing System and Payment Network
Unlike Visa and Mastercard, which operate as open networks used by various banks, American Express is a closed-loop system, issuing its own cards and handling transactions directly. Our credit card guide demonstrates how this integrated model allows Amex to offer unified customer service, consistent card policies, and a seamless user experience.
Acceptance in Germany
While American Express is widely accepted at major retailers, hotels, airlines, and online platforms, its coverage is still more limited than that of Visa or Mastercard, especially at smaller shops, restaurants, or local service providers. However, acceptance is steadily improving, particularly in urban areas and international business environments.
While you can technically withdraw money with Amex cards, this feature is not encouraged due to high fees and limited ATM compatibility. To understand whether a no-fee card is best for you, reference our card fee explainer.
Who Should Consider an Amex Card?
American Express cards in Germany are particularly well-suited for:
- Consumers who prefer direct monthly billing over revolving credit lines.
- Expats who need international flexibility and prefer English-speaking customer service.
- Frequent travelers looking for reward points, travel insurance, lounge access, and exclusive perks.
- Professionals seeking premium service, attractive extras, and high-class travel benefits.
- Users looking for rewards, including Membership Rewards on eligible Amex cards or Payback points with the Payback American Express.
Amex Credit Card Options – A Quick Comparison
American Express offers a range of credit cards in Germany, often ranking as some of the best German credit cards. The lineup ranges from free entry-level cards to premium travel cards, but the rewards structure differs significantly by card.
Amex Blue
A free entry-level credit card for everyday use. The Blue Card does not automatically include Membership Rewards for free. Cardholders can opt into the Membership Rewards program for an annual fee of €30. It is best suited for newcomers to American Express who want a free Amex card and may later decide whether the paid rewards option is worthwhile.
American Express Green / Classic American Express Card
The American Express Green Card, also commonly presented as the classic American Express Card in Germany, is the smartest entry-level option for users who want full Membership Rewards without moving straight to Gold or Platinum. It costs €5 per month, or €60 per year. From the second year onward, the fee can be waived if you reach €9,000 in annual card spending. This makes it especially interesting for people who expect to use Amex regularly and want Membership Rewards included rather than paying the Blue Card’s separate rewards opt-in fee.
Payback American Express
Also available free of charge, this card is specifically designed for Payback users. The Payback American Express does not participate in the American Express Membership Rewards program. Instead, it earns Payback points directly on eligible purchases. These points can be redeemed through Payback partners, vouchers, or transferred into Miles & More miles. It is best suited for frequent shoppers at current Payback partner stores such as EDEKA, Netto Marken-Discount, dm, and Aral. REWE and Penny are no longer Payback partners.
American Express Gold Credit Card
A premium travel credit card with a wide range of included benefits. Offers comprehensive travel insurance, Membership Rewards, access to exclusive presales, and partner offers. Designed for frequent travelers and professionals. The Gold Card costs €20 per month, or €240 per year. Following the mid-March 2025 refresh, the higher fee is partly offset by new benefits and annual credits, including LODENFREY shopping credit, SIXT rent credit, FREENOW credit, SIXT+ auto subscription credit, and hotel advantages such as GHA DISCOVERY Gold status.
American Express Platinum Card
The top-tier card in the Amex lineup. Includes an extensive insurance package, unlimited lounge access through Priority Pass, €200 annual travel credit, elite hotel status, concierge services, and premium lifestyle credits. Ideal for frequent flyers and users with high spending volume. Requires a strong credit history and high financial stability.
The American Express Centurion Card — often referred to as the “Black Card” — is the most exclusive credit card Amex offers. It is not available through a public application; membership is by invitation only and typically extended to high-net-worth individuals who have a significant annual spending history on other American Express cards. The Centurion Card comes with a one-time initiation fee and a high annual fee. In return, cardholders enjoy unmatched concierge services, invitation-only events, elite status with airlines and hotels, luxury travel benefits, and a dedicated relationship manager. The card is considered a symbol of status and exclusivity, rather than a conventional credit product.
Pros and Cons of American Express Credit Cards
American Express cards offer strong rewards and premium services, but they also come with certain limitations — especially in terms of acceptance and fees. Here’s a quick overview:
Advantages
- Attractive additional services: Premium cards include airport lounge access, hotel privileges, concierge services, and more.
- Comprehensive travel insurance: Included with Gold and Platinum cards — ideal for frequent travelers.
- English-language support: Application, app, and customer service are available in English — useful for expats.
- Green Card entry point: The classic American Express Card gives users a lower-cost way to collect full Membership Rewards.
- Multiple card options: Ranging from free entry-level cards to premium travel credit cards with luxury benefits.
- No preset spending limit on most cards: Offers flexibility, especially for high-income users.
- Strong rewards options: Most paid Amex cards earn Membership Rewards, while the Payback Amex earns Payback points.
Disadvantages
- High monthly fee: Especially for Gold and Platinum cards — only worth it if you use the benefits.
- Installment option discontinued: Amex Splitpay is no longer available in Germany.
- Limited acceptance: Not as widely accepted in Germany as Visa or Mastercard, especially at smaller retailers or in rural areas.
- No revolving credit line: Amex cards are generally charge cards, requiring full payment each month.
- Premium cards require excellent credit: Especially the Platinum Card, which is reserved for users with stronger financial profiles.
- Transaction limitations: Cash withdrawals are restricted, expensive, and not supported at all ATMs. A 2% foreign currency fee applies to transactions outside the euro area.
Fees, Interest & Repayment
American Express cards issued in Germany generally function as charge cards. This means the full balance must usually be paid monthly. There is no revolving credit line by default.
Billing & Payment Rates
- Annual fees vary by card: from €0 for Amex Blue and Payback Amex to €60 per year for the classic American Express Card, €240 per year for the Gold Card, and higher fees for Platinum.
- Cash withdrawal fees: Cash withdrawals are expensive and not a key feature of Amex cards in Germany.
- Foreign transaction fee: A 2% fee applies to purchases outside the euro area.
- Monthly billing cycle: Invoices are issued regularly and must be paid by the due date shown on the statement.
- No interest charges: You do not pay interest on everyday spending if the full monthly balance is paid on time.
While American Express business credit cards may offer extended payment terms, this does not apply in the same way to standard consumer cards in Germany. Those looking for the best business cards will find that Amex consistently ranks well.
Amex Splitpay should no longer be treated as an available feature in Germany. The installment program, previously offered in cooperation with Solaris SE, was discontinued in 2025. Existing financing agreements may continue under their individual terms, but new Amex cardholders in Germany should not expect Splitpay as an active repayment option.
Do not choose an American Express card in Germany because of Splitpay. The installment-payment program ended in 2025, so Amex cards should be treated primarily as charge cards that require full monthly repayment.
Amex Credit Capacity
Although Amex cards provide strong purchasing power, they do not extend actual revolving credit in the traditional sense. There is no standard revolving line or minimum-payment structure. The full balance is normally repaid each month, usually by SEPA direct debit.
Late payments can negatively affect your credit score and may result in additional fees or temporary card suspension. Always ensure you have enough money in your bank account to settle your monthly bills on time.
- Annual fees vary by card: Amex Blue and Payback Amex are free, the classic American Express Card costs €60 per year unless the fee is waived from year two after sufficient spending, the Gold Card costs €240 per year, and the Platinum Card is significantly more expensive.
- Limited cash withdrawal options: Cash advances are not a key feature and are only available at select ATMs, usually with high fees and limits.
- No interest charges on full repayment: Interest does not apply if the monthly bill is paid in full by the due date.
- No revolving credit line: American Express cards require full monthly repayment because Splitpay is no longer available for new use in Germany.
Unlike many other credit card providers that offer a fixed credit line, American Express uses a dynamic spending model. There is no preset spending limit on most cards. Instead, your purchasing power is assessed individually and adjusted over time based on factors such as your income, spending behavior, and payment history. This model offers more flexibility for high-volume users. However, it’s essential to note that Amex still evaluates each transaction in real time and may decline unusually large charges if your usage pattern hasn’t established sufficient trust.
Repayment Options
American Express credit card bills must usually be repaid in full each month. You can choose between 2 SEPA-based repayment methods: automatic direct debit or manual bank transfer. Alternative payment methods, such as PayPal or credit-card-to-credit-card payments, are not supported.
Bonus Programs & Amex Membership Rewards
Most paid American Express cards in Germany give you access to the Membership Rewards program, allowing you to collect points for everyday spending. These points can be redeemed flexibly — for shopping, gift cards, statement credits, or transfers to selected airline and hotel loyalty programs.
The Amex Blue does not include Membership Rewards automatically. Blue cardholders can join the Membership Rewards program for an annual fee of €30. For faster accumulation, eligible cardholders can activate the optional Membership Rewards Turbo for €15 per year, which increases the earning rate to 1.5 points per €1.
The American Express Green / classic American Express Card includes Membership Rewards as part of the card setup. Because it costs €5 per month and can become fee-free from the second year after €9,000 annual spend, it can be a stronger entry-level rewards card than the Blue Card for people who spend enough on Amex.
The Payback American Express card is different. It does not earn Membership Rewards points. Instead, it is linked to the Payback bonus program. With this card, you collect Payback points directly on eligible purchases, which can be redeemed for rewards, vouchers, or transferred into Miles & More award miles.
Please note that earning rates, redemption options, and point value can vary depending on the card. Premium cards, such as the American Express Gold Card or American Express Platinum Card, typically offer stronger reward and travel-benefit combinations.
Values of Amex Membership Rewards Points — Depending on Redemption
The value of Amex points also depends on how you redeem them. While transferring points to airline or hotel partners can yield high value, most other redemption options offer a lower return, typically around €0.005 per point.
| Redemption Option | Estimated Value per Point |
|---|---|
| Hotel partners, such as Marriott Bonvoy or Hilton Honors | €0.005 – €0.006, or 0.5 – 0.6 cents |
| Pay with points via Amex Travel | €0.005, or 0.5 cents |
| Shop online or pay with points at checkout, such as Amazon | €0.003 – €0.004, or 0.3 – 0.4 cents |
| Statement credit or invoice offset | €0.003, or 0.3 cents |
| Transfer to airline partners, such as Avios or Flying Blue | €0.006 – €0.007, or 0.6 – 0.7 cents |
Insurance Coverage & Additional Benefits
American Express cards offer more than just payment flexibility and rewards. Depending on the card type, you may receive travel insurance, shopping protection, return protection, or premium lifestyle benefits. These benefits vary significantly by card and are subject to the official American Express insurance terms.
Levels of Coverage
American Express credit cards come with varying levels of insurance coverage, depending on the card type. Gold and Platinum cards offer the strongest travel insurance packages. Entry-level cards, such as Blue and Payback Amex, should not be presented as having the same purchase and return protection limits as premium cards.
In most cases, coverage requires that the purchase or trip was paid for using the Amex card. Supplementary cardholders may be included depending on the card and benefit. For full details and exclusions, refer to the official insurance terms provided by American Express.
| Insurance Coverage | Amex Blue | Amex Green | Amex Gold | Amex Platinum |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cash, Luggage & Document Insurance | — | — | — | Included, subject to limits and conditions |
| Extended Return Protection | Check current Blue Card terms | Included, subject to limits and conditions | Included, subject to limits and conditions | Included, subject to limits and conditions |
| Key Loss Insurance | — | — | Included, subject to limits and conditions | Included, subject to limits and conditions |
| Overseas Medical Insurance | — | — | Included, subject to trip duration and excess rules | Included, with stronger limits and longer trip duration |
| Personal Liability & Legal Protection | — | — | — | Included, subject to limits and conditions |
| Rental Car Insurance | — | — | — | Included, subject to limits and conditions |
| Roadside Assistance | — | — | Included | Included |
| Shop Guarantee / Purchase Protection | Check current Blue Card terms | Included, subject to limits and conditions | Included, subject to limits and conditions | Included, subject to limits and conditions |
| Travel Accident Insurance | Included, subject to card terms | Included, subject to card terms | Included, subject to card terms | Included, subject to card terms |
| Travel Cancellation & Curtailment | — | — | Included, subject to limits and conditions | Included, subject to limits and conditions |
| Trip Inconvenience Insurance | — | Included, subject to limits and conditions | Included, subject to limits and conditions | Included, subject to limits and conditions |
Other Amex Benefits
American Express cards come with a range of additional perks, with the strongest extras available on Gold and Platinum cards.
For entry-level cards like Blue, Green, and Payback Amex, basic benefits include access to Amex Offers and app-based card management. Payback Amex users earn Payback points rather than Membership Rewards points. Blue cardholders can optionally join Membership Rewards for €30 per year, while Green Card users receive Membership Rewards as part of the card setup.
For Gold cardholders after the March 2025 refresh:
- €80 annual LODENFREY shopping credit, usually split into two €40 credits.
- €50 annual SIXT rent credit, usually split into two €25 credits.
- €60 annual FREENOW credit, usually €5 per month.
- SIXT+ auto subscription credits that can materially offset the annual fee if used.
- GHA DISCOVERY Gold status and hotel-related benefits.
- Membership Rewards points on eligible spending.
For Platinum cardholders:
- Concierge service.
- Exclusive presale and invitation-only events.
- Premium travel, hotel, and lifestyle benefits.
- Priority Pass access to global airport lounges.
- Status upgrades with hotel and car rental partners.
The Gold Card now costs €20 per month, but the March 2025 refresh added several annual credits and status benefits. The card is only good value if you actually use the credits, especially the mobility and shopping benefits.
The Amex Platinum Card includes valuable lifestyle credits, such as restaurant, travel, mobility, and luxury shopping credits. These exclusive perks are part of the card’s lifestyle benefits and a major draw for frequent travelers and premium users. Exact credit amounts and participating partners can change, so check the current Platinum benefit terms before applying.
Application & Eligibility
To apply for an American Express card in Germany, you must meet the following basic requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
- Creditworthiness: A positive Schufa score is usually expected.
- For expats: You need a valid passport or national ID. Non-EU nationals are required to hold a valid residence permit.
- Income: A regular income is required; the specific threshold depends on the card, with higher expectations for Gold and Platinum.
- Linked bank account: Unlike many other providers, Amex does not require you to switch your checking account. You can use any German bank account.
- Residence: You need a registered address in Germany.
The application process is fully digital:
- Complete a video call or post-identification, also known as PostIdent.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Link a bank account for repayments.
The approval decision is made directly by American Express, not by a partner bank, and is based on internal criteria.
Alternatives to American Express in Germany
Not every user needs the full set of benefits offered by an American Express card. Depending on your personal needs and spending habits, there are several strong alternatives worth considering. There are four different credit card types, each with their benefits and drawbacks, that could make an ideal alternative depending on your needs. For example, even traditional Girocard credit card-authorizing German banks, such as Commerzbank and Deutsche Bank, offer attractive credit card options that may suit users seeking local support and additional banking services.
Not each credit card type is equal: Variations such as charge cards, prepaid cards, and revolving cards each have advantages. If you’re primarily looking for the right free credit card for everyday use, other providers such as easybank or TF Bank may offer more flexible terms and wider acceptance. For example, the Mastercard Gold card is one of the best free credit cards on the German market — offering travel insurance, a bonus program, and no fees for ATM withdrawals or foreign currency transactions. The easybank Visa Credit Card does not provide additional benefits; however, you can withdraw cash and make cashless payments worldwide without incurring any charges. For an in-depth comparison, our list of reviewed cards shows more of the best Amex alternatives.
Modern debit cards like the N26 Go and N26 Metal Mastercards can also provide valuable travel perks. Travel insurance is bundled with the premium N26 Go and N26 Metal plans, while standard N26 account tiers such as Standard and Smart do not include travel insurance.
Overall, finding the right free card or alternative to Amex depends entirely on your specific needs and spending habits.
Popular alternatives include:
Our Experience
With over 15 years of experience testing financial products in Germany, we’ve seen many credit cards come and go — but American Express has consistently stood out for premium users. Within our team, one editor has been using the American Express Gold Card for over 3 years. The extensive travel insurance package proved useful during a delayed flight in Rome, and the Membership Rewards points were seamlessly transferred to an airline partner for a discounted business class upgrade.
We’ve also tested the Platinum Card, particularly for users who travel frequently for work. The lounge access, lifestyle credits, and premium concierge service provide real value — if you can utilize the card’s full benefits. However, we wouldn’t recommend Amex to users who primarily want a simple, fee-free card for everyday use or cash withdrawals.
Conclusion
American Express cards in Germany cater to a specific audience: users who travel frequently, spend actively, and value premium perks. The Gold and Platinum cards in particular offer a powerful mix of rewards, insurance coverage, and lifestyle benefits, but they come at a price. The Gold Card now costs €20 per month, or €240 per year, so it is only worth it if you actively use the travel insurance, rewards, and annual credits added in the March 2025 refresh.
The entry-level cards serve different purposes. The Amex Blue is a free entry-level Amex card with optional paid Membership Rewards participation. The American Express Green / classic American Express Card is the better entry-level Membership Rewards card for users who expect to spend enough to justify or waive the annual fee. The Payback American Express is a free Payback card, not a Membership Rewards card, and is most useful for shoppers who regularly use current Payback partners such as EDEKA, Netto Marken-Discount, dm, and Aral.
The biggest 2026 correction is that Amex Splitpay should no longer be treated as an available feature. American Express cards in Germany remain best understood as charge cards that require full monthly repayment. If you’re looking for simplicity, wider acceptance, installment payments, or fee-free foreign transactions, other Visa or Mastercard products may be a better fit. If you’re new to Amex, our step-by-step guide outlines how to apply, use your benefits, and manage monthly repayments efficiently.
Frequently Asked Questions — FAQ
Most American Express cards in Germany do not have a fixed spending limit. Instead, Amex uses a dynamic model that adjusts to your financial profile and spending habits. While there’s no hard cap, each transaction is evaluated in real time. High-value purchases may be approved based on your history and income. Optional limits can be set for supplementary or business cards.
Yes, it may still be possible. While a positive SCHUFA credit record is typically required to apply for an American Express card in Germany, new arrivals without a German credit history are not automatically excluded from consideration. If you’ve held an Amex card in another country, you may benefit from the Amex Global Transfer Program. This initiative enables American Express to consider your existing credit history abroad, which may simplify the application process for a German-issued card. However, approval is not guaranteed and remains subject to Amex’s internal credit assessment.
American Express does not publish official income requirements. Each application is assessed individually based on your creditworthiness, residence status, and financial situation.
In practice, the following income ranges are often mentioned as informal thresholds by users:
- Blue Card: No fixed income requirement; often accessible to students and moderate earners.
- Green Card: Typically requires stable income to cover fees and spending.
- Gold Card: Some sources mention a minimum of €1,650 net per month, but approval is more likely with a higher income.
- Platinum Card: Unofficial estimates start around €2,400 net per month, though many successful applicants report significantly higher earnings.
Keep in mind that your credit history, spending behavior, and overall financial profile matter more than any specific income number.
In Germany, all American Express cards function as charge cards—they must be paid in full each month, unlike revolving credit cards that allow flexible repayments. This sets them apart from most Mastercard or Visa credit cards offered by German banks.
Amex cards also differ from prepaid credit cards, which require advance loading and typically lack rewards or insurance. Compared to modern debit cards (like N26 or Revolut), Amex offers a more exclusive benefits ecosystem, particularly with the Gold and Platinum Cards, which include comprehensive travel insurance, lifestyle credits, and access to airport lounges.
Another distinction: American Express operates its individual payment network, which enables tightly integrated services but may have slightly lower acceptance in smaller shops compared to Visa or Mastercard.