Barclays Credit Cards in Germany – Visa, Gold or Platinum

About Barclays

Barclays is a globally operating British bank with a history spanning over 300 years. In Germany, the company is represented through its Hamburg-based branch, where it has established itself as one of the leading providers of credit cards in the German market.

Barclays offers different types of credit cards tailored to a range of needs – from cost-conscious users to premium travelers: the Barclays Visa, a free standard credit card with global usability; the Barclays Visa Gold, which includes essential travel insurance; and the Barclays Platinum Double, a premium package combining a Visa and a Mastercard with comprehensive benefits. Additionally, Barclays issues Eurowings-branded credit cards for frequent flyers and dedicated mileage collectors.

Barclays Visa, Gold, and Platinum – A Quick Comparison

All Barclays credit cards offered in Germany are revolving credit cards, meaning they come with a pre-approved credit limit and flexible repayment options. Cardholders can choose between paying the full monthly balance or spreading payments over time through installments. As long as the full balance is repaid by the due date, no interest applies, with a generous interest-free payment period of up to 59 days, depending on the billing cycle. This structure provides users with the flexibility to manage their cash flow while avoiding interest, as long as payments are made on time and in full.

The interest rate for monthly installment payments or all outstanding amounts after the interest-free payment period has expired is 22.11% APR (Annual Percentage Rate).

The Barclays credit cards are not tied to a specific bank account. You can use any German bank account as your reference account for your Barclays card.

Barclays Visa

The Barclays Visa is a no-annual-fee revolving credit card that provides financial flexibility and global usability. It’s ideal for daily purchases, online shopping, and international travel. With no foreign currency fees and free worldwide cash withdrawals, it offers excellent value for expats and frequent travelers, provided the repayment terms are used wisely.

Up to 3 partner cards are free with the Barclays Visa Card (the free standard card) and can be issued to family members, for example. They are linked to the main card account.

This card does not offer insurance benefits.

Barclays Visa Gold

This mid-tier option comes with an annual fee of €59 and includes a basic travel insurance package. Cash withdrawals within the Eurozone are free; however, transactions in foreign currencies incur a 1.99% fee for withdrawals and card payments. The Barclays Visa Gold Card is suitable for users who travel regularly within Europe and want added insurance protection, without moving into premium pricing territory.

The Barclays Visa Gold card also offers up to three free additional cards, which cost €29 per year.

Barclays Platinum Double (Visa + Mastercard)

The Platinum Double with an annual fee of €99 includes both a Visa and a Mastercard, offering maximum global acceptance. It’s a premium card with no foreign transaction fees, worldwide free ATM withdrawals, a comprehensive insurance bundle — including travel health insurance, trip cancellation, and rental car coverage — and additional benefits. This card is well-suited for expats, business travelers, and families seeking security, convenience, and premium services when traveling abroad.

Up to 3 additional Platinum Doubles remain free of charge.

Pros and Cons of the Barclays Credit Cards

Before choosing a Barclays credit card, it’s worth weighing the key advantages and potential drawbacks — especially when it comes to fees, repayment structure, and travel perks.

Advantages

• No foreign currency fees: Visa and Platinum Double) – ideal for international payments
• Worldwide free ATM withdrawals: all cards; Gold only free in the euro area
• Flexible repayment structure: full payment, partial payment, and individual installment plans via “Mein Zahlplan”
• Interest-free payment period up to 59 days: for full payments of card purchases and ATM withdrawals
• No fixed checking account required: cards can be linked to any German bank account
• Travel insurance included – from basic (Gold) to comprehensive (Platinum Double)
• 5% travel discount: available with all cards, via the Reiseservice Plus booking portal
• Mobile-friendly: supports Google Pay, Apple Pay, and contactless payments
• Generous acceptance: Visa network and with the Platinum Double, also the Mastercard network for global use
• Digital application: fast onboarding with video identification
• Comfortable card management: via online banking or mobile app

Disadvantages

• High interest rates: 22.11% APR on partial payments
• €2 monthly fee: for full automatic repayment (for newer contracts)
• Gold card includes foreign currency fees: 1.99% outside the euro area
• No real cashback or points program: limited bonus features outside of travel

Fees, Interest & Repayment Options

Understanding the fees, interest rates, and repayment structure of Barclays credit cards is essential, especially if you plan to use the card regularly or carry a balance.

Annual Fees and Transaction Costs

• Barclays Visa: €0 annual fee, no foreign transaction fees.
• Barclays Visa Gold: €59 annual fee, 1.99% foreign currency fee outside the Eurozone.
• Barclays Platinum Double: €99 annual fee, no foreign currency fees.

All 3 cards allow you to withdraw cash worldwide free of charge, though foreign currency fees of 1.99% apply to the Gold card outside the Eurozone. Please note that a minimum withdrawal amount of €50 (or equivalent) typically applies at ATMs.

Interest on Balances and Installments

All Barclays credit cards charge an effective APR of 22.11% for balances carried beyond the interest-free payment period of 59 days (i.e., 2 full billing cycles). This rate applies to both purchases and cash withdrawals, unless a promotional or installment rate is in effect (see below).

Cash withdrawals always incur interest from the day of the transaction — no interest-free grace period applies.

Repayment Options

Barclays offers multiple repayment methods, all manageable via online banking or the mobile app:

1. Automatic SEPA Direct Debit

• Default setting: 3% minimum repayment (or €30, whichever is higher) per month. You pay interest after the end of the grace period, unless the balance is paid in full by then.
• Optional 100% repayment: You can switch to full repayment via SEPA direct debit. This avoids interest charges but may trigger a monthly €2 usage fee for newer accounts. Check your account settings or agreement details.

2. Manual Transfer

You can transfer any amount manually to your Barclays credit card account. This gives full control and avoids the €2 fee for full repayment via direct debit. Manual payments must arrive before the due date to preserve the interest-free period.

3. One-Time Direct Debit via App

Barclays also allows you to initiate a one-time payment from your registered bank account via the mobile app.

4. “Mein Zahlplan” – Installment Plan for Individual Purchases

Barclays additionally offers a special feature called “Mein Zahlplan”, available for all 3 cards. This allows you to split individual purchases (typically from €95) into fixed monthly installments.

• You choose the term and monthly amount directly in the app.
• Interest rates are often lower than the standard APR and may be as low as 0% during promotional periods.

This plan is independent of your general card balance and does not affect your standard repayments. Repayment of the Zahlplan runs in parallel to your monthly minimum or full payment settings.

Insurance and Additional Benefits

All Barclays credit cards come with optional travel perks, but the scope of included insurance and added services varies significantly between the Visa, Gold, and Platinum Double cards.

Comparison of Insurance

While the Visa Classic card does not include insurance coverage, the Gold and Platinum options offer various travel-related and non-travel benefits provided by Société Générale Insurance.

In most cases, travel insurance coverage applies only when at least 50% of the trip or relevant purchase has been paid with the respective card.

Coverage typically includes the cardholder plus up to 6 accompanying persons. For the Gold card, this benefit is extended to immediate family members only. With the Platinum Double, coverage also includes friends or non-family travel companions.

The following table provides an overview of the included insurance benefits, categorized by type and card tier:

Additional Benefits

In addition to their insurance coverage, Barclays credit cards offer a range of useful travel-related services. These added features vary by card and enhance the overall value for frequent travelers:

• 5% travel discount via Barclays Reiseservice Plus (all cards)
• Emergency cash & card replacement in case of loss abroad
• Document replacement service (Gold & Platinum Double)
• Assistance Service for emergencies while traveling (Platinum Double only)
• Priority Pass access to 1,300+ airport lounges (Platinum Double); lounge visits cost €32 per entry

Barclays Bank does not offer a traditional reward program – the focus is on services, not points.

Application & Eligibility

You can complete the application in minutes thanks to a digital step-by-step guide on the Barclays website, which walks you through each stage, from personal details to video identification.

To apply for a Barclays credit card in Germany, applicants must meet several eligibility criteria. While Barclays is considered expat-friendly, some requirements are non-negotiable:

• German residency: A registered address in Germany is mandatory.
• Valid passport or ID card: Identification is done via VideoIdent using a passport or national ID.
• Valid residence permit: Non-EU citizens must present a valid German residence permit, typically valid for at least six months, and including a German work permit.
• Bank account: You do not have to open a new bank account, but can use any German checking account (Girokonto) for repayments.
• Regular income: A stable monthly income is required, either from employment or self-employment. Employees should typically have at least one month of experience at their current job. Freelancers must show a longer income history (e.g., tax returns or financial statements).
• Credit check (Schufa): A positive or neutral Schufa record is necessary.
• German mobile number: Needed for verification and account setup.
• Minimum age: 18 years old.

Barclays does not require you to switch bank accounts, and the entire application process can be completed online. This makes it a strong choice for expats, provided you can meet the income and residency requirements.

The Barclays Bank uses a secure VideoIdent process to verify your identity. You’ll need a valid passport or national ID, as well as a stable internet connection, to complete the video call. Before starting your application, ensure that your contact details — particularly your mobile number and email address — are up to date. These are essential for verification, digital contract signing, and ongoing account management.

Alternatives to Barclays Credit Cards

Choosing the best credit card depends on your priorities — whether it’s insurance coverage, global usability, or zero foreign fees. Depending on your needs and budget, you can choose between free credit cards (such as the TF Bank Mastercard Gold or Hanseatic Bank GenialCard), mid-tier options (e.g., Hanseatic Bank GoldCard), and premium cards, such as American Express Gold or Platinum.

Debit cards like N26 You or Metal include travel insurance, while the Trade Republic Visa Debit Card stands out for fee-free global payments, but without insurance coverage.

• TF Bank Mastercard Gold
• Hanseatic Bank GenialCard
• Hanseatic Bank GoldCard
• American Express Gold & Platinum
• Trade Republic Visa Debit Card
• N26 Go & Metal Mastercard Debit Cards

The Visa is a solid free option with no foreign fees and full mobile integration. The Gold card provides valuable travel insurance and additional benefits. In contrast, the Platinum Double card stands out for its comprehensive coverage, dual-network acceptance (Visa and Mastercard), and premium features, including access to airport lounges.

In our experience, Barclays provides a seamless user experience from application to card management. The mobile app is intuitive, repayments are easy to adjust, and support is responsive – especially in urgent cases such as travel disruptions or lost cards abroad. For expats seeking flexibility, travel perks, and modern banking tools, Barclays remains a trustworthy and competitive choice in the German credit card market.

Conclusion

Barclays credit cards offer a well-balanced package for expats in Germany — from a free entry-level option to a premium travel card with extensive insurance. With flexible repayment options, no account requirements, and strong travel features, they offer a reliable and versatile solution for everyday spending and international use.

If you’re an expat looking for flexibility, insurance benefits, and no need to switch bank accounts, Barclays cards are a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions — FAQ

When do Barclays credit cards make sense for expats in Germany?

Barclays credit cards are a strong fit for expats who need flexible payment options, global usability, and an easy online application process. Barclays is an expat-friendly credit card company in Germany and does not require a current account with the bank. The application is fully digital, and the cards support SEPA repayments from any German checking account. This makes them ideal for newcomers, frequent travelers, and digital nomads looking for a practical and internationally accepted credit card.

With no annual fee, no foreign transaction charges, and free global ATM access, the Barclays Visa can help you save money on everyday spending and travel. The cards are well-suited for use in a foreign country, including emergency support abroad.

Does Barclays offer prepaid credit cards in Germany?

No, Barclays does not currently offer a prepaid credit card in Germany. All available options — the Barclays Visa, Visa Gold, and Platinum Double — are traditional revolving credit cards that require a Schufa credit check and proof of income.

If you’re looking for prepaid cards in Germany — for example, as a newcomer or student without an established credit history — consider alternatives such as the N26 Virtual Prepaid Mastercard, the Commerzbank Prepaid Mastercard, or the PayCenter SupremaCard Mastercard. These cards typically do not require a German bank account or a credit check, making them a great entry-level solution. For more options, you can refer to our dedicated guide on prepaid credit cards in Germany.

Do Barclays credit cards come with a standard credit line?

No, Barclays does not offer a fixed standard credit line. The credit limit is set individually based on your income, creditworthiness, and Schufa score. Initial credit limits typically range from €500 to €3,000; however, higher limits may be available over time with responsible use. Barclays does not publicly disclose a maximum limit; in some cases, long-standing customers with strong credit profiles may be offered limits in the five-digit range.

Can I use a Barclays credit card for business expenses?

No, the standard Barclays credit cards — Visa, Visa Gold, and Platinum Double — are intended for private use only. Business use is not permitted under the terms and conditions. If used for commercial purposes, Barclays reserves the right to terminate the contract, and any insurance coverage may be voided.

If you need a card for business needs, consider applying for a separate Barclays Business Credit Card, designed specifically for freelancers, business owners, and corporate spending.

Can I also apply for my credit card in the Barclays app?

Credit card applications can only be made on the Barclays website or via partner portals. It is not possible to apply in the mobile app.