Are you looking for a modern and flexible way to manage your money worldwide and make transactions with ease? The Revolut credit card could be the perfect debit card solution for you.
Revolut Standard
- Promotion: 10 Euros welcome bonus
- Free transfers in 36 currencies
- Free top-ups with credit cards
- Free VISA debit card
- No foreign currency fees
- Quick account opening without a SCHUFA credit check
- Earn 1 RevPoint for every 10 Euros
With its wide range of features and benefits – from international payments to investments this neobank has become a popular choice for travelers, online shoppers and digital finance enthusiasts. In this guide, we’ll explain everything you need to know about the Revolut credit card.
Inhaltsverzeichnis
- What is Revolut Bank?
- How do you apply for a Revolut credit card?
- What are the fees for the Revolut credit card?
- What are the advantages of the Revolut credit card?
- What are the disadvantages of the Revolut credit card?
- Who is the Revolut credit card for?
- What do customers say about Revolut?
- What are the alternatives to the Revolut credit card?
- Our conclusion on the Revolut credit card
What is Revolut Bank?
Revolut is a neobank that has steadily grown in popularity since its founding in 2015. While it initially targeted customers across Europe, the company has now expanded to over 150 regions worldwide. Beyond the standard credit card, Revolut also offers the Revolut Ultra credit card, the Revolut current account and a Revolut business account.
The bank’s mission is to create a fair and seamless platform for global money management. A goal that resonates strongly with many Germans, since international transactions at traditional German banks are still quite expensive.
How far does Revolut reach?
From loans and investments to savings, Revolut’s innovative features and competitive pricing make it one of the strongest neobanks in Europe. According to the company, more than 40 million personal customers already use Revolut.
In addition, over half a million business clients benefit from its wide range of services, with the credit card being by far the most popular product. The UK-based company is one of the highest-valued and best-known fintechs in Europe and is planning an initial public offering soon.
How safe is Revolut Bank?
So what about the safety of your money at Revolut? You don’t need to worry, Revolut isn’t just any fintech but a fully licensed bank you can rely on.
Customer funds are protected by Lithuania’s state deposit and investment insurance scheme, covering up to €100,000 per account in the unlikely event of insolvency.
💡 Note: Contrary to popular belief, there is no Europe-wide deposit insurance. Instead, each country operates its own scheme under harmonized EU rules, which guarantees coverage of up to 100,000 euros per depositor in every EU state. However, the actual security also depends on the financial stability of the respective country providing the guarantee.
How do you apply for a Revolut credit card?
Applying for a Revolut credit card is simple, but you’ll need to open a Revolut account first. Here’s how it works:
- Download the Revolut app: Get it from the App Store or Google Play.
- Register: Follow the instructions and enter your personal details (name, address, date of birth, email).
- Verify your identity: Upload a valid ID card or passport.
- Choose your account type: Pick the account that fits your needs.
- Fund your account: Deposit money via transfer from your bank account or with a credit card.
- Order your card: Go to the “Cards” section, tap “Add new,” select “Physical card,” and pick your card type.
- Set your PIN: Create a personal PIN code in the app.
- Enter your delivery address: Confirm the address and wait for your card to arrive.
Revolut Standard
- Promotion: 10 Euros welcome bonus
- Free transfers in 36 currencies
- Free top-ups with credit cards
- Free VISA debit card
- No foreign currency fees
- Quick account opening without a SCHUFA credit check
- Earn 1 RevPoint for every 10 Euros
What are the fees for the Revolut credit card?
Before diving into the many benefits of Revolut, it’s important to understand the bank’s subscription model. The plan you choose determines how much you can use the card and what fees apply.
👉 Here are the available options:
- Revolut Standard Card: free (delivery fee only)
- Revolut Plus Card: 3.99 euros per month
- Revolut Premium Card: 7.99 euros per month
- Revolut Metal Card: 13.99 euros per month
- Revolut Ultra Card: 60 euros per month (or 600 euros per year)
The first Standard card only incurs a delivery charge. Additional cards under the free plan come with extra fees.
Plus members receive two free cards with standard delivery. Premium, Metal and Ultra plans also include two free cards with free express shipping and tracking.
Each subscription has certain limits on free withdrawals and currency exchanges. Once you exceed those limits, fees apply:
| 💳 Revolut Plan | 💶 Free Currency Exchange | 🏧 Free ATM Withdrawals |
|---|---|---|
| Standard | 1,000 euros, then 1% | 200 euros or 5 withdrawals, then 2% |
| Plus | 1,000 euros, then 0.5% | 200 euros then 2% |
| Premium | Unlimited | 400 euros then 2% |
| Metal | Unlimited | 800 euros then 2% |
| Ultra | Unlimited | 2,000 euros, then 2% |
Revolut applies its own exchange rate when converting currencies. Additional fees only apply after you exceed your monthly limits, except on weekends, when Revolut charges a 1% markup on all currency exchanges, regardless of your plan.
What are the advantages of the Revolut credit card?
The Revolut credit card is a debit card (transactions are deducted directly from your account balance) that has become very popular thanks to its competitive conditions.
It is important to note: The debit card is only issued in combination with a Revolut current account, which is offered in five different subscription plans. Depending on the subscription plan, the benefits included with the card also vary.
All key benefits of the Revolut Card at a Glance:
- 💳 No annual fee – permanently
- 🎁 Earn RevPoints with every payment
- 🌍 No foreign transaction fees
- ✅ Worldwide acceptance
- 💱 Pay in multiple currencies
- 🪪 Use multiple Revolut cards
- 🔒 Enhanced security
- 📱 Mobile app management
- 🏧 Free ATM withdrawals
- 💸 Cashback options
- 🎨 Custom card design
No Annual Fee – Permanently
One of the key advantages of the Revolut Mastercard lies in its transparent fee structure. The Standard card comes with no annual fee, not just for the first year, but for all the upcoming years as well.
If you choose the Standard plan, you get both a free current account and a free debit card. Even with paid subscription plans, there are no additional fees for the card itself.
💡Note: While the virtual card is issued automatically with the account, the physical card must be requested via the Revolut app. A one-time delivery fee of €5.99 applies.
No Foreign Transaction Fees
One of the most practical features of the Revolut card is that foreign currency payments come with no extra fees. This means all purchases made in currencies other than the euro are completely free of charge.
Compared to traditional bank debit cards which often apply foreign transaction fees, this is a major advantage. For frequent travelers or anyone who regularly makes purchases in foreign currencies, Revolut offers real savings, making it an excellent travel card option.
Accepted Worldwide
Revolut also leads when it comes to flexibility. Your card is accepted in over 150 currencies and works on both the Visa and Mastercard networks. Whether you’re at home or abroad, you’re well covered.
Pay in Multiple Currencies
With Revolut, you can easily open up to 36 different currency accounts, all for free and make payments in the corresponding currencies worldwide.
Although international payments are also possible without holding a specific currency balance, exchanging funds in advance can help you avoid potential fees like weekend surcharges.
Use Multiple Revolut Cards
You can have multiple cards active at the same time: up to six physical cards, twenty virtual cards and one disposable virtual card. This gives you flexibility and additional security for different types of spending.
Enhanced Security
Whether you’re using physical, virtual or disposable cards, Revolut gives you tools to shop more securely online and reduce the risk of card fraud.
In addition, the card supports mobile wallets like Google Pay, Apple Pay, and Garmin Pay, so you can leave the physical card at home and pay directly with your phone or smartwatch.
App-Based Card Management
Managing your cards is quick and easy directly through the Revolut app. You can freeze and unfreeze cards, set spending limits, block specific transactions and even enable a gambling block to automatically reject transactions from online casinos or betting sites.
Free ATM Withdrawals
Withdraw cash for free both in your home country and abroad – your monthly limit depends on your Revolut plan. Even after exceeding the free limit, the fees remain low: just 2 percent of the withdrawn amount, with a minimum charge of 1 euro – lower than what most traditional banks charge.
With the Standard plan, you get five free withdrawals per month or up to 200 euros total. The Ultra plan increases this limit to 2,000 euros per month. After the free quota, the 2 percent fee applies.
Earn RevPoints with Every Payment
All Revolut debit cards can be linked to the optional RevPoints rewards program (activation required). You earn points for every card transaction, depending on your plan:
| 💳 Plan | ✅ RevPoints Earned |
|---|---|
| Standard (Free) | 1 point per 10 euros spent |
| Plus (2.99 euros/month) | 1 point per 10 euros spent |
| Premium (7.99 euros/month) | 1 point per 4 euros spent |
| Metal (13.99 euros/month) | 1 point per 2 euros spent |
| Ultra (50 euros/month) | 1 point per 1 euro spent |
You can also earn extra points through challenges or by shopping with selected partners. Points can be redeemed for various perks, including discounts.
But one of the most attractive features is the ability to transfer RevPoints to frequent flyer programs, letting you book business or even first-class flights at significantly reduced rates.
Custom Card Design
A unique feature that sets Revolut apart from many competitors: you can customize your card design to suit your style. This option is available exclusively with paid subscription plans.
What are the disadvantages of the Revolut credit card?
Despite its strengths, there are some drawbacks you should be aware of.
All disadvantages of the Revolut Card at a Glance
- 💳 It’s a debit card with no credit line
- 💰 Some features require a paid subscription
- 📉 No official interbank exchange rate
It’s a debit card, not a true credit card
It’s important to understand that the Revolut card is a debit card, not a traditional credit card. This means there is no credit line, every transaction is deducted immediately from your Revolut account balance.
Not a truly free card
Another downside compared to some competitors is that Revolut doesn’t offer a fully free card. At the very least, a one-time delivery fee applies, depending on the subscription plan you choose.
The lower your plan level, the more limited the card and account features. So if you opt for the free Standard plan, certain functions and benefits may not be available.
Revolut does not use the official interbank exchange rate
One more drawback: Revolut does not use the official mid-market exchange rate for currency conversions. Instead, it applies a proprietary exchange rate, which is not disclosed in advance.
This can lead to reduced cost transparency, especially when making international payments. Revolut generally doesn’t offer clear upfront information about exchange fees and many users only notice the charges too late. Be sure to fully understand Revolut’s fees and terms before using the card abroad.
Exchange limits based on your plan
Revolut also places limits on fee-free currency exchange, which vary depending on your subscription. Once you exceed your monthly allowance, exchange fees apply – this includes both fiat currencies and precious metals.
Higher fees on weekends
Revolut charges additional fees for currency exchanges and foreign transactions on weekends. For those taking short weekend trips, these charges can add up quickly, potentially leading to unexpected costs. So it’s best to plan ahead and exchange currencies during the week when possible.
Who is the Revolut credit card for?
The Revolut debit card is particularly well-suited for individuals who value flexibility, international payments and low fees. Thanks to the RevPoints rewards program, it can also be an attractive option for those looking to collect airline miles with their card spending.
If you frequently travel abroad or shop from international online stores and appreciate a card packed with smart features, Revolut could be just the right choice for you. Due to the simple application process, this card is also perfectly suited as a credit card for asylum applicants!
However, there are also scenarios where a traditional credit card from another provider might be a better fit.
For example, if you regularly need a high credit limit or want to benefit from perks like travel insurance and established bonus programs, which many classic credit cards offer. That said, Revolut’s Premium and higher-tier plans now include similar features.
Still, if you’re looking for greater financial flexibility through a true credit, it’s worth considering alternatives to the Revolut debit card.
What do customers say about Revolut?
Even major German banks often receive poor ratings on platforms like Trustpilot, so how does Revolut compare? The reisetopia finance experts tested the card in various scenarios (money transfers, payments, RevPoints) and had a positive experience.
With over 40 million users, Revolut wouldn’t be so successful if the majority of customers weren’t satisfied. Trustpilot reviews highlight helpful support, numerous features and an intuitive app. Many users also praise Revolut’s swift response to potential fraud cases.
The main criticism: accounts can be frozen too quickly. Still, based on over 160,000 reviews, Revolut has earned an overall “Good” rating.
How do the reisetopia finance experts test financial products like the Revolut credit card?
Our 40+ team members test credit cards for you throughout the year, drawing on years of experience in the financial sector. We review key factors such as fees, features, customer service and the application process.
We then compile our findings into guides to help you make the best financial decisions. All our product comparisons follow fixed, transparent criteria so you can be sure you’re making an informed choice.
In order to find the best financial products for you, we have been conducting independent and comprehensive comparisons for years. To do this, we test offers according to fixed criteria such as fees, services, and customer service, and compare the results transparently. This way, you can be sure to make a well-informed decision.
Have our reisetopia financial tips helped you? Then please rate us on Trustpilot!
What are the alternatives to the Revolut credit card?
If you travel frequently and value perks like insurance, reward points for bookings or lounge access, a travel credit card may be a better option. Our top recommendations include:
- N26 Mastercard
- Trade Republic credit card
- DKB Visa Card
N26 Mastercard
The N26 Mastercard is a debit card issued by the German neobank N26. This card combines the benefits of a travel credit card with an innovative current account.
Cardholders benefit from free ATM withdrawals within Germany and across Europe, no foreign transaction fees and a modern banking app that operates in real time.
N26 MasterCard
- Permanently without annual fee
- Free payments worldwide
- Free cash withdrawals in the Euro-zone
- Free bank account included
Trade Republic credit card
The Trade Republic credit card also performed well in our comparison and ranks among the top 3 free credit cards in Germany. The card stands out thanks to its cashback on your spending. It is completely free of charge and international payments can be made without any fees.
Trade Republic Card
- Free credit card – permanently without annual fee
- Free payments worldwide
- Free cash withdrawals worldwide starting at 100 Euro
- 1 percent saveback – on card spending
DKB Visa Card
The DKB Visa Card offers a strong combination of benefits that make it an attractive choice for a wide range of users. With a free current account for active users, and the ability to withdraw and pay worldwide without fees, this debit card provides flexible financial options both for travel and everyday use.
DKB Credit Card
- Free cash withdrawals worldwide
- Free payments worldwide
- Free checking account with active use
- Emergency package abroad
- Resident in Austria? Then apply here
Premium credit cards
If the features of a free credit card aren’t sufficient for your needs, a premium credit card may be a better fit. While these cards typically come with a higher annual fee, they often include valuable insurance benefits. In particular, travel insurance can be quite expensive when purchased separately.
A good example of a credit card with comprehensive insurance coverage is the range of American Express® cards. Not only are they well-suited for booking travel, but they also offer additional benefits through the valuable Membership Rewards® program.
American Express Platinum Card
- 200 Euro travel credit per year for flights, hotels and more
- 200 Euro SIXT Ride credit per year
- Up to 200 Euro discount & Priority benefits for Condor flight bookings
- Exclusive metal credit card
- Collect valuable points with each turnover
- Free platinum partner card with all benefits included
- Best insurance package in Germany
- Free lounge access with a guest at 1.550 lounges worldwide
- Upgrades, breakfast and more status benefits in hotels
Before choosing a card, compare the benefits, fees and terms carefully to ensure it fits your lifestyle.
Our conclusion on the Revolut credit card
The Revolut credit card comes with a wide range of advantages, from multi-currency accounts and free withdrawals up to certain limits to earning points on every payment and flexible account options.
While there are some downsides, such as weekend fees and the lack of a credit line, Revolut remains an attractive option for anyone looking for a modern and flexible neobank to manage their international finances.
Revolut Standard
- Promotion: 10 Euros welcome bonus
- Free transfers in 36 currencies
- Free top-ups with credit cards
- Free VISA debit card
- No foreign currency fees
- Quick account opening without a SCHUFA credit check
- Earn 1 RevPoint for every 10 Euros
