A credit card that you don’t have to pay for and that helps protect our forests at the same time? That’s what the awa7® Credit Card promises. For several years, it has been invigorating the German financial sector and providing promising services.
awa7 Visa Credit Card
- 0 Euro annual fee
- Pay worldwide without fees*
- Withdraw cash abroad without fees**
- Repayment in small, flexible rates
- Up to 2,000 Euro instant payout
- Recommended by Stiftung Warentest (06/2025)
But does the awa7 Credit Card deliver what it promises? And can it compete with its alternatives? The reisetopia financial experts have taken a close look at all the details of the awa7 Credit Card and reveal in this guide whether it is worth it or not!
Inhaltsverzeichnis
- What are the advantages of the awa7 Credit Card?
- What are the disadvantages of the awa7 Credit Card?
- Who is the awa7 Credit Card suitable for?
- How can you apply for the awa7 Credit Card?
- What are the experiences with the awa7 Credit Card?
- What alternatives are there to the awa7 Credit Card?
- Who is behind the awa7 Credit Card?
- Our conclusion on the awa7 Credit Card
Stiftung Warentest also recommends the awa7 Credit Card in its latest credit card test (issue 03/2025). It is one of the top 5 favorites among 34 cards tested. The test was carried out with a standard user and a traveler – the awa7 Credit Card remained free of charge for both of them.
What are the advantages of the awa7 Credit Card?
The awa7 Credit Card is a sought-after product from Hanseatic Bank. We took a closer look at the features of this free credit card for you.
The advantages of the awa7 Credit Card at a glance:
✅ No annual fee
✅ Fee-free payments worldwide
✅ Fee-free cash withdrawals abroad
✅ High flexibility
✅ High acceptance
✅ Cashback
✅ Discounts
✅ Optional insurance
✅ Secure banking app
No annual fee
The most obvious advantage of the awa7 Visa Card is clear – it is a credit card with no annual fee. This means that the awa7 Visa Credit Card continues to be free of charge even after the first year. So you don’t have to worry about hidden costs!
In addition, many credit cards often stipulate certain conditions for free use. This is not the case with awa7, as there is no minimum spending requirement or similar conditions to guarantee the annual fee of 0 euros.
Fee-free payments worldwide
The Hanseatic Bank credit card is also extremely attractive for use abroad. Many credit card models without an annual fee compensate for the lack of a basic fee by charging high additional costs for payments in foreign currencies or other fees.
With the awa7 Credit Card, however, you benefit from fee-free payments worldwide*, which is why the credit card is particularly suitable for travel.
Fee-free cash withdrawals abroad
With this credit card, you don’t have to worry about handling cash abroad either, as the awa7 Credit Card allows you to withdraw cash abroad free of charge**.
Please note that a minimum withdrawal amount of 50 euros applies.
High flexibility
The awa7 presents itself as a flexible credit card, as credit card debts can be repaid in full or in small installments.
As a credit card with installment payments, the awa7 Credit Card allows you to gradually pay off your credit card debt over a certain period of time, rather than paying off the entire amount at the end of the billing period, as is usually the case. In addition, the installment amount can be customized individually via the app. This means you can decide for yourself how to use the card in the way that best suits your needs.
This feature provides additional financial flexibility and liquidity, as you can adjust your spending to your individual financial needs.
It should be noted that the installment payment feature is free of charge for the first three months. From the fourth month onwards, however, an effective annual interest rate of 19.29 percent applies.
👉 Representative example according to § 17 PAngV:
Net loan amount: €1,500.00
Interest rate (variable): 17.77%
Effective annual interest rate: 19.29%
Term: 12 months
Number of installments: 12
Monthly installment amount: 11 times €138.00 and final installment €129.60
Total amount: €1,647.60
It is also important to know that, by default, all cardholders have a repayment rate of 3 percent of the total amount set, or at least 20 euros. However, you have the option to adjust this repayment rate monthly via the app or online banking, and you can choose any rate between 3 and 100 percent.
You should make a conscious decision about which repayment option is most worthwhile for you. The only thing to keep in mind is that interest will be charged for flexible repayment.
In addition, you have the option of having up to 2,000 euros transferred directly to your current account. This feature is available immediately after successful application and adds even more flexibility to the credit card.
High acceptance
Another major advantage of this credit card model is its high acceptance rate. Since it is a Visa credit card, it is accepted worldwide. Alongside Mastercard, Visa is one of the largest credit card providers. In most cases, you therefore don’t need to worry about whether your card will be accepted as a means of payment.
Another practical aspect: since this is a credit card without a current account, you don’t need to switch banks. This saves time and is particularly attractive if you are already fully satisfied with your existing current account.
Cashback
Although the awa7 Credit Card is not a classic cashback card, it does grant you cashback of up to seven percent for travel bookings made through Hanseatic Bank’s “Reisewelt.” This means that after returning from a trip booked via Hanseatic Reisewelt, you can get up to seven percent of the amount reimbursed to your credit card account.
Discounts
As an awa7 customer, you also receive several discounts with selected partners. For example, you can benefit from a five percent discount on travel bookings.
However, this offer only applies to bookings made via Urlaubsplus, which makes it only somewhat attractive.
The benefits portal of the issuer, Hanseatic Bank, is also freely available, as it regularly offers discounts and vouchers.
Optional insurance
The awa7 Credit Card also provides a compact insurance package that can be added at any time. The following types of insurance can therefore be used.
🏥 SicherReise Basic: International travel health insurance (+ €1.70 per month)
✈️ SicherReise Komfort: International travel health insurance, flight and baggage delay insurance, travel luggage and wallet insurance, trip cancellation and interruption insurance (domestic and international) (+ €5 per month)
💳 SicherKreditkarte: Installment coverage in the event of unemployment, incapacity for work, or death (0.47% of the outstanding amount)
👜 SicherTasche: Coverage up to €250 in case of bag loss (+ €4.50 per month)
👛 SicherPortemonnaie: Cash replacement up to €300 and replacement of keys/ID papers up to €150 in case of loss or theft (+ €2.50 per month)
What makes this attractive is that you can add the relevant insurance options as needed. This way, you don’t have to pay for services you don’t actually require.
Secure and modern banking app
In addition, the awa7 Visa Card shines with technological innovation. A secure banking app for Android and iOS is available, where all card transactions are displayed immediately.
Furthermore, cardholders receive instant push notifications for any transactions. You can block the card at any time via the app and set the card limit. In case of loss, you can also contact the emergency hotline, which is available 24/7.
awa7 Customer Service:
📧 [email protected]
☎️ 0201 815 810 07 (weekdays 9 am–2 pm, excluding public holidays)
Thanks to the international EMV chip technology integrated into the card, you can also make contactless payments with the awa7 Credit Card without any problems.
In addition, it can easily be linked with payment services such as Google Pay or Apple Pay.
What are the disadvantages of the awa7 Credit Card?
Despite the numerous advantages mentioned, as with any credit card, there are of course some disadvantages as well. For the awa7 Credit Card, most disadvantages relate to the fee structure.
The disadvantages of the awa7 Credit Card at a glance:
⚠️ High interest charges with low repayment rates
⚠️ Fees for cash withdrawals within Germany
⚠️ High interest rates on payments for cryptocurrency and gambling
High interest charges with low repayment rates
With the awa7 Visa Credit Card, you have the option to repay your credit balance in small installments. However, you should make sure to choose a repayment option that suits you. In the first three months, you can repay your credit balance interest-free. From the fourth month onward, however, high interest rates apply.
Fees for cash withdrawals within Germany
While cash withdrawals abroad are free of charge with the awa7 Credit Card, withdrawals within Germany incur a fee of 3.95 euros per withdrawal.
For those who frequently rely on cash, however, there is a practical way to withdraw money free of charge. With Visa’s cash service, cardholders can withdraw cash free of charge at the checkout of all participating retailers.
High interest rates for cryptocurrency and gambling payments
A more recent disadvantage you should be aware of: for transactions from transfers and card payments at casinos, lottery shops, or betting offices, interest of 3 percent or at least 3.95 euros is charged starting from the booking date. These interest charges also apply to trading in securities and cryptocurrencies, for example through a broker. For this area of use, the credit card is therefore not recommended.
All interest rates and fees of the awa7 Credit Card at a glance:
| ✅ Service | 💰 Fee |
|---|---|
| Effective annual interest rate | 19.29% |
| Cash withdrawals within Germany | €3.95 |
| Transfer to current account | €3.95 |
| Transaction fee for card use in casinos, lottery companies, and betting offices | 3%, min. €3.95 |
| Transaction fee for card use on securities trading platforms, for money transfers, and for foreign exchange trading | 3%, min. €3.95 |
In the event of loss, you would have to pay a fee of 9 euros for a replacement card. In addition, unfortunately, the awa7 Credit Card does not include a partner card.
Who is the awa7 Credit Card suitable for?
Based on the advantages and disadvantages outlined, we can say that the awa7 Credit Card is generally recommendable – particularly for those looking for a straightforward credit card and who want to integrate ecological measures into their financial behavior. Especially as a travel credit card, this model is a great option thanks to the possibility of making worldwide payments free of charge.
However, the credit card is not necessarily suitable for all consumers. Since the awa7 Visa Card is issued without a current account, this could be a decisive factor for some.
In addition, the credit card may not be accessible to everyone, as applying for it requires a SCHUFA credit check. This affects, for example, low-income earners, students, and of course people with a negative SCHUFA record. In such cases, it is more advisable to look for alternative credit cards without a SCHUFA check.
How can you apply for the awa7 Credit Card?
Applying for the awa7 Credit Card is another plus, as the process is generally very quick.
Requirements for applying for the awa7 Credit Card:
👤 Minimum age of 18 years
💵 Regular income
⚠️ No negative SCHUFA entries
🏠 Residence in Germany
📞 German mobile phone number
🏦 Possession of a current account within the SEPA area
If these requirements are met, you can apply for the awa7 Credit Card without any problems. You have two different options: either use the PostIdent procedure or complete the application easily online via paperless video identification. The latter speeds up the process, so you can access your new card within a very short time.
Steps required for the credit card application:
- Application form: Provide personal and financial details
- Identification: Verify identity with an official ID document (valid ID card or passport)
- Receive card: Arrival usually within about 7–10 business days by mail, PIN number 1–2 days later
awa7 Visa Credit Card
- 0 Euro annual fee
- Pay worldwide without fees*
- Withdraw cash abroad without fees**
- Repayment in small, flexible rates
- Up to 2,000 Euro instant payout
- Recommended by Stiftung Warentest (06/2025)
What are the experiences with the awa7 Credit Card?
The experiences with the awa7 Visa Credit Card are rated positively by many users, particularly due to its free usage abroad.
⭐️ On Trustpilot, the card receives a fairly good rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Users praise the lack of an annual fee, the simple application process, and the transparent fee structure.
Some users, however, criticize the preset low repayment rate of 3 percent, which can lead to high interest charges if not adjusted. For this reason, we recommend adjusting the repayment rate in the app or online banking to avoid unnecessary interest costs.
In summary, the awa7 Visa Credit Card offers many advantages, especially for travel enthusiasts and environmentally conscious users. However, it is important to keep an eye on the repayment terms and adjust them if necessary to avoid unnecessary interest charges.
What alternatives are there to the awa7 Credit Card?
Although the awa7 Credit Card offers promising features and many users report positive experiences, you should always take a look at alternatives as well. Not all credit card models are suitable for every purpose, and the choice should be based on your individual financial habits. If the awa7 Visa Card does not convince you, fortunately, there are plenty of other options.
Among free credit cards, there are a wide variety of models from different banks. Our top picks among free credit cards are above all the following three cards.
Hanseatic Bank GenialCard
The Hanseatic Bank GenialCard is an excellent choice for anyone who values financial freedom and fair conditions. With 0 euro annual fee, worldwide free payments, and free cash withdrawals abroad, it clearly stands out from many other credit cards.
Thanks to its ease of use and flexible repayment options, it is a reliable companion not only when traveling but also in everyday life. For us, the Hanseatic Bank GenialCard is the number one recommendation for those who appreciate comfort and transparency.
Hanseatic Bank GenialCard
- 0 euro annual fee
- Free payments worldwide*
- Free cash withdrawals worldwide**
- Repayment in small and flexible installments
TF Bank Mastercard Gold
Among free Mastercards, the TF Bank’s Gold credit card is also one of our top recommendations. This free credit card is a reliable travel companion, as no foreign currency fees are charged, making worldwide payments free of charge.
The included travel insurance policies round off the package and make the TF Bank Mastercard Gold a highly recommended travel credit card. For those who need additional liquidity, the TF Bank Credit Card is also an attractive option, as the TF Bank Mastercard Gold offers an interest-free payment period – meaning cardholders receive an interest-free loan for that time.
TF Bank Mastercard Gold
- Free credit card
- Payments worldwide without any fees
- Travel cancellation insurance included
- Foreign health insurance included
Barclays Visa
The Barclays Visa also stands out as a promising choice among free credit cards. Worldwide, it offers fee-free cash withdrawals and payments, making it an indispensable travel companion. In addition, it provides an interest-free credit period of up to two months, offering financial flexibility at no extra cost. With these advantages, the Barclays Visa is the perfect choice for anyone who values reliability and cost efficiency.
Barclays Visa Credit card
- Free credit card
- Free cash withdrawals worldwide
- Free payments worldwide
- Free loan up to 2 months
Who is behind the awa7 Credit Card?
Although there is already a wide range of credit cards available in Germany, new ones are constantly being added. The awa7 Credit Card has also been on the market since 2021.
The awa7 Credit Card is issued by Hanseatic Bank, which already offers similarly attractive credit cards – but without a comparable focus on forest protection.
The unusual name of the credit card comes from Hebrew and means something like “the life-giving one.” The number symbolizes the seven days of the week and is also often associated with luck.
In connection with ethical projects, the credit card aims to protect forests based on its customers’ transactions. With this project, it sets itself apart from the crowd and from its sister credit cards, the Hanseatic Bank GenialCard and Hanseatic Bank GoldCard.
Our conclusion on the awa7 Credit Card
The awa7 Credit Card not only promotes the protection of forests through its customers’ card transactions but also offers attractive conditions. This makes it an excellent choice for travel, and it also convinces with a selection of insurance services that can be added if needed.
Since it is issued by Hanseatic Bank, it is also a trustworthy product. The awa7 Credit Card is even recommended by Stiftung Warentest in its latest credit card test, as it remains permanently free of charge for both standard users and travelers.
So, anyone who wants to do something good for the environment while using a credit card should consider applying for the awa7 Credit Card.
awa7 Visa Credit Card
- 0 Euro annual fee
- Pay worldwide without fees*
- Withdraw cash abroad without fees**
- Repayment in small, flexible rates
- Up to 2,000 Euro instant payout
- Recommended by Stiftung Warentest (06/2025)
Notes from Hanseatic Bank:
*If you use your credit card in casinos, at lotteries, betting offices, or on securities trading platforms, fees will apply. The same applies if you use it at financial institutions, for money transfers, or to purchase cryptocurrencies. You can find the exact fees in our schedule of conditions.
**When withdrawing cash abroad, Hanseatic Bank does not charge any fees – neither at ATMs nor at bank branches. Please note: ATM operators abroad may charge their own fees. In Germany, you can use the Visa cash service at participating retailers to withdraw cash directly at the checkout free of charge with your awa7® Visa Credit Card.
