An Introduction to Credit Cards in Spain

Why apply for a Spanish Credit Card?

Most English speakers apply for a card because they are resident in Spain and that disqualifies them from applying for cards issued in their native countries. Even if you don´t plan to spend on your card, it's always a useful tool to have in case of emergencies

What do I need to qualify for a Spanish credit card?

Most card issuers will require you to hold a Spanish bank account and be permanently resident in Spain - that´s to say, you will need a permanent address and not just be passing through on holiday.You will also need to have an annual income of usually between 10,000 and 15,000 Euros depending on the card

I can get a credit card through my bank - why should I bother looking elsewhere?

It's always worth shopping around. You can often get a better deal with other cards and even if the differences bewteen them may appear small, every Euro counts.

What are the main differences between Spanish cards and those in the UK or US?

The main difference is the higher cost of borrowing. Spanish card providers will tend to have higher interest rates than you may be used to. It's also important to be aware that many banks also charge an annual fee just for carrying a credit card. This often comes as a nasty surprise to people who apply for a card through their own bank without checking the small print.

So, how do I know what card to go for?

Take a look here for some tips on choosing your card

I don´t speak Spanish and can´t understand the application forms!

Take a look at our Spanish to English glossaryIt explains some of the most commonly seen terms.