Unlike in neighbouring countries (France, Belgium), few banks in Luxembourg offer free bank cards. These offers are generally reserved for certain well-defined groups (young people, students). However, there are a few alternatives. Here are all the ways you can get a free bank card:
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Free bank cards for young people
In Luxembourg, completely free bank cards are still rare, but they do exist. Here are the 2 main scenarios for young people:
- If you are a young worker : Most banks offer cards and even account maintenance fees to working people under the age of 30 (the age limit depends on the bank). Spuerkeess, BIL and BGL BNP Paribas are among the banks that offer this kind of advantage.
- Student packs: Some banks also offer accounts for students. Their aim is to win the loyalty of future customers from an early age. You'll get a free card (often a Visa Debit) and an account that allows you to carry out a few basic transactions (transfers, withdrawals).
If you arrive in Luxembourg and are under 30, there is a good chance that you will be offered a free account and card.
To see current offers, consult our comparison of banks in Luxembourg.
Free bank cards for other members of the public (over 30s)
Not a young worker or student? Then it will be difficult to find a free bank card in Luxembourg.
You should turn to the neo-banks, most of which offer a free card and account. The best-known neo-banks include : Revolut, N26or Wise.
With these offers, you generally get a free card and a free account. Each neobank then charges for additional services (foreign exchange fees, Premium cards, etc). However, there are a few advantages and disadvantages:
The benefits:
- You get free cards with a modern banking app
- Charges abroad are reduced or non-existent (depending on the neo-bank chosen)
- You can open an account 100% online
Disadvantages:
- You can't have a Luxtrust certificate for your administrative formalities in Luxembourg
- You must declare this account to Luxembourg tax authorities
- You will still need to open an account in Luxembourg if you take out a mortgage or open a home savings or retirement savings plan.
Is it possible to negotiate a free card with a Luxembourg bank?
Yes: you can negotiate a free card, and even free account fees, if you take out several products with one bank.
You could negotiate this benefit if you take out a mortgage from the bank if you take out a loan (car loan, consumer credit, home improvement loan), or if you open a home savings plan or a home loan. pension plan.
These products are particularly lucrative in Luxembourg. The banks are quite prepared to make a commercial gesture if you subscribe with them.
Don't forget to emphasise the «growth» aspect of your profile: banks like to know that there is a good chance that you will earn more money in the future (because they will be able to earn more on your savings and on additional products).
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a free bank card in Luxembourg?
Yes, it is possible to obtain a free bank card in Luxembourg, but the offers are few and far between compared with neighbouring countries. Free cards are mainly reserved for young people under 30, students and via neo-banks.
Which banks offer free cards to young people in Luxembourg?
In Luxembourg, Spuerkeess and BGL BNP Paribas offer free bank cards to young professionals. These banks also often offer free account maintenance fees to retain this young clientele. The age limit for taking advantage of these benefits varies from one Luxembourg bank to another. Visit current offers to find out more.
Are there free student accounts in Luxembourg?
Yes, some Luxembourg banks offer student packs with a free account and bank card to win the loyalty of future customers. These offers generally include a Visa Debit card and an account for basic transactions such as transfers and withdrawals.
How do I get a free card after 30 years?
To get a free bank card after 30 years in Luxembourg, turn to neo-banks such as Revolut, N26 or Wise, which offer a free card and account. Accounts can be opened entirely online using a modern banking application.
What are the disadvantages of neo-banks?
Neo-banks do not allow you to obtain a Luxtrust certificate, This is essential for Luxembourg administrative procedures. You must declare these accounts to Luxembourg tax authorities and open a local account to take out a mortgage or savings plans.
