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Amex Blue Card vs Platinum Card

How these two credit cards stack up for expats in the Netherlands — compared on the numbers that actually matter, with a verdict based on the data.

Amex Blue Card is the stronger pick for most expats.

  • Monthly fee: €3.00/mo vs €65.00/mo
  • Minimum income: None stated vs €2,500/mo
Our pick

Amex Blue Card

Entry-level American Express card with basic insurance. 54 interest-free days and both Apple Pay and Google Pay support. Good starting point for Amex.

first-amexlow-costeveryday

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Platinum Card

The ultimate premium card in the Netherlands. Unlimited Priority Pass lounge access, Privium Plus at Schiphol, €300 dining credit, and comprehensive travel benefits.

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Side by side

Feature
Amex Blue Card
Platinum Card
Monthly fee
€3.00/mo
€65.00/mo
Foreign transaction fee
2.50%
2.50%
Card network
amex
amex
Travel insurance
Not included
Included
Apple Pay
Supported
Supported
Minimum income
None stated
€2,500/mo
BKR credit check
Not required
Not required

Highlighted cells show the stronger option for each feature. Rates and fees are verified from provider sources; figures shown as of 2026.

Amex Blue Card

What we like

  • 54 interest-free days
  • Apple Pay and Google Pay
  • Basic insurance included
  • Lower fee than Green Card

What to consider

  • 2.5% foreign transaction fee
  • No rewards program
  • Limited Amex acceptance in NL
  • Basic coverage only

Platinum Card

What we like

  • Unlimited Priority Pass lounge access + 1 guest
  • Free Privium Plus membership (Schiphol fast-track)
  • €300/year dining credit at 100+ restaurants
  • Centurion Lounge access (Schiphol opening 2026)

What to consider

  • Very high fee (€780/year)
  • 2.5% foreign transaction fee
  • Not accepted everywhere in Netherlands
  • Requires €36,000 gross annual income

Frequently asked

Is Amex Blue Card or Platinum Card better for expats in the Netherlands?

Amex Blue Card is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Monthly fee: €3.00/mo vs €65.00/mo

Which card has lower fees abroad, Amex Blue Card or Platinum Card?

Both charge the same foreign transaction fee: 2.50%.

Do Amex Blue Card and Platinum Card require a BKR credit check?

Amex Blue Card does not require a BKR credit check, and Platinum Card does not require one. Cards without a BKR check are often easier to get when you have just arrived in the Netherlands.