Head to head · 2026
Gold Card vs Green 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.
Our verdict
Green Card is the stronger pick for most expats.
- Monthly fee: €6.50/mo vs €20.00/mo
American Express
Gold Card
Mid-tier Amex with 4 Priority Pass visits per year, €100 dining credit, and solid rewards earning. Best balance of benefits vs cost.
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American Express
Our pickGreen Card
Entry-level Amex for building rewards. First year free, then €78/year. Good if you want to try Membership Rewards without big commitment.
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Side by side
Highlighted cells show the stronger option for each feature. Rates and fees are verified from provider sources; figures shown as of 2026.
Gold Card
What we like
- 4 Priority Pass lounge visits/year
- €100/year dining credit
- 1 MR point per €1 spent
- Loungebox meals at Schiphol (2x/month)
What to consider
- €240/year annual fee
- 2.5% foreign transaction fee
- Limited Amex acceptance in NL
- Requires €20,000 gross annual income
Green Card
What we like
- First year free
- 1 MR point per €1 spent
- Basic travel insurance
- Lower income requirement (€20,000)
What to consider
- No lounge access
- 2.5% foreign transaction fee
- Limited Amex acceptance
- Fewer benefits than Gold
Frequently asked
Is Gold Card or Green Card better for expats in the Netherlands?
Green Card is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Monthly fee: €6.50/mo vs €20.00/mo
Which card has lower fees abroad, Gold Card or Green Card?
Both charge the same foreign transaction fee: 2.50%.
Do Gold Card and Green Card require a BKR credit check?
Gold Card does not require a BKR credit check, and Green Card does not require one. Cards without a BKR check are often easier to get when you have just arrived in the Netherlands.