Head to head · 2026
Green Card vs Flying Blue Gold 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 €16.50/mo
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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American Express
Flying Blue Gold Card
Mid-tier Flying Blue card with 1 mile per €1 spend. Includes 30 XP points and 5,000 welcome miles. Good for regular KLM travelers.
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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.
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
Flying Blue Gold Card
What we like
- 1 mile per €1 (1.5 miles at KLM/AF)
- 5,000 welcome miles
- 30 XP points toward elite status
- Basic travel insurance
What to consider
- €198/year annual fee
- 2.5% foreign transaction fee
- Limited Amex acceptance
- XP points expire if not flying
Frequently asked
Is Green Card or Flying Blue Gold Card better for expats in the Netherlands?
Green Card is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Monthly fee: €6.50/mo vs €16.50/mo
Which card has lower fees abroad, Green Card or Flying Blue Gold Card?
Both charge the same foreign transaction fee: 2.50%.
Do Green Card and Flying Blue Gold Card require a BKR credit check?
Green Card does not require a BKR credit check, and Flying Blue Gold Card does not require one. Cards without a BKR check are often easier to get when you have just arrived in the Netherlands.