Head to head · 2026
Flying Blue Gold Card vs Mastercard Black
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
Flying Blue Gold Card is the stronger pick for most expats.
- Monthly fee: €16.50/mo vs €18.75/mo
- BKR credit check: Not required vs Required
American Express
Our pickFlying 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.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission. Details
ICS
Mastercard Black
Premium ICS card with AXA travel insurance, 4 Priority Pass lounge visits per year, and airport fast-track passes.
Affiliate link — we may earn a commission. Details
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.
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
Mastercard Black
What we like
- 4 Priority Pass lounge visits/year
- 4 airport fast-track passes/year
- Comprehensive AXA travel insurance
- 365-day purchase protection
What to consider
- High annual fee (€225)
- 2% foreign transaction fee
- Limited lounge visits vs Amex
Frequently asked
Is Flying Blue Gold Card or Mastercard Black better for expats in the Netherlands?
Flying Blue Gold Card is the stronger all-round pick for most expats. Monthly fee: €16.50/mo vs €18.75/mo
Which card has lower fees abroad, Flying Blue Gold Card or Mastercard Black?
Mastercard Black is cheaper abroad, with a 2.00% foreign transaction fee.
Do Flying Blue Gold Card and Mastercard Black require a BKR credit check?
Flying Blue Gold Card does not require a BKR credit check, and Mastercard Black requires one. Cards without a BKR check are often easier to get when you have just arrived in the Netherlands.