# Best Credit Cards in Austria (2026)

> No Austrian account needed: TF Bank's €0 card takes any EU IBAN. Compare with Erste, Santander and 2 more on fees, interest and instalments.

Updated: September 12 2026 · By Jules de Bruin · URL: https://www.how-to-austria.com/banking/credit-cards

Rank byOur overall pick below is TF Bank, from €0 a year.

### TF Bank Mastercard Gold

4.6Best Overall. A permanently fee-free Mastercard Gold with 0% foreign-exchange, travel insurance, and up to 51 interest-free days on purchases.

[Get TF Mastercard Gold](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)Pay withBank accountAny EU IBANAnnual feeBest€0FX fee0%Travel insuranceIncludedRepresentative APR22.60% nominal / 25.09% effective p.a.More detailsNetworkMastercardInterest-free periodUp to 51 daysResidence permit (non-EU)Valid 24+ months from applicationMinimum repayment3%, at least €30Repayment methodBank transfer, no direct debitSecurityPledge of wage and salary claimsIssuerAvarda Bank AB (publ), trading as TF BankPrices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site.

Key information

EligibilityNon-EU: 24-month permitFees**€0** annual, **0%** abroadProtectionUp to 51 interest-free daysSupportEnglish and German, online onlySupportNo direct debit, transfer onlyBest for People who want a genuinely free credit card with travel insurance and fee-free foreign spending

### Erste Premiumcard Gold

4.0Cheapest Instalments. The cheapest way to spread a purchase on this page: instalments at 5% nominal, 5.19% effective, switched on only when you want them.

[Apply for Erste Premiumcard](https://www.sparkasse.at/erstebank/privatkunden/konto-karten/s-kreditkarten/s-kreditkarte-mit-teilzahlung)Pay withBank accountNot required to applyAnnual fee€75, year one freeFX fee1.5%Travel insuranceIncludedRepresentative APRInstalments: 5.00% nominal / 5.19% effective p.a.More detailsNetworkVisaPurchase protectionUp to 12 monthsBanking appGeorge integrationInstalmentsMinimum 10% of the bill, at least €50Split NowSplit a purchase over up to 4 statementsPrices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site.

Key information

EligibilityNFC ID, AT/DE/IT mobileFeesInstalments at **5%** nominalFees**€75** from year twoProtectionTravel cover and wallet supportSupportGerman in most branchesBest for People who want an instalment option at a low rate, and Erste or Sparkasse customers who use George

### Santander Card

4.1Best Cashback. A free card that pays 1% cashback on purchases, up to €50 a year.

[Apply for the Santander Card](https://www.santanderconsumer.at/karte)Pay withBank accountAny account, not at SantanderAnnual feeBest€0FX feeNot publishedCashback1%, max €50 a yearInterestSantander does not publish the rate. It is fixed for the first three months, then variable, tied to the 3-month Euribor.More detailsNetworkMastercardRepaymentInstalments by default: 5% of the balance, at least €20SecurityPledge of wage and salary claimsIssuerSantander Consumer Bank GmbH, AustriaPrices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site.

Key information

EligibilityNo Santander account neededEligibilityWage pledge as securityFees**€0,** **1%** cashbackFeesInterest rate not publishedProtectionInstalments set by defaultBest for Residents who put regular spending on the card and repay the balance in full

### BAWAG PayLife Classic

4.0Best Bank Card. The Austrian bank card that lets you decide each month: pay the full balance or switch to instalments.

[Apply for PayLife Classic](https://www.paylife.at/paylife/privat/kreditkarten/classic)Pay withBank accountAn account for direct debitAnnual fee€28.30FX fee1.65%RepaymentFull or instalmentsInterestInstalments only with a separate signed agreement: at least 10% of the balance or €60 a month, no instalment fee.More detailsNetworkMastercardInstalment interest13.53% nominal / 14.40% effectiveGoldPlus with insurance€95.80 a yearIssuerBAWAG P.S.K.Prices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site.

Key information

Fees**1.65%** abroadFeesInstalments need separate contractProtectionFull or instalments, your choiceSupportAustrian bank with branchesBest for People who want an Austrian bank card with the option to spread a large purchase

### easybank easy kreditkarte

3.9Cheapest Bank Card. The cheapest credit card from an Austrian bank at €12 a year, with instalments only when you ask for them.

[Apply for easy kreditkarte](https://www.easybank.at/easybank/kreditkarten/easy-kreditkarte)Bank accounteasybank, open 180+ daysAnnual fee€12FX fee1.5%RepaymentFull, instalments optionalInterestInstalments set up in eBanking: at least 10% of the balance or €100 a month, €6 set-up fee. 13.39% effective on a €1,000 limit.More detailsNetworkVisa or MastercardInstalment interest12.15% nominal / 13.39% effectiveIssuerBAWAG P.S.K., under the easybank brandPrices as of August 2026, verify on the provider site.

Key information

Eligibilityeasybank account, 180+ daysFees**€12** a yearFees**1.5%** abroadProtectionInstalments only on requestSupportOnline onlyBest for easybank customers who want a low-cost card with an instalment option

Card issuers we compare

The banks and providers behind the cards in this guide. Tap a top pick to jump to its review.

- [TF BankTop 5](#card-tf-bank)
- [Erste BankTop 5](#card-erste)
- [SantanderTop 5](#card-santander)
- [PayLifeTop 5](#card-bawag-paylife)
- [Advanzia Bank](#comparison)

Here are our **top picks** for people living in Austria, considering** ease of application**, fees, **interest** and **international usability**.

## How Do Austrian Credit Cards Compare?

[TF Mastercard Gold](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)Annual fee€0Repayment**Revolving**Interest (APR)**22.60%** nom. / **25.09%** eff.; up to **51 days** interest-freeNetworkMastercardTravel insuranceYesForeign feesNoneBest forFree travel card[Erste Premiumcard Gold](https://www.sparkasse.at/erstebank/privatkunden/konto-karten/s-kreditkarten/s-kreditkarte-mit-teilzahlung)[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at)Annual fee**€75**, year 1 freeRepayment**Full**, instalments optionalInterest (APR)Instalments **5%** nom. / **5.19%** eff.NetworkVisa or MastercardTravel insuranceYesForeign fees1.5%Best forCheapest instalments[Santander Card](https://www.santanderconsumer.at/karte)[Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) Consumer BankAnnual fee€0Repayment**Revolving**, min. 5%, at least €20Interest (APR)Rate **not published**; fixed 3 months, then tied to 3-month EuriborNetworkMastercardTravel insuranceNo, online purchase cover onlyForeign feesNot publishedBest for1% cashback, up to €50/yr[BAWAG PayLife Classic](https://www.paylife.at/paylife/privat/kreditkarten/classic)BAWAG P.S.K.Annual fee**€28.30**Repayment**Full** or instalments, your choiceInterest (APR)Instalments by agreement: **13.53%** nom. / **14.40%** eff.NetworkMastercardTravel insuranceBasicForeign fees1.65%Best forAustrian bank, flexible repayment[easybank easy kreditkarte](https://www.easybank.at/easybank/kreditkarten/easy-kreditkarte)easybank (BAWAG)Annual fee**€12**Repayment**Full**, instalments optionalInterest (APR)Instalments optional: **12.15%** nom. / **13.39%** eff., €6 set-upNetworkVisa or MastercardTravel insuranceNone listedForeign fees1.5%Best forCheapest Austrian bank card[Amazon Visa](https://www.amazon.de/visa)Open Bank ([Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at))Annual fee€0Repayment**Revolving**, min. 3%, at least €25Interest (APR)**16.63%** nom. / **17.96%** eff.NetworkVisaTravel insuranceWith Travel+ onlyForeign fees1.5%Best forAmazon shoppers[free.at Gold](https://www.advanzia.com)[Advanzia Bank](https://www.advanzia.com)Annual fee€0Repayment**Revolving**Interest (APR)Up to **7 weeks** interest-free, then revolving APR; cash interest from day 1NetworkMastercardTravel insuranceYesForeign feesNoneBest forSecond free card
| Card | Annual fee | Repayment | Interest (APR) | Network | Travel ins. | Foreign fees | Best for |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [TF Mastercard Gold](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/) | €0 | **Revolving** | **22.60%** nom. / **25.09%** eff.; up to **51 days** interest-free | Mastercard | Yes | None | Free travel card |
| [Erste Premiumcard Gold](https://www.sparkasse.at/erstebank/privatkunden/konto-karten/s-kreditkarten/s-kreditkarte-mit-teilzahlung)[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at) | **€75**, year 1 free | **Full**, instalments optional | Instalments **5%** nom. / **5.19%** eff. | Visa or Mastercard | Yes | 1.5% | Cheapest instalments |
| [Santander Card](https://www.santanderconsumer.at/karte)[Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) Consumer Bank | €0 | **Revolving**, min. 5%, at least €20 | Rate **not published**; fixed 3 months, then tied to 3-month Euribor | Mastercard | No, online purchase cover only | Not published | 1% cashback, up to €50/yr |
| [BAWAG PayLife Classic](https://www.paylife.at/paylife/privat/kreditkarten/classic)BAWAG P.S.K. | **€28.30** | **Full** or instalments, your choice | Instalments by agreement: **13.53%** nom. / **14.40%** eff. | Mastercard | Basic | 1.65% | Austrian bank, flexible repayment |
| [easybank easy kreditkarte](https://www.easybank.at/easybank/kreditkarten/easy-kreditkarte)easybank (BAWAG) | **€12** | **Full**, instalments optional | Instalments optional: **12.15%** nom. / **13.39%** eff., €6 set-up | Visa or Mastercard | None listed | 1.5% | Cheapest Austrian bank card |
| [Amazon Visa](https://www.amazon.de/visa)Open Bank ([Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at)) | €0 | **Revolving**, min. 3%, at least €25 | **16.63%** nom. / **17.96%** eff. | Visa | With Travel+ only | 1.5% | Amazon shoppers |
| [free.at Gold](https://www.advanzia.com)[Advanzia Bank](https://www.advanzia.com) | €0 | **Revolving** | Up to **7 weeks** interest-free, then revolving APR; cash interest from day 1 | Mastercard | Yes | None | Second free card |
Sources: [TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/), [Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at), [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at), BAWAG, easybank, Openbank, [Advanzia](https://www.advanzia.com). Prices and rates as of September 2026. The repayment column matters most: revolving cards roll any unpaid balance into the next month with interest, the others collect the full balance unless you ask for instalments. Cash withdrawals accrue interest from day one on most cards.

## How Do Credit Cards Work in Austria?

A credit card gives you a **credit line**: you pay with the issuer’s money, receive a **monthly statement**, and decide how much of it to repay. Repay the **full statement** by the due date and on most cards purchases cost no interest, which is where the up to **51 interest-free days** at **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)**come from. Repay less and the rest becomes a balance charged at the card’s interest rate, up to **25.09% effective** on this page. Cash withdrawals are the exception: most cards charge interest **from the day you withdraw**.

The cards come from two kinds of lender. **[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at)**, **BAWAG** (also behind **easybank**) and **[Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) Consumer Bank** are Austrian banks supervised by the [Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA)](https://www.fma.gv.at). **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)** (Sweden) and **[Advanzia Bank](https://www.advanzia.com)** (Luxembourg) lend into Austria under an EU passport and are supervised in their home country. Cards that take the full balance every month with no option to spread it, such as **American Express** or the cards of **[Bank Austria](https://www.bankaustria.at)**, are charge cards and are compared on our [charge cards](/banking/charge-cards) page.

Acceptance has improved significantly in recent years. Most larger shops, restaurants, and online retailers accept **Visa and Mastercard**, while some smaller businesses and traditional restaurants still take **cash only**, so **carry some cash** alongside your card. For everyday expenses, see our [cost of living guide](/living/cost-of-living). The [Arbeiterkammer (Chamber of Labour)](https://www.arbeiterkammer.at) handles **consumer protection** for credit card disputes.

## What Types of Credit Cards Are Available in Austria?

### Revolving Credit Cards

Any balance you do not repay rolls into the next month with interest. The **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/) Mastercard Gold**, **[free.at](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)**, the **[Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) Card** and the **Amazon Visa** work this way and cost **€0 a year**. Each sets a **minimum repayment**: **3%** (at least €30) at [TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/), **5%** (at least €20) at [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) and **3%** (at least €25) on the Amazon Visa. Pay the full statement every month and the card stays free; [TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/) takes repayments only by **transfer**, so the discipline is yours.

### Cards with Optional Instalments

The statement is collected **in full** unless you switch a purchase or a statement to **instalments** (Teilzahlung). **[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at)** charges **5.19% effective**, **easybank** **13.39%** plus a €6 set-up fee, and **BAWAG [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at)** **14.40%** after a separate signed agreement. You pay an annual fee, but a forgotten payment never quietly turns into debt.

## What Are the Annual Fees for Named Austrian Credit Cards?

The table below lists what each named Austrian card charges a year and what it adds on foreign currency, from the issuer’s own price list. **Four cards cost nothing**, the cheapest bank card is **€12**, and the dearest here is **€237.60**.

[TF Bank Mastercard Gold](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)Annual fee**€0**Foreign fee**0%**Type**Revolving**[Santander Card](https://www.santanderconsumer.at/karte)[Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at)Annual fee**€0**Foreign fee**Not published**Type**Revolving**[Amazon Visa](https://www.amazon.de/visa)Open Bank ([Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at))Annual fee**€0**Foreign fee1.5%Type**Revolving**[free.at Mastercard Gold](https://www.advanzia.com)[Advanzia Bank](https://www.advanzia.com)Annual fee**€0**Foreign fee**0%**Type**Revolving**[easybank easy kreditkarte](https://www.easybank.at/easybank/kreditkarten/easy-kreditkarte)easybankAnnual fee**€12**/yr (€1 a month)Foreign fee1.5%TypeInstalments **optional**[Erste Smartcard Mastercard](https://www.sparkasse.at/erstebank/privatkunden/konto-karten/s-kreditkarten)[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at)Annual fee**€22.44**/yr (year 1 free, free for students up to **27**)Foreign fee1.5%TypeInstalments **optional**[Erste Premiumcard Gold](https://www.sparkasse.at/erstebank/privatkunden/konto-karten/s-kreditkarten)[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at)Annual fee**€75**/yr (year 1 free)Foreign fee1.5%TypeInstalments **optional**[BAWAG PayLife Classic](https://www.paylife.at/paylife/privat/kreditkarten/classic)BAWAGAnnual fee**€28.30**/yrForeign fee1.65%TypeInstalments **optional**[BAWAG PayLife GoldPlus](https://www.paylife.at/paylife/privat/kreditkarten/classic)BAWAGAnnual fee**€95.80**/yr (€47.90 in year 1 until 31 Dec 2026)Foreign fee1.65%TypeInstalments **optional**
| Card | Issuer | Annual fee | Foreign fee | Type |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [TF Bank Mastercard Gold](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/) | [TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/) | **€0** | **0%** | **Revolving** |
| [Santander Card](https://www.santanderconsumer.at/karte) | [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) | **€0** | **Not published** | **Revolving** |
| [Amazon Visa](https://www.amazon.de/visa) | Open Bank ([Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at)) | **€0** | 1.5% | **Revolving** |
| [free.at Mastercard Gold](https://www.advanzia.com) | [Advanzia Bank](https://www.advanzia.com) | **€0** | **0%** | **Revolving** |
| [easybank easy kreditkarte](https://www.easybank.at/easybank/kreditkarten/easy-kreditkarte) | easybank | **€12**/yr (€1 a month) | 1.5% | Instalments **optional** |
| [Erste Smartcard Mastercard](https://www.sparkasse.at/erstebank/privatkunden/konto-karten/s-kreditkarten) | [Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at) | **€22.44**/yr (year 1 free, free for students up to **27**) | 1.5% | Instalments **optional** |
| [Erste Premiumcard Gold](https://www.sparkasse.at/erstebank/privatkunden/konto-karten/s-kreditkarten) | [Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at) | **€75**/yr (year 1 free) | 1.5% | Instalments **optional** |
| [BAWAG PayLife Classic](https://www.paylife.at/paylife/privat/kreditkarten/classic) | BAWAG | **€28.30**/yr | 1.65% | Instalments **optional** |
| [BAWAG PayLife GoldPlus](https://www.paylife.at/paylife/privat/kreditkarten/classic) | BAWAG | **€95.80**/yr (€47.90 in year 1 until 31 Dec 2026) | 1.65% | Instalments **optional** |
Sources: [TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/), [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at), Openbank, [Advanzia](https://www.advanzia.com), easybank, [Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at), BAWAG. Fees as of September 2026. BAWAG [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) and easybank add a 1% exchange-rate markup (1.5% for less common currencies) on top of the listed foreign fee. [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) does not publish a foreign fee.

Four cards cost **nothing a year**: **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)**, **[free.at](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)**, the **[Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) Card** and the **Amazon Visa**. Among Austrian banks, **easybank** is cheapest at **€1 a month** (€12 a year), followed by the **Erste Smartcard** at **€22.44** and the **BAWAG [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) Classic** at **€28.30**. Gold cards with insurance cost **€75** at Erste and **€95.80** for the **[PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) GoldPlus**.

The annual fee is the smaller cost on a credit card. Carry a **€1,500** balance for a year at **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)**’s **25.09%** effective rate and the interest comes to about **€376**. On **[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at)**’s instalment plan at **5.19%** the same balance costs about **€78**, at **BAWAG [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at)**’s **14.40%** about **€216**. Paid in full every month, the free cards stay free and the paid ones cost only their fee.

Some issuers want a linked **Austrian bank account (AT-IBAN)** for the direct debit, but under [Article 9 of Regulation (EU) 260/2012](https://eur-lex.europa.eu/eli/reg/2012/260/oj) a provider cannot refuse a valid euro **IBAN** from another EU country. **IBAN discrimination is unlawful**, and you can report it to the [Austrian Financial Market Authority (FMA)](https://www.fma.gv.at). **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)** and **[Advanzia](https://www.advanzia.com) ([free.at](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/))** accept an **EU IBAN**, so you do not need an **AT-IBAN** to hold their credit card. The regulation sets no fine for the party that refuses, and authorities are the usual sticking point: **FinanzOnline** takes only an Austrian IBAN in its standard field, and a foreign one goes in under profile, general master data, foreign bank details.

## Which Other Credit Cards Are Worth Knowing in Austria?

Four more cards give you a credit line: the **Amazon Visa** for Amazon shoppers, the **[free.at Mastercard Gold](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)** as a second free card, the **BAWAG [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) GoldPlus** for insurance on a bank card, and the **Austrian Miles & More Premiumcard** for miles.

Amazon VisaA free revolving Visa, launched in Austria in **March 2025** and issued by **Open Bank S.A.** of the [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) group. Interest is **16.63% nominal, 17.96% effective**, and 3% of the balance (at least €25) is due each month unless you switch to full repayment by direct debit. It charges **1.5%** on foreign currency, 0% with the Travel+ package at €7.99 a month, and does not support Apple Pay.[free.at Mastercard Gold](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)A permanently free revolving Mastercard from **[Advanzia Bank](https://www.advanzia.com)** in Luxembourg with **0% foreign fee**, travel insurance and up to **7 weeks** interest-free on purchases. It accepts an EU IBAN. Cash withdrawals are charged interest from the day you withdraw.BAWAG [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) GoldPlusThe Gold version of the [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) card at **€95.80/year**, or **€47.90** in the first year if you apply by 31 December 2026, with the same optional instalment agreement at 14.40% effective. It adds cancellation cover up to **€3,000** a year, travel health and luggage insurance.Austrian Miles & More PremiumcardIssued by **[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at)** at **€237.60/year**. It earns miles on purchases and includes travel insurance, and with **Split Now** you can spread a purchase over up to four statements, six times a year for free. It does not offer Erste’s percentage-based instalment plan.Cards from **[card complete](https://www.cardcomplete.com)** sit in between: under its terms you can offer to repay at least 10% of the balance, but [card complete](https://www.cardcomplete.com) may refuse, and the rate starts at 13% before moving to the 3-month Euribor plus 13 points.

Fees are indicative and set by each issuer; confirm the current Jahresentgelt and foreign-usage fee on the provider's own site before applying.

## How Much Does a Credit Card Cost in Austria?

Credit cards with a credit line fall into four price bands in Austria. **Free cards** cost **€0**, basic bank cards **€12 to 28.30**, Gold cards with insurance **€75 to 95.80**, and the miles card **€237.60** a year. The annual fee is only part of the cost: also watch **interest** on anything you do not repay (from **5.19%** at Erste to **25.09%** at [TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)), **foreign-currency fees (0 to 1.65%)** and **cash withdrawals**.

- **€0/year:** [TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/) Mastercard Gold, [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) Card, Amazon Visa, [free.at Mastercard Gold](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)
- **€12 to 28.30/year:** easybank easy kreditkarte €12, Erste Smartcard €22.44, BAWAG [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) Classic €28.30
- **€75 to 95.80/year:** Erste Premiumcard Gold €75, BAWAG [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) GoldPlus €95.80
- **€237.60/year:** Austrian Miles & More Premiumcard

Erste waives the annual fee in the **first year**, and BAWAG halves the GoldPlus to **€47.90** in year one for applications until 31 December 2026.

Two groups are better served elsewhere. Students get the same cards at a lower price, since **Erste** waives the Smartcard fee up to age **27**, and our [student credit cards](/banking/student-credit-cards) guide compares those terms. Anyone buying for a company needs a different product with VAT-ready statements and per-employee limits, which is our [business credit cards](/banking/business-credit-cards) guide.

## What Are the Hidden Costs of Austrian Credit Cards?

Annual fee (Jahresgebuehr)

**€0** for **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)**, **[Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at)**, the **Amazon Visa** and **[free.at](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)**, up to **€95.80** for the **[PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) GoldPlus** and **€237.60** for the Austrian Miles & More Premiumcard.

Foreign transaction fee

**0% to 1.65%**. **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)** and **[free.at](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)** charge **0%**; **Erste**, **easybank** and the **Amazon Visa** **1.5%**; **BAWAG [PayLife](https://www.paylife.at) 1.65%**. The two BAWAG brands add a **1% exchange-rate markup** on top, and **[Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at)** does not publish its fee.

Cash withdrawal fee

Typically **3% of the amount** or **€4 minimum**, whichever is higher, and cash withdrawals accrue **interest from the booking day** on most cards, even ones with a long interest-free period for purchases.

Currency conversion and DCC

**Visa and Mastercard** apply their own exchange rate plus a **markup from the issuer**. The bigger cost is **dynamic currency conversion**: when a terminal or ATM abroad offers to charge you in euro, it adds its own margin, which a [BEUC study](https://www.beuc.eu/publications/beuc-x-2017-131_currency_conversion_scam_factsheet.pdf) put at **2.6% to 12%**. On a **£200** withdrawal at 1 GBP = €1.17, a **6%** DCC markup costs **€248.04** instead of **€234.00**; even a card charging 1.5% abroad lands at **€237.51**. Always choose the **local currency**.

Late payment

Varies by issuer. Missing the **minimum repayment** adds reminder fees on top of interest, so have at least the minimum, or better the **full balance**, collected by **direct debit**.

Replacement credit card

**€10 to €25** for a physical replacement if your credit card is **lost or stolen**.

## What Do You Need to Get Each Credit Card in Austria?

[TF Bank Mastercard Gold](https://tfbank.at/service/tf-mastercard-gold/wie-beantrage-ich-eine-tf-mastercard-gold)IncomeRegular income, no amount statedAccount**No**Residence and IDResidence in Austria; **non-EU citizens** need a permit valid **24+ months**; ID card or passportHow you verifyIDnow video, about a minuteWhere it failsThe KSV1870 check with a thin file[Erste Bank Smartcard / Premiumcard](https://www.sparkasse.at/erstebank/privatkunden/konto-karten/s-kreditkarten)Income**3 months** of proof, optional onlineAccountNot required on the application pageResidence and IDID with an **NFC chip**; mobile number from Austria, Germany or ItalyHow you verifyOnline with the NFC IDWhere it failsThe NFC ID and phone rule, found mid-application[Santander Card](https://www.santanderconsumer.at/storage/2494/santandercard_infoblatt_bafg.pdf)IncomeNo minimum, the instalment must stay affordableAccountNo, repaid from your own bank accountResidence and IDPhoto ID and your last **3** proofs of incomeHow you verifyOnline request, then a call and an appointmentWhere it failsSecurity is a pledge of wage and salary claims[BAWAG PayLife Classic](https://www.paylife.at/paylife/privat/kreditkarten/classic)IncomeIncome figure and payslipsAccount**Yes**, for the SEPA direct debitResidence and IDNot published; photo ID for the video checkHow you verifyIDnow videoWhere it failsInstalments need a separate signed contract[easybank easy kreditkarte](https://www.easybank.at/easybank/kreditkarten/easy-kreditkarte)IncomeNo amount statedAccount**Yes**, an easybank account open **180+ days**Residence and IDMain residence in Austria; photo IDHow you verifyOnline in three stepsWhere it failsThe 180-day wait after opening the account
| Card | Income | Account | Residence and ID | How you verify | Where it fails |
| --- | --- | --- | --- | --- | --- |
| [TF Bank Mastercard Gold](https://tfbank.at/service/tf-mastercard-gold/wie-beantrage-ich-eine-tf-mastercard-gold) | Regular income, no amount stated | **No** | Residence in Austria; **non-EU citizens** need a permit valid **24+ months**; ID card or passport | IDnow video, about a minute | The KSV1870 check with a thin file |
| [Erste Bank Smartcard / Premiumcard](https://www.sparkasse.at/erstebank/privatkunden/konto-karten/s-kreditkarten) | **3 months** of proof, optional online | Not required on the application page | ID with an **NFC chip**; mobile number from Austria, Germany or Italy | Online with the NFC ID | The NFC ID and phone rule, found mid-application |
| [Santander Card](https://www.santanderconsumer.at/storage/2494/santandercard_infoblatt_bafg.pdf) | No minimum, the instalment must stay affordable | No, repaid from your own bank account | Photo ID and your last **3** proofs of income | Online request, then a call and an appointment | Security is a pledge of wage and salary claims |
| [BAWAG PayLife Classic](https://www.paylife.at/paylife/privat/kreditkarten/classic) | Income figure and payslips | **Yes**, for the SEPA direct debit | Not published; photo ID for the video check | IDnow video | Instalments need a separate signed contract |
| [easybank easy kreditkarte](https://www.easybank.at/easybank/kreditkarten/easy-kreditkarte) | No amount stated | **Yes**, an easybank account open **180+ days** | Main residence in Austria; photo ID | Online in three steps | The 180-day wait after opening the account |
Collected from each provider's own application page in September 2026. “Not published” means the provider does not state it.

None of these issuers puts a number on income. They name documents instead: **[Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at)** wants your last **three proofs of income** and checks that the instalment stays affordable, and **easybank** only issues the card to customers whose easybank account is at least **180 days** old. **BAWAG** asks for your income and payslips, and **[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at)** wants an ID with an **NFC chip** and a mobile number from Austria, Germany or Italy, a rule you only meet halfway through the online form.

For newcomers two rules decide most applications. **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)** asks **non-EU citizens** for a residence permit still valid for **at least 24 months** on the day they apply, so a one-year permit rules the card out. And almost every card here runs a **KSV1870** check, which is why a first card is easier after a few months of salary on an Austrian account. Documents in detail are on our [credit card requirements](/banking/credit-card-requirements) guide.

## How Do You Apply for a Credit Card in Austria?

To apply for a credit card in Austria you need a **valid ID**, a residence in Austria, and for the **easybank** card an [Austrian bank account](/banking/open-bank-account) at the same bank. Almost every issuer checks the **KSV1870**, and none of the cards here names a **minimum income**. The [table above](#requirements) lists what each card asks for.

The [KSV1870 RiskIndicator](https://www.ksv.at/glossar/ksv1870-rating) runs from **100 to 700**, and a **higher number is worse**: **100 to 399** counts as good, **400 and above** signals an above-average default risk. Check your own file before you apply: the self-disclosure under **Article 15 GDPR** is **free once a year**, and the paid **InfoPass at €43** that KSV1870 shows first is not needed for it.

Approval and delivery take about **one to two weeks** at a bank. Online checks are faster: **[TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/)** and **BAWAG** verify you by **IDnow** video, and **[Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at)** reads the **NFC chip** in your ID. Before you sign, check the **minimum repayment** and switch it to **full repayment** where the card allows it.

## How We Checked This

Every fee, rate and requirement here comes from the issuer’s own price list, terms or application page, read directly rather than taken from a comparison portal, and each figure is dated where it matters. Two rules keep it honest: where an issuer does not publish something, this page says **not published** instead of estimating it, which is why the [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) interest rate and its foreign-currency fee are blank rather than guessed; and where an issuer’s own documents disagree, we say so. [TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/) is the live example: its price list of 29 June 2026 gives 22.60% nominal and 25.09% effective, while its standard credit information sheet still shows the older 22.35% and 24.79%.

Prices and terms were last checked on **14 September 2026**. Some links here are affiliate links, marked as such, and they never decide the order: the ranking follows annual fee, foreign-currency cost, what the card does when you do not repay in full, and who can actually get approved. This is general information, not financial advice.

Sources: issuer price lists and terms ([TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/), [Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at), [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) Consumer Bank, BAWAG, easybank, [Advanzia](https://www.advanzia.com), Openbank), RIS for the deposit-guarantee and SEPA rules, KSV1870 for the credit-check scale, and BEUC for the currency-conversion study.

## German Terms Glossary

KreditkarteCredit cardJahresgebuehrAnnual feeKreditrahmenCredit limitAbrechnungBilling statementBargeldbehebungCash withdrawalTeilzahlungPaying the card balance in instalments, with interestSollzinssatzNominal interest rate on a balance

## How Do Users Actually Rate These Cards?

We aggregated user-review sentiment from **Austrian forums, international communities**, and provider review channels to see how each Austrian credit card issuer is perceived, from customer service to how disputes are handled.

[See Full User Review Comparison 2026 →](/banking/credit-card-comparison)Sources: [TF Bank](https://partner.tfbank.de/go.cgi?pid=107&wmid=cc&cpid=3&subid=107&target=https://tfbank.at/mastercard-gold/gebuehrenfreie/), [Erste Bank](https://www.sparkasse.at), [Santander](https://www.santanderconsumer.at) Consumer Bank, BAWAG, easybank, Openbank, [Advanzia Bank](https://www.advanzia.com), [card complete](https://www.cardcomplete.com), BEUC, FMA, KSV1870, EUR-Lex. Updated: September 2026.

## Related Guides

[### Credit card research Every Austrian card compared on fees, interest and eligibility.](/banking/credit-cards-in-depth-research)[### Open a Bank Account Step-by-step guide to opening your first Austrian bank account.](/banking/open-bank-account)[### Blocked Account (Sperrkonto) Everything about the Sperrkonto for student and residence visa applications.](/blocked-account)[### Cost of Living in Austria What to expect for rent, groceries, transport, and daily expenses.](/living/cost-of-living)[### Credit Card Fees The hidden costs: cash interest, FX markups, and how to avoid them.](/banking/credit-card-fees)[### Card Requirements Documents, income, and eligibility for an Austrian credit card.](/banking/credit-card-requirements)[### Student Cards Free and reduced-fee cards for students in Austria.](/banking/student-credit-cards)[### Charge Cards Amex, Bank Austria and other cards paid in full every month.](/banking/charge-cards)Free download

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> What's your situation?

Jump straight to the answer.

[Want a free cardTF Bank, €0/year→No annual fee, 0% foreign exchange.](#best-cards)[Want to pay in instalmentsErste, 5.19% eff.→The lowest instalment rate on this page.](#card-erste)[Prefer an Austrian bank€12 to 75/year→easybank, Erste or BAWAG PayLife.](#named-card-fees)[About to applyKSV score under 400→No card here names an income floor.](#requirements)All 13 sections

Cards

- [1Best credit cards](#best-cards)
- [2Credit cards](#comparison)
- [3Other cards](#other-cards)
- [4Cost](#price-ladder)

How They Work

- [5How they work](#how-they-work)
- [6Credit card types](#card-types)

Costs & Application

- [7Annual fees](#named-card-fees)
- [8Hidden costs](#hidden-costs)
- [9Requirements](#requirements)
- [10How to apply](#how-to-apply)

Help

- [11FAQ](#faq)
- [12Glossary](#glossary)
- [13User reviews](#user-reviews)

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## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the best free credit card in Austria?

The **TF Bank** Mastercard Gold is the top free credit card in Austria: **€0 annual fee**, **0% foreign-transaction fee**, **travel insurance**, and up to **51 interest-free days** on purchases. The **Santander** Card is the free alternative with **1% cashback**. Both are **revolving cards**, so repay the **full statement** every month to avoid interest.

### Which Austrian credit cards let you pay in instalments?

Every card on this page does, in one of two ways. **Revolving cards** such as the **TF Bank** Mastercard Gold and the **Santander** Card carry whatever you do not repay into the next month and charge interest on it. **Erste Bank**, **BAWAG PayLife** and **easybank** collect the **full balance by default** and switch to instalments only when you ask. **Erste** is by far the cheapest at **5% nominal, 5.19% effective** (price basis 1 July 2026).

### How much does it cost to carry a balance on an Austrian credit card?

It depends almost entirely on the card. A **€1,500** balance carried for a year costs about **€376** at **TF Bank**’s **25.09% effective** rate, but about **€78** on **Erste Bank**’s instalment plan at **5.19%**. **Cash withdrawals** are dearer on most cards, because interest runs **from the day you withdraw**. Repaying the **full statement** every month avoids interest on purchases entirely.

### Do you need an Austrian bank account for a credit card?

Not for every card. **TF Bank** is repaid by **transfer from any account**, and **Santander** collects from your **existing account at your own bank**, so neither needs an account with them. The **easybank easy kreditkarte** is the strictest: it requires an **easybank account open for at least 180 days**. Under EU rules a provider may not reject a **euro IBAN** from another EU country.

### What is the KSV1870 credit check?

**KSV1870** is Austria’s main **credit registry**. Its **RiskIndicator** runs from **100 to 700**, and a **higher number is worse**: **100 to 399** is a good rating, while **400 and above** signals an above-average default risk (**KSV1870**). Almost every credit card issuer checks it. You can see your own file **for free once a year** under **Article 15 GDPR**; the paid **InfoPass at €43** is not needed for that.

### What income do you need for a credit card in Austria?

None of the cards on this page names a **minimum income**. **TF Bank** asks for a **regular income** without naming an amount, and **non-EU citizens** need a residence permit valid for at least **24 months** from the application. **Santander** asks for your last **three proofs of income** and checks that the instalment stays affordable, **BAWAG** asks for your income and **payslips**, and **Erste Bank** asks for **three months** of income proof, marked optional online (providers, September 2026).

### Do Austrian credit cards work abroad?

Yes. **Visa and Mastercard** credit cards issued in Austria work **worldwide** wherever the network is accepted. Foreign-currency fees differ: **TF Bank** and **free.at** charge **0%**, **Erste** and **easybank 1.5%** and **BAWAG PayLife** 1.65%, and the two BAWAG brands add a **1% exchange-rate markup**. **Santander** does not publish its fee.

### Is the free.at Mastercard really free?

Yes, the **free.at Mastercard Gold** has **no annual fee** and no hidden membership charges. However, cash withdrawals incur fees (typically **3% or €4 minimum**), and interest applies if you do not repay the **full balance** on time. The card is issued by **Advanzia Bank** in Luxembourg.

### Which Austrian credit card has no foreign transaction fee?

Two cards charge **0% Auslandseinsatzentgelt**: the **TF Bank** Mastercard Gold and the **free.at Mastercard Gold** from **Advanzia**. **Erste Bank** and **easybank** charge **1.5%**, **BAWAG PayLife** 1.65%, and **Santander** does not publish a foreign-currency fee for its card (providers, September 2026).

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Source: https://www.how-to-austria.com/banking/credit-cards
Last updated: Updated: September 12 2026
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