Credit cards

Understand credit cards before you choose one

A clear guide to the main card types, the costs to watch and how to compare offers from banks across Europe.

Charge card

Spending is collected and settled in full once a month.

  • Full balance paid monthly
  • Usually no interest
  • Common for travel and online purchases

Revolving credit card

You can repay in instalments; interest is charged on the outstanding amount.

  • Flexible monthly repayment
  • High interest on unpaid balances
  • Check the effective annual rate

Debit card

Payments are taken directly from your current account.

  • No credit line
  • Spend only what you have
  • Widely accepted across Europe

How to compare cards

  1. 1

    Check the annual fee and whether it is waived.

  2. 2

    Compare foreign-currency and cash-withdrawal fees.

  3. 3

    Look at the effective annual interest rate for instalments.

  4. 4

    Read the official terms on the issuing bank’s website.

Frequently asked questions

Does Raisin issue credit cards?

No. Raisin focuses on savings. This page helps you understand cards so you can compare offers directly with banks.

What is a revolving credit card?

A card where you repay part of the balance each month and pay interest on the remainder. It can become expensive if balances stay high.

Which fees matter most?

Annual fees, foreign-transaction fees, cash-withdrawal fees and interest on unpaid balances.

Let your savings earn interest instead. Compare current offers.

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