What is a prepaid credit card?
A prepaid credit card works like a regular Visa or Mastercard for online and offline payments, but you load money onto the card before spending — similar to a prepaid phone. Unlike a traditional credit card, you cannot spend more than your balance. This makes prepaid cards ideal for people who want spending control, have no credit history, or prefer not to undergo a credit check (BKR in the Netherlands).
Prepaid cards are accepted wherever regular credit cards are accepted — at webshops, hotels, car rental companies, and internationally. They work with Apple Pay and Google Pay. They support 3D Secure for online payments and are protected by Visa Zero Liability or Mastercard Zero Liability against unauthorized charges.
Prepaid vs regular credit card
The key difference is credit: regular credit cards give you a credit line you can use and repay later (with potential interest), while prepaid cards only let you spend what you've loaded. Prepaid cards typically don't require a credit check (BKR), making them accessible to more people including students, young adults, and expats new to the Netherlands without Dutch credit history.
The downside: some services like car rental may require a genuine credit line, and prepaid cards often have lower purchase protection than credit cards. Additionally, some prepaid cards have limits on ATM withdrawals or monthly top-up amounts. For most everyday spending, online shopping, and international travel, a prepaid card works perfectly.
Who should get a prepaid card?
Prepaid cards are ideal for:
- Students and young adults making their first online purchases who want to avoid debt
- People with BKR registrations who need a card for online or international payments
- Expats new to the Netherlands without Dutch credit history
- Budget-conscious spenders who want to set a strict limit on their spending
- Anyone who wants to avoid the risk of accumulating credit card debt
Best prepaid credit cards in the Netherlands 2026
Revolut Standard
Free prepaid Visa — best choice 2026
N26 Smart Mastercard
No BKR, cashback and free abroad
Bunq Easy Card
Green Dutch bank — free with account
Knab Creditcard
Digital bank with travel expense coverage
Frequently asked questions about prepaid credit cards
What is the difference between a prepaid and debit card?+
Can I rent a car with a prepaid credit card?+
Do prepaid cards have a credit check in the Netherlands?+
What is the best free prepaid card in the Netherlands?+
Can I use a prepaid card for online shopping?+
How do I load money onto a prepaid card?+
Are prepaid cards safe?+
Find Your Perfect Prepaid Card
We compare all prepaid cards based on your profile — in 2 minutes your best match.
⚡ Start Free AI Comparison