Applying for a credit card: step by step

Step 1: Find the right card

Before applying, you should compare different cards. Look at the annual fee, foreign currency fees, bonus and the type of billing. Our comparison helps you find the right card.

Step 2: Fill in the online application

The application is usually completed entirely online today and takes just a few minutes. You provide personal data, details of your income and your bank details.

Step 3: Verify your identity

For verification you use either the VideoIdent procedure (via webcam or smartphone) or the PostIdent procedure at a post office. VideoIdent often takes under 10 minutes.

Step 4: Credit check & approval

The bank checks your SCHUFA and decides on the application. If the check is positive, you receive approval — often immediately, sometimes within a few days.

Step 5: Receive & activate the card

The card arrives by post, the PIN separately. After activation you can start right away — many cards can be added directly to Apple Pay or Google Pay.

Common reasons for rejection

Not every application is approved. The most common reasons for rejection are a negative credit rating due to missed payments or ongoing dunning proceedings in the SCHUFA, an income that is too low or irregular, and incomplete or incorrect information in the application. A failed identity verification — for example due to an expired ID — can also lead to rejection.

Applicants who cannot yet provide proof of income or have gaps in their employment history are often declined for classic credit cards. Banks set their own requirements and do not always communicate them transparently, so a rejection does not necessarily indicate permanently poor creditworthiness.

What to do if rejected

A rejection is not a final verdict. First check your SCHUFA data copy for errors and have any incorrect entries corrected. If income is the issue, consider applying for a prepaid or debit card instead, which requires no SCHUFA check and no proof of minimum income.

After a few months with an improved financial situation or corrected data, it is worth applying again. Make sure all mandatory fields are filled in completely and your details are up to date — this significantly increases your chances of approval.