American Express Blue Card: Facts, Costs & Alternatives

The American Express Blue Card is AMEX’s free entry-level solution – ideal for anyone seeking a straightforward, secure credit card for everyday use, without a fixed annual fee.

In this review, we explain advantages and disadvantages, outline fees & charges, clarify credit limits, highlight acceptance in Germany, and compare it with Payback, Gold, and Platinum. We also answer common questions such as: “Is the American Express Blue Card really free?”, “What insurance is included?” or “How high is the limit?”

Here’s a summary of the most important fees:

Example: Withdrawing €200 at an ATM incurs €8 (4%). From about €125 upwards, the percentage fee exceeds the minimum €5. ATM providers may charge additional fees. In everyday life, card payments are often cheaper.

For foreign currency transactions outside the Eurozone, a 2% surcharge applies. Frequent travelers outside EUR should consider this or combine with a card that has no FX fee.

As a charge card, the monthly bill is debited in full. No ongoing interest applies – only late payments trigger interest and reminder fees.

⇨ Tip: Activate SEPA direct debit, set reminders for due dates, and use the Amex app for real-time tracking.

With the AMEX Blue Card you can activate rotating cashback and discount promotions via the app. For price-conscious users, these credits can add up quickly. The card is also instantly compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay, enabling seamless contactless payments online, in stores, and in apps.

Security features include SafeKey (3-D Secure), real-time transaction alerts, card blocking via app, and fast replacement – offering a higher level of protection compared to many standard debit cards.

With the optional program (€30/year), you earn at least 1 point per €1 spent. Spending €1,000/month yields about 12,000 points annually – enough for attractive redemptions on travel, gift cards, or partner programs.

If you regularly shop at Payback partners, the Payback American Express may be a better fit. It also has no annual fee but collects Payback points instead of MR. In the section “Amex Blue vs Payback, Gold & Platinum” you’ll find which option suits which profile.

The MR add-on pays off if you have higher monthly spending or want flexible transfers to travel partners. For light users, the Blue Card remains appealing even without rewards.

American Express does not advertise a fixed limit – instead, it provides a dynamic spending power based on your usage and creditworthiness.

As a charge card, your full monthly balance is debited by direct debit – installment payments are not available. This means no ongoing interest charges in normal use.

Tips to increase your limit:

Travel is often the main reason for getting a new credit card. Here are the essentials:

Eligibility: Must be 18+, have residence in Germany, a German/SEPA current account, and pass a credit check.

Application: Fully online, ~10–15 minutes. Identification and credit check required. Digital wallet use is often possible before the physical card arrives.

Cancellation: Possible at any time – in writing, via chat, or by phone. Don’t forget to redeem or transfer remaining points before closing the account.

In short: yes, the Amex Blue Card is worth it for anyone looking for a free credit card with a strong app, SafeKey security, Apple/Google Pay, and Amex Offers. If you use Membership Rewards, the €30 add-on can bring additional value.

Overall, the American Express Blue Card convinces as a free everyday card with strong digital features and solid security. For those who value no annual fee and flexibility, it’s an excellent choice. Frequent travelers or heavy point collectors may find Gold/Platinum or the Payback version more suitable.

Note: We strive to keep our information up to date. Fees and limits may change, so always check the official product page before applying.