Debit and credit cards in Spain

Overview

Most Spanish bank accounts come with a debit card by default, with a credit card available separately, often requiring a specific application and income assessment.

Requirements

• A debit card is typically issued automatically once your account is open
• A credit card usually requires a separate application, and approval depends on your income and, in some cases, your credit history in Spain

Step-by-step process

• Request your debit card as part of opening your account, if it isn't issued automatically
• If you want a credit card, ask your bank about their specific application process and income requirements
• Activate your card following your bank's instructions (often via the app or an ATM) once it arrives
• Set your PIN if it isn't already set, and register the card in your bank's app for spending notifications

Required documents

• Active bank account
• Proof of income, for a credit card application

Common mistakes

• Assuming a credit card is automatically included with a new account — in Spain, it usually isn't and needs a separate request
• Not activating a newly arrived card before trying to use it, and assuming it's faulty

Practical tips

• If you don't yet have enough Spanish income history for a credit card, some banks offer a secured or lower-limit option to help you build one
• Compare card-specific fees (annual fee, foreign transaction fee) separately from account fees, since they're not always the same across a bank's card range

How Tuchati can help

If a card application is declined or unclear, Tuchati can help you understand why and what your options are.