How to buy prepaid creditcards

What Are Prepaid Credit Cards and How Do They Work?

Prepaid credit cards are flexible payment cards you load with money in advance. Think of them as a cross between a debit card and a gift card: you can use them for shopping, travel, or online subscriptions, but you can only spend what you’ve preloaded—they’re not linked to a bank account or credit line.

How they differ:

Debit cards pull funds directly from your bank account.
Credit cards let you borrow, up to a limit, and repay later.
Prepaid cards must be topped up first; spending is limited to your available balance.

Prepaid cards often look like normal Mastercard, Visa, or Maestro cards. In Europe, they’re issued both by traditional banks and digital-only providers. They’re available as physical cards (for in-store and ATM use) or virtual prepaid cards (for online and app payments).

If you need a deeper dive, check out our guide on Virtual Prepaid Cards Explained and Prepaid Cards for Online Subscriptions Europe in the BuyXwithY series.

How to Buy a Prepaid Credit Card Online in Europe: Step-by-Step Guide

Buying a prepaid credit card is easy once you know your options. Here’s how most people in Europe do it in 2025:

Step 1: Choose a regulated provider

Top online platforms include Revolut, N26, Wise, Paysafecard, and Neteller.
Double-check they’re FCA/EU-regulated for your protection. User reviews or badges like "FCA Authorized" are trust signals.

Step 2: Select your card type

Decide if you need a physical, virtual, or reloadable prepaid card.
For travel, look for multi-currency support (e.g., Wise, Revolut).
For online-only shopping, a virtual card may be plenty.

Step 3: Register and verify your identity

Most providers require a quick registration. EU law (Directive 2018/843) means you’ll usually need to verify your identity for anything over €150.
Typical requirements: Passport or national ID, sometimes proof of address.

Step 4: Top up your card

Fund your card via bank transfer, credit/debit card, Apple Pay, or sometimes cash in retail stores.
Check minimum and maximum amounts; anonymous cards have very low reload limits.

Step 5: Activate your card

Physical cards arrive by post—activate via the app or website.
Virtual cards are usually ready instantly after KYC.

Step 6: Start using and manage your card

Add the card to Apple/Google Pay, use it online or at shops, track spending on your provider’s app.

For more details on specific buying processes (country-by-country), see our cluster article: How to Buy Prepaid Cards Online in Europe.

Do You Need Identification to Buy a Prepaid Credit Card in Europe?

In nearly all cases: Yes, some form of identification is required. The EU’s 5th Anti-Money Laundering Directive (Directive (EU) 2018/843) brought major changes:

Low-value, anonymous cards (below €150): Often available in supermarkets and newsagents, but usage is limited (e.g., not for online purchases or use outside the issuing country).
Higher-value or reloadable cards: Must be registered to your name, with ID and sometimes address verification.
UK, Germany, Netherlands, France: Most major providers require ID for *any* prepaid card purchase or reload.

This is to protect you and reduce fraud. FCA or EU-regulated providers must comply—if a website advertises high-value, anonymous prepaid cards, treat that as a red flag. As *Forbes* put it, “Europe’s strict KYC rules for prepaid cards are among the toughest worldwide, helping reduce fraud and keep users’ money safe.” (Forbes, 2024)

Types of Prepaid Credit Cards Available in Europe

European providers offer a big variety to cater to all needs:

**Virtual prepaid cards:** Instantly issued, perfect for online shopping or digital services (explore more).
Reloadable cards: Top up anytime, reuse often; suitable for travel, budgeting, or payroll.
Anonymous prepaid cards: Rare, low-limit cards bought in shops—can’t be topped up above €150 and rarely work online.
Prepaid travel cards: Special cards supporting multiple currencies for travel across the EEA (like Revolut or Wise cards).

Want an in-depth look at this? Check Best Prepaid Travel Cards Europe for detailed reviews.

Where Can You Use Prepaid Credit Cards in Europe?

Prepaid credit cards are accepted almost everywhere regular credit/debit cards are:

Shops & supermarkets: Any terminal that supports Mastercard, Visa, or Maestro.
Online shopping: Works for most merchants, including subscriptions (Spotify, Netflix) and booking sites.
Travel: Pay in restaurants, hotels, or withdraw cash at ATMs abroad (may incur fees).
Contactless payments: Most modern prepaid cards support Apple Pay/Google Pay.

Limitations:

Some car hires, hotels, or gas stations might not accept prepaid cards for deposits, especially outside your country.
Anonymous cards may not work for online payments due to anti-fraud rules.

Read more in our Prepaid Cards for Online Subscriptions Europe guide.

Fees and Charges Associated with Prepaid Credit Cards in Europe

Fees on prepaid cards can vary—always check the card’s terms and fee table before buying.

Common fee types:

Activation fee: Some supermarket cards charge €5–€10.
Monthly/maintenance fee: €1–€4/month is typical for some reloadable cards.
ATM withdrawal fee: Around €1.75–€2.50 per withdrawal, though some providers offer free limits.
Reload/top-up fee: Can apply if you use certain funding methods.
Foreign transaction fee: 0–3%, though travel-friendly cards often offer interbank exchange rates (Wise, Revolut).
Inactivity fee: Cards may start charging after a few months of no use.

**Quick tip:** “Transparent pricing is a good indicator of a reliable European provider. If fees or conditions are hidden, look for another company,” according to Money.co.uk.

How to Reload and Activate a European Prepaid Credit Card

Reloading:

Bank transfer: Most common, often free or low-fee.
Debit/credit card: Instant but sometimes charges a fee.
Apple Pay/Google Pay: Popular on apps like N26 or Revolut.
Retail/cash reload: Available at partner stores (Paysafecard, some supermarket cards).
From abroad: Many digital banks (Revolut, Wise) let you reload via international transfer—ideal for expats or frequent travelers.

Activating:

Physical card: Once you get your card, scan it or enter the number in the issuer app/website.
Virtual card: Usually active right after verifying your ID and loading your first funds.

Strong authentication (e.g., SMS verification, app login) is standard for prepaid cards in 2025.

For specific country guidance, see our article: Reloading Prepaid Cards from Abroad.

Top Prepaid Credit Card Providers in Europe

Europe’s prepaid card market is competitive and well-regulated. Here are some user-verified, trusted leaders:

**Revolut:** Virtual + physical, multi-currency, great for travel; free and premium tiers.
**N26:** Bank-like experience, strong app, European focus, free virtual cards for account holders.
**Wise:** Known for excellent exchange rates on over 50 currencies; instant virtual card on signup.
**Paysafecard:** Popular anonymous prepaid for online use (small amounts only).
Neteller, Monese: Niche and specialist uses, solid English-language support.
Supermarkets/Post offices: Local options, but generally low-value and may restrict online purchases.

Regulatory trust is crucial. Always look for visible compliance with EU or FCA rules.

For detailed feature comparisons, visit Best Prepaid Credit Card Providers in Europe.

Benefits and Limitations of Using Prepaid Credit Cards in Europe

Benefits:

Budget control: Spend only what you load; helps avoid overspending or debt.
Safety: Not linked to your main bank account—limits fraud impact.
Travel-friendly: Use across the EEA without currency worries (with Euro or multi-currency cards).
Online privacy: Virtual cards can add an extra layer of security.

Limitations:

Usage limits: Anonymous/unregistered cards have tight limits (max €150).
Not suitable for all types of transactions: Some merchants (car rentals, hotels) may not accept them as deposits.
Fee structure: Can be higher than standard debit/credit cards for frequent use.
Reload windows: Some cards take hours/days to reflect top-ups or have low daily caps.

Tips for Choosing the Best Prepaid Credit Card for Your Needs

Consider what you need it for: Travel, everyday use, online shopping, or gifting.
Check card acceptance: Opt for Mastercard or Visa networks.
Look for transparent fees: Review activation, reload, monthly, and transaction costs.
Assess reload options: Instant reloads via multiple payment methods are handy for frequent users.
Evaluate app usability: A good mobile app makes management and tracking spending easier.
Read recent reviews: User experiences point out quirks or country-specific issues.
Check foreign usage policies: If you travel, pick cards with low/no foreign transaction fees.

For personalized recommendations, see our Choosing the Right Prepaid Travel Card guide.

Frequently Asked Questions About Buying Prepaid Credit Cards in Europe

How do I buy a prepaid credit card online in Europe?

Pick a regulated provider, register an account, complete KYC, load funds, and activate your card—see the step-by-step guide above.

Are prepaid credit cards accepted everywhere in Europe?

Generally yes, wherever Visa/Mastercard is accepted—except some merchants (like car rentals or fuel stations) may not take them for deposits.

Do I need identification for a prepaid credit card?

Yes: per EU rules, you’ll need to verify your identity for almost all cards above €150.

Can I use a prepaid card for online subscriptions?

Absolutely. Virtual cards in particular are ideal for this—more info in our Prepaid Cards for Online Subscriptions Europe article.

What are the typical fees for European prepaid cards?

Activation: sometimes free–€10. Reload: free to €3. ATM withdrawal: €1–€2.50. Monthly fee: €0–€4. Always check the card’s T&C before buying.

Can I reload my prepaid credit card from abroad?

Digital banks like Wise, Revolut, and N26 make it easy. Some supermarket cards may be local use only.

Is it safe to buy prepaid cards online?

Very safe, as long as you choose FCA/EU-regulated providers and avoid ‘anonymous high-value’ offers from unverified sellers.

Which is better for travel: prepaid card or debit card?

Prepaid travel cards from Wise or Revolut, with multi-currency support, beat most debit cards for currency exchange and safety abroad.

Final Thoughts

Buying prepaid credit cards in Europe is simple if you stick to regulated providers and understand local rules. They’re a versatile tool for travel, budgeting, or safer online spending. As prepaid card regulations continue to evolve, always check fees, acceptance, and security options before choosing.

**Want more specific advice? Explore our cluster articles on Best Prepaid Travel Cards Europe, Virtual Prepaid Cards Explained, and Reloading Prepaid Cards from Abroad for deeper insights.**

Sources:

*Content verified and up to date as of August 2025.*

How to Buy Prepaid Credit Cards: A Simple Guide