The Santander 1plus Visa Card is a popular choice in Germany for those seeking a flexible, travel-friendly credit card.
It offers no annual fee, global ATM access, and attractive perks, but it also includes essential conditions, such as interest rates and usage fees.
In this guide, you’ll learn how to apply, what documents are needed, and how to manage the card cost-effectively.
Card Overview
The Santander 1plus Visa Card is known for its convenience, especially for frequent travelers and cost-conscious users.
Below is a simple breakdown of the main benefits and key trade-offs to consider before applying.
Main Benefits
- No annual fee – You won’t pay a yearly charge to keep the card active.
- Free ATM withdrawals – Up to four withdrawals per month are free worldwide.
- Gas station cashback – Earn 1% back on fuel purchases, up to a monthly limit of €400.
- Fee refunds – You can request a refund for third-party ATM fees with proof.
- No euro transaction fees – Payments in euros abroad don’t incur extra charges.
- Emergency services – Free replacement cards and help in urgent travel situations.
- Mobile and online banking – Manage your card through the Santander app and website.
Key Trade-Offs
- Foreign currency fee – Non-euro transactions come with a 1.5%–1.85% charge.
- ATM limit – After four monthly withdrawals, a 3.5% fee per transaction applies (minimum €5.75).
- Partial payment default – Only 5% of the balance is auto-paid unless you opt to pay in full.
- High interest – If unpaid, the interest rate ranges from about 13.98% to 19.16% annually.
- Manual repayment – You need to pay the full balance to avoid interest manually.
- Perk limits – Cashback and travel discounts may have monthly limits.
Eligibility & Required Documents
To apply for the Santander 1plus Visa Card, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria and provide specific documents.
These requirements help the bank assess your identity, financial stability, and legal residency in Germany.
- Age requirement – You must be at least 18 years old.
- Residency – A permanent residence in Germany is required.
- Income proof – You need to show a stable source of income, such as employment or self-employment.
- Credit check – A positive credit history (Schufa) is necessary for approval.
- Bank account – You must have a German bank account for automatic payments.
- Required Documents
- Valid ID – Passport or national identity card.
- Proof of residence – Registration certificate (Meldebescheinigung) issued within the last 6 months.
- Income documents – Recent payslips, tax returns, or freelance income statements.
- Optional documents – Work contract, bank statements, or a residence permit if you’re not an EU citizen.
Application Process
The application process is straightforward and can be completed online or in person.
You’ll need to provide personal and financial details and then verify your identity to complete the request.
- Visit the official Santander website – Start by accessing the credit card application page.
- Fill out the online form – Enter your name, address, contact information, date of birth, and nationality.
- Add employment and income details – Specify your job title, employer, monthly income, and housing costs.
- Set card preferences – Choose how you want to receive statements and any optional services you’d like to receive.
- Review and submit – Check your information and accept the terms and conditions.
- Verify your identity – Complete identity verification through VideoIdent (via webcam) or PostIdent (at a Deutsche Post branch).
- Wait for approval – You’ll receive a confirmation email once your application is reviewed.
Activation & Use
Once your application is approved, the card and PIN are sent separately to your registered address.
You’ll need to activate the card before using it, and there are several ways to manage your card effectively.
- Card delivery – The physical card usually arrives within 5 to 10 business days.
- PIN delivery – Your PIN is sent in a separate letter for added security.
- Activation method – Activate the card through Santander’s online banking platform or mobile app.
- Change your PIN – Use a Santander ATM to set a new PIN if needed.
- Manual full payment – Set up full balance payment manually to avoid interest charges.
- Daily spending – Use the card for in-store, online, and international purchases.
- Card control – Freeze, unfreeze, or monitor transactions via the Santander app.
Tips to Minimize Costs
Using the card wisely can help you avoid unnecessary fees and maximize its benefits.
Here are some practical tips to reduce costs while enjoying the card’s features.
- Pay the full balance manually – Avoid high interest by settling your balance before the due date.
- Stay within the ATM limit – Make no more than four ATM withdrawals per month to avoid extra charges.
- Avoid foreign currency fees – Pay in euros when traveling within the Eurozone to skip conversion charges.
- Request ATM fee refunds – Keep receipts and submit refund requests for third-party ATM fees.
- Use cashback smartly – Earn 1% fuel cashback by using the card for gas station purchases, up to €400 per month.
- Disable partial payments – Opt out of the 5% minimum payment setting to avoid long-term interest buildup.
Customer Support & FAQ
If you have questions or need help with your card, Santander offers multiple support channels.
Below are the key contact options and answers to common questions.
- Phone support – Call 02161 9060 for general inquiries and card assistance.
- Email – Reach out via [email protected] for non-urgent questions.
- Branch visits – Use the online locator to find a Santander branch near you.
- Mailing address – Santander Consumer Bank AG, Santander-Platz 1, 41061 Mönchengladbach, Germany.
The Bottomline
The 1plus Visa Card offers practical benefits, including no annual fee, global usability, and fuel cashback, making it a solid choice for both everyday and travel use.
By understanding the fees and managing payments wisely, you can avoid interest and maximize savings.
If you’re ready to apply, visit Santander’s official site and start your application today.
Disclaimer
Information in this article is based on publicly available details at the time of writing and may change without notice.
Please visit Santander’s official website for the most current terms, fees, and conditions.
