The digital bank N26 is a German fintech that has stood out for its innovative and digital approach since its inception in 2013. Headquartered in Berlin, the company was founded by Valentin Stalf and Maximilian Tayenthal with the goal of simplifying the banking sector, eliminating the need for physical branches, and offering a fully digital banking experience. The idea was clear: to allow anyone to open a checking account easily and quickly through an intuitive app, without the bureaucracy of traditional banks.
N26’s impact on the financial market has been remarkable, especially in Europe, where the fintech quickly gained popularity, challenging established banking institutions with its simple, practical, and low-cost proposal. The great differentiator of the N26 digital bank lies in its practicality and its ability to provide customers with a modern and accessible banking platform.
1. How to Apply for a Card from N26 Digital Bank?
The process of applying for an N26 card is entirely digital and can be completed in a matter of minutes. To begin, the customer needs to download the N26 app, available for Android and iOS devices.
The account opening is done directly through the app, where the user is required to fill in personal information such as full name, date of birth, residential address, and nationality.
Next, the user must go through an identity verification process, which usually involves submitting a copy of an official document, such as a passport or ID card, as well as a selfie to confirm the applicant’s identity.
After verification, the customer can choose the type of account they wish to open, with various options available, ranging from free accounts to premium accounts that offer additional benefits such as travel insurance and higher withdrawal limits at ATMs.
Once the desired account is selected, the physical card is sent to the customer’s address, and they can immediately start using the virtual card for online transactions.
2. General Requirements to Obtain an N26 Card
The requirements to obtain an N26 card are relatively simple compared to traditional banking institutions. The primary criterion is that the customer must be at least 18 years old, as opening bank accounts for minors is restricted in most countries.
Additionally, the customer must reside in one of the countries where N26 offers its services, as the physical card will be sent to the provided address. Identity verification is necessary to ensure the security of both the customer and the institution.
Unlike many traditional banks, N26 does not require proof of minimum income or a flawless credit history for opening basic accounts. This makes the fintech accessible to a wide range of people, including those who may not have a high credit score or who prefer a banking solution without complex fees and bureaucracy.
N26 cards are primarily issued to residents of European countries but are also widely used by expatriates and travelers who move to other regions.

3. Main Digital Bank N26 Cards by Continent
The N26 digital bank offers a variety of cards to meet different needs and customer profiles around the world. Below is an overview of the main cards offered by continent, with information about their features and exclusive advantages.
3.1. N26 Cards in Europe
In Europe, where N26 is based and has most of its customers, the offered cards range from free accounts to premium accounts. The N26 Standard card is one of the most popular options, being offered without a monthly fee and with basic functionalities, including a virtual debit card.
The fintech also offers the N26 You, an account that includes benefits such as travel insurance and free ATM withdrawals outside the eurozone, ideal for frequent travelers.
The N26 Metal is the most premium version, offering a metal card with exclusive benefits, such as priority customer service and broader insurance coverage. In Europe, N26 is particularly popular among young professionals, students, and digital nomads who appreciate the ease of managing their finances from anywhere through an intuitive app.
3.2. N26 Cards in North America
In North America, N26 once operated in the United States, where it offered debit cards to consumers seeking a modern banking solution without hidden fees.
Although it ceased operations in the country in 2021, many of the cards issued at the time were aimed at consumers needing financial services with a focus on international transactions.
The N26 Standard and N26 You were the main cards offered in the US, with a similar approach to Europe, serving consumers looking for an alternative to large traditional banks, especially those who made purchases in foreign currencies or traveled frequently.
With its withdrawal from the North American market, N26 customers now need to use the fintech’s services in other continents.
3.3. N26 Cards in South America
In South America, N26 does not yet have a direct presence. However, many customers use the fintech’s services when moving to European countries or traveling abroad. The N26 card is widely accepted for online purchases on international websites and for ATM withdrawals in Brazil, Argentina, and other countries in the region.
With the growing popularity of digital banks in South America, it is possible that N26 sees great potential for future expansion, especially in countries with a strong growth in fintech customer base, such as Brazil.
3.4. Digital Bank N26 Cards in Central America
In Central America, the situation is similar to that in South America. N26 does not yet have direct operations in the region, but many travelers and expatriates use the fintech’s cards during their stays in countries such as Costa Rica, Panama, and Guatemala.
The ease of use of the N26 app, along with the global acceptance of the card, makes the fintech a convenient option for those relocating or traveling to Central America.
Additionally, customers residing in Europe who frequently travel to these countries can benefit from the competitive rates offered by N26 for international transactions.
3.5. Digital Bank N26 Cards in Africa
In Africa, N26 is gaining popularity among European expatriates living in countries such as South Africa, Kenya, and Nigeria. The fintech does not operate directly in African countries, but many customers use their cards during trips or for international online purchases.
N26 digital bank offers a borderless experience for these customers, who can make foreign currency transactions with competitive exchange rates and ATM withdrawals without major complications.
The global acceptance of N26 cards is a significant advantage for those living or working on different continents, including Africa.
3.6. N26 Cards in Oceania
In Oceania, N26 is an attractive option for European expatriates, especially in Australia and New Zealand. As the fintech offers cards widely accepted for international purchases, many European customers who move to Oceania opt to continue using N26 due to the simplicity of the service and transparent fees.
The integration of the bank with mobile devices also makes it easy to manage finances from anywhere, which is highly valued by travelers and remote workers.
3.7. Digital Bank N26 Cards in Asia
Finally, in Asia, N26 has become popular among travelers and expatriates looking for a global banking solution. In countries like Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong, the fintech’s cards are widely used by Europeans who need a secure and reliable option for international transactions.
The ability to withdraw from ATMs in various Asian countries, along with the benefits of N26 Metal and N26 You, makes the digital bank a popular choice for those frequently commuting between Europe and Asia.
4. Conclusion
N26 has managed to transform the traditional banking experience with its innovative and fully digital approach.
Offering a wide range of debit cards with international acceptance, the fintech has become an attractive solution for global consumers, especially those seeking simplicity, transparency, and convenience in their financial transactions.
The N26 digital bank continues to expand its operations and improve its services, becoming increasingly relevant for travelers, expatriates, and consumers who prioritize modernity and efficiency in their banking relationships.