Credit card with BKR: what are your options?

Even with a BKR record, you may still be able to get a credit card in certain cases. If you have a positive BKR record (with no payment delinquencies), most banks will simply approve your application. If you have a negative record, prepaid credit cards are the best alternative, since they do not require a BKR check. The most effective solution is to have your negative BKR record legally removed, after which all regular credit cards will become available to you again.

For many people, a credit card has become indispensable. Whether you want to shop online, rent a car abroad, or simply seek some extra financial security, without a credit card you’ll run into practical problems. We understand how frustrating it is to be rejected because of a BKR record. Fortunately, there are more options than you might think. We’ll walk you through all the options available to you, from prepaid alternatives to permanently resolving your BKR issue.

Key insights

  • Positive BKR record: No obstacle to applying for a standard credit card
  • Negative registration: Prepaid credit cards offer an immediately viable alternative
  • Credit limit is a factor: This can make a difference of thousands of euros when applying for a mortgage
  • Deletion possible: Negative entries can often be removed within a few weeks
  • Direct debit cards: No BKR registration if paid off in full within 30 days
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What is a BKR record, and why is it important?

In the Netherlands, the Credit Registration Bureau (BKR) keeps track of all consumer loans over 250 euros that are more than 30 days past due. When you apply for a credit card, the issuer always performs aBKR check . This check has been mandatory since 2007 under the Financial Supervision Act and prevents people from borrowing too much.

When it comes to credit cards, we distinguish between two types of records. A positive BKR record means that you are registered for an active or paid-off loan, but have always made your payments on time. This record usually does not pose a problem for new credit card applications. You will receive a negative BKR record if you have payment arrears of more than 90 days. With such aA code , it becomes virtually impossible to obtain a credit card through standard channels.

Many people don’t realize that even a positive credit history affects your borrowing capacity. That’s because your credit card’s full credit limit counts toward your maximum borrowing capacity, even if you hardly ever use the card. This can have particularly unpleasant consequences when applying for a mortgage. For someone with an average income, a credit card with a 2,500-euro limit can reduce your mortgage by as much as 10,000 to 15,000 euros.

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Apply for a credit card with a positive BKR record

With a positiveBKR record , you can simply apply for a credit card at most banks and credit card companies. They view you as a reliable customer who meets their obligations. However, they do look at your total credit load in relation to your income.

If you already have multiple loans or credit cards, this may affect your new application. Credit card issuers apply a maximum credit load. They take into account the total credit limits of all your credit cards, even if you don’t actually use the full amount of those limits. This protects you from taking on too much debt, but it can sometimes be limiting.

Are you planning to take out amortgage soon? If so, it’s a good idea to take a critical look at your credit cards. You might consider temporarily lowering your credit limit, switching to a prepaid credit card, or canceling the card altogether if you don’t really need it. This way, you can maximize your mortgage options without immediately being left without a credit card.

Credit Card Options for Those with a Negative BKR Record

With anegative entry , it becomes more difficult to get a credit card, but it’s not hopeless. Banks view a negative BKR code as a risk indicator and usually reject applications. Still, there are several alternatives you can use right away.

Prepaid credit cards are the most practical solution if you need a working credit card quickly. With these cards, you load money onto the card in advance, so there’s no credit involved. You can never spend more than the amount you’ve loaded onto the card. The main advantage is that there’s no credit check, and you can use the card worldwide just like a regular credit card. You have full control over your spending and run no risk of incurring new debt or having it recorded on your credit report. Keep in mind, however, that the costs for purchasing, loading, and using the card are higher compared to regular credit cards.

Another option is a secured credit card. With this type of card, you deposit, for example, 1,000 euros as a security deposit, after which you receive a credit card with the same credit limit. If you are unable to meet your payment obligations, the credit card company will use your security deposit to settle the debt. This type of credit card is less common in the Netherlands but is offered more frequently abroad.

“Every day, we see people who think they have to wait five years to clear a negative BKR record. In many cases, we can have the record removed within a few weeks on legal grounds. This immediately paves the way for a standard credit card with no restrictions.”

Deepak, legal specialist at Dynamiet Nederland

If your partner does not have a negative BKR record, he or she can apply for a credit card and give you a secondary card. Your partner will then remain fully responsible for all charges. This option naturally requires a great deal of mutual trust, but it can be practical for households where one partner is dealing with BKR issues.

Have your BKR record removed for complete freedom

The most effective solution is to have your negative BKR record removed. Although a record normally remains on file for 5 years, there are legal options to have it removed sooner. It is a persistent misconception that you always have to wait 5 years.

There are several grounds on which a record may be removed early. In cases of disproportionality, the consequences of the record are not proportionate to the original debt or circumstances. Special circumstances such as illness, divorce, or job loss may also be grounds for removal. Sometimes procedural errors were made when the information was reported to the BKR, or the underlying debt has already expired while the record is still active.

Since 2012, Dynamiet Nederland has specialized in removing BKR records on legal grounds. We have already helped thousands of people regain their financial freedom. With our many years of experience, we can quickly assess whether your record is eligible for removal. Once it has been successfully removed, you can immediately apply for a standard credit card from any bank or credit card company.

Removing your BKR listing not only opens the door to credit cards, but also to mortgages, car loans, and other financial products. You’ll regain your full financial freedom and be able to move forward with your life. Many people wait unnecessarily long to take action, even though the solution is often closer than they think.

Are you ready to put your BKR issues behind you once and for all? Contact us today for afree consultation. Together, we’ll review your situation and discuss the options available for having your record removed. With over 2,600 positive reviews and an average rating of 9.1, you know you’re in good hands with us.

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Our specialists

Deepak Thakoerdien
  • 14 years of experience in legal proceedings
  • known from AVROTROS Radar
Jan Doeke Biesheuvel
  • Over 8 years of experience in the legal field
  • Has resolved hundreds of cases without court intervention
Lisa van Gulik
  • Has successfully represented hundreds of clients
  • Start lawsuits and proceedings at the Kifid
Nurettin Kocak
  • Has gained great respect within the legal services industry
  • A decisive and no-nonsense lawyer

Frequently asked questions about credit cards with BKR

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