Debit cards versus credit cards, what’s the difference?

BGL BNP Paribas’ debit card is a Visa Debit.

BGL BNP Paribas also offers a range of different credit cards. The main difference between these is the services they include.

You can choose between cards:

• Visa Classic, 
• Mastercard Gold,
  
• Mastercard Platinum
  
• Mastercard Elite.

Who is eligible?

In Luxembourg, debit cards are available to clients aged 12 and over. They are automatically issued to anyone who holds a current account with BGL BNP Paribas.

Credit cards are available to anyone over the age of 18, based on a creditworthiness check by your bank.

Where are payments accepted?

Debit cards and credit cards enabling you to pay for purchases:

• online;
• in all shops in Luxembourg;
•  and abroad.

Cash withdrawals

Withdrawals made using your debit card are free at all ATMs belonging to:

• BGL BNP Paribas;
• the BNP Paribas Group;
• our international partners (excluding foreign exchange fees).

With a credit card, withdrawals are charged at national rates:

• from the BNP Paribas Group network;
• from international partners (excluding foreign exchange fees).

This rate is EUR 2,50 + 2% of the amount withdrawn.

Instant or deferred payment

With a debit card, your bank account is immediately charged.

However, credit cards allow you to defer the payment of your purchases.

Card limits

The (weekly) usage limits for your debit card are:

• EUR 2,500 for payments;
• EUR 2,500 for withdrawals.

Subject to an available account balance.

Your credit card limit is defined:

• depending on the card chosen;
• based on your financial circumstances.

Insurance and assistance

Our Visa Debit card offers you access to online purchase protection insurance, covering:

• non-compliant delivery;
• non-delivery of goods purchased online.

Our credit cards offer insurance and assistance services for both you and your family.

These services cover, for example:

• travel;
•  stolen baggage;
• rental car excess;
• a 24/7 concierge service.