Sweden is a country where credit cards are a part of daily life, like in many countries. They make shopping easier, travel more convenient, and can even help save money if used wisely. With so many options, finding the best credit card can feel overwhelming. With over 150 credit cards tested, the journey to find the best credit card in Sweden reveals that the ideal choice constantly evolves.
This guide aims to simplify that search, focusing on what makes a credit card valuable and highlighting some of the top choices available in Sweden today.
Understanding Credit Cards
Before diving into the best credit cards, it is important to understand what a credit card is and how it works.
A credit card is a plastic card given by a bank or financial institution. It allows you to buy things now and pay for them later.
Every month, the credit card company sends you a bill for what you spent. You can pay it all at once or over time. If you choose to pay over time, interest is added to the amount you owe.
Why Get a Credit Card?
Credit cards offer more than just a convenient payment method. They provide opportunities for rewards, travel points, and financial flexibility.
Whether you are looking to build your credit score, earn cashback, or secure travel perks, the right credit card can significantly enhance your financial strategy.
What Makes a Good Credit Card?
A good credit card is more than just a way to spend money. It should also offer benefits that match your lifestyle and spending habits.
Here are some features to look for.
- Low Fees – Some cards charge a yearly fee. A good card keeps these fees low or does not have them at all.
- Rewards and Benefits – Many cards offer rewards like points for shopping, travel insurance, or cashback on purchases.
- Interest Rates – If you don’t pay your full bill each month, you will be charged interest. A lower interest rate means you will pay less over time.
- Customer Service – Good customer service is crucial, especially if you run into problems with your card or account.
Top Credit Cards in Sweden
Finding the best credit card in Sweden depends on what you need. Some cards are great for travel, others give you cash back on what you buy, and some help you save money with low fees.
Here are some of the best credit cards in Sweden, with their fees, rewards, and benefits.
1. Bank Norwegian Visa
- Annual Fee: Free
- Rewards: 0.5% back on all purchases, with options for cashback or CashPoints.
- Benefits: Interest-free installments, travel insurance, and dental protection.
Ideal for beginners, the Bank Norwegian Visa card offers a flexible and straightforward rewards system. This card is perfect for those looking to build a better credit score without worrying about fees.
It also provides up to 55 days of credit, which is interest-free. Moreover, they include insurance for both travel and groceries, making it convenient to avail a multitude of facilities. You can also add any other insurance to this card by contacting the bank. Also, perfectly compatible with all Samsung, Google, and Apple Pay.
2. American Express Gold (or Blue)
- Annual Fee: 2100 SEK/year
- Rewards: 100,000 welcome points, great for travel and everyday spending.
- Benefits: Comprehensive travel insurance, lounge access, and compatibility with Apple Pay.
Though pricier, the American Express Gold card is suited for those who make the most of its travel benefits and rewards system. It offers a luxurious experience for frequent travelers as well as provides lounge access at Arlanda.
In some of the selected restaurants all over the world, you can get a discount of upto SEK 600. This card is also compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay.
3. Coop Mastercard Mer
- Annual Fee: 295 SEK/year (free for the first year)
- Rewards: 10,000 welcome points, with up to 5 points per krona spent.
- Benefits: Travel and purchase insurance, points conversion for vouchers.
A solid choice for Coop shoppers, this card maximizes rewards on everyday purchases. This card is one of the practical options for families and regular Coop visitors.
It also covers the simple point system which can further be exchanged for any purchase, especially for vouchers. Moreover, you will be able to get travel and purchase insurance. Another standout feature is its compatibility with Samsung Pay and Apple Pay.
4. Marginalen Gold Visa
- Annual Fee: 195 SEK/year (free for the first year)
- Rewards: 50 days of interest-free credit, Cashback on online purchases, and discounts at over 200 stores.
- Benefits: Payment-free months, nine insurances, and interest-free installments.
Marginalen Gold Visa stands out for its low annual fee and versatile benefits. It serves those with large upcoming expenses or home renovation projects. It also provides an option for installment for individual purchases above SEK 5,000.
You can only get a credit limit between SEK 5,000-100,000. Moreover, you will also get the advantage of not paying for two months. You can carry forward your previous bill to the next month and then pay it without any interest.
You can also split your expenses and convert them into an EMI of six months. Also, the card is compatible with Apple Pay and Samsung Pay.
5. Resurs Gold Credit Card
- Annual Fee: 245 SEK/ year
- Rewards: 55 days of Interest-free credit, provides complimentary travel insurance.
- Benefits: Travel insurance, including your family, covers 75% of the trip, 10,000 welcome points on the first purchase, and 0.5 points for every 1 krona spent on the card.
Resurs Gold credit card is a great way to cover your travel expenses. Apart from this, you can receive points on every krona which further be added to your point balance and can be further deducted on your next purchase. Also, this card is compatible with Google Pay and Apple Pay.
6. Swedbank Credit Card
- Annual Fee: 195 SEK (No annual fee for the first year)
- Rewards: 55 Days of Interest-free credit, provides complimentary travel insurance.
- Benefits: Card Limit from SEK 10,000 – 50,000 and extended warranty on Purchasing insurance for 1 year.
Swedbank Credit card is also one of the best cards as it offers a wide range of offers including balance transfers. Also, compatible with Apple Pay and Google Pay. You can check all your purchases directly visible from the mobile bank.
Moreover, the card also has an option of purchasing insurance with 1 year of extended warranty for home electronics and white goods.
You just have to be over 20 years old to get this card along with an annual income of more than 125,000 SEK.
7. Resurs Classic
- Annual Fee: SEK 245
- Rewards: Six months of interest-free credit
- Benefits: 60 days of free credit on every single purchase and six interest-free installment plans for six months.
Resurs Classic credit card is another one of the best cards used by the citizens. To avail of this card, you need to be more than 20 years of age with a proven account with no payment defaults.
Also, you need to have a job with an annual income of more than SEK 100,000. The Maximum credit limit that one can get on this card is SEK 15,000.
This credit card is best for those who want to avoid any unnecessary costs. Moreover, this card features a six-month interest-free installment plan.
How to Choose the Right Card for You?
Choosing the best credit card depends on your personal needs and spending habits. Here are some steps that can help you to decide.
1. Assess Your Spending – Look at where you spend most of your money. Is it on travel, groceries, or online shopping? Choose a card that rewards those purchases.
2. Consider the Fees – If you don’t want to pay an annual fee, look for cards without one. Remember, some cards with fees offer benefits that can outweigh the cost.
3. Think About Interest Rates – If you often carry a balance, a card with a lower interest rate might save you money in the long run.
4. Read the Fine Print – Always read the terms and conditions before applying for a credit card. This can help you avoid surprises later on.
Making the Most of Your Credit Card
Once you have chosen a credit card, use it wisely to get the most out of its benefits. Selecting the best credit card depends on your lifestyle, spending habits, and financial goals.
Pay your bill in full each month to avoid interest charges, and use the rewards and benefits as much as possible. Also, keep an eye on your spending to ensure you’re not buying more than you can afford.
The Bottom Line
Finding the best credit card in Sweden does not have to be complicated. By understanding what features are most important to you and comparing the options available, you can find a card that fits your lifestyle and helps you make the most of your money.
Whether you are looking for cashback, travel rewards, or low fees in Sweden, there is a credit card out there that is perfect for you. After all, the best credit card is one that aligns well with your financial goals. Also, offering valuable rewards and benefits without costing you more than it is worth.
