How To Get The ING Visa Card: Complete Practical Guide

If you live in Germany and are looking for a modern credit card with no annual fees, complete digital management, free withdrawals, and high-quality customer support, this guide was made for you.

Here’s everything you need to know to apply for the ING Visa Card, from the basic requirements to how the card works in practice.

Why Apply For This Card?

Before getting started, it’s important to understand why many people choose the ING Visa Card. The card has no annual fee, works in millions of establishments worldwide, offers complete digital management through an excellent mobile app, allows free cash withdrawals across Germany, is issued by a large and respected financial institution, and provides top-level security.

In addition, ING is known for excellent customer support and full transparency with no hidden fees.

However, approval is not automatic. ING checks your credit history through Schufa and evaluates your financial situation. If you have severe credit problems, your application may be rejected.

What You Need To Know Before Starting

The ING Visa Card application is 100% online and usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes to complete. You will need:

• A computer or smartphone
• A valid identification document
• A German phone number
• Internet access

The overall process is very fast. You may receive a response the same day or on the next business day. If approved, the physical card is usually delivered within 5 to 10 business days.

One important detail: you MUST open an ING current account to request the card. The card is directly linked to this account. However, the account itself is generally free and offers additional benefits, so there is no major extra cost involved.

Mandatory Requirements To Apply

To apply for the ING Visa Card, you generally must meet the following requirements:

Be At Least 18 Years Old

You must be at least 18 years old. There is no maximum age limit.

Residency In Germany

You must have officially registered residency in Germany with a valid address. Foreigners typically need a valid residence permit or visa.

Valid Identification Document

You will need an official document such as:

• German ID card (Personalausweis)
• German passport
• Passport from another European country

The document must be valid and clearly readable.

German Phone Number

A German mobile phone number is required for SMS verification during the process.

Valid Email Address

You need an active email address to receive communications from ING.

Acceptable Credit Analysis

ING checks your data with Schufa. While ING is not considered extremely strict, your financial history is still evaluated carefully.

Acceptable Financial Situation

There is no officially published minimum income requirement, but having a stable formal income significantly improves your chances.

What Improves Your Approval Chances

Now that you know the basic requirements, here are the main factors that can increase your approval chances significantly.

Clean Credit History

This is the most important factor. If you have never missed payments on loans, bills, or other obligations, your chances are much higher. Before applying, consider checking your Schufa profile for possible errors.

Stable Employment

Having a steady job for several months demonstrates financial stability. The longer you have been employed at the same company, the better.

Active Bank Account With Regular Activity

A bank account receiving salary deposits and regular payments signals financial reliability.

Few Recent Credit Applications

If you submitted multiple credit applications within the last few months, your chances may decrease slightly.

Stable Registered Address

Living at the same registered address for several months helps build credibility.

Above-Average Income

A monthly income above approximately €1,500 generally improves your approval odds.

Accurate And Consistent Information

All information must exactly match your official documents and Schufa records. Inconsistencies can result in rejection.

No Outstanding Debts

Resolving overdue debts before applying can significantly improve your approval chances.

Longer Residency In Germany

Applicants who have been registered in Germany for several months or years are generally viewed more favorably than newly arrived residents.

Where To Apply For The ING Visa Card

There is essentially one official method:

Official ING Website

Visit ING Germany and look for the credit card or account section. You will find a highlighted application button.

Avoid Third-Party Websites

Do not apply through third-party websites promising “guaranteed approval” or charging fees. The official application process is completely free.

Step-By-Step: How To Apply

Step 1: Visit The Official Website

Go to the ING Germany website and access the credit card or current account section.

Step 2: Open An Account And Request The Card

The process starts by opening a digital ING account. Click the highlighted button to begin.

Step 3: Fill In Your Personal Information

You will need to provide:

• Full name
• Date of birth
• Nationality
• Passport or ID number
• Email address
• German phone number
• Full address with postal code
• Length of residence at current address

Fill everything carefully to avoid delays or rejection.

Step 4: Provide Employment Information

You will be asked about:

• Employment status
• Employer name
• Profession
• Time at current job
• Approximate gross monthly income

Be honest. ING may verify the information provided.

Step 5: Credit Check Authorization

You must authorize ING to consult your Schufa credit records.

Step 6: Additional Information

You may be asked for additional financial or contact information.

Step 7: Final Review

Carefully review all information before submitting the application.

Step 8: Video Identification (VideoIdent)

ING generally requires identity verification through VideoIdent. This can be done:

• Through an online app
• Via live video call with an agent
• In some cases through partner agencies

You will need:

• A smartphone with a camera
• Your identification document
• Good lighting
• Stable internet connection

What Happens After Applying?

Processing Time

A decision is usually made within 1 to 3 business days.

Notifications

You will receive email updates regarding your application status.

Possible Results

If Approved

You will receive a confirmation email, your account will be activated, and the physical card will be shipped within approximately 5 to 10 business days.

If Rejected

You will receive an explanation of the rejection. ING is considered relatively flexible, so rejections are less common compared to stricter traditional banks.

You may apply again after a few months.

If Additional Information Is Needed

ING may request extra documentation. Send it quickly to speed up the process.

After Approval: First Steps

Access Your Online Account

You can immediately log into the ING website or app.

Configure Your Settings

Enable notifications and customize your preferences.

Learn Your Credit Limit

Your limit will be communicated after approval. Use it responsibly.

Wait For The Physical Card

The card normally arrives within 5 to 10 business days.

Activate Your Card

Activation is usually completed through the app or by phone.

Set Up Apple Pay Or Google Pay

You can add the card to digital wallets for faster payments.

Make Your First Purchase

Test the card at a familiar store or online platform.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Long Does The Entire Process Take?

Application decision: usually 1 to 3 business days.
Card delivery: approximately 5 to 10 business days after approval.

Can I Apply Again If Rejected?

Yes, but it’s better to wait a few months.

What Will My Credit Limit Be?

It depends on your individual credit analysis.

How Does The Free Structure Work?

The card is generally free if you maintain your ING account.

Can I Withdraw Cash For Free?

Yes, at ING ATMs in Germany and at many Visa ATMs for withdrawals above €50.

Are There Fees For Foreign Purchases?

Yes. Outside the Eurozone, a 1.99% currency conversion fee may apply.

Does It Work Internationally?

Yes. Visa is accepted worldwide.

Is It Safe For Online Purchases?

Yes. The card uses 3D Secure, instant notifications, and advanced fraud protection.

Do I Need An Existing ING Account?

No. ING opens the account during the application process.

Does The Application Affect My Credit Score?

Yes, minimally. Avoid making multiple applications simultaneously.

Is There A Spending Limit?

Yes. Your limit is defined individually based on your credit analysis.

What If I Need Support?

You can contact ING by phone, app chat, email, or other customer service channels.

Are There Cashback Or Rewards Programs?

Usually, there is no standard cashback or points program included.

Final Tips To Improve Your Approval Chances

• Prepare your documents in advance
• Ensure all information is accurate and consistent
• Resolve outstanding debts beforehand
• Avoid multiple credit applications in the same month
• Check your Schufa profile before applying
• Maintain stable residency and banking activity
• Use an email address you check regularly
• Ensure strong internet connection during VideoIdent
• Always provide honest information

Conclusion

Applying for the ING Visa Card is a simple and fast process. If you meet the basic requirements, your approval chances are generally quite good because ING is considered relatively flexible.

The best part is that applying costs nothing, the process is fast, and you can access digital banking features immediately after approval while waiting for the physical card.

If you live in Germany and want a card with no annual fee, strong digital security, free withdrawals, transparent policies, and a simple application process, the ING Visa Card is definitely one of the strongest options available.

For students, professionals, immigrants, and digital workers, it offers convenience, security, transparency, and strong overall value without unnecessary costs.