Revolut in Germany: Game-Changer or Overhyped?

Revolut bank review 2025

Since its founding in 2015, Revolut has grown at an extraordinary pace, from startup to one of Europe’s largest neobanks. As of mid-2025, it boasts around 60 million users globally, serving over 48 countries and standing as a major player in European fintech.

Financially, the company has also delivered: in 2023, it posted $2.2 billion in revenue and a $545 million pre-tax profit. As of late 2024, its valuation sat at an impressive $45 billion.

All signs point to Revolut not just as a trendsetter but a staple in the digital banking landscape. Currently, a lot of expats in Germany use Revolut or want to open a Revolut bank account.

Key Features That Stand Out in Germany

a) Multi-Currency Accounts & Real Exchange Rates

Revolut lets you hold and convert between dozens of currencies often at rates close to the mid-market median. That makes it ideal for anyone dealing internationally: expats, travelers, and freelancers alike.

b) No SCHUFA Check for Accounts

Getting a Revolut account in Germany doesn’t require a SCHUFA check. That’s a big win for expats, freelancers, or anyone without strong credit history.

c) Instant Virtual Cards & Instant Setup

Need a card for online purchases right now? You can start using a virtual card as soon as your account is open.

d) Smart-Saving Tools & Automated Features

From spare-change “vaults” to goal-based savings, Revolut builds automation into your finances. It even links to external accounts via open-banking features.

e) RevPoints Rewards

Yes, Revolut’s own loyalty program is available in Germany. Users earn RevPoints on purchases that can be redeemed for bookings, discounts, or travel perks.

What Users Love—and What Frustrates Them

Love What Works

“I’ve been using Revolut for 5–6 years … currency exchange benefits alone make it 100% worth it.”
“App is very easy to use, good design.”

Reddit user

Effortless exchange, clean UI, and life streamlined—these are common praise points.

Painful Frustrations

  • Customer Support Woes
    The app is sleek; the chat support less so. Users report delays and opaque account freezes. According to a reddit user: “They are very trigger-happy with locking accounts … go days before getting a human in chat.
  • IBAN Headaches
    Germany got German IBANs, in theory, but many long-time users were stuck with foreign IBANs until getting “migrated” individually.
  • Fewer Perks in German Premium Plans
    Revolut’s Premium/Metal plans in Germany often lack international perks like streaming or gym discounts. That can feel like paying full price but missing the extras.

Comparing Plans: What You Get at Each Tier

PlanMonthly Cost (GER)Key Features & Limits
Standard€0Basic account, limited free exchanges, 1% weekend fees
Plus~€3.99Slightly higher exchange limits, reduced weekend fees
Premium~€7.99Unlimited exchanges, insurance (medical, travel), RevPoints
Metal~€13.99Higher rewards, metal card, insurances, but still regional limitations in Germany

In Germany, be sure to check which perks (e.g., Freeletics, subscriptions) actually apply since some are limited or unavailable.

New Developments: On the Horizon for German Users

Pan-European Instant Payments (“Bizum Europe”)

By end of 2025, Revolut plans to connect European payment systems—including German ones—so you can transfer money instantly to non-Revolut users.

Smart New Features in 2025

Revolut’s roadmap includes:

  • AI assistant for personalized finance advice
  • Fully digital mortgage options (starting in Lithuania)
  • Branded ATMs in Spain, soon expanding
  • Business credit products and kiosk solutions

These hint at Revolut‘s ambition to move beyond banking and into lifestyle, lending, and global infrastructure.

Verdict: Who Benefits Most from Revolut in Germany?

Great Fit For:

  • Expats without SCHUFA or local credit history
  • Frequent travelers seeking low-fee currency exchange
  • Tech-savvy users who value in-app tools and automation
  • Anyone needing quick virtual cards or multi-currency flexibility

Be Cautious If:

  • You rely on Lastschrift-based payments—foreign IBANs can be a hassle
  • You expect live phone support or ultra-careful handling
  • You’re paying for Premium/Metal but want international subscriptions that aren’t offered locally

Final Thoughts

Revolut in Germany delivers a modern, highly convenient banking experience especially for international spenders and digitally native users. However, it’s not a perfect one-size-fits-all. Be mindful of regional differences in perks, support limitations, and IBAN quirks. Revolut is also considered a direct competitor to other modern banks such as N26.

Revolut is best used as a flexible supplement: a smart side account for travel, currency, and lifestyle while maintaining a traditional German bank account for rent, insurances, and local recurring payments.