Why American Express Cards Are No Longer Accepted in Europe: EU Regulations Explained

American Express credit cards are no longer accepted across the European Union due to changes introduced by the EU Payments Package. The new regulations imposed strict requirements on interchange fees, scheme independence, and licensing, making Amex’s business model unviable in the EU. As a result, American Express has terminated its licensing agreements with EU banks. Charterers in Croatia can still pay via wire transfer or select cryptocurrencies, but AMEX is no longer an option.

Why Paying with American Express in Europe Doesn’t Work Anymore

• The EU Payments Package introduced caps on interchange fees, separated payment schemes from processing operations, and tightened licensing rules.
• These rules aimed to level the playing field and enhance security for customers across the EU.
• American Express could not meet these new licensing requirements, making its model unsustainable within the EU. 
• Consequently, Amex terminated all bank licensing arrangements with its EU partners.
• All American Express credit cards issued under independent agreements have become invalid within EU member countries.

Read more information about the topic on the links below:

• American Express leaving Europe, can't stand rules
• Amex says goodbye to Cyprus and Europe
• American Express Changing Their EU Business Model, Most Famous Cards Go Into History