In today’s world of online shopping and flexible payment options, the Klarna Card stands out as a unique alternative to traditional credit cards. Offered by Klarna, a Swedish fintech giant known for its “Buy Now, Pay Later” (BNPL) services, this card lets you pay for purchases later without the commitment of a credit card.
But while Klarna’s card might seem like a dream for budget-conscious shoppers, it comes with its own set of pros and cons.
In this Klarna Credit Card review, we will look at everything you need to know how it works, the payment options available, cashback rewards and how it compares to other cards so you can decide if it’s the right fit for your financial lifestyle.
What is the Klarna Card?

The Klarna Card is a debit-like card that works more like a BNPL tool than a traditional credit card. Issued in partnership with Visa, it allows you to make purchases anywhere Visa is accepted and pay later, either in full or over time.
Unlike traditional credit cards, the Klarna Card doesn’t allow you to carry an open balance indefinitely. Instead, it gives you options to pay off your purchases either by the end of the month or in fixed instalments. There is no annual fee, and you’ll only be charged interest if you choose to spread payments over a longer period.
What really sets the Klarna Card apart is that it doesn’t perform a hard credit check, making it accessible to people with little to no credit history. However, it also doesn’t help build your credit, as Klarna doesn’t report to major credit bureaus.
Klarna Card Payment Options
When you make a purchase with your Klarna Card, you’ll typically get two options:-
- Pay Later in Full: Pay the full amount by the end of the month with no interest or fees.
- Split Payments Over Time: Divide your purchase into three or six monthly installments, but note that this comes with a high APR of 28.99%.
Not every transaction qualifies for the financing option, and Klarna decides eligibility based on your spending habits, purchase type, and other internal checks.
Klarna does not allow split payments for all items. Some purchases might only be eligible for the “pay later in full” option.
This model gives you flexibility without the revolving debt of a credit card, but it also requires discipline, especially if you are tempted by the “buy now, pay later” freedom. Argos Credit Card Review
Klarna Card Pros
Let’s have a look at the key advantages of using the Klarna Card:-
- No Hard Credit Check – Klarna only performs a soft credit check, so applying won’t affect your credit score.
- No Annual or Foreign Transaction Fees – You can use it abroad without worrying about extra charges.
- Visa Network Support – Use it virtually anywhere that accepts Visa online or in-store.
- Budgeting Tools – Klarna’s app provides real-time spending alerts and budgeting help.
- Quick Approval – If you are approved, you can start using a virtual version of your card instantly through Apple Pay or Google Pay.
Klarna Card Cons
Despite its flexibility, the Klarna Card has some drawbacks:-
- Doesn’t Build Credit – Klarna doesn’t report your payment activity to credit bureaus, so responsible use won’t improve your credit score.
- High APR on Financing – Choosing to split payments over time comes with a steep 28.99% interest rate.
- Limited Financing Availability – Not all purchases qualify for monthly installments.
- Waitlist for U.S. Users – As of now, the Klarna Card is only available via a waitlist for users in the United States.
Klarna Card Cashback and Rewards
Klarna isn’t just about flexible payments. It also offers cashback on your everyday spending. You can earn up to 10% cashback when you shop with your Klarna Card through their app at 200+ partner retailers.
Here Is how it works:-
- Browse the Klarna app for cashback-eligible stores.
- Make a purchase using your Klarna Card.
- Cashback will be credited to your Klarna balance within a few days.
Points to Remember
- Cashback rewards expire after 180 days if not activated.
- Cashback isn’t always guaranteed—some purchases may not be eligible.
While it’s not as generous as the rewards offered by some traditional credit cards, Klarna’s cashback is a nice perk for users who shop at partner retailers. Pulse Credit Card Reviews
Features of Klarna Card
Apart from its payment flexibility and cashback, Klarna includes some useful features:-
- Instant Virtual Card – Once approved, you can start using your Klarna Card through Apple Pay or Google Pay while waiting for the physical card to arrive.
- Security Controls – Freeze or unfreeze your card from the Klarna app.
- Push Notifications – Get notified immediately after each transaction.
- Spending Insights – See where your money is going and get tips to improve your spending habits.
These tools make the Klarna Card feel more like a modern fintech solution than a traditional credit product. Is Revolut a Credit Card
Klarna Card Vs Other Competitors
Here is a quick comparison between Klarana Credit card and the other Competiotors:-
Comparison | Klarna Card | Other Card | Winner / Best For |
---|---|---|---|
Klarna Card vs. Chime Credit Builder | Doesn’t report to credit bureaus; charges interest on financing | Chime reports to all 3 bureaus. No interest | Chime – Best for building credit score |
Klarna Card vs. U.S. Bank Platinum Visa | High 28.99% APR; financing on fewer transactions | 0% APR for 21 months; ideal for large purchases | U.S. Bank – Best for planned big-ticket items |
Klarna Card vs. Discover it® Cash Back | Limited cashback; no credit score improvement | Real cashback bonuses helps improve credit score | Discover – Best for long-term financial growth |
Who Should Consider Klarna Card?
The Klarna Card is best suited for:
- Young adults or students with limited credit history.
- Frequent online shoppers looking for flexible payments.
- People who pay off balances quickly and avoid interest.
Klarna Credit Card might not be suitable if you are looking for these features:-
- You want to build or rebuild your credit.
- You are likely to carry balances and can’t avoid Klarna’s high APR.
- You are looking for a long-term financing solution for large purchases.
Conclusion
The Klarna Card is a solid choice if you are looking for payment flexibility without a credit check, especially for smaller everyday purchases. It offers flexibility, instant approvals, and basic cashback rewards, all with no annual fees.
The high APR, lack of credit-building benefits, and financing limitations make it less attractive for long-term use or large expenses.
If you’re financially disciplined and want an easy way to manage spending without diving into the credit card world, the Klarna Card could be a helpful tool. Just make sure you pay your balance in full to avoid interest charges.
Hope this article is helpful for you. If you have any question do write in the comment section. Also do share it with your friends and colleagues.
Is the Klarna Card a credit card?
No, the Klarna Card is not a traditional credit card. It lets you “Buy Now, Pay Later” with no revolving credit.
Does the Klarna Card affect my credit score?
No, Klarna doesn’t report card usage to credit bureaus, so it doesn’t impact your credit score.
Can I use the Klarna Card anywhere?
Yes, you can use it anywhere Visa is accepted, both online and in store.
Are there any fees with the Klarna Card?
There’s no annual fee or foreign transaction fee, but financing comes with a high APR.
How do I earn cashback with the Klarna Card?
You can earn up to 10% cashback by shopping through Klarna’s app at partner retailers.
Hello! I’m Ella Patel, a blogger based in India with a strong specialization in the finance sector. My journey into the world of finance and writing is a blend of academic achievements and professional experiences, which I am excited to share with you