Nickel - An account for all

A bank account managed from a phone

Nickel is a banking app built around an account that comes with an international Mastercard and a local IBAN. The developer describes the account as open to anyone with a valid identity document, and the app is the day-to-day side of it: balances, limits, transfers and card controls.

It suits someone who wants to open an account online and run it from a phone, with the card collected in person at one of the Nickel points of sale.

Opening the account and collecting the card

Registration is done online at the Nickel website. The listing says a valid ID is needed, with 190 passport types accepted, plus €25 to open the account. The card is then picked up at a Nickel point of sale rather than sent to you.

Balances, spending limits and the card PIN

The app shows your balance in real time and lets you raise or lower your payment and withdrawal limits. You can also view your card's PIN in the app and update your personal details there.

Sending money and scheduling transfers

Standard and instant transfers are listed as free. Recurring transfers can be set up for regular payments. Your IBAN can be viewed and shared from the app, which is the detail someone needs to send you a bank transfer.

Card blocking, payment alerts and transfers abroad

You can block and unblock the card straight away if it is lost, and separately block or unblock online and contactless payments. Personalised alerts can be set for transactions above an amount you choose, or for payments made abroad.

The listing also gives access to international money transfers through Ria, and lists a finder for the nearest point of sale, an FAQ and customer service contact details.