Miles & More Credit Card Holders Face Deadline: Why Switching to an Alternative May Be the Smart Move

For thousands of frequent flyers and travel enthusiasts across Europe, the clock is ticking. On April 30, 2026, Deutsche Kreditbank AG (DKB) will officially terminate its partnership with Lufthansa’s Miles & More credit card program, leaving existing cardholders with a critical decision: transition to the latest issuer or seek an alternative rewards card. The change, which has been unfolding since October 2025, marks the conclude of an era for a card that has long been a staple for travelers looking to maximize their mileage earnings. But with the deadline looming, many are now asking whether sticking with Miles & More is the best option—or if exploring alternatives could offer better value.

Dr. Olivia Bennett, Chief Editor of the Business section at World Today Journal and a financial journalist with over 18 years of experience covering global markets, explains why this transition is more than just a logistical hurdle. “This isn’t just about swapping one card for another,” she notes. “It’s about understanding how the shift in issuers affects everything from fee structures to reward redemption rates—and whether the new terms align with your spending habits and travel goals.” For cardholders, the stakes are high: missteps could mean losing hard-earned miles, facing higher fees, or missing out on better rewards elsewhere.

The transition from DKB to Deutsche Bank as the issuer of the Miles & More credit card has been gradual but decisive. Since October 1, 2025, Deutsche Bank has taken over as the card’s issuing bank, but existing DKB cardholders were not automatically migrated. Instead, they were required to proactively apply for a new card through Deutsche Bank—a process that has left some scrambling as the April 30 deadline approaches. For those who haven’t yet made the switch, the consequences are clear: their current cards will be deactivated, and any miles at risk of expiration will lose the protection previously provided by the DKB-issued card.

What Happens After April 30?

For cardholders who fail to transition to Deutsche Bank’s Miles & More credit card by the deadline, the immediate impact will be the loss of functionality. As of May 1, 2026, DKB-issued Miles & More cards will no longer be usable for purchases or mileage accrual. More critically, the “mileage protection” feature—designed to prevent miles from expiring after 36 months—will also lapse. While there is a three-month grace period for miles at risk of expiration, Here’s a temporary reprieve, and cardholders who delay action could find themselves losing miles they’ve spent years accumulating.

Another key concern is the lack of an automatic transition. Unlike some credit card partnerships, where customers are seamlessly migrated to a new issuer, Miles & More has required cardholders to take the initiative. This has led to confusion, particularly among those who assumed their cards would remain active without intervention. “The onus is entirely on the cardholder to apply for the new card,” says a spokesperson for Miles & More, as cited in the official transition FAQ. “We’ve communicated this change extensively, but we recognize that not everyone may have received or acted on the information.”

For those who do switch to Deutsche Bank’s version of the card, the process is straightforward but not without potential pitfalls. Applicants must meet Deutsche Bank’s eligibility criteria, which may differ from DKB’s. The terms and conditions of the new card—including annual fees, interest rates, and reward structures—may not mirror those of the DKB-issued card. Cardholders are advised to review these details carefully before applying to avoid surprises.

Is the Miles & More Card Still the Best Option?

While the Miles & More program remains one of Europe’s most popular frequent flyer schemes, the shift in issuers has prompted many cardholders to reconsider whether it’s still the best fit for their needs. The answer depends on several factors, including spending habits, travel frequency, and financial priorities. Here’s what to consider:

1. Reward Structure and Earning Potential

The Miles & More credit card has long been prized for its ability to earn miles on everyday spending, with bonus categories that often include travel, dining, and fuel. However, the specific earning rates and bonus structures can vary depending on the card tier and issuer. For example, the DKB-issued card offered a base earning rate of 1 mile per €2 spent, with higher rates in select categories. Deutsche Bank’s version may adjust these rates, so cardholders should compare the new terms against their typical spending patterns.

For those who spend heavily in categories like groceries or online shopping, other rewards cards may offer more competitive earning rates. For instance, some cards in the European market provide 2% or more cashback on all purchases, which can be more valuable than miles for non-frequent travelers. “If you’re not flying regularly, a cashback card might be a better fit,” advises Dr. Bennett. “Miles are only valuable if you apply them, and if you’re not redeeming them within a few years, they could expire before you get the chance.”

2. Fees and Costs

Annual fees are another critical factor. The DKB-issued Miles & More card had a relatively low annual fee, making it an attractive option for casual travelers. However, Deutsche Bank’s version may introduce higher fees, particularly for premium card tiers that offer perks like lounge access or travel insurance. Cardholders should weigh whether these additional benefits justify the cost.

For example, the Miles & More Blue card, one of the entry-level options, typically carries an annual fee of around €50, while premium cards like the Miles & More Gold or Senator cards can cost upwards of €150 per year. If you’re not utilizing the premium perks—such as free checked bags or priority boarding—it may be worth downgrading to a lower-tier card or exploring alternatives with no annual fee.

3. Mileage Expiration and Protection

One of the most significant changes for DKB cardholders is the loss of mileage protection. Under the DKB-issued card, miles were protected from expiration as long as the card remained active. With the transition to Deutsche Bank, this protection will only apply to the new card, and cardholders who don’t switch in time will lose this safeguard. While Miles & More has introduced a three-month grace period for miles at risk of expiration, this is not a long-term solution.

For those with a large balance of miles, this could be a major concern. “If you have miles nearing the 36-month expiration mark, you’ll need to either redeem them quickly or ensure you’re approved for the new card before the grace period ends,” says Dr. Bennett. “Otherwise, you could lose a significant portion of your rewards.”

4. Travel Benefits and Insurance

Travel perks are a key selling point for the Miles & More card, but the specific benefits can vary by issuer and card tier. The DKB-issued card included basic travel insurance, such as trip cancellation coverage and rental car insurance, but these features may change under Deutsche Bank. Cardholders should review the new terms to ensure they’re still receiving the coverage they need.

For frequent travelers, premium cards like the Miles & More Senator or Gold cards offer additional benefits, such as lounge access, priority boarding, and free checked bags. However, these perks often arrive with higher annual fees, so it’s important to assess whether they align with your travel habits. If you rarely use these benefits, a no-frills card with a lower fee might be a better choice.

Exploring Alternatives: What Are the Options?

For cardholders who decide that the Miles & More program no longer meets their needs, there are several alternatives to consider. The right choice depends on your spending habits, travel goals, and financial priorities. Here are some of the top options available in the European market:

1. Cashback Credit Cards

Cashback cards are a popular alternative for those who prefer flexibility over travel rewards. These cards offer a percentage of your spending back as cash, which can be used for anything from travel to everyday expenses. Some of the top cashback cards in Europe include:

• American Express Platinum Cashback: Offers up to 5% cashback on purchases for the first three months, with a tiered cashback structure thereafter. The card has an annual fee of €60, but the earning potential can make it worthwhile for massive spenders.
• Barclays Visa: Provides 1% cashback on all purchases with no annual fee, making it a low-cost option for everyday spending.
• Santander All in One: Offers 1% cashback on all spending, with no foreign transaction fees, making it ideal for international travelers.

Cashback cards are particularly appealing for those who don’t travel frequently or who prefer the simplicity of cash rewards. “If you’re not redeeming miles regularly, cashback can be a more straightforward and flexible option,” notes Dr. Bennett. “You’re not locked into a specific airline or hotel chain, and you can use the cash for anything.”

2. Flexible Travel Rewards Cards

For those who still want travel rewards but prefer more flexibility than a single airline’s program, flexible travel rewards cards are a strong alternative. These cards allow you to earn points that can be transferred to multiple airline and hotel partners or used to book travel directly through the card issuer’s portal. Some of the top options include:

• American Express Membership Rewards: Points can be transferred to over 20 airline and hotel partners, including Lufthansa, British Airways, and Marriott. The card also offers strong earning rates on travel and dining.
• Chase Sapphire Preferred: Available to European residents, this card offers 2x points on travel and dining, with points transferable to partners like United Airlines and Hyatt. The annual fee is €95, but the sign-up bonus and earning potential can offset the cost.
• HSBC Premier World Elite Mastercard: Offers 3x points on travel and dining, with points redeemable for flights, hotels, or cashback. The card also includes travel insurance and lounge access.

Flexible travel rewards cards are ideal for those who want the option to transfer points to multiple partners or book travel directly. “These cards provide you more control over how you use your rewards,” says Dr. Bennett. “If you’re not loyal to one airline or hotel chain, they can be a better fit than a co-branded card.”

3. Airline-Specific Cards from Other Programs

If you’re loyal to a specific airline but want to explore options beyond Miles & More, other airline co-branded cards may offer better value. Some of the top alternatives in Europe include:

• British Airways American Express: Offers 1 Avios per £1 spent, with bonus Avios for spending with British Airways and partner airlines. The card also includes travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees.
• Air France-KLM Flying Blue American Express: Earns 1 Flying Blue mile per €1 spent, with bonus miles for spending with Air France-KLM and partners. The card includes travel insurance and lounge access for premium cardholders.
• Iberia Visa Signature: Offers 3 Avios per €1 spent on Iberia purchases, with bonus Avios for spending with partner airlines. The card includes travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees.

Airline-specific cards can be a good fit if you frequently fly with a particular carrier and want to maximize your rewards. However, they often come with higher annual fees and less flexibility than cashback or flexible travel rewards cards. “If you’re not flying with the airline regularly, the rewards may not justify the cost,” warns Dr. Bennett.

Key Steps to Take Before the Deadline

With the April 30 deadline fast approaching, cardholders need to act quickly to avoid losing access to their miles and card benefits. Here’s a step-by-step guide to navigating the transition:

1. Assess Your Current Card’s Status

First, determine whether your Miles & More credit card was issued by DKB. If you’re unsure, check your card’s physical design or log into your online banking account. DKB-issued cards will typically display the DKB logo, while Deutsche Bank-issued cards will show the Deutsche Bank branding. If your card is from DKB, you’ll need to take action before April 30.

2. Apply for the New Deutsche Bank Card

If you decide to stick with the Miles & More program, you’ll need to apply for the new Deutsche Bank-issued card. Applications can be submitted online through the Miles & More credit card website. Be sure to review the terms and conditions carefully, as the fees, interest rates, and reward structures may differ from your current card.

Deutsche Bank’s customer service team is available to assist with the application process. You can reach them by phone at +49-69-91 01 00 10 or through the contact form on their website.

3. Redeem or Protect Your Miles

If you have miles nearing expiration, prioritize redeeming them before the April 30 deadline. Miles & More offers a variety of redemption options, including flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and merchandise. You can also transfer miles to partner airlines or donate them to charity.

For miles that aren’t at immediate risk of expiration, ensure you’re approved for the new Deutsche Bank card before the three-month grace period ends. This will restore your mileage protection and prevent future expirations.

4. Explore Alternatives

If you’re considering switching to a different rewards program, research your options and compare the earning rates, fees, and benefits. Many card issuers offer sign-up bonuses for new customers, which can provide a significant boost to your rewards balance. For example, the American Express Platinum card currently offers a welcome bonus of up to 50,000 Membership Rewards points for new cardholders who meet spending requirements.

5. Monitor Your Account

After applying for the new Deutsche Bank card or switching to an alternative, monitor your accounts closely to ensure a smooth transition. Check that your old card is deactivated as of May 1 and that your new card is activated and functioning properly. If you encounter any issues, contact customer service immediately to resolve them.

What’s Next for Miles & More Cardholders?

The transition from DKB to Deutsche Bank marks a significant shift for Miles & More credit cardholders, but it’s not the end of the program. Deutsche Bank has committed to continuing the partnership, and the new cards will offer many of the same benefits as their predecessors. However, the change serves as a reminder that loyalty programs and credit card partnerships are not static—they evolve, and cardholders must adapt to ensure they’re getting the best value.

For those who decide to stick with Miles & More, the key is to stay informed about the new terms and take advantage of the program’s strengths, such as its extensive network of airline and hotel partners. For others, the transition may be an opportunity to explore alternatives that better align with their spending habits and financial goals.

As the April 30 deadline approaches, the most important step is to take action. Whether you choose to transition to the new Deutsche Bank card or explore alternatives, the worst outcome is inaction. “This is a moment to reassess your financial tools and ensure they’re working for you,” says Dr. Bennett. “Don’t let inertia cost you miles, rewards, or money.”

The next official update from Miles & More and Deutsche Bank is expected in early May, when the transition process will be fully complete. In the meantime, cardholders can find more information on the Miles & More website or through Deutsche Bank’s customer service channels.

Have you made the switch to the new Miles & More credit card, or are you considering an alternative? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and don’t forget to subscribe to World Today Journal’s Business newsletter for more insights on navigating financial transitions.