It's because Germany has a very low credit card penetration rate and the German debit cards cannot be used to guarantee a transaction. Direct debits can be cancelled without any reason for a while and aren't confirmed at all for several days.

Unfortunately that doesn't seem to change. The big banking networks have their own debit system that's not compatible with many international online payment systems. There is thus little incentive to switch to sth like Visa/Mastercard debit cards.

>> Still an issue - tried to buy shoes from Deichmann, they requested my login credentials. WTF.

> It's because Germany has a very low credit card penetration rate and the German debit cards cannot be used to guarantee a transaction.

No, really: WHAT THE F&CK?!?

In Poland we have instant payments services for years already. Each of the services directs the user to their own bank's website (login form). Payment clears instantly and confirmation of the payment (which is machine processable) is sent to the shop in a matter of minutes and with no human employee whatsoever.

We have these systems working for years, and the use ranges from buying e-books through food to power tools and clothing in on-line auctions site.

I know the feeling. I live in the UK and travel to Germany regularly. Most retailers only accept the German version of a debit card. Luckily most supermarkets now accept credit cards, but small shops almost never do.

Leads to me avoiding small shops when I'm there, not really sure if that's the desired effect.