It sounds like it's mainly that you have to sign up for one on person? And you can't really do it online? Is that most of it?

I signed up for all my bank accounts and credit cards online. But they have to check your ID, more and more through videochat nowadays, before that you'd either need to mail documents or go to a post office where the staff is able to stamp a form that says they've checked your ID.

Also in most European countries the administration knows your official address and companies can check that you live where you pretend to.

The bank may refuse to issue one if they don't like you, and they often do so. For example, if you're not a citizen of the country. Or don't have permanent residence yet. Or they don't like your accent. Or…

My first credit card application was rejected with no explanations.

Sure you can sign up for one online. But at least in Sweden you generally have to identify yourself with a cryptographic token issued by your bank.