In a bid to curb inflation, the CBN imposed a regulatory policy that restricts the use of Nigerian bank cards to make international purchases online.
This explains the source of the payment frustration that e-traders in Nigeria experiences when trying to checkout on international e-commerce platform like Udemy, Alibaba, Coursera, AliExpress, Apple, Google, etc.
Most online shoppers face the dilemma of having to clear their cart after failed payment processes with their Naira card.
National and international digital banking platforms have launched several virtual dollar cards to simplify online payment processes.
Although all virtual USD cards are used to make international purchases and subscriptions, some virtual cards stand out as the best in Nigeria with the best exchange rates, charges, and encryption levels.
This publication will reduce the hassle involved with selecting the best from the list of available virtual dollar card choices acceptable in Nigeria while also identifying their pros and cons.
What Is Virtual Dollar Card?
A virtual dollar card is designed to assist users make payments on different platforms online.
It was introduced to the financial niche to act as an alternative form of payment online. A virtual card can also be used for payment settlement on POS.
Unlike conventional bank cards, virtual dollar cards are a simulation that can not be felt or touched but can perform similar functions to bank cards.
The world is constantly evolving and people no longer need to use physical debit or credit cards for payment settlements.
Instead, people can now complete transactions through a virtual card service provider on their phone or computer.
VirtualVirtual card providers adhere to the financial laws in the country before issuing out cards to customers.
This means customers must submit the required documents for verification before owning a virtual dollar card.
Similarities Between Naira Cards and Virtual Dollar Cards
Fees:There’s a one-time fee attached to the issuance of both naira debit cards and virtual dollar cards.
Charges: Both dollar and virtual card users are often debited for maintenance fees annually, quarterly, or as proposed by the virtual card provider.
Funding Source: Both card types can be funded through multiple channels or sources.
Required Documents To Create a Virtual Dollar Card
Nigerians who desire to own a virtual card must possess the following documents,
- BVN:A banking means of identification.
- NIN/Driver’s license or voter card: A national means of identification.
- Utility Bill: This is required to act as proof of address in case of fraudulent activities.
- Picture Photograph: To facially identify the owner of the virtual account.
Importance Of Virtual Dollar Card
Risk And Security: There are low risks involved with virtual cards because it’s an online simulation rather than a physical card. Users experience a low risk of theft, and hacks with virtual cards because of their encrypted features.
Alternative Means of Payment:Traditional bank cards may disappoint in times of need due to network or other constraints. Looking back to 2023, when the CBN and various economic stakeholders decided to suspend all forms of international transactions via Nigerian banks, digital banking platforms offering virtual dollar cards became a viable alternative.
Acceptability:Nigerians who travel abroad to several country zones can use their virtual dollar card to make payments online or in-store. Unlike Nigerian bank cards whose usage is limited to the country of residence, virtual dollar cards are universally acceptable in all countries.
Convenience:Virtual cards are more convenient to use. Oftentimes, bank users forget or misplace their cards at home hindering them from making payments. Virtual cards do not require bank customers to move about with a physical card before completing transactions online or in-store.
International Accounts: Some virtual card like Payoneer helps users create an international account in USD, GBP, or EUR making it easier to carry out business transactions easily.
BEST Virtual Dollar cards in Nigeria
#1. Dantown
The Dawton virtual card tops the list of the best virtual dollar cards in Nigeria in 2025, because of its cost-friendly features. Most virtual card providers in Nigeria require a minimum of $2 fee before issuing the card. Meanwhile, for less than $1, users can have their virtual account processed, and their virtual dollar card issued.
The intriguing thing about this payment platform is that users do not pay extra charges for funding their account and there are no set transaction limits giving users maximum control over their money. Meanwhile, there are set fees for international transactions.
The Dawton virtual card is highly encrypted and safe to carry out transactions in Nigeria and across countries. Dawton users do not experience errors associated with network failure because the company ensures a 24-hour service delivery. Users can complete international transactions at any time and any day.
I’ve tried a few virtual card services before Dantown, and each had its challenges. Some had complicated signup processes, while others struggled with organizing transaction balances. A few even charged a fee for every failed attempt at automatic payments, making the experience frustrating. But since using Dantown, I have experienced zero issues. Which is why I am recommending them as the best virtual dollar card service in Nigeria right now, Hands down!
Pros Of Dantown Virtual Dollar Card
- Proudly-Nigerian service provider
- Less than $1 to own a virtual dollar card.
- No additional charges when funding users accounts from various channels.
- Unlimited transaction limits.
- Zero downtime
- Easy management of all transactions on smartphones.
- No hidden fee.
#2. ALAT
ALAT by Wema tops the list as the oldest virtual dollar card service provider in Nigeria. The virtual card services were introduced in 2018 long before the CBN placed a restriction on local banks from carrying out international transactions. Wema Bank also holds the record of having one of the largest customer databases with millions of satisfied customers.
The process involved with creating, and funding an ALAT virtual dollar card is fast and easy. The card is generally acceptable on all international platforms and in-store.
#3. Eversend
Eversend is widely known for its effective virtual dollar card service. The app comes into play by providing solutions for payment settlement on international platforms where Nigerian bank cards are restricted. The app supports several African and international currencies making it a top choice to make payments on shopping platforms, subscription based service providers, etc.
One feature that distinguishes the Eversend app from other virtual dollar card providers is that users can register for free, and can have their virtual dollar card issued to them at no cost.
Although there are no restrictions on the free virtual card, users must however pay a monthly fee of less than $1 for the maintenance of their account and card.
#4. Zole
Zole is another digital banking app that helps Nigerians transact with their virtual card services. The app was adopted in most African countries because of its exceptional feature of helping users sign up with just their phone number.
Zole users do not get to pay any maintenance fee or hidden charges on their virtual dollar card after paying the one-time $2 fee for issuance of their digital card making it a perfect choice for business owners In Nigeria. The card is also acceptable across various subscription-based platforms and e-commerce websites.
#5. Kuda
Kuda is another fintech app that’s committed to offering Nigerians a channel for making payments on international platforms. Kuda has not only helped traders transact or receive money globally. It also helped individuals make payments on subscription-based platforms such as Google, Hulu, AliExpress, Facebook ads, Apple, and many others.
Kuda users can manage their transaction history, and spending limits and can fund their accounts from multiple sources.
#6. Geegpay
The Geegpay app was introduced to help Nigerians and other Africans who have traveled across their country of residence to send and receive money. The app also serves the purpose of helping Nigerian freelancers receive payment from international countries after completing remote jobs.
Creating your virtual dollar card on Geegpay is simple, and users will be required to provide viable means of identification to protect their accounts from hackers.
#7. PayDay
PayDay is committed to providing Africans with viable means of performing financial transactions within and outside Africa. The fintech startup supports multiple currencies such as the dollar (USD), Euro (EUR), and pound sterling (GBP) with a $25,000 monthly limit on financial transactions.
Since its launch in 2021, Payday account users have been carrying out transactions in Nigeria and internationally without hassle. OrUsers also benefit from sophisticated security features that protect them from scammers.
The fintech company is also committed to going out of its way to satisfy its customers. For example, the Payday app once experienced a breach in its security, leading to several reports of fraudulent activities. However, the company upheld its level of integrity by taking responsibility for all lost funds.
#8. Chipper Cash
Chipper Cash also stands out for being one of the oldest virtual dollar card providers in Africa. The fintech startup is owned by two partners who hail from Ghana and Ugandan respectively. The app has recorded significant growth since its launch in 2018 while offering several financial services and has further expanded to other Africa like Nigeria, South Africa, Ghana, etc.
One of the features that distinguish the Chipper Cash app from other virtual dollar card providers is that the app offers a free P2P service amongst countries where merchants can trade or buy currencies. The app has further expanded its peer-to-peer (P2P) service by providing a platform where users can buy and exchange cryptocurrency pairs.
In addition, the Chipper Cash app can be used to receive money from all over the world and provides users with a platform for making smart investment decisions.
#9. Bitnob
The Bitnob app provides a safe and secure channel to save, send and receive money. The app also allows Nigerians to trade cryptocurrency with no risk of being sanctioned. The app has recorded a series of satisfied customers in Nigeria and other African countries.
There are no set limits on transactions, and users can complete payments in international countries with their virtual dollar card.
#10. Changera
Changera is widely known for its crypto trading features. But the app has further diversified to providing virtual dollar card service to Nigerians and Africans thus helping them complete international transactions. The app allows users to fund their virtual card from multiple sources.
Virtual dollar cards are expensive to manage but Changera offers a free plan to users. This free plan has some set limits and users can consider the premium plan for unlimited services.
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If after getting your virtual dollar card you’re having difficulty linking it to your PayPal to handle your digital subscriptions then you need to see this guide on how to do that properly.
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In conclusion, virtual dollar card serves as an alternative to conventional bank cards. It is globally accepted as a means of payment in online stores, in-store, and much more. Virtual dollar cards make it possible for Nigerians to perform international transactions without needing to own an international account.
