Gone are the days when Nigerians could effortlessly use their naira cards for international payments like Apple Music subscriptions or Amazon purchases. With recent restrictions on naira cards for foreign transactions, accessing global services has become increasingly difficult. Everyday essentials such as online shopping, streaming subscriptions, and international payments now feel frustratingly out of reach for many.
This is where virtual dollar cards come in as a game-changer. These digital payment tools allow Nigerians to pay in dollars with ease, bypassing the limitations of naira cards. Virtual dollar cards provide a simple and secure solution for online transactions, eliminating the hassle of currency conversion and restrictions imposed by local banks.
In this guide, we’ll uncover the top five virtual dollar card providers in Nigeria for 2024, highlighting their features and benefits. If you’re ready to take control of your international payments and restore convenience to your online transactions, keep reading to find the perfect virtual card option for your needs.
Disclaimer: All options on this list are recommendations and do not serve as endorsements. Ensure you do your research before using any of them.
1. Cardify
Cardify has earned its place as the number one platform for virtual dollar cards in Nigeria by offering unmatched simplicity and versatility. Created with a focus on virtual dollar card solutions, Cardify was designed to provide Nigerians with a seamless way to make international payments, which is why it remains the best in the market. Over time, it has expanded its services to include features like buying and selling of gift cards, adding even more value to its users. With a Cardify virtual dollar card, you can effortlessly shop on platforms like Amazon, pay for subscriptions like Netflix, pay for hosting on namecheap, and handle ad campaigns on Facebook, all without barriers.
One of its standout features is the dual funding option, allowing users to load their cards using naira (NGN) or stablecoin in the form of USDT, making it an ideal choice for both fiat and digital currency users. Setting up is easy—just download the app, complete a quick KYC process, and fund your card with your preferred currency.
Cardify also offers flexibility with Visa and MasterCard options, ensuring compatibility with virtually all online platforms. By combining a user-friendly interface with innovative features and versatile funding options, Cardify continues to set the gold standard for virtual dollar cards in Nigeria.
2. Chipper Cash:
Chipper Cash is another strong contender in the virtual dollar card space, known for its popular cross-border payment app across Africa. Their virtual dollar card is a great tool for shopping on platforms like Amazon or paying for streaming services such as Spotify or Netflix.
To get started, all you need is a Chipper Cash account and a valid form of identification like an international passport or national ID card. Once your setup is complete, you’ll have access to a card that allows seamless dollar transactions without the headache of fluctuating exchange rates.
Chipper Cash is user-friendly and eliminates the need for complicated processes, making it a reliable choice for Nigerians looking for a simple solution to international payments.
3. ALAT by Wema Bank:
ALAT by Wema Bank is one of Nigeria’s most established digital banking platforms, and its virtual dollar card is a trusted option for making payments on international platforms. Whether it’s a YouTube subscription or online shopping,
ALAT makes the process simple and secure. As a product of Wema Bank, ALAT offers a sense of reliability that many users find reassuring.
Setting up an account is entirely digital and takes only a few minutes, after which you can create your virtual dollar card. ALAT is particularly ideal for individuals seeking a straightforward digital banking service combined with the convenience of a virtual dollar card.
4. Eversend:
Eversend takes a different approach by integrating virtual dollar cards into its multi-currency wallet platform. This service is excellent for Nigerians who need flexibility in making international payments, especially for e-commerce and subscription services like Spotify, Google Ads, and Amazon.
Creating a virtual dollar card with Eversend is free, though you’ll need to pay a $1 monthly maintenance fee. The platform supports funding through various methods, including bank transfers, debit cards, and mobile money, giving users the freedom to choose what works best for them.
Eversend’s versatility is a major draw, but the recurring maintenance fee may be a drawback for users who don’t make frequent international transactions.
5. Geegpay:
Geegpay, a product of Raenest, is designed specifically for freelancers and gig workers in Nigeria, making it a unique option on this list. The platform simplifies the process of receiving international payments by providing users with a USD account and a virtual dollar card.
To get started, you’ll need to complete a detailed verification process, including providing information about your job, employer, and identity.
Once verified, Geegpay allows you to receive payments from international clients and use your virtual dollar card for online shopping, subscriptions, or ad payments. For Nigerians working remotely or freelancing for global clients, Geegpay is a tailored solution that makes managing finances simple and reliable.