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08 Jul 2020

All you need to know about virtual prepaid cards

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The world is becoming increasingly digital and online payments are on the up. In response, traditional payment methods are changing to accommodate today’s digital era.

One big change has been in the rise of virtual prepaid cards. Here we cover off how they work and why Skrill customers find them so useful.

Get a virtual prepaid card

A card produced, received and used digitally

Virtual prepaid cards are electronically produced and delivered. Once you have one, you can use it to make a one-off payment or for ongoing transactions.

Before you pay with the card, you must add funds to it. Once funded, the cards work much the same as a plastic card; you enter the 16-digit card number, its security code (CVV) and expiry date to make a payment.

online payment via mobile app

Why choose a virtual card?

Pay securely and discreetly

Digital cards are a secure way to pay online without having to submit your private debit or credit card details. The payments you make with them aren’t linked to your bank account.

Budget effectively

Only spend the money you’ve uploaded to your card and monitor how much you’re spending online. If your card provider has a mobile app, download it to get notifications when transactions go through.

Spend wherever and however you like

Many virtual prepaid cards are connected to Mastercard or Visa, which means they’re widely accepted around the world.

Also, some virtual cards let you top up with cash. In countries where people don’t have access to banking but do want to make online payments, a cash top-up is ideal.

Use the currency you prefer

Some virtual cards are available in several currencies. If this is the case, you can select the currency that suits you, even if it's not the same as your local currency.

Pay faster

You won't need to wait for a card to arrive in the post and then wait again for the PIN to arrive. If speed and convenience matter to you, virtual cards are a great financial companion.

Virtual cards are instant and ready to go once your application is approved. You can receive one via e-mail or have it added to your Skrill digital wallet.

mobile app with virtual prepaid card

How to get a virtual card

The process is straightforward; apply online, get your card, add funds and start making payments. As the card is prepaid, you won’t need a credit check.

About Skrill’s virtual prepaid card

The Skrill Virtual Prepaid Mastercard® lets you use the funds in your Skrill wallet to make online purchases wherever Mastercard® is accepted. Instantly add a virtual card to your wallet and start using your Skrill balance to make payments.*

*Available in EUR to residents of countries in the European Economic Area (EEA)

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