Everything You Need to Know About Virtual Credit Cards

How can you shop online without exposing your actual credit card information to hackers or fraudsters? Or how can you make international payments without paying hefty fees or exchange rates? The answer is virtual credit cards. 

Let us see what are virtual credit cards and how can you get one in India?

What is a Virtual Credit Card, and How Does it Work?

It is a digital version of a physical credit card. You can use it for online transactions. It has the same features as a regular credit card, such as a card number, expiry date, and CVV. 

A virtual credit card can be either single-use or multi-use, depending on the provider and the user’s preference.

1. A single-use virtual credit card is valid only for one transaction or a limited period.
2. A multi-use virtual credit card can be used for multiple transactions within a set limit or duration. You can cancel or renew it at any time.

VCCs function similarly to traditional debit or credit cards, particularly for online transactions. 

However, unlike physical cards, VCCs are purely digital and cannot be used where a physical card is required.

To make a payment using a virtual credit card, you can top it up with the necessary amount of money. 

However, it’s important to be aware that a VCC usually comes with a small credit limit. They are equipped with a standard 16-digit number, an expiry date, and either a CVV1 or CVV2 number for security purposes.

What Can I Use a Virtual Visa Card for?

A virtual Visa card can be utilised for various purposes, such as:

•  Paying for products & services online or at select physical locations that accept Visa or digital wallets

•  Making bill payments, such as utilities, subscriptions, or memberships

•  Signing up for new services, such as streaming platforms, e-commerce sites, or online courses

•  Sending or receiving money online, such as remittances, donations, or peer-to-peer transfers

What Banks Offer Virtual Credit Cards in India?

Several banks in India offer VCCs as an add-on to their existing credit cards. 

Some also offer it as a standalone service.

•  HDFC Bank

HDFC Bank offers NetSafe, a virtual credit card service. It allows customers to create a virtual card number for each online transaction.

Firstly, it’s completely free and easy to generate, making it convenient for users. Additionally, it allows for international transactions, expanding its utility beyond domestic purchases.

Moreover, HDFC Bank offers a consolidated monthly statement that includes both your actual Credit Card transactions and those made using the Netsafe VCC. This simplifies tracking expenses and managing finances.

•  ICICI

ICICI Bank offers a unique Virtual Credit Card option. It is more of an add-on card in nature rather than a traditional VCC. 

Unlike typical VCC, you cannot create this card independently through the bank’s website. 

Instead, you must contact ICICI Bank to determine your eligibility for this virtual add-on card.

The virtual card is free of cost and supports international transactions. Also, the billing cycles for the virtual credit card align with those of the primary credit card.

•  SBI 

SBI offers a Virtual Credit Card (VCC) option to its customers. It can be easily generated from the official SBI Internet Banking website. 

When creating the VCC, the bank places a hold on your savings account for the desired amount.

It’s important to note that the card is not enabled for international transactions and can only be used within India.

•  Kotak Mahindra Bank

Kotak Bank offers a convenient solution called Kotak Netc@rd. It is ideal for purchasing subscriptions on popular platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime. 

The Kotak Netc@rd stands out as a Visa-powered single-use card, which you can generate from Kotak Bank’s Internet banking portal. 

These single-use Virtual Cards must be utilised within 48 hours of creation.

What are the Benefits of Virtual Card

Virtual cards offer several benefits over physical cards, such as:

•  Enhanced security and privacy

It protects the user’s actual financial information from being exposed or stolen by hackers.

Virtual cards can also be frozen or cancelled at any time, preventing unwanted charges.

•  Convenience and flexibility

Virtual cards can be created, accessed, and managed online without the need to carry or wait for a physical card.

•  Control and Management

You can set specific spending limits and expiration dates or even designate them for single-use only. This helps prevent unauthorised or unexpected charges.

• Reduced Risk of Overspending

With virtual credit cards, you can create cards with preset spending limits, preventing you from overspending beyond your budget

Virtual Credit Card for International Payments

You can utilise a virtual credit card for international payments. 

It can offer the following advantages:

•  Lower fees and better rates

It can help the user avoid or reduce the fees and charges associated with international payments. This can include foreign transaction fees, currency conversion fees, etc.

A VCC can also offer better exchange rates than physical cards.

•  Wider acceptance and compatibility

A virtual credit card can be accepted and compatible with more merchants and platforms around the world.

You can also add it to a digital wallet, such as Apple Pay or Google Pay, and use it for contactless payments.

.•  Shopping online from foreign websites

You can utilise a VCC to shop online from foreign websites that accept Visa or MasterCard. The currency conversion will be done automatically at the real exchange rate, saving you from hidden fees.

•  Traveling abroad

You can use it to book flights, hotels, or car rentals online. You can also use a VCC to pay for goods and services in person at any foreign merchant that accepts contactless payments.

How do you get a Virtual Credit Card in India?

Getting a VCC in India is easy and fast. You just need to follow these steps:

•  Choose a credit card provider that offers virtual credit cards in India, such as HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, or Kotak Mahindra Bank.

•  Apply for a credit card online by filling in your personal and financial details.

•  Get instant approval and access to your virtual credit card details.

•  Start using your VCC for online or in-store transactions.

Things to Remember While Using Virtual Credit Cards

• Use your VCC card within 24 hours of getting it.
• Offers and benefits of your original credit card won’t apply to the VCC.
• There’s no separate billing cycle; it’s combined with your original credit card.
• VCCs don’t offer an EMI facility.
• Virtual Credit Cards are only for online transactions.

Conclusion

Virtual credit cards offer enhanced security, privacy protection, and convenient control over spending. With their simple setup and customisable features, they’re a smart choice for safer online shopping and better financial management.

FAQs | Virtual Credit Cards

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Disclaimer: Investments in the securities market are subject to market risks; read all the related documents carefully before investing.