How do crypto virtual cards work?
A crypto virtual card works in four steps: you top up your card balance with cryptocurrency (usually USDT), the provider holds that balance, you pay at any accepting merchant, and the provider converts the exact amount needed from crypto to fiat at the moment of the transaction. The merchant receives ordinary currency and never touches crypto.
The step-by-step flow
- 1. Top up — deposit USDT to your card balance.
- 2. Hold — the balance sits ready to spend.
- 3. Pay — use the card number online or via Apple/Google Pay.
- 4. Convert — crypto converts to fiat at the point of sale.
What happens behind the scenes
When you tap or enter your card, the payment network requests authorization. The card issuer checks your balance, converts the precise fiat amount from your crypto, and approves the transaction in real time. You see the deduction instantly in the app, and the merchant is settled in their local currency.
Where fees come in
Crypto virtual cards typically charge a transparent top-up fee and avoid foreign-transaction markups because stablecoins are borderless. See the Kripicard fees page for exact pricing.
Frequently asked questions
Does the merchant know I paid with crypto?
How fast is the crypto-to-fiat conversion?
What crypto can I use to fund the card?
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