How to Get a Free Virtual Credit Card Without a Bank Account

Online banking is on the rise around the globe, and one of the changes this has brought about is contactless card payments shifting from physical to virtual. Although credit card providers are still behind the curve compared to debit cards when it comes to supporting virtual payment solutions, if you're looking for a free virtual credit card without the hassle of opening a new bank account, there may be a few options for you to consider.

This short article walks you through how to use a credit card virtually and what providers you might consider. Although we've written this guide primarily for an American audience, most of the providers we discuss are also available in other major countries like the United Kingdom, Australia, Singapore, and the European Union, although prices and terms and conditions may vary.

What Are Virtual Cards?

Virtual cards are fully legitimate cards (typically issued by Mastercard or VISA) with a 16-digit card number associated with your account, an expiry date, and a three-digit CVV number. You can use your virtual card the same as your physical one, the only difference being that you won't be able to swipe or insert it at point-of-sales machines, so you'll need to tap your device instead or pay online.

In 2024, there are real advantages to using a virtual card over a physical one. For one, it's often more convenient, with the multi-channel functionality allowing you to make payments over your mobile phone, tablet, or PC and dodging the need to carry around your wallet. What's more, virtual cards run less risk of being lost or stolen than physical ones, and if they are (for example, if you lose your mobile phone), you can easily block them online.

Virtual cards also almost always let you set spending limits yourself (unlike most physical cards) while still coming with the same top-notch security and anti-fraud protection.

Do Virtual Credit Cards Exist?

Most virtual cards out there are prepaid debit payment cards. Although it's possible to use a credit card virtually, you won't have the option to create one to use exclusively virtually. Rather, you'll need to add a physical credit card to a mobile wallet like Apple Pay. Alternatively, you could consider getting a virtual debit card (fortunately, debit cards are more ubiquitous and capable than ever, meaning credit cards are increasingly becoming obsolete for daily use cases).

Here's a bit more about how each option works:

1. Adding a credit card to a mobile wallet: The main options are Apple Pay, Google Pay, Samsung Pay, Fitbit Pay, and Garmin Pay. You can choose one you already use or one that'd be convenient for you to start using. You'll then need to add your credit card to the app by entering your card number, expiration date, CVV number, and full name and address. Most mobile wallets require you to manually activate the card before using it, which you can do in the app under the 'Cards' section. Once done, you can use your virtual card by tapping your mobile phone or smartwatch at point-of-sales terminals or making payments online as usual.
2. Getting a virtual debit card account: Use Monito to compare online banks and personal finance apps. Once you've found a provider that suits you, sign up! All providers on Monito offer accessible, online-only applications. You'll probably need to submit your ID and other personal information. Wait until your account has been verified (which can take anything from a few minutes to a few days), and once done, you'll be able to start using your virtual debit card right away, regardless of the delivery status of your physical card.

Take a look at our in-depth guide on the best virtual cards to learn more. Without further ado, let's look at a few options you have for credit cards and debit cards that you can use virtually:

Revolut VISA/Mastercard Credit Card

A world-leading personal finance app, there's a good chance you've already heard of Revolut. By signing up, you'll not only get an instant virtual debit card, but you'll also be able to access a broad range of financial services at no fixed monthly cost. Revolut also offers cashback credit cards, though these aren't available virtually like its debit cards are. Revolut is not a bank in the US and UK, so we think the app is best used as a powerful spending tool next to a main bank account instead of in place of it.

American Express® Gold Card

The only premium credit card we've selected for this list, the American Express® Gold Card is an excellent choice if you like high-value credit cards. Although it comes with a high annual membership fee of $250 per year, the Amex Gold Card offers benefits such as generous rewards on dining and groceries, airline fee credits, and no foreign transaction fees, ensuring a rewarding and cost-effective travel experience.

Wise VISA Debit Card

Wise isn't a bank but a money transfer operator well-known for offering some of the cheapest international transfers globally. However, money transfers aren't Wise's only speciality — it also provides the Wise Account, a low-cost foreign currency spending account (that comes with a virtual debit card) that's best in class for foreign currency spending of all kinds, whether it's holidays overseas, online shopping, or international money transfers.