Virtual vs Physical Cards: Which to Use When

Virtual and physical cards are not better or worse than each other; they have different uses. Using both lets you manage online and offline payments separately.

When a virtual card fits

Virtual cards suit places where you pay with a card number, such as online ads, international subscriptions and e-commerce. Splitting them by purpose makes costs easy to separate, and you can freeze only the card with a problem.

When you need a physical card

Some hotels, car rentals, stores and ATMs may require a physical card. If you travel often, for work or otherwise, having a physical card is the safer choice.

Check before choosing

• Whether you mostly pay online or offline
• Mobile wallet support
• Issuance cost and which countries it ships to
• Limits and freeze controls per card

Xerovan cards

Xerovan offers Visa virtual and physical cards. You can set limits and freeze cards in the app; availability depends on your country of residence.

Note: This article is general information, not financial or legal advice. Xerovan is not a bank; card and payment services are provided by licensed partners. Availability and fees vary by country, and merchants and issuers decide whether to approve a payment. Digital assets involve risks, including price volatility, network disruptions and possible loss of funds.