In this article, we’ll discuss virtual credit card options in the UK for both residents and non-residents.
We’ll also be touching on the differences between virtual credit cards and debit cards, along with reference to a few other payment options.
Of course, if you’re looking for other banking options in Europe, you can use any of our other free resources to start now. This includes articles on how to open non-resident bank accounts in the UK to opening bank accounts in Spain.
Feel free to jump ahead to the areas most relevant to you by using the table of contents below.
Table of Contents
- Virtual Credit Card UK
- Virtual Credit Cards vs Virtual Debit Cards
- How to Open a Bank Account in the United Kingdom
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Ready to Explore Your Options?
Virtual Credit Card UK
A virtual credit card from the UK typically refers to a payment card that can be used from a mobile device. In many instances, this type of virtual card can include fully virtual payment cards, credit cards from major card issuers, bank debit cards, and certain gift cards.
However, it’s important to note that in order to qualify for any credit card, individuals will need to have sufficient credit in the UK. In other words, have a credit score that banks will view as acceptable.
If you do not have sufficient credit or if you have poor credit, you may want to consider one of the available credit builder cards. These cards are available from a wide range of UK banks, including most major banks that operate in multiple countries.
That said, non-residents are unlikely to be able to obtain these cards. In fact, in most cases, we suggest that non-residents look at another banking hub instead when it comes to obtaining both secured and unsecured credit cards, the United States.
If you are interested in obtaining credit cards in the United States, you can use the free resources available in the US Credit Card section of the website.
Do You Want More International Banking Insights?
Sign up here to receive our Free Non-Resident Banking Starter Guide and weekly updates on the best account opening options available:
Virtual Credit Cards vs Virtual Debit Cards
While virtual credit cards relate to cards issued by banks that extend credit, virtual debit cards are directly tied to the balance in your account. In certain instances, individuals can also obtain secured credit cards, which operate in a similar way to debit cards as they are secured by the balance you keep on deposit. However, unlike debit cards, secured credit cards need to have the corresponding charges paid off each month.
How to Open a Bank Account in the United Kingdom
If you’re wondering how to open a bank account in the United Kingdom, you may want to reconsider your options. This is especially true if you want a bank account in order to get a credit card.
In fact, for most non-residents, the United Kingdom is not the best jurisdiction for account opening. Instead, there are better jurisdictions with banks that are easier to access elsewhere. This includes opening accounts with UK banks outside of the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below are three of the most common questions we receive from people looking for virtual credit cards. If you have further questions you would like answered, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us directly.
How to Get a Virtual Credit Card UK?
If you want to get a virtual credit card in the UK, you will need to obtain a credit card from the bank of your choosing. Then you can add the credit card to a mobile wallet. Alternatively, you can obtain a virtual card from a wide range of digital banking platforms. These cards can also be used through mobile wallets and do not have a corresponding physical card.
Which UK Banks Have Virtual Cards?
Many UK banks have virtual cards available to clients, this includes all of the UK digital banking platforms and several traditional banks. Importantly, thanks to mobile wallets like ApplePay, even physical debit cards can now be added as virtual cards.
How Do I Get a Virtual Credit Card Instant?
To get a virtual credit card with instant approval you will need to have sufficient credit and apply to one of the cards that allow for online approval. In most cases, receiving instant approval comes down to identity verification. This can be made easier when an individual is an existing client of the card issuer or bank.
Ready to Explore Your Options?
If you would like assistance navigating your banking options at home or abroad, we can help.
You can access GlobalBanks IQ, our international banking intelligence platform, in just a few clicks. Unlock our bank database, individual bank profiles, account opening strategies and reports, banker scripts, and more.
But, if you want a 100% personalized account opening service you can join GlobalBanks Insider. Insider taps into our team’s expertise and provides direct banker introductions to your preferred banks.
Of course, if you have any questions, please contact us directly.
