Virtual cards vs Physical cards

Every Swipey user gets a prepaid VISA card — the type you receive depends on your plan and what your Admin assigns to you. Here's everything you need to know about the difference.

At a Glance


Virtual CardPhysical Card

ColourLight blueDark blue
Available onAll plans including FreemiumGrowth and Plus plans only
Cards per userPlus plan: Up to 5 
Growth plan: Up to 3 
Fremium plan: 1 
Plus plan: Up to 2
Growth plan: Up to 1
Fremium plan: None 
Use for online payments
Use at physical stores
PayWave / contactless
Chip and PIN
Available instantly❌ (Delivered by post)
Accessible viaSwipey mobile appPhysical card + mobile app


Virtual Cards

Virtual cards are available on all plans and are ready to use the moment your account is set up — no waiting, no delivery.

You access your virtual card through the Swipey mobile app. Use it for any online payment where a VISA card is accepted (subscriptions, SaaS tools, e-commerce, digital advertising, and more).

How to view your card details:

  1. Open the Swipey mobile app and tap the Cards tab at the bottom
  2. Tap Show Card Details and complete verification
  3. Your 16-digit VISA card number, expiry date and CVV will appear — use these details at any online merchant


Tip: Keep your card details private. Never share your CVV with anyone.

To learn how to access your Virtual Card, click here.


Physical Cards

Physical cards are available on Growth and Plus plans only. Your Admin assigns a physical card to you. Once assigned, you will receive an email with the tracking number and the delivery is expected to take approcimately 7 to 10 working days. Use your physical card anywhere that accepts VISA (retail stores, restaurants, petrol stations, groceries, and online). 

Payment methods supported:

  • Chip and PIN — insert your card and enter your PIN
  • VISA PayWave — tap to pay contactless

Note: For your first in-store payment, always use the Chip and PIN method. This activates the PayWave functionality on your card.

Can I Hold Both?

Yes — you can hold a virtual card and a physical card at the same time. Your Admin assigns cards when inviting you, or can issue additional cards at any time. The number of cards you can hold depends on your company's plan.

If you need an additional card, speak to your Admin or contact us through Whatsapp to know more.

Which Plan Gets What?

Plan
Virtual CardsPhysical Cards
Freemium1 per user❌ Not available
Growth3 per user1 per user
Plus5 per user2 per user


See full plan comparison →

Need Help?

If you’re unsure or want someone to guide you through it, we’re here.
💬 Chat with us on WhatsApp
📞 Book a 30 min session and we’ll guide you through using Swipey

Common Questions

My PayWave isn't working — what do I do?

PayWave needs to be activated with your first chip and PIN transaction. If you've already done that and PayWave still isn't working, contact us on WhatsApp.


I haven't received my physical card — how long does delivery take?

Physical card delivery typically takes 5–7 business days after your Admin issues it. If it's been longer, reach out to us and we'll check the status.


Can I use my virtual card for in-store payments?

No — virtual cards are for online payments only. For in-store purchases you'll need a physical card.


What if I lose my physical card?

Freeze your card immediately from the Swipey mobile app or contact your Admin to freeze it from the dashboard. Learn how to freeze a card →

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