Top performing crypto cards in Nigeria

Making international transactions as a Nigerian comes with a lot of difficulties, one of which is the limited functionality of Nigerian debit cards. Many cards are restricted for international use, preventing online purchases and other digital transactions on foreign websites.

However, Nigerians are increasingly turning to crypto cards to bridge the gap in international transactions. These innovative cards connect to a crypto wallet, allowing users to spend their crypto holdings directly at online merchants or physical stores that accept debit cards.

What are Crypto Cards?

Crypto cards are payment cards that allow you to spend your cryptocurrency holdings directly, just like a debit card. They bridge the gap between the world of crypto and traditional finance by functioning like prepaid debit cards. Here’s a breakdown:

• Linked to a Crypto Wallet:  Crypto cards connect to a crypto wallet where you store your digital currencies like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Stablecoins and so on.
• Spending Crypto Directly:  Instead of converting your crypto to cash first, you can use your crypto card to pay for online purchases or at stores that accept debit cards.
• Conversion at Point of Sale: When you make a purchase, the crypto card automatically converts the necessary amount of crypto from your wallet to the merchant’s currency at the current exchange rate.

Similar: Bitmama launches first African physical crypto cards for in-store payments

Crypto Cards That Work In Nigeria

UPay Crypto Card

UPay is a platform dedicated to providing secure and convenient global payment services. They provide payment solutions for individual users and business users to seamlessly connect cryptocurrency with traditional fiat currency, allowing you to easily manage and use your digital assets.

UPay Card is integrated with an application programming interface service, committed to being the professional USDT payment gateway, providing users with a stable and reliable USDT (TRC20, ERC20) collection tool. To accelerate the company’s compliance with international law, UPay officially obtained US and Canada MSB Certifications.

Cons:

• Quick and easy card application in 10 minutes
• Instant deposit and spend any time, anywhere
• Real-Time Conversion Rate
• Zero annual fee
• Deposit Fees/ Transaction Charges as low as 1%
• 24/7 Multilingual customer service team standby
• Compliant With AML Regulations

Pros:

• The UPay card may offer limited rewards compared to other payment methods, potentially diminishing incentives for frequent use.
• Users are restricted to funding their wallets with stablecoins like USDT only, limiting flexibility and accessibility for those preferring other cryptocurrencies.

Crypto.com Card

Crypto.com, is a Singapore-based company with a growing global presence. They offer a variety of cryptocurrency products and services, including their exchange, token (CRO), and now Visa debit cards.

Pros:

• Earn up to 8% back on purchases in CRO (Crypto.com’s token) depending on the card tier you choose.
• Crypto.com offers a range of cards with varying fees and benefits, allowing you to find one that suits your spending habits.
• Use your card virtually anywhere Visa is accepted.

Cons:

• To unlock the highest rewards tiers, you need to stake a significant amount of CRO for a fixed period.
• There have been reports of slow response times for customer service issues.

Also read: The Divest app wants to help you trade in your crypto for cash instantly

Coinbase Card

Coinbase Card is from Coinbase, a major US-based cryptocurrency exchange. They are a well-established player in the crypto space, known for their user-friendly platform and focus on security. Coinbase Card is a more recent addition to their product line.

Pros:

• No staking requirements, easy to set up and use.
• Earn rewards in various cryptocurrencies, not just the platform’s token.
• Coinbase is a well-established platform with a strong reputation for security.

Cons:

• Compared to Crypto.com’s top tiers, the Coinbase reward rate is variable, mostly a 1% back in crypto rewards.
• Currently, Coinbase only offers one tier of card.
• Coinbase Card availability can be limited in certain regions, so make sure it works in Nigeria before signing up.

Criteria for Choosing a Crypto Card

Crypto cards are a fantastic way to bridge the gap between cryptocurrencies and everyday spending. But with a growing number of options, selecting the right card can be tricky. Here’s a breakdown of key criteria to consider when picking your perfect crypto card:

1. Fees

When assessing crypto cards, it’s crucial to scrutinize the fee structure. Transaction fees and recurring monthly or annual fees should be carefully examined, as some cards impose flat fees simply for holding the card.

2. Security Features

Prioritize security features when selecting a crypto card. Look for advanced measures such as multi-factor authentication and robust fraud protection to safeguard your funds and personal information. It’s also advisable to research the issuer’s track record in crypto security, opting for a provider with a proven history of safeguarding user assets.

3. Ease of Use

Assess the user-friendliness of the crypto card and associated services. Evaluate the ease of topping up your card with cryptocurrency and managing your account. A streamlined mobile app with intuitive features can enhance the overall user experience, facilitating convenient account management and expenditure tracking.

4. Customer Support

Consider the quality and reliability of customer support provided by the card issuer. Opt for a provider that offers responsive and dependable customer assistance to address any issues or inquiries promptly. Reliable customer support is essential for resolving issues efficiently and ensuring a positive user experience with your crypto card.

Conclusion

Cross-border transactions for Nigerians are marked by significant challenges, chiefly stemming from the limitations of traditional debit cards. However, the emergence of crypto cards presents a promising solution, offering a bridge between cryptocurrency holdings and everyday spending needs. 

With options like the UPay Crypto Card, Crypto.com Card, and Coinbase Card, Nigerians have access to innovative payment solutions tailored to their diverse needs.

However, it is important to carefully consider some factors when selecting the right crypto card, such as associated fees, rewards, supported cryptocurrencies, and so on.