Virtual Credit Card Netherlands
Want a safer way to shop online, book travel, or manage subscriptions? A virtual credit card lets you pay with a digital card number — no plastic, no exposure. It works just like a normal credit card but adds extra control and security. We’ll show you how virtual credit cards work in the Netherlands, who offers them, and how to get started in minutes.
What Is a Virtual or Digital Credit Card?
A virtual credit card is a digital version of a physical credit card. It has its own card number, expiration date, and CVV, but exists only online — there’s no plastic card issued. You can use it for online shopping, travel bookings, recurring subscriptions, or any place where card payments are accepted digitally.
Virtual cards are typically issued through a mobile app or online banking portal and can be created instantly. Some are one-time use only, while others are reusable with full control over limits, expiry, and spending categories. They’re ideal for anyone who wants extra protection against fraud, budget control, or instant card access — especially if you’re waiting for a physical card to arrive.
How to Get a Virtual Credit Card in the Netherlands
Getting a virtual credit card is faster and easier than applying for a traditional physical card — and often much safer for online use. Whether you want one for travel bookings, streaming subscriptions, or general online shopping, you can typically set it up in minutes from your phone. No postal delivery, no plastic, no delay.
Steps
- Choose a provider
- Create an account
- Verify your identity
- Generate your virtual card
- Start using it online
1. Choose a provider
Start by comparing providers that offer virtual cards in the Netherlands. Popular options include bunq, Revolut, Wise, N26, and sometimes ICS for certain Dutch-issued cards. Most fintechs offer virtual cards either as part of a free plan or within premium subscriptions.
When choosing, look at fees (monthly or per card), available card controls (limits, auto-delete, single-use), and currency support. If you need multiple cards, bunq and Revolut allow you to generate several with different settings — ideal for managing subscriptions, shared expenses, or travel bookings.
2. Create an account
To get a virtual card, you first need to open an account with the provider. This is done entirely online via app or website and usually takes under 10 minutes. You’ll need to enter your full name, email address, phone number, and Dutch address.
Most providers require a Dutch IBAN or allow you to open one with them. This account will be used to top up your virtual card balance or link it to your main spending account. For cards with credit functionality, you may also need to provide income information.
3. Verify your identity
Before you can create your virtual card, providers are legally required to verify your identity. This typically involves uploading a photo ID (passport or national ID card) and possibly recording a short video for facial recognition.
The process is fast and usually automatic. Once approved, your account becomes fully active. For Dutch residents, this step can be completed in a matter of minutes. Some providers also allow non-residents or expats to apply, as long as they can provide a valid ID and EU address.
4. Generate your virtual card
After verification, you can generate your first virtual card directly from the app. The card will include a 16-digit number, expiry date, and CVV — just like a physical card. You can immediately start using it for online purchases.
You’ll also be able to configure features like spending limits, single-use mode, or auto-deactivation after a certain date. These settings make virtual cards especially useful for managing subscriptions, free trials, or one-off payments to unfamiliar websites.
5. Start using it online
Your card is ready to use instantly. Simply copy the card details when shopping online or save it to your browser or payment app. Some providers allow you to add the virtual card to Apple Pay or Google Pay for contactless mobile payments in physical stores.
Monitor transactions in real time through the app, and freeze or delete the card at any time if you suspect misuse. You can also generate new cards as needed, giving you full control without waiting for a replacement or dealing with lost or stolen plastic.
Virtual vs. Prepaid vs. Physical Credit Cards
While all three card types let you make payments online and in-store, they differ significantly in how they work, how they’re issued, and what kind of control or credit access they offer. Understanding the difference helps you choose the right one for your needs — especially in a Dutch or EU context.
| Feature | Virtual Credit Card | Prepaid Credit Card | Physical Credit Card |
|---|---|---|---|
| Card format | Digital-only | Physical (some offer virtual too) | Physical plastic card |
| Credit line | No (unless linked to real credit account) | No (spend only what you load) | Yes (typically with monthly repayment terms) |
| Top-up required | Only if used as prepaid | Yes | No (credit is billed later) |
| Best for | Online shopping, subscriptions, one-time payments | Budget control, travel, no credit check | Daily use, travel, recurring bills |
| BKR check required | No (usually) | No | Yes |
| Security | Very high (card can be frozen, deleted, limited instantly) | High (not linked to main account) | Standard (risk if card is lost or stolen) |
| Control features | Custom limits, single-use, expiration control | Fixed balance, no overspending | May allow alerts but fewer control features |
| Usage abroad | Yes (depends on provider) | Yes (Visa/Mastercard based) | Yes (Visa/Mastercard/Amex) |
| Physical store use | Sometimes (via Apple/Google Pay) | Yes | Yes |
| Ideal for | Secure online payments, trial signups, privacy | Expats, students, limited credit history | Users needing full credit functionality and broad acceptance |
Each card type serves a different purpose. If your focus is online safety and instant control, virtual cards are the best choice. If you want to avoid debt, prepaid cards offer flexibility without risk. And for wider acceptance and full features, a physical credit card is still the most versatile option.
Pros and Cons of Virtual Credit Cards
Pros
- Instant access: No need to wait for delivery — create and use the card within minutes.
- Enhanced security: Virtual cards reduce the risk of fraud; you can freeze, delete, or set spending limits instantly.
- Ideal for online use: Perfect for subscriptions, one-time purchases, or shopping on unfamiliar websites.
- Multiple cards: Many providers allow you to generate multiple virtual cards for different services or team members.
- No credit check: Most virtual cards — especially those from fintechs — don’t require BKR screening or income verification.
Cons
- Limited offline use: Unless added to Apple Pay or Google Pay, virtual cards can’t be used in physical stores.
- Not all merchants accept them: Some platforms or travel services still require a physical card for verification or deposits.
- May require account top-up: If used in prepaid form, you’ll need to fund the card before use.
- No credit building: Since they’re not linked to a credit line, they won’t improve your credit history.
- Fewer rewards or perks: Most virtual cards don’t offer cashback, points, or travel insurance like premium physical cards do.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Virtual cards work like regular credit cards and are accepted on most websites that support Visa, Mastercard, or similar networks.
Very. You can set spending limits, use single-use cards, and delete or freeze cards instantly — ideal for avoiding fraud or subscription traps.
Most providers require a Dutch or EU IBAN, but some (like Wise or Revolut) allow you to open an account as part of the signup process.
Yes, if you add it to Apple Pay or Google Pay. However, not all providers support this feature yet.
Yes. Many fintechs offer virtual cards with no extra fee, especially as part of their basic account packages.