How to Get the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card

Learn how to get the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card to make secure international online payments directly from your M-Pesa wallet.

Summary

The M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card enables Kenyan M-Pesa users to make international online payments seamlessly. This virtual card links directly to your M-Pesa wallet, allowing purchases on global platforms like Amazon, Netflix, and AliExpress without the need for a traditional bank account. This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough on acquiring, activating, and utilizing the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card, including its features, benefits, and essential considerations.

Introduction

In today’s digital age, the ability to transact online globally is essential. Recognizing this need, Safaricom, in partnership with Visa, introduced the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card. This innovation empowers M-Pesa users in Kenya to make international online payments effortlessly. Whether you’re subscribing to streaming services, shopping on international e-commerce platforms, or paying for online courses, this virtual card bridges the gap between your M-Pesa wallet and the global marketplace.

What is the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card?

The M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card is a digital card linked directly to your M-Pesa wallet. It allows users to make payments on international online platforms that accept Visa cards. Unlike traditional physical cards, this virtual card exists solely in digital form, enhancing security and convenience for online transactions.

Key Features and Benefits

1. Seamless International Payments

Make payments on global platforms such as:

• Amazon

• Netflix

• AliExpress

• eBay

• Udemy
  This card is exclusively for international online transactions and cannot be used on local Kenyan platforms like Jumia.

2. Direct Link to M-Pesa Wallet

Transactions are debited directly from your M-Pesa balance, eliminating the need for bank accounts or credit cards.

3. Enhanced Security

• Dynamic CVV: Each transaction requires a CVV that is valid for only 30 minutes, reducing the risk of fraud.

• PIN Authentication: Generating a CVV requires your M-Pesa PIN, ensuring only authorized users can transact.

4. User-Friendly Management

Through the M-Pesa App, users can:

• View card details

• Generate CVV codes

• Set monthly spending budgets

• Enable or disable repeat payments

• Access mini-statements

5. Cost-Effective

• No maintenance or subscription fees.

• A 3.5% foreign exchange markup applies to transactions, reflecting the currency conversion rate at the time of purchase.

How to Get and Activate the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card

Option 1: Using the M-Pesa App

1. Download and install the M-Pesa App from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.

2. Log in to your M-Pesa account.

3. Navigate to the “Grow” tab.

4. Select “GlobalPay” and opt-in to the service.

5. Choose your preferred card design.

6. Enter your M-Pesa PIN to confirm.

7. You will receive an SMS containing your 16-digit card number and expiry date.

Option 2: Using USSD (*334#)

1. Dial *334# on your mobile phone.

2. Select “Lipa na M-Pesa” (Option 6).

3. Choose “M-Pesa GlobalPay” (Option 5).

4. Accept the terms and conditions.

5. Enter your M-Pesa PIN to confirm.

6. You will receive your card details via flash SMS.

Managing Your M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card

Viewing Card Details

Access your card number, expiry date, and generate a CVV through the M-Pesa App under the “GlobalPay” section.

Generating a CVV

Each transaction requires a CVV, valid for 30 minutes. Generate this through the M-Pesa App by selecting “Show Card Details” and entering your M-Pesa PIN.

Setting a Monthly Budget

Monitor and control your spending by setting a monthly budget within the “GlobalPay” section of the M-Pesa App.

Enabling Repeat Payments

For recurring subscriptions, enable repeat payments through the M-Pesa App. Remember, disabling this feature does not cancel the subscription; you must do so through the respective service provider.

Important Considerations

Transaction Limits

• Minimum per transaction: Equivalent of $1 (approximately Ksh 110, depending on exchange rates).

• Maximum per transaction: Ksh 150,000.

• Daily limit: Ksh 300,000.

Card Validity

• Expiration: The card is valid for 3 years.

• Dormancy: If unused for 6 months, the card becomes inactive but can be reactivated through the M-Pesa App.

Restrictions

• The card cannot be used on local Kenyan online platforms.

• Fuliza (M-Pesa overdraft) is not supported for GlobalPay transactions.

• Certain merchant categories, such as gambling and cryptocurrency, are restricted.

FAQs on How to Get the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card

Q: Can I use the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card for local online purchases?
A: No, the card is exclusively for international online transactions. For local purchases, use the standard M-Pesa payment options.

Q: What happens if my card becomes dormant?
A: If inactive for 6 months, the card becomes dormant. You can reactivate it through the M-Pesa App.

Q: Is there a fee for using the card?
A: There are no maintenance fees. However, a 3.5% foreign exchange markup applies to transactions.

Q: How secure is the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card?
A: The card uses dynamic CVV codes valid for 30 minutes and requires your M-Pesa PIN for transactions, enhancing security.

Q: Can I have multiple M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Cards?
A: No, each M-Pesa account can have only one active GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card.

Related: How to Pay for Apps Without a Card in Kenya

Final Thoughts on How to Get the M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card

The M-Pesa GlobalPay Virtual Visa Card is a game-changer for Kenyans seeking to participate in the global digital economy. Its seamless integration with the M-Pesa ecosystem, coupled with enhanced security features, makes international online transactions more accessible and secure. Whether you’re shopping, subscribing, or paying for services abroad, this virtual card offers a convenient solution without the need for traditional banking services.