How to create Airtel Money Global Pay Card (Airtel Mastercard) 2025

Are you tired of missing out on online shopping deals because you don’t have a bank card? The good news is that Airtel Uganda has a solution for you. The Airtel Money Global Pay Card, formerly known as the Airtel Mastercard, is changing how Ugandans pay online. Launched through a partnership between Airtel Uganda, Mastercard, Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), and Network International, this virtual card allows you to shop on international websites like Amazon and AliExpress without needing a traditional bank account.

In Uganda, where most people use mobile money instead of banks, this card bridges the gap between local wallets and global commerce. Whether you want to pay for Netflix subscriptions, shop on Jumia, or book flights online, the Airtel Money Global Pay Card makes it possible using just your phone. The card was rebranded in 2025 but continues to offer the same convenience and security that Ugandans have come to trust.

This article will guide you through everything you need to know about creating and using your Airtel Money Global Pay Card in 2025, from setup to security tips.

What is the Airtel Money Global Pay Card?

The Airtel Money Global Pay Card is a digital prepaid card that works like a regular bank card but exists only virtually – no plastic necessary. Also known as the Airtel Money Virtual Card, Airtel Mastercard, or simply Airtel Virtual Card, it allows Airtel Money users to make online payments anywhere Mastercard is accepted around the world.

Unlike traditional cards that are tied directly to your bank account, the Global Pay Card maintains a separate wallet that you fund from your Airtel Money account. This separation gives you better control over your spending and adds an extra layer of security to your transactions.

Key Features of the Airtel Money Global Pay Card

The Airtel Money Global Pay Card comes with several useful features that make online shopping convenient and secure:

• Separate Wallet System: The card operates with its own balance, which you can fund from your Airtel Money account whenever needed.
• Free Transfers: You can top up your card from Airtel Money at no cost, and moving money back to your Airtel Money wallet is also free.
• Card Management Options: You can delete, suspend, block, or freeze your card when not in use for extra security.
• Easy Access to Card Details: View your card information anytime via USSD (*185#) or the MyAirtel app.
• Customizable Transaction Limits: Set maximum transaction amounts to prevent unauthorized large purchases.
• Currency Converter: The built-in cost estimator shows you how much a foreign currency purchase will cost in Ugandan Shillings, including all charges.
• Balance Checking: Easily check how much money remains on your card before making purchases.
• 12-Month Validity: Your card remains active for one full year from the date of issue, with renewal notifications sent one month before expiry. If renewed before expiration, you keep the same card details.

How to Create the Airtel Money Global Pay Card

Creating your Airtel Money Global Pay Card is quick and straightforward. You have two options: using USSD codes or the MyAirtel app. Both methods take just a few minutes and are completely free. Here’s how to get yours:

Method 1: Using USSD Code

1. Dial *185# on your Airtel phone to open the Airtel Money menu.
2. Select option 7 for “Financial Services.”
3. Choose option 8 for “AM Global Pay Card.”
4. Select option 1 to “Get a Card.”
5. Enter your Airtel Money PIN to confirm (there’s no creation fee).
6. Wait for an SMS with a link to view your card details (usually arrives within seconds).
7. Click the link and enter the one-time password (OTP) sent to your phone.
8. Your card details (card number, expiry date, and CVV) will appear. Save these somewhere secure like a notebook or password-protected note app.

Method 2: Using MyAirtel App

1. Download the MyAirtel App from Google Play Store or Apple App Store if you don’t already have it.
2. Open the app and go to the “Airtel Money” tab.
3. Enter your Airtel Money PIN to access the dashboard.
4. Find your wallet balance and tap the Mastercard logo displayed next to it.
5. Re-enter your PIN and select “Proceed” to create your card (no fee applies).
6. Your card details (card number, expiry date, and CVV) will appear directly in the app. You will also receive an SMS confirmation.
7. Copy or take a screenshot of your virtual card details and store them securely.

How to Load and Use Your Airtel Money Global Pay Card

Since the Airtel Money Global Pay Card maintains a separate wallet from your main Airtel Money account, you’ll need to fund it before making purchases. Here’s how:

Loading Funds Via USSD:

1. Dial *185# to access the Airtel Money menu.
2. Select the “AM Global Pay Card” option.
3. Choose “Top up Card” and enter the amount you want to transfer from your Airtel Money wallet.
4. Confirm the transaction with your PIN, and the funds will be transferred instantly.

Loading Funds Via MyAirtel App:

1. Open the MyAirtel app.
2. Navigate to the Airtel Money section.
3. Select “View your Global Pay Card” and then “Top up Card.”
4. Enter the amount you want to add to your card.
5. Confirm the transaction, and your balance will update immediately.

Making Online Purchases:

1. Browse and select items on any website that accepts Mastercard payments.
2. When checking out, select “Mastercard” or “Credit/Debit Card” as your payment method.
3. Enter the 16-digit card number, expiry date, and CVV from your Airtel Money Global Pay Card.
4. Complete the purchase, and the amount will be deducted from your card balance.
5. You will receive an SMS notification confirming the transaction.

Remember to load enough funds to cover both the purchase amount and the 5% transaction fee charged by Airtel. For example, if buying something worth UGX 10,000, load at least UGX 10,500 to your card.

Where to Use the Airtel Money Global Pay Card

The Airtel Money Global Pay Card can be used on any website or app that accepts Mastercard, giving you access to millions of online merchants worldwide. Here are some popular places where Ugandans use their cards:

E-commerce and Shopping Websites

• Amazon: Purchase books, electronics, and other goods with shipping options to Uganda.
• AliExpress: Buy affordable items directly from Chinese manufacturers.
• Jumia Uganda: Shop for phones, clothes, and appliances with local delivery.
• eBay: Bid on auctions or buy items directly from sellers worldwide.
• Kikuubo Online: Purchase groceries and household items locally.
• Dombelo Uganda: Buy electronics and accessories with local support.

Streaming and Entertainment Services

• Netflix: Subscribe to watch movies and TV shows.
• Spotify: Access millions of songs and podcasts.
• DStv: Pay for satellite TV packages online.
• YouTube Premium: Enjoy ad-free videos and background play.
• Showmax: Watch African-focused content and sports.

Travel and Booking Services

• Booking.com: Reserve hotels in Uganda and worldwide.
• Uganda Airlines: Purchase flight tickets directly.
• Airbnb: Book short-term accommodations for travel.
• Jumia Travel: Find hotel deals across Africa.
• Uber, Safecar, and Bolt: Add your card for seamless ride payments.

Digital Stores and App Purchases

• Google Play Store: Buy apps, games, and in-app purchases.
• Apple App Store: Purchase iOS apps and subscriptions.
• Steam: Download paid PC games.

Bill Payments and Utilities

• UEDCL Light: Pay for prepaid electricity online.
• National Water (NWSC): Settle water bills through their portal.
• PayWay Uganda: Handle multiple bill payments in one place.

Tips for Safe Online Shopping with Airtel Money Global Pay Card

To ensure your online shopping experience remains secure:

1. Never share your Airtel Money PIN: This is the key to your entire wallet. If someone calls claiming to be from Airtel and asks for your PIN, hang up—it’s definitely a scam.
2. Store card details securely: Don’t leave your card information in unprotected text messages or notes. Use a password manager or write them down in a secure location at home.
3. Shop only on trusted websites: Look for “https://” and a padlock icon in the address bar. Stick to well-known stores or verified local merchants.
4. Load only what you need: Since the card has its own balance, only transfer what you plan to spend plus the transaction fee. This limits potential losses if your card details are compromised.
5. Be aware of currency conversion costs: When shopping on international sites, remember that your card will convert UGX to the foreign currency, which may include additional conversion fees.
6. Monitor your transactions: Regularly check your card balance and transaction history through the MyAirtel app or by dialing *185#.
7. Delete your card if suspicious: If you suspect your card details have been compromised, immediately delete the card by dialing *185*7# and selecting “Delete Card.”

Frequently Asked Questions About Airtel Money Global Pay Card

1. How much does it cost to create an Airtel Money Global Pay Card?

It’s completely free to create the card. You only pay a 5% fee when making transactions.

2. How long is the Airtel Money Global Pay Card valid?

The card is valid for 12 months from the date of issue. You will receive a notification one month before expiry so you can renew it.

3. Can I use the Airtel Money Global Pay Card at ATMs?

No, this is a virtual card designed for online payments only. It cannot be used to withdraw cash from ATMs.

4. What happens if my payment fails?

Check your card balance to ensure you have sufficient funds, including the 5% transaction fee. If needed, top up your card from your Airtel Money wallet.

5. Is there a limit to how much I can load on my card?

Yes, your card is subject to Airtel Money transaction limits based on your account tier level. You can also set personal transaction limits for added security.

6. Can I use my Airtel Money Global Pay Card for subscriptions?

Yes, you can use it for recurring payments like Netflix or Spotify. Just ensure your card is valid and has sufficient funds each billing cycle.

7. How do I check my Airtel Money Global Pay Card balance?

Dial *185*7# and select “My Card Details” or check through the MyAirtel app.

8. What should I do if I forget my card details?

Dial *185*7#, select “My Card Details,” and follow the prompts to retrieve your information.

9. Can I have more than one Airtel Money Global Pay Card?

No, you can only have one active card at a time linked to your Airtel Money account.

10. Does the card work for international purchases?

Yes, it works for any website that accepts Mastercard, regardless of country or currency.

11. How do I transfer money back from my card to Airtel Money?

Dial *185*7# and select “Card Withdrawal” or use the MyAirtel app. This transfer is free.

12. Are there monthly maintenance fees for the card?

No, there are no monthly or annual maintenance fees for the Airtel Money Global Pay Card.

13. How secure is the Airtel Money Global Pay Card?

The card uses Mastercard’s security protocols, features two-factor authentication, and sends SMS alerts for all transactions.

14. Can I delete my card and create a new one?

Yes, you can delete your current card and create a new one at any time.

15. Will I get the same card details if I renew before expiry?

Yes, if you renew before the expiry date, you will keep the same card details.

16. Can I use my Airtel Money Global Pay Card without internet?

You need internet access to make online purchases, but you can manage your card via USSD codes (*185#) without data.

17. What happens to my funds if my card expires?

Any remaining balance on an expired card will be automatically returned to your Airtel Money wallet.

18. Can I use my Airtel Money Global Pay Card in physical stores?

No, this is strictly a virtual card for online transactions only.

19. How quickly are funds transferred when loading the card?

Transfers between your Airtel Money wallet and your Global Pay Card are instant.

20. Can I freeze my card temporarily and unfreeze it later?

Yes, you can freeze your card when not in use and unfreeze it whenever you need to make a purchase.

Conclusion

The Airtel Money Global Pay Card has revolutionized online shopping for Ugandans by removing the barrier of needing a traditional bank account. With just your phone and Airtel Money account, you can now access global e-commerce platforms, streaming services, and online subscriptions that were previously difficult to pay for.

Creating your card is free and takes just minutes, whether you prefer using USSD codes or the MyAirtel app. The card’s separate wallet system, customizable limits, and built-in security features give you control over your online spending while protecting your money.

As more Ugandans embrace digital payments in 2025, the Airtel Money Global Pay Card stands out as a practical solution that bridges local mobile money with global commerce. Whether you’re shopping on Amazon, paying for Netflix, or booking travel online, this virtual Mastercard makes it all possible with just a few taps on your phone.

So why wait? Dial *185# or download the MyAirtel app today to create your Airtel Money Global Pay Card and join thousands of Ugandans already enjoying the convenience of borderless online shopping.