Have you ever tried shopping online only to hit a roadblock because you don’t have a bank card? This is a big challenge faced by many Ugandans who rely on mobile money services but find themselves locked out of the digital marketplace. The good news is that MTN Uganda has brought back its MTN MoMo Card rebranded as Virtual Card by MoMo. The virtual card aims to give Ugandans to online shopping with the need of having a traditional bank account or physical debit/credit card.
First launched in 2018, and restored in 2025 after a nearly three-year break, the MTN Virtual Card (Virtual Card by MoMo) is quickly becoming essential for anyone who wants to buy from international websites like Amazon and AliExpress, pay for streaming services like Netflix, or make any online purchase where Mastercard is accepted. The beauty of this service is its simplicity. You can create a virtual card directly from your mobile phone in just a few minutes.
In this guide, we will take you through everything you need to know about creating and using your Virtual Card by MoMo (MTN Virtual Card). Whether you are a student looking to buy educational materials online, a business owner sourcing products from international suppliers, or simply someone who wants to enjoy digital services, this guide will show you exactly how to bring the global marketplace to your fingertips.
What is the Virtual Card by MoMo (MTN Virtual Card)?
The Virtual Card by MoMo is a digital payment solution from MTN Uganda that allows Mobile Money users to make secure online transactions without needing a physical bank card. Unlike the plastic cards you get from banks, this card exists only in digital form, with a 16-digit card number, expiry date, and CVV code sent to your phone.
Launched through a partnership between MTN Uganda, Mastercard, Diamond Trust Bank (DTB), and Network International, this virtual card is fully integrated with the MTN Mobile Money ecosystem. It works just like a regular debit card, using your MTN Mobile Money wallet as the funding source for your online purchases.
When you create a Virtual Card by MoMo, you are essentially getting a digital Mastercard that’s accepted on virtually any website or app that takes card payments. It bridges the gap between mobile money and global online commerce, allowing you to shop on international websites, subscribe to digital services, and make payments online with the same ease as someone with a traditional bank card.
Features of Virtual Card by MoMo
The Virtual Card by MoMo comes packed with features designed to make online payments secure, flexible, and convenient. Here’s what you get:
- 30-Day Validity Period: Each virtual card you create remains active for 30 days, after which you can easily generate a new one through the USSD menu or MTN app.
- Separate Wallet System: While linked to your MTN MoMo account, the virtual card operates as a separate wallet, giving you better control over your online spending.
- Free Card Top-Up and Withdraws: Adding money to your virtual card from your MoMo wallet and withdrawing it back to your MoMo wallet is completely free of charge, with no hidden fees for funding your card.
- Enhanced Security Options: For added protection, you can freeze your card when not in use or delete it entirely. This helps prevent unauthorized transactions even if someone gets your card details.
- OTP Transaction Authentication: Major transactions require a one-time password sent to your phone. This adds an extra layer of security to your online payments.
- Digital-Only Format: The card exists purely in digital form—no physical card to lose or have stolen, just secure details stored on your phone.
- Customizable Transaction Limits: Set your own spending limits on the card to help manage your budget and control expenses.
- Controlled Spending: Only load the amount you need for your purchases. This eliminates the risk of overspending or unexpected charges.
Steps to create Virtual Card by MoMo
You can create the Virtual Card by MoMo simply by dialing *165*70# and following prompts. Alternatively, you can follow a step by step process below:
- Dial *165# on your MTN line to access the main Mobile Money menu
- Select “Financial Services” from the options displayed
- Choose “MoMo Card” from the financial services menu
- Enter your MoMo PIN to proceed
- Select Virtual Card by MoMo
- Select “Create Virtual Card” from the MoMo Card menu
- Enter 1 to accept Terms and Conditions by Virtual by MoMo
- After confirming terms and conditions, you will receive your Virtual Card details via SMS, including the 16-digit card number, expiry date, and CVV
- Store these details safely as you will need them whenever making online payments
Remember that creating the Virtual Card costs UGX 1,000, and the card will be valid for 30 days from the date of creation. You will need to generate a new card once the current one expires if you want to continue making online payments.
How to shop online using Virtual Card by MoMo
Using your MTN Virtual Card for online shopping is easy. Follow these steps to make secure payments on any website or app:
- Have your virtual card ready. If you haven’t created it, dial *165*70# and follow prompts to generate it.
- Go to the app or website where you want to make a payment, and add the items or services to your cart.
- At checkout, choose to pay with card. Most platforms support both Mastercard and Visa (Virtual Virtual by MoMo is a debit Mastercard).
- You will be redirected to a secure page where you can enter your MTN Virtual Card details.
- Enter your name, card number, expiration date, and CVV code.
- Click “Complete Payment” or a similar button. If you have sufficient funds in your Virtual Card wallet, the payment will be processed, and you will receive a confirmation message.
- Keep in mind that MTN charges 3% transaction fees per transaction using Virtual by MoMo.
- Once the payment is complete, you will be able to view your transaction history in your Virtual Card wallet.
Tip: Always ensure your MoMo wallet has enough money to cover both the purchase amount and the 3% transaction fee before attempting to make payments.
Where to use the MTN Virtual Card (Virtual Card by MoMo)
The MTN Virtual Card is widely accepted across numerous platforms and services. Here are some of the places where you can use your virtual card:
- E-Commerce and Online Shopping platforms
You can shop on international sites like Amazon, eBay, AliExpress, Alibaba, and Etsy, as well as local platforms like Jumia Uganda and Condala.
- Streaming and Entertainment Services
Pay for subscriptions on Netflix, Spotify, DStv, GoTV, YouTube Premium, Showmax, and IrokoTV, among others.
- Travel and Booking Services
Book flights, hotels, and experiences through Booking.com, Uganda Airlines, RwandAir, Expedia, Airbnb, Trivago, and Jumia Travel.
- Digital Stores and App Purchases
Buy apps, games, and digital content on Google Play Store, Apple App Store, Steam, and Microsoft Store, or pay for services like SafeBoda, Uber, and Bolt.
- Bill Payments and Utilities
Settle your bills for UEDCL electricity, DStv Uganda, National Water, or use payment platforms like PesaPal, PayWay, and Interswitch.
- Financial Services and Money Transfer platforms
Link your card to services like Chipper Cash, Eversend, Flutterwave, PayPal, and Western Union for international transfers.
- Education and Online Learning platforms
Invest in your education through platforms like Udemy, Coursera, edX, Khan Academy, and Sololearn.
Commonly asked questions about Virtual Card by MoMo
What is a Virtual Card by MoMo?
A Virtual Card by MoMo is a digital Mastercard linked to your MTN Mobile Money account that allows you to make secure online payments without needing a physical card or bank account.
How Do I Get my Virtual Card by MoMo?
You can create your virtual card by dialing *165*70# on your MTN line and following the prompts. The card costs UGX 1,000 to create.
Will I be issued a physical card?
No, the Virtual Card by MoMo exists only in digital format. You will receive the card details (card number, expiry date, and CVV) via SMS after creation.
Is a Virtual Card by MoMo Different from a Physical Card?
Yes, while they function similarly for online payments, the Virtual Card by MoMo has no physical form, is valid for only 30 days, and is directly linked to your MoMo wallet rather than a bank account.
How many cards can I get at once?
You can only have one active Virtual Card by MoMo per wallet at any given time.
How Secure is the Virtual Card by MoMo on My MoMo Wallet?
The Virtual Card by MoMo incorporates Mastercard’s advanced security features, including OTP verification for transactions. You can also freeze the card when not in use for added security.
Can I Temporarily Disable or block My Virtual Card by MoMo?
Yes, you can freeze your card when not in use and unfreeze it when needed through the USSD menu or MyMTN app.
How Do I Add Money to My Virtual Card by MoMo?
You can top up your virtual card directly from your MTN Mobile Money wallet with no additional fees.
Can I Transfer Funds from My Virtual Card by MoMo to Another Account?
No, the Virtual Card by MoMo is designed for making payments only, not for transferring funds to other accounts.
Can I Have Multiple Virtual Cards in My MoMo Wallet?
No, you’re limited to one active Virtual Card by MoMo per wallet at any time.
What are the charges for the service?
Creating the card costs UGX 1,000, and there’s a 3% transaction fee charged on each payment made using the virtual card.
How Do I Close or Delete a Virtual Card by MoMo from My MoMo Wallet?
You can delete your virtual card through the USSD menu or MyMTN app for security purposes if you no longer need it.
Where do I use my Virtual Card?
You can use your Virtual Card anywhere Mastercard is accepted online, including e-commerce sites, streaming services, travel bookings, app stores, and more.
How do I use my Virtual Card?
When making online payments, select Mastercard as your payment method and enter your Virtual Card details (name, card number, expiry date, and CVV) at checkout.
Can I link my MTN Virtual Card to PayPal?
Yes, you can link your MTN Virtual Card to PayPal and use it as a funding source for PayPal transactions.
Can I make recurring payments with the MTN Virtual Card?
No, since the card is only valid for 30 days, it cannot be used for recurring payments or subscriptions that extend beyond this period. You would need to create a new card each month.
What are some alternatives to the MTN Virtual card?
Alternatives include Airtel Money Virtual Mastercard, ChipperCash Virtual Card, Eversend Virtual Card, and Flutterwave’s Rave Virtual Card.
Is MTN Virtual Card safe and secure?
Yes, the card incorporates Mastercard’s security features and additional protections like OTP verification and the ability to freeze the card when not in use.
What is the cost of the MTN MoMo Virtual Mastercard and what are the fees?
The card costs UGX 1,000 to create and there’s a 3% fee on all transactions made using the card.
Conclusion
The MTN Virtual Card (Virtual Card by MoMo) is a game-changer for Ugandans looking to participate in the global digital economy. With just a mobile phone and an MTN MoMo account, you now have the power to shop on international websites, subscribe to streaming services, book travel, and much more, all without needing a traditional bank account or physical card.
As Uganda continues to embrace digital transformation, tools like the Virtual Card by MoMo are breaking down barriers and opening doors for millions of Ugandans who had been locked out the digital economy. Whether you’re a student, entrepreneur, or just someone who wants to enjoy online services, this virtual card puts the power of global commerce right in your pocket.
So why wait? Dial *165*70# to create your MTN Virtual Card today, and join the millions of Ugandans who are already enjoying the freedom and convenience of secure online payments. Remember to keep your card details safe, monitor your transactions, and only load the amount you need to spend. Happy shopping!
