Lite serves South African citizens and permanent residents; Essential and Pro also accept foreign nationals. You need a South African mobile number.
Match your wallet to your status, then prepare the details for your upgrade
For Lite, details include your South African ID number, employment, source of funds and address. Eligible wallets let you create up to three virtual cards.
For Essential and Pro, examples include an ID photo, a selfie and your address. You can shop online, but merchants may reject virtual card transactions.
What cash withdrawals and extra cards cost you
Local and international ATM withdrawals cost R7 plus 2% per R100. Visa adds 1.5% of the amount on international transactions. A foreign ATM provider may charge additional fees.
VodaPay charges for replacements and R7 per extra card created. Local in-store card withdrawals cost R1.40 with or without purchases. Bidvest Bank sponsors wallet banking.
What you need for your wallet and virtual card
Supply FICA information when asked; without it, you cannot transact.
- Have a local mobile number.
- Have a Lite, Essential or Pro wallet in good standing, including KYC.
- Meet FICA rules and pass wallet fraud, risk and approval checks.
- Use Android, or iOS version 12 or later.
- For foreign wallets, supply an accepted immigration document.
From the VodaPay app to your first card
- Get the VodaPay app; register if new, or log in.
- If needed, request your wallet upgrade.
- VodaPay tells you when your upgrade is complete.
- In your wallet, tap Get Card and accept the terms.
- Use ‘Add Money’ and follow the wallet top-up steps.
Your questions answered
Can my VodaPay Virtual Card pay when my wallet balance is too low?
Your Visa debit card uses wallet funds. Your available balance must cover the payment and fees, or VodaPay declines it.
What happens to subscriptions if my card expires or I cancel it?
If your card expires or is cancelled, create a new card and update its details with each merchant taking recurring payments.
Which documents can I use as a foreign national?
You need a passport with a work permit or visa, an asylum certificate or a refugee certificate. These are alternatives.
Do I need to activate my virtual card after creating it?
No. Your card is activated automatically when created. Wallet registration depends on VodaPay’s approval criteria.