More and more domestic users need to use overseas services, such as subscribing to ChatGPT Plus, Claude, Netflix, or making purchases in the App Store and Google Play. However, domestic credit cards are often not accepted by overseas platforms, which is where virtual credit cards become a "lifeline." Virtual credit cards like WildCard, VCard, PokePay, Dupay, WasabiCard, and LocalCard have become the top choice for domestic users. However, apart from WildCard, which supports direct top-ups via Alipay, most other virtual cards require top-ups through USDT (Tether). This article will discuss why virtual credit cards require USDT for top-ups and how domestic users can operate.
Recommended Overseas Virtual Cards: WildCard, VCard, PokePay, Dupay, WasabiCard, LocalCard
Recommended USDT Purchase: OKX, Binance, HTX
Why Do Virtual Credit Cards Require USDT for Top-Ups?#
USDT is a stablecoin pegged to the US dollar at a 1:1 ratio and is widely used in global cryptocurrency trading. Many virtual credit card platforms, such as VCard, PokePay, and Dupay, choose USDT as a top-up method for several reasons:
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Globally Accepted, Bypassing Foreign Exchange Restrictions
As a cryptocurrency, USDT is not subject to the geographical limitations of traditional banking systems. Domestic users may encounter foreign exchange controls when trying to top up overseas accounts with RMB, while USDT allows for easy cross-border fund transfers, making it convenient and fast. -
Low Cost, Efficient Transfers
Compared to traditional bank transfers, USDT has lower transaction fees and faster speeds. Transfers typically arrive within minutes, making it ideal for virtual credit cards that require instant consumption. -
Privacy Protection
Using USDT for top-ups means that users' bank account information is not directly exposed to the virtual card platform, enhancing privacy and security. This is especially important for cryptocurrency users, who are more accustomed to managing assets with cryptocurrencies. -
Platform Compliance Requirements
Many virtual card platforms, such as WasabiCard and LocalCard, cater to global users. USDT, as a neutral currency, facilitates multi-currency settlement for platforms and complies with international regulations.
However, WildCard is an exception. It is designed specifically for domestic users and supports direct top-ups via Alipay and WeChat, eliminating the hassle of purchasing USDT and making the process more user-friendly. If you don't want to deal with cryptocurrencies, WildCard is definitely the top choice.
How to Top Up Virtual Cards with USDT in China?#
For virtual cards that require USDT top-ups, such as VCard, PokePay, Dupay, WasabiCard, and LocalCard, domestic users need to first purchase USDT and then transfer it to the wallet address of the virtual card platform. Here are the detailed steps:
1. Register an Account on a Cryptocurrency Exchange#
First, you need to register an account on OKX, Binance, or HTX. These platforms support purchasing USDT with RMB. During registration, you need to complete identity verification (KYC), upload your ID card, and undergo video verification, which usually takes just a few minutes.
2. Purchase USDT with RMB#
After logging into the exchange, go to the "Buy Cryptocurrency" page, select USDT, and choose Alipay or WeChat as the payment method. Enter the purchase amount; for example, if you need to top up $20 to the virtual card, considering the fees, it's advisable to buy a bit more, such as 25-30 USDT. After payment, the USDT will arrive in your exchange wallet, typically within 5-10 minutes.
Tip: Binance and OKX sometimes have a 24-hour USDT freezing period, so you may need to wait until it is unfrozen before transferring. HTX's freezing time may be shorter, depending on the platform's policy.
3. Get the Top-Up Address from the Virtual Card Platform#
Log into your virtual card platform, such as PokePay or Dupay, go to the "Top-Up" page, and select USDT as the top-up currency. The platform will generate a unique wallet address (usually supporting TRC20, ERC20, or BEP20 networks). Copy this address and make sure to select the correct network, or you may risk losing your funds.
4. Transfer USDT from the Exchange#
Return to the exchange, go to the "Wallet" or "Withdraw" page, paste the virtual card platform's top-up address, select the corresponding transfer network (e.g., TRC20), enter the transfer amount, and confirm before submitting. Transfers usually arrive within 5-10 minutes, and you can check your balance on the virtual card platform.
5. Start Spending#
Once the top-up is successful, your virtual card can be used to subscribe to ChatGPT Plus, Claude, or make purchases on platforms like Amazon and Netflix. Some platforms, such as VCard and PokePay, also support binding to Alipay or WeChat for easier domestic spending.
Why Recommend WildCard?#
Although USDT top-ups are convenient, the steps of buying coins and transferring can be a bit complicated for users unfamiliar with cryptocurrencies. In this case, WildCard is particularly user-friendly. It directly supports Alipay and WeChat top-ups, requires no KYC verification, and card activation takes just a minute. Moreover, WildCard offers a "one-click subscription" feature for services like ChatGPT Plus and Claude Pro, with a nearly 100% success rate for payments. By registering with the invitation code "LEIXUE," you can also enjoy card activation discounts, making it highly cost-effective.
Conclusion: Choose the Right Virtual Card for You#
In summary, virtual credit cards are a powerful tool for domestic users to enjoy overseas services. Cards like VCard, PokePay, Dupay, WasabiCard, and LocalCard are suitable for cryptocurrency users, providing stable and secure USDT top-ups. Meanwhile, WildCard is more suitable for regular users, offering a simple operation and hassle-free Alipay top-ups. No matter which virtual card you choose, you can easily solve the challenges of overseas payments. Give it a try!