We’ve handpicked the top 5 virtual card providers that offer zero monthly maintenance fees, easy setup, and global access. Perfect for remote workers, online earners, and side hustlers in 2025.
1. Wise (formerly TransferWise)
Best for: Freelancers receiving payments from clients abroad.
- 💳 Multi-currency virtual card (USD, EUR, GBP, etc.)
- 🌍 Supported in 50+ countries
- 💸 No monthly fees, only pay when you use it
- 🔒 2FA & instant card freeze/unfreeze
Proof: Many freelancers report using Wise to receive USD from Upwork and convert to local currency at low fees.
2. Privacy.com
Best for: U.S. freelancers looking for secure, burner cards.
- 🛡️ Create disposable virtual cards for every website
- 🚫 Set spending limits per merchant
- 💳 Free tier includes up to 12 cards/month
- 📍 Available to U.S. residents only
Use case: Perfect for protecting against auto-renewals and risky websites.
3. Payoneer
Best for: Freelancers on platforms like Fiverr, Upwork, or Envato.
- 🏦 Receive USD, EUR, GBP into virtual bank accounts
- 💳 Request a virtual or physical MasterCard
- 🌎 Works globally, especially in Asia & Latin America
- 💰 No monthly card fee (in most regions)
Proof: We’ve received thousands in affiliate payouts via Payoneer with no issues.
4. Revolut
Best for: European freelancers looking for a banking alternative.
- 💼 Free virtual card under the “Standard” plan
- 💱 Hold & spend in 30+ currencies
- 📲 Instant card control from mobile app
- 🔁 Works with PayPal, Stripe, Amazon payouts
Note: While Revolut has paid tiers, the free virtual card is enough for most freelancers.
5. BitPay Virtual Card
Best for: Freelancers earning in Bitcoin, USDC, or crypto.
- 🪙 Spend crypto like cash via MasterCard
- 📉 No monthly fee, but conversion spread applies
- ⚡ Instant card creation once identity is verified
- 🇺🇸 Currently U.S. only (but expansion is coming)
Proof: Used by many crypto earners to cash out earnings and spend globally.
Summary Table
Card Provider | Best For | Monthly Fee | Regions Supported |
---|---|---|---|
Wise | Multi-currency freelancers | $0 | Global |
Privacy.com | US secure online spenders | $0 (free tier) | USA only |
Payoneer | Freelance platform payouts | $0 (varies by country) | Global |
Revolut | EU freelancers | $0 (standard) | Europe, USA, Aus |
BitPay | Crypto earners | $0 | USA only |
Conclusion
Virtual cards are a must-have tool for modern freelancers. Whether you’re working on Upwork, earning crypto, or getting affiliate payouts — there’s a card for your needs. Best of all, you can avoid monthly fees and stay 100% digital.
⭐ Pro Suggestion: Use Wise for international payments + Privacy.com for secure spending to get the best of both worlds.
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. We may earn a commission if you sign up through them, at no cost to you.