How to Get a Prepaid Credit Card in Brazil or Internationally

 

How to Get a Prepaid Credit Card in Brazil or Internationally

Obtaining a prepaid credit card in Brazil or internationally is a straightforward process. These cards function similarly to traditional credit cards, but you need to load them with funds before using them. Below are the steps to acquire a prepaid credit card, along with available options both in Brazil and internationally.

1. Prepaid Credit Card in Brazil

Step 1: Choose a Financial Institution

In Brazil, many banks and fintech companies offer prepaid credit cards. Here are some popular options:

• PagSeguro: Offers the PagBank Prepaid Card, which can be loaded via transfers, bank slips, or other methods. No bank account is required, and the card can be used internationally.
• Mercado Pago: The Mercado Pago Prepaid Card can be loaded directly through the Mercado Pago digital account and used in physical stores and online.
• Ame Digital: Ame Digital offers a prepaid card that can be reloaded via its payment platform, available for online and physical purchases.
• Banco do Brasil: Offers the Ourocard Prepaid, which can be used for both national and international purchases. It requires pre-loaded funds to operate.
• Bradesco Prepaid: A card offered by Bradesco Bank that can also be used both in Brazil and abroad.

Step 2: How to Apply for the Card

• Visit the website or app of the chosen institution.
• Register by providing your personal details such as name, CPF, address, email, etc.
• Choose the method of reloading (bank slip, transfer, PIX, etc.).
• In some cases, a small fee may be required for the physical card issuance.

Step 3: Reload the Card

To use the prepaid card, you need to add funds. This can be done via bank slip, bank transfer, deposit, or even PIX on some platforms.
The loaded balance will be available for online purchases and in physical stores that accept the card’s brand (usually Visa or Mastercard).

2. Prepaid Credit Card Internationally

If you're looking for a prepaid card that works outside of Brazil, some international options allow global usage.

International Options:

• Wise (Formerly TransferWise): Offers a multi-currency prepaid card, allowing you to load funds in various currencies and use it globally with low conversion fees. The card is linked to your Wise account and can be used anywhere that accepts Mastercard.
• Revolut: Another international fintech that offers prepaid cards with the ability to load funds in different currencies. Revolut also provides a multi-currency account, facilitating usage across different countries with low fees.
• Payoneer: Popular among freelancers and professionals receiving payments in foreign currency, the Payoneer Prepaid Card allows currency conversion and can be used for international purchases.

How to Apply for an International Card:

1. Wise:

   • Create an account on the Wise platform.
   • Request the Wise multi-currency card (some regions may charge a small issuance fee).
   • Load funds in Brazilian Real (or any other currency) and convert it to the currency you need.

2. Revolut:

   • Download the Revolut app.
   • Sign up with your personal details and verify your identity.
   • Request the physical card (available in some countries). The card can be reloaded via bank transfer or debit card.

3. Payoneer:

   • Create a Payoneer account.
   • Request the prepaid card linked to your account.
   • You can reload the card with your earnings or transfer funds directly to the card for international use.

3. Advantages of Using a Prepaid Credit Card

• Spending Control: You can only spend the balance available on the card, preventing overspending or debt accumulation.
• Security: Since the card is not linked to a traditional bank account, prepaid cards offer a secure option for online purchases.
• International Usage: Most prepaid cards, especially international ones, can be used anywhere that accepts Visa or Mastercard, making them ideal for travel and foreign currency transactions.
• No Credit Approval Needed: Unlike traditional credit cards, there’s no need for a credit check to obtain a prepaid card.

4. Final Tips

• Fees: Pay attention to fees for loading, withdrawing, and currency conversion, especially when using international prepaid cards.
• Limits: Check the maximum reload and daily usage limits, as prepaid cards may have restrictions depending on the financial institution.
• Reload Timing: Ensure that your card is fully loaded before international trips or important purchases, as some cards may have a processing period for reloads.

Conclusion

Prepaid credit cards are an excellent option for both domestic use and international travel. In Brazil, fintechs like PagSeguro and Mercado Pago offer simple and accessible solutions. For global use, Wise, Revolut, and Payoneer are great options with low conversion fees and multi-currency capabilities. The process to obtain one is quick and easy, and the spending control these cards offer is a significant advantage.