Virtual card
A payment card that exists only in digital form, with a card number, expiration date and security code for online, in-app or wallet payments.
What a virtual card is
A virtual card is a debit, credit or prepaid card issued as card details only, with no physical plastic. It runs on the same card networks as a physical card. Because each virtual card can carry its own limits, programs often issue one per supplier, employee or purchase.
How it works
An issuer creates virtual cards through its card issuing platform, usually by API, and returns the details to the app that asked for them. Controls set at issuance decide where, when and how much each card can spend.
- 01 · ISSUE The program creates a card by API, with its own number, expiration date and code.
- 02 · CONTROL It sets spending limits, allowed merchants or an end date for that card.
- 03 · USE The card pays online, in apps or through a mobile wallet, like any network card.
When businesses use it
- Supplier and vendor payments, with one card per supplier or invoice
- Employee expenses, subscriptions and travel bookings
- Marketplace and platform payments that need tight spending controls
- Purchases made by AI agents within limits set for each card
Cross River issues virtual and physical cards as a Visa and Mastercard member, with issuing bank identification number (BIN) sponsorship. Programs can use an integrated processor or bring their own. It also offers virtual cards for AI agents. See card issuing at Cross River.