Absa Partners with Visa to Launch Virtual Card for 5 International Currencies

Absa Mauritius has signalled a significant shift in the region’s digital banking landscape with the launch of the first multi-currency virtual card in Mauritius.

Announced on 18 March, the new digital solution—developed in partnership with global payments giant Visa—is designed to streamline international online transactions, travel expenses, and global subscription management for an increasingly connected consumer base.

Instant Digital Access

Integrated directly into the Absa Mobile Banking application, the virtual card eliminates the need for physical plastic or branch visits. Customers can create, fund, and activate the card within minutes.

The service supports five major currencies:

• Mauritian Rupees (MUR)
• British Pound Sterling (GBP)
• US Dollars (USD)
• Euros (EUR)
• South African Rand (ZAR)

By allowing users to pay directly in their preferred currency, the bank aims to reduce conversion fees and simplify the mechanics of international trade and e-commerce.

Shifting Consumer Habits

“Users are looking for solutions that are fast, secure, and simple to manage,” said Jean Noel Samy, Head of Cards and Payments at Absa Mauritius.

He noted that the card consolidates multiple features into a single smartphone-based tool, catering to the rise in digital subscriptions and foreign travel.

The card provides real-time transaction tracking, allowing users to monitor foreign currency budgets via their mobile devices.

It can be topped up instantly from a client’s bank account and is ready for immediate use upon activation.

A Digital-First Strategy

This launch follows a string of digital innovations from the bank, including the NFC-based Absa Pay, QR Scan & Pay services, and cardless ATM withdrawals.

Christian Mbonampeka, Visa’s Country Manager for the Indian Ocean Islands and Djibouti, emphasised that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to modern digital usage and payment security.

Backed by the Visa network, the virtual card is accepted by a vast number of merchants globally.

The initiative marks Absa’s continued strategy to adapt traditional banking to a globalised economic environment where digital tools are becoming the standard for daily financial management.

Source: Defi Media