My Experience Using Bybit Virtual Card in 2026: Application Process and Real-World Shopping Tests

Cryptocurrency has grown rapidly in recent years, and virtual payment solutions are becoming more practical for everyday use. I recently started using the Bybit virtual card and found it surprisingly convenient for daily purchases. Here's my honest experience with the application process and actual usage, for anyone curious about trying it themselves.

What Is Bybit and Why Consider Their Virtual Card?

Bybit, established in 2018, is a Dubai-based global cryptocurrency exchange serving over 10 million registered users across 160+ countries. The platform offers spot trading, derivatives, wealth management, and Web3 wallet services.

What makes Bybit stand out is its position as the second-largest derivatives trading platform globally, right after Binance. The exchange prioritizes security by storing most assets in cold wallets with multi-signature and TSS technology. They've also introduced innovative tools like trading bots, TradeGPT, and copy trading features. As a major sponsor of the F1 Red Bull Racing team, Bybit has established significant brand credibility in the crypto space.

For newcomers and experienced traders alike, the platform provides an intuitive interface with comprehensive resources. And honestly, their virtual card application process is refreshingly straightforward compared to traditional banking procedures.

How to Apply for the Bybit Virtual Card

The application process is quick and hassle-free. Here's what you need to do:

Register a Bybit account if you haven't already. The signup process takes just a few minutes.

Complete KYC verification. Identity verification is required before applying for the virtual card, but the entire process wraps up in about 5 minutes.

Navigate to the card section. In the Bybit app or web version, click "Assets" then "Card" and select the virtual card application option.

Choose your funding source. You can link your spot account or funding account, with support for multiple cryptocurrencies.

Submit and wait for approval. Typically, your virtual card gets issued within minutes, with the card number, CVV, and expiration date displayed on the page.

One thing I'll mention: my approval took longer than expected. I suspect it might have been because I listed "homemaker" as my occupation. My husband applied at the same time and got approved almost instantly, while mine took several days. I nearly gave up, but eventually got the approval. So if you experience delays, don't worry—it might just take a bit longer.

👉 Get started with secure crypto payments and virtual card services on Bybit's global platform

Real-World Shopping Tests: What Worked and What Didn't

I primarily use the card by linking it to Google Pay. Before shopping, I load it with USDT as my spending funds. Since cryptocurrency usage still has some limitations in Taiwan, I tested various retail locations to see which ones accept it.

Important reminder: Always be prepared with alternative payment methods. Don't visit stores solely to test if the card works—that could create awkward situations if payment fails. Shop at places you'd normally visit anyway, and consider the virtual card as a bonus payment option.

After using the card, you'll immediately see transaction notifications in the Bybit app. Keep in mind that currency conversion involves exchange rate fluctuations, which might result in slightly different final amounts. If you're uncomfortable with potential exchange rate differences and processing fees, stick with your regular payment methods.

Successful Transactions (Local TWD Purchases)

Kyoto Katsugyu at Global Mall counter ($1,040 TWD) — Bybit charged 36.70 USD

This was my first successful transaction, and I was pleasantly surprised to receive a 3.67 USD cashback reward that appeared in the Bybit app immediately after payment. That's roughly a 10% return, which felt like getting a nice discount.

Nitori at Far Eastern Department Store counter ($149 TWD) — Bybit charged 5.25 USD

This smaller purchase required a signature, which caught me off guard since most small-amount transactions don't require signatures anymore. Remember to sign the name exactly as it appears on your virtual card, just like you would with a regular credit card.

Eslite Bookstore counter - Mo'er ($990 TWD) — Bybit charged 34.75 USD

Another smooth transaction with instant confirmation through the app.

Sushiro ($550 TWD) — Bybit charged 19.31 USD

No issues with payment at this popular sushi chain restaurant.

McDonald's delivery app ($385 TWD) — Bybit charged 13.48 USD

For online delivery orders, you'll need to enter your virtual card details manually. After submitting the order, confirm the transaction in the Bybit app to complete the payment. Successfully ordering late-night McDonald's with crypto felt pretty futuristic.

Carrefour self-checkout ($288 TWD) — Bybit charged 10.06 USD

After failing at PX Mart, I tried Carrefour's self-checkout machines. I was thrilled to discover they accept Google Pay. The transaction went through smoothly, making it perfect for anyone who prefers avoiding checkout lines.

FamilyMart convenience store ($40 TWD) — Bybit charged 1.39 USD

FamilyMart also accepts the Bybit card. I didn't specifically mention Google Pay to the cashier—I simply used the NFC contactless payment method, and it worked perfectly.

Recent shopping experiences also showed success at Sukiya and some Far Eastern Department Store counters. Here's an interesting observation: when I specifically asked staff if they accept Google Pay, many said no. However, when I simply requested contactless card payment without mentioning Google Pay, it worked. So my advice is to just try tapping your phone at the payment terminal—if it doesn't work, you can always use another payment method.

Failed Transaction

PX Mart — Card declined

While PX Mart supports Google Pay, the transaction failed. This is likely due to restrictions on partner banks they work with. Since I shop at PX Mart frequently, this was disappointing, but it's worth noting that payment acceptance varies by merchant.

Transaction Management and Spending Limits

Every transaction triggers instant notifications, and you can review your complete spending history in the app. The platform tracks your cumulative spending and adjusts your available spending limit based on achievement tiers and meeting specific conditions.

Transaction tracking is straightforward. Under the "Authorization" page, all recent purchases are listed. Transactions showing in gray text are still being verified—they'll turn to regular white text within one to two days once confirmed and finalized.

Things I Haven't Tested Yet

I haven't tried using the card on international e-commerce platforms that support Visa, like Amazon or Shopee's international sites. I'm also unsure which domestic online shopping platforms accept it. If I discover more compatible merchants, I'll update this post with my findings.

Final Thoughts on Using Crypto for Daily Spending

Using cryptocurrency for everyday payments is genuinely convenient, but remember that all investments carry interest rate and market volatility risks. Carefully evaluate whether this payment method suits your needs and risk tolerance before diving in.

The Bybit virtual card has expanded how I think about using cryptocurrency beyond just trading or holding assets. It's bridging the gap between crypto and real-world spending, though with some limitations depending on merchant acceptance.

If you're interested in exploring crypto payments for yourself, I'm happy to share my ongoing experiences. Keep in mind I'm still a beginner-level user, so for more professional analysis and advanced strategies, you'll want to consult crypto payment experts.

👉 Experience seamless crypto-to-fiat payments with Bybit's innovative virtual card solution

Feel free to leave comments if you have questions or want to share your own experiences with virtual crypto cards. I'll do my best to respond based on what I've learned so far!