Crypto card — debit or credit cards linked to digital assets that let you spend crypto directly or after instant conversion to fiat — have become popular worldwide. However, in Pakistan, the situation is different. Regulatory restrictions, limited issuer support, and banking barriers mean there is no locally issued crypto card available yet. Still, global issuers, P2P options, and upcoming regulations are shaping the future of crypto cards in Pakistan.
Regulatory Status in Pakistan
The State Bank of Pakistan (SBP) has historically restricted crypto-related activity and warned banks against dealing with unregulated digital assets. Despite this cautious stance, recent developments indicate progress:
- In 2025, the government formed a Pakistan Crypto Council to explore regulation.
- SBP is actively working on a regulatory framework for virtual assets and testing a central bank digital currency (CBDC).
- This means crypto remains restricted, but the environment is gradually moving toward regulation and licensing.
Also Read
Rimac Nevera and Nevera R Break Hypercar Records with $2.2M Electr
Availability of Global Crypto Cards
While Pakistan doesn’t issue crypto cards locally, some international providers operate globally. Here’s where things stand:
Binance Card
- Binance supports accounts in Pakistan, but the Binance Visa Card’s availability depends on issuer partnerships and shipping restrictions.
- Even if supported online, card shipment and local usage remain uncertain due to banking controls.
Crypto.com Card
- Crypto.com issues Visa debit cards in selected countries.
- Pakistan is not always on the “eligible country” list. Availability depends on regional rollout and compliance with SBP rules.
Coinbase Card
- Coinbase primarily supports U.S. and European markets.
- Pakistan is not officially supported for Coinbase Card access.
Other Providers (Wirex, BitPay, Nexo, Revolut)
- These services often require residency in supported regions (EU, UK, or U.S.).
- Pakistani residents cannot usually order these cards unless they maintain a foreign address or bank account.
Banking and Transaction Barriers
Even if a crypto card issuer lists Pakistan as supported, there are practical issues:
- Local banks may block crypto-related top-ups or international card settlements.
- KYC verification (ID checks) may fail if the provider only accepts certain passports or residency documents.
- Transactions can be frozen if flagged under anti-money laundering (AML) or SBP crypto advisories.
Practical Alternatives for Pakistan Residents
Until regulated cards become available, Pakistani users typically rely on:
- P2P Marketplaces and Local Exchanges
- Convert crypto to stablecoins (e.g., USDT).
- Sell via Binance P2P, OKX, or local exchanges to receive PKR directly into bank accounts.
- International Accounts (if eligible)
- Those with lawful residency abroad can open Revolut, Nexo, or Wirex accounts and get crypto-linked cards shipped to their foreign address.
- Wait for Licensed Local Solutions
- With SBP’s regulatory framework and CBDC testing underway, future local on-ramps/off-ramps could include crypto cards issued under Pakistani law.
Join our WhatsApp channel. For more related news,
Risks and Considerations
- Regulatory volatility: Crypto rules in Pakistan can change quickly.
- Banking restrictions: Even legal cards may face rejection at local banks.
- Security risks: Using unofficial or unlicensed services may expose users to scams or frozen funds.
Conclusion
As of now, there is no Pakistan-issued crypto debit or credit card. Some global issuers claim support, but real-world access is limited due to SBP restrictions, shipping barriers, and banking challenges.
The most practical path for Pakistani users today is P2P trading and local exchanges for crypto-to-PKR conversion. Those with foreign residency can access international crypto card products. Looking ahead, the SBP’s regulatory push and CBDC pilot could open the door for officially licensed crypto cards in Pakistan — but until then, caution is essential.
