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Prepaid Credit Cards in Norway

Instant card loading and activation

Flexible reloading options

Ideal for travel and online shopping

NOK


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Example: The variable credit interest rate is 21.99% (Feb 2024). The annual fee is SEK 0. Utilizing a credit of SEK 10,000 and repaying through 12 payments of SEK 936 over 12 months, the effective interest rate is 24.35%. The total amount to be repaid is SEK 11,233.

Want to avoid debt while still shopping online, booking trips, or managing daily expenses? Prepaid credit cards let you stay in full control by using only the money you load – no borrowing, no interest, no surprises.

Unlike traditional credit cards, prepaid cards don’t rely on a credit line. You top them up in advance and spend only what’s available. That makes them ideal for budgeting, secure transactions, and everyday convenience – especially if you want to steer clear of fees or credit checks.

In this guide, we break down how prepaid cards work, who they’re best for, and what to watch out for.

prepaid credit card

What is a prepaid credit card?

A prepaid credit card is a type of payment card that functions similarly to a debit card but without the need for a linked bank account. Instead of drawing on a line of credit or a bank account, these cards use funds that you load onto them in advance. This means that you can only spend what you’ve already deposited, making it impossible to incur debt or overdraft fees.

Prepaid credit cards are often used by individuals who prefer a straightforward way to manage their spending, need a secure option for online transactions, or might not qualify for traditional credit cards due to credit history or banking requirements. These cards are accepted in most places that take credit cards, including online stores, due to their association with major payment networks like Visa or Mastercard.

The concept is simple: once you load money onto the card, you can use it for purchases just like you would with a regular credit card. The primary difference lies in the funding mechanism, as you’re spending your own money rather than borrowing from a credit provider. This feature makes prepaid credit cards a popular choice for budgeting, travel, and gifting, ensuring users can only spend a predetermined amount.

Types of prepaid credit cards

Prepaid credit cards come in various forms, each designed to meet different spending needs and preferences.

1. Disposable Prepaid Cards:

  • These cards are preloaded with a fixed amount and are intended for single use. Once the balance is depleted, the card can no longer be used.
  • Perfect for gifts or one-time security for online purchases.

2. Reloadable Prepaid Cards:

  • Unlike disposable cards, these can be topped up repeatedly with funds.
  • Suited for ongoing use as a substitute for a traditional bank account, helpful for budgeting, travel, and regular transactions.

3. Virtual Prepaid Cards:

  • These virtual cards exist only digitally and can be used for online shopping or any transaction over the phone or internet.
  • Ideal for protecting your actual account details online and managing subscriptions.

4. Prepaid Travel Cards:

  • Specifically designed for travelers, these cards can be loaded with foreign currency before travelling.
  • Useful for budgeting travel expenses and reducing foreign transaction fees.

Best Prepaid Credit Cards

When choosing a prepaid credit card, it’s important to consider the variety of options available and their specific features. Some of the best prepaid credit cards offer competitive advantages like low fees, flexible reloading options, and additional perks such as cashback rewards or travel benefits.

Revolut Standard

Ideal for travelers and digital nomads, this card offers no annual fee and includes benefits like free currency exchange and the option to invest in cryptocurrencies, stocks, and precious metals.

Curve Black

This card provides 1% cashback on purchases, free travel insurance, and no fee for currency conversion, making it a solid choice for frequent travelers who want the perks of a credit card without a credit line.

Paysafecard Mastercard

Targeting online shoppers and gamers, Paysafecard allows users to reload the card multiple times with high limits, though it comes with a 4% reloading fee, which is something to consider based on your usage.

Compare the Best Prepaid Cards in Norway

To help you choose the right prepaid credit card, we’ve compared the top options available in Norway. Each card offers different features, costs, and benefits, making them better suited for specific needs.

Card NameAnnual FeeReload FeeKey FeaturesBest For
Revolut Standard0 NOK0 NOKFree currency exchange, crypto/stocks, budgeting toolsTravel & digital use
Curve Black960 NOK/year0 NOK1% cashback, free travel insurance, no FX feesFrequent travelers
Paysafecard Mastercard0 NOK4%Reloadable, accepted online, high spending limitsGamers & online shopping

Each of these prepaid cards supports secure transactions and online use. Revolut stands out for international use, Curve Black suits frequent travelers who want perks, and Paysafecard offers simple access for online spending with flexible top-ups.

Alternatives to Consider

  • Debit Cards: Linked directly to your bank account, debit cards offer similar conveniences without the need to preload funds. They are a good option for those who manage their bank accounts well and do not overspend.
  • Secured Credit Cards: For those looking to build or improve their credit score, secured credit cards are an excellent alternative. They require a security deposit that serves as your credit limit but otherwise function like regular credit cards, often with the added benefit of reporting to credit bureaus.
  • Digital Wallets: Services like PayPal, Apple Pay, and Google Pay offer secure, fast, and convenient transactions without the need for physical cards. They are particularly useful for online and in-store contactless payments.

Each of these options serves different financial needs and preferences. Prepaid credit cards are particularly advantageous for controlling spending and avoiding debt, while alternatives like secured credit cards or digital wallets can offer additional financial benefits and conveniences. When selecting any financial product, it’s crucial to assess fees, features, and compatibility with your spending habits and financial goals.

Pros and Cons of Prepaid Credit Cards

Prepaid credit cards offer convenience and control, but they also come with limitations. Here’s a clear overview of the advantages and drawbacks to help you decide if a prepaid card suits your financial habits.

Pros

  • No credit risk – You can only spend what you load, making it impossible to go into debt.
  • No credit check required – Most providers approve users instantly, regardless of credit history.
  • Safe for online shopping – Reduces the risk of fraud by isolating your spending from your main account.
  • Budget-friendly – Helps you control expenses and avoid overspending.
  • Widely accepted – Most cards work anywhere Visa or Mastercard is accepted.

Cons

  • No credit building – Prepaid cards do not report to credit bureaus, so they don’t help improve your credit score.
  • Reloading and service fees – Some cards charge fees for topping up or monthly maintenance.
  • Limited rewards – Few prepaid cards offer cashback or loyalty points.
  • Not ideal for deposits – Hotels, car rentals, and some subscriptions may not accept prepaid cards as a valid payment method.

By weighing these pros and cons, you can better determine whether a prepaid card aligns with your financial needs or whether another option like a secured credit card may be more appropriate.

Who Should Use a Prepaid Credit Card?

Prepaid credit cards can be a smart financial tool for several types of users. They offer control, security, and accessibility – especially for those who want to avoid debt or don’t qualify for traditional credit products.

Ideal Users

  • Students and young adults
    Prepaid cards are perfect for learning financial responsibility. Parents can load funds and monitor usage, while students avoid the risk of overdraft or debt.
  • People with poor or no credit history
    Since prepaid cards don’t require a credit check, they’re accessible to those who’ve been denied regular credit cards or want to avoid hard inquiries.
  • Frequent travelers
    Prepaid travel cards allow you to load foreign currency, avoid exchange fees, and stick to a set travel budget. If lost or stolen, they only expose the loaded amount.
  • Online shoppers
    Virtual prepaid cards protect your main accounts by isolating purchases. Ideal for subscriptions, e-commerce, or high-risk websites.
  • Budget-conscious individuals
    Reloadable prepaid cards help you stay within spending limits. You can’t overspend, and there’s no risk of accumulating interest-bearing debt.

Prepaid cards aren’t for everyone, but they’re a useful tool for anyone who values spending control, security, and financial simplicity without the obligations of a credit line.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

A prepaid credit card is a card you load with money before use, allowing you to spend up to the amount you’ve added.

Funds can be added via bank transfer, direct deposit, or at cash loading stations, depending on the card provider.

Yes, most prepaid cards are accepted worldwide anywhere that accepts credit cards, though foreign transaction fees may apply.

Yes, some cards may have fees for loading funds, ATM withdrawals, and monthly maintenance.

While less common, some prepaid cards do offer rewards such as cash back on purchases.

Balance can typically be checked online, via the card provider’s app, or by phone.

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Kristian Ole Rørbye

Af Kristian Ole Rørbye

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