After nearly three years of restrictions, Nigerian banks are finally allowing online dollar payments on Naira debit cards again. From Spotify subscriptions to shopping on Amazon or paying for online tools, international transactions just got easier for Nigerians in 2025.
Here’s what you need to know.
Why Were Naira Cards Banned for Dollar Payments?
In 2022, the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) halted international transactions on Naira cards due to foreign exchange (FX) shortages. Nigerians resorted to dollar cards, virtual payment apps, or asked friends abroad for help, especially freelancers and small business owners.
But in July 2025, some banks are lifting the ban with spending limits in place.
7 Banks Now Supporting International Transactions on Naira Cards
1. Providus Bank
- Limit: Up to $3,000 monthly
- Providus Gold Naira Debit Card leads with the highest dollar transaction limit, ideal for power users and business owners.
2. GTBank
- Limit: $1,000 quarterly
- Dollar payments are now allowed again on GTBank Naira Mastercards, covering ATM, online, and POS transactions abroad.
3. UBA
- Limit: $1,000
- The UBA Gold Debit Mastercard supports both local and international payments across Mastercard-enabled platforms.
4. Stanbic IBTC
- Limit: Around $100
- International payments are live again, especially for trusted platforms like Google, Apple, and Amazon.
5. OPay
- No fixed limit disclosed
- Direct payments are enabled on platforms like AliExpress and Temu via OPay cards and app, with seamless checkout options.
6. First Bank
- Limit: $500 monthly
- Great for light users, streaming, domain renewals, or one-time international subscriptions.
7. Wema Bank
- Limit: $500 monthly
- Wema resumed cross-border Naira payments with basic limits to cover essential services.
What’s Fueling the Change?
Two major reasons:
- FX rate stability (₦1,500–₦1,600/$)
- Higher dollar inflows into the Nigerian economy
These factors give banks the confidence to reopen international payment options with manageable risks.
What This Means for You
- Freelancers: Less dependency on virtual cards
- Small businesses: Easier access to tools and ad platforms
- Everyday users: Pay for Netflix, Canva, or Apple services without opening a dollar account
This shift also pressures fintech platforms that previously filled the gap. As traditional banks regain capability, fintechs may need to adapt fast.
Naira cards are once again useful for international online payments, a massive relief for many. Whether your bank offers $100 or $3,000, it’s a step forward.
Pro tip: Check your bank’s spending limit, activate your card for international use, and enjoy the convenience.
For full flexibility, Providus and Stanbic IBTC offer the most freedom right now. But even with GTBank, UBA, or Wema, you’re no longer locked out of the global digital space.
