Yes — more than you might think.
If you’re using a virtual card to shop or subscribe online, especially one issued by a fintech in Africa, the billing address linked to that card is crucial. Most of these virtual cards are US-domiciled, meaning they were issued in the United States and come with a specific US billing address.
When you enter your payment details at checkout, merchants use a system called AVS (Address Verification System) to check that the billing address matches the one registered to the card. If there’s even a small mismatch, your payment might be declined — even if your card has enough funds.
That’s why using your local address (like your Ugandan, Nigerian, or Kenyan address) can lead to failed transactions. The system expects the US billing address linked to your virtual card.
What happens if I don’t use the correct address?
Your transaction could be declined.
Too many failed attempts may block or flag your card.
You could face delays with your purchase or subscription.
What should I do?
Check your virtual card app to see the exact billing address assigned.
Always enter that address when paying online.
If you’re unsure, contact support before retrying the payment.
It’s a small detail that makes a big difference. Get the billing address right, and you’ll avoid unnecessary payment issues.