As a leading digital marketing agency in Nepal, Gurkha Technology works closely with businesses to run successful advertising campaigns on platforms like Meta (Facebook) and Google Ads. One of the key challenges many clients face is making international payments due to currency and banking restrictions in Nepal.
To address this, we recommend clients use their own dollar cards to fund their advertising accounts. This method is not only transparent but also streamlines accounting and avoids unnecessary fees.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to obtain and use dollar cards from Nepali banks, especially for your digital advertising needs.
💳 Why Use a Dollar Card for Digital Marketing?
In Nepal, the Nepal Rastra Bank (NRB) currently allows individuals to spend up to USD 500 annually through personal dollar cards. While this limit is modest, it’s enough for many small to mid-sized businesses to run targeted ad campaigns.
Using your own dollar card to pay directly for Facebook Ads, Google Ads, and other international services offers several advantages:
- ✅ Transparency: You’ll know exactly how your ad budget is being spent.
- ✅ Better bookkeeping: Easy to reconcile costs with your own bank statements.
- ✅ No added fees: Avoid commissions and VAT that may be added when paying through third-party vendors.
🏦 How to Get a Dollar Card in Nepal
Dollar cards are offered by many commercial banks in Nepal for the purpose of international online transactions like e-commerce, digital subscriptions, online learning platforms—and yes, online advertising.
📌 Key Features of Dollar Cards:
- Usage: For online international payments (e.g. Meta Ads, Google Ads, Netflix, etc.)
- Card Types:
- Physical dollar cards: Can be used at international ATMs (check with your bank).
- Virtual dollar cards: Strictly for online use.
- Annual Limit: Usually USD 500 (subject to NRB regulations).
- Card Network: Most are Visa-branded, making them widely accepted.
📝 Steps to Obtain a Dollar Card
Here’s a step-by-step breakdown:
- Eligibility:
- Must be a Nepali citizen with a PAN (Permanent Account Number).
- Must have an active bank account with the issuing bank.
- Documents Required:
- Copy of your PAN card.
- Your bank account details.
- Completed application form.
- Self-declaration form and other KYC documents.
- For travel cards: copy of passport, visa, and air ticket.
- Application Process:
- Visit your bank branch or check if they offer online application through their mobile app.
- Submit the required documents.
- Pay any applicable fees.
- Card Activation:
- Once approved, your card will be activated.
- For virtual cards, you’ll receive card number, CVV, and expiry date digitally.
- Fees to Consider:
- Card issuance fee
- Top-up fee
- Some banks may charge currency conversion or transaction fees
🔄 Alternative Payment Option: Through Vendors (Not Recommended Unless Necessary)
While Gurkha Technology can help facilitate payments through our international vendor network, this method:
- Involves extra costs (commissions + 13% VAT).
- Reduces transparency and control over your ad budget.
- Is not ideal for smaller campaigns under $500.
Hence, we strongly recommend clients obtain their own dollar cards and maintain full control over their ad spends.
🏦 Recommended Banks in Nepal Offering Dollar Cards
You can contact the following banks or visit their websites for more details:
- Prabhu Bank
- Nepal Bank Limited
- Everest Bank
- Laxmi Sunrise Bank
- NMB Bank
- Global IME Bank
Make sure to call ahead or visit their website to get the latest on application procedures, limits, and fees, as NRB regulations are subject to change.
🚀 Final Thoughts from Gurkha Technology
At Gurkha Technology, we believe in transparency, cost-efficiency, and client empowerment. Using your own dollar card is a smart move to ensure you’re getting the most out of your digital marketing budget while staying compliant with Nepalese regulations.
Need help setting up your ad accounts or want more tips on effective campaign strategies? We’re just a message away!
🔗 Contact us at Gurkha Technology to get started with smarter digital marketing in Nepal.
Let’s grow your business together—dollar by dollar!