In a groundbreaking move that bridges the traditional financial world with the evolving digital asset ecosystem, Tangem has partnered with Visa to launch a new self-custodial payment solution for hardware wallets. This collaboration introduces a Visa-enabled payment card integrated directly with Tangem’s secure hardware wallet technology, allowing users to spend their cryptocurrency or stablecoin balances at any merchant that accepts Visa — without sacrificing control over their private keys.
This innovation marks a pivotal step toward mainstream crypto adoption, offering users a seamless, secure, and familiar way to transact using digital assets in everyday life.
Bridging Crypto and Traditional Finance
The new Tangem Visa card is designed as a two-in-one financial tool: part hardware wallet, part payment card. It enables users to convert their crypto holdings into fiat currency at the point of sale, leveraging Visa’s vast global payment network across Europe and beyond.
Unlike traditional custodial crypto cards — where a third party holds users’ private keys — Tangem’s solution ensures full self-custody. The private key is securely embedded in the card’s chip, and every transaction requires physical possession of the device. This eliminates reliance on centralized intermediaries, aligning with core blockchain principles of decentralization and user sovereignty.
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Andrey Kurennykh, co-founder and CEO of Tangem, emphasized the significance of this integration:
“Our users will get a two-in-one solution – the convenience of a regular bank card and the capabilities of a self-custodial crypto wallet, all in one card. This is a significant step towards bridging the gap between traditional banking and digital assets.”
By combining the usability of a traditional debit card with the security and autonomy of a hardware wallet, Tangem aims to lower the barrier to entry for non-technical users who want to spend crypto in real-world scenarios.
Enhanced Security Through Embedded Technology
At the heart of Tangem’s offering is its tamper-resistant NFC-enabled smart card, which stores cryptographic keys in a secure element. No private keys are ever exposed to external devices or networks, significantly reducing the risk of hacking or remote theft.
Every transaction must be authorized by physically tapping the card — a process that ensures user intent and prevents unauthorized access. This contrasts sharply with custodial platforms, where funds can be vulnerable to exchange breaches or internal mismanagement.
Cuy Sheffield, Vice President and Head of Crypto at Visa, highlighted the importance of security in digital currency innovation:
“At Visa, our commitment to security is ingrained in our pursuit to help evolve the crypto ecosystem. With our partnership with Tangem aimed at driving the creation of next-gen payment solutions, we are excited to work together to enable effortless payments with digital currencies designed with security in mind.”
This focus on security resonates with growing consumer demand for trustworthy, transparent financial tools — especially as regulatory scrutiny around digital assets increases.
Expanding Access Beyond Tangem Users
While the Tangem Visa card will initially be available to Tangem customers across Europe, the company has broader ambitions. It plans to license the technology to other financial institutions and fintech issuers interested in launching their own self-custodial payment products.
This open-issuance model could accelerate the adoption of decentralized finance (DeFi) tools within mainstream banking infrastructure. Imagine banks offering branded crypto-enabled cards that let customers spend digital assets without leaving their existing financial ecosystem — all while maintaining full control over their funds.
Such interoperability supports a future where digital assets are not siloed within niche platforms but are seamlessly integrated into daily financial activity.
FAQ: Understanding Tangem’s Self-Custodial Visa Solution
Q: What does "self-custodial" mean in this context?
A: Self-custodial means users retain full control of their private keys and funds. Unlike custodial services (like many exchanges), there is no third party holding or managing your crypto assets.
Q: How does the Tangem Visa card work at checkout?
A: At participating merchants, users tap their Tangem card on an NFC terminal. The card converts crypto or stablecoins into fiat currency in real time via Visa’s network, completing the transaction instantly.
Q: Is my crypto balance visible on the blockchain when using the card?
A: Yes, transactions initiated through the card are linked to your wallet address. However, no sensitive data (like private keys) is transmitted during payment.
Q: Where can I use the Tangem Visa card?
A: Anywhere Visa is accepted — including online stores, physical retail locations, and service providers — across Europe and globally.
Q: Does this require connecting to a mobile app?
A: While optional companion apps enhance functionality (such as balance checking), the core payment feature works independently via NFC without needing a smartphone.
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A Step Toward Decentralized Financial Infrastructure
Tangem views this partnership as more than just a product launch — it’s a step toward a decentralized financial future where individuals have full autonomy over their money. By integrating with Visa’s trusted network, Tangem demonstrates that decentralization doesn’t have to come at the cost of usability or acceptance.
The company previously underwent an in-depth software audit by Riscure, a leading security lab specializing in embedded systems and chip-level security evaluation. This audit reinforces confidence in Tangem’s commitment to robust, verifiable security practices — a critical factor for both consumers and institutional partners.
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Final Thoughts
The Tangem-Visa collaboration represents a meaningful leap forward in making cryptocurrency spending practical, secure, and accessible. By merging hardware-grade security with global payment infrastructure, it offers a compelling alternative to conventional custodial models.
As more users seek control over their digital finances — free from intermediaries and centralized risks — solutions like Tangem’s self-custodial Visa card could become standard in the next generation of personal finance tools.
Whether you're a seasoned crypto holder or new to digital assets, this innovation brings you one step closer to using your crypto as real money — anytime, anywhere.