ChatGPT now supports MoMo on the web: try it first
According to OpenAI's help documentation, MoMo is supported as a payment method for the Go, Plus and Pro plans when you sign up on chatgpt.com in Vietnam. This means that if your main need is just to use ChatGPT, you can try paying with MoMo right in your web browser before thinking about a virtual card.
Benefits of trying MoMo first:
- No need to create a new card, no waiting time.
- Pay directly from your MoMo balance or a linked bank account.
- Suitable for people already used to MoMo for local services.
However, note: MoMo is only supported on chatgpt.com, and does not apply to the ChatGPT app on your phone if the app requires an international card. In addition, MoMo cannot fill in the card form for other services such as Claude, a US Apple ID or a Facebook ads account.
Quick comparison of payment methods in Vietnam
The table below summarizes the pros and cons of common methods when paying for international services:
| Method | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|
| Domestic Napas card | Good for Vietnamese websites. | International gateways usually do not accept domestic BINs. |
| MoMo / ZaloPay | ChatGPT.com now supports MoMo. MoMo/ZaloPay still cannot fill in the card form for Claude, ads or a US Apple ID. | Cannot be used for services that require an international card. |
| Vietnam Visa/Mastercard | Accepted in many places. | May be blocked by BIN, lack 3DS, or not match the payment country. |
For ChatGPT, MoMo is the first option to try. For Claude, a US Apple ID or Facebook ads, you need an international card or a virtual card.
When MoMo is not enough: services that still require a card
MoMo and ZaloPay are domestic e-wallets, not international cards. As a result, many foreign services still ask for card details (card number, expiry date, CVV). Typical cases:
- Claude: currently accepts cards only, not Vietnamese e-wallets.
- US Apple ID: requires a card issued in the US or a virtual card with a suitable BIN; Vietnamese cards may be declined.
- Facebook Ads: usually requires an international card and may check the payment country.
In these cases, a virtual card is the alternative. Virtual cards are issued by service providers, not by Vietnamese banks or by payment intermediaries licensed by the State Bank of Vietnam. You top up USDC/USDT in the app, then use the card to pay. Using the card to withdraw cash or cash-out is not recommended.
How to try MoMo on chatgpt.com before using a virtual card
Follow these steps:
- Go to chatgpt.com in a browser on your computer or phone.
- Log in to your ChatGPT account.
- Choose an upgrade to the Go, Plus or Pro plan.
- At checkout, select MoMo if it is shown.
- Follow the prompts to complete payment in the MoMo app.
If you do not see MoMo, your account region may not be supported, or OpenAI may have changed the method. In that case, you can consider a virtual card. For all information on fees and how to use a virtual card, please see the app or help.mp.net. This page does not quote specific prices.
Notes on KYC and legal status
When using a virtual card, you need to complete identity verification (KYC) as required by the service provider. There is no such thing as "no KYC needed" if you want to use it long term and legally. A virtual card is not a Vietnamese bank, and it is not a payment intermediary licensed by the State Bank of Vietnam. You are responsible for using the card for its intended purpose, and not for cash-out or any activity prohibited by law.
For paying for goods, paying with cryptocurrency at the merchant is not encouraged. The right way is to top up USDC/USDT in the virtual card provider's app, then use the card to pay.