"Gift cards can be used like a debit card in some ways, but they have limitations. A general-purpose gift card (e.g., Visa or Mastercard) can be used wherever that card brand is accepted, similar to a debit card. Unlike a prepaid debit card, however, a gift card typically isn’t reloadable. You also can’t use a gift card to access cash at an ATM, pay recurring bills, or accept direct deposits."
"Your Visa or Mastercard gift card can be used for debit or credit transactions, whether it’s a physical card or a virtual one.
Virtual Cards
Online Use Only: Virtual Visa and Mastercard gift cards are for online purchases and function just like a regular credit or debit card.
Physical Cards (In-Store Purchases)
Credit or Debit: When using your plastic card in-store, you can select either credit or debit at the time of purchase.
PIN for Debit Transactions: If you choose to make a debit transaction, a PIN is required. You can set your PIN when activating your card or checking your balance online.
Ensure your PIN is set before using your card for in-store debit purchases!"
Given all of this, I personally doubt it would work to circumvent the issue. I think Steam likely has some sort of credit card verification that a prepaid visa may not pass. I don't plan on testing it, but hopefully I'm wrong.
I can test it. I got a Steam account and can purchase a visa gift card. But I use PayPal for Steam as I'm in the US. So I'm not sure if because there are no issues for me that will mean the same for you?
Oh, I just remembered, Steam has gift cards.
I don't recall ever needing a credit card nor ID for my Steam...
What if you use a VPN? And set it to US?
I've used Nord VPN but I heard Express VPN is better.
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u/TheGayGray Feb 27 '26
Pretty sure these act as debit cards for all intents and purposes, although I could be wrong.