A Card Designed for Foreign Nationals: Why the Mama Money Card Works for You

A Simpler Way to Manage Money in South Africa

Managing money in a new country isn’t always easy—especially if you’re a foreign national trying to open a bank account, get paid, or send money home. Many migrants in South Africa face barriers when it comes to traditional banking, from strict paperwork requirements to delays in receiving salaries.

That’s why the Mama Money Card was created—a secure, easy-to-use card and account designed specifically for foreign nationals living and working in South Africa.

With the Mama Money Card, you don’t need a work permit to sign up. You can register using your foreign passport, asylum document, or South African ID, making it more accessible for more people.

This card gives you the freedom to get your salary paid, shop online or in-store, send money across borders, and manage your money—all in one place.

👉 Learn more about how the card works and how to get yours on the Mama Money Card page.

Easy Sign-Up for Everyone

Getting started with the Mama Money Card is quick and hassle-free—no work permit required. The registration process is designed to be inclusive and accessible to more people living and working in South Africa.

You can sign up using any of the following documents:

  • Foreign Passport
  • Asylum Document
  • South African ID

There’s no need for a traditional bank account or complex paperwork, making it the ideal solution for migrants who often face barriers with traditional banks.

Once you're signed up, you can get your Mama Money Card from:

  • Pick n Pay stores
  • The Mama Money Head Office
  • A Mama Money Agent in your area

The card costs just R99 and gives you access to a reliable, all-in-one financial tool designed for your everyday needs.

Key Features and Everyday Benefits

The Mama Money Card is more than just a card—it’s a complete money tool designed to help you manage your finances simply and confidently, every day.

Here’s how it works for real life:

  • Receive your salary with no delays
    The Mama Money Card is ideal for salary payments. Once your employer pays you, your money reflects within hours, not days—so you can access your earnings when you need them.
  • Shop online or in-store
    Use your card anywhere Mastercard is accepted, whether you’re buying groceries, clothing, or shopping online.
  • Send money home and save securely
    Support your family back home directly from your card balance, or keep your money safe in one place while you plan ahead.
  • Withdraw cash or send to shops
    You can withdraw cash at ATMs across South Africa or send money to participating retail shops when cash is needed.
  • Pay for everyday essentials
    Buy airtime, data, or electricity directly through the Mama Money app—quickly and conveniently.

All of this in one card, designed to make managing money easier, faster, and more accessible for foreign nationals living and working in South Africa.

Manage Your Account with WhatsApp or the Mama Money App

You don’t need expensive data or complicated apps to stay in control of your money. With the Mama Money Card, you can manage your account directly through WhatsApp—making it one of the most data-friendly options available.

Simply use WhatsApp to:

  • Check your card balance
  • View recent transactions
  • Block your card instantly if it’s lost or stolen
  • Get help or account support when you need it

This feature is perfect for anyone living on a tight budget or trying to save on mobile data. It puts your money management in your hands—without extra costs or technical barriers.

For WhatsApp support, message us on +27 60 091 5591 and get the help you need, fast.

Fees & Limits (Transparent and Fair)

With the Mama Money Card, there are no hidden charges or confusing fine print—just simple, transparent pricing you can trust.

  • Monthly spending limit: R25,000
  • Monthly service fee: R25

You can view the full list of fees anytime in the Mama Money app, so you always know exactly what you’re paying and when.

What’s Coming in 2026

Even more exciting features are on the way. From February 2026, Mama Money Card users can look forward to:

  • Increased monthly limits of up to R100,000, giving you more flexibility to manage your income and expenses
  • The ability to EFT money to South African bank accounts, making local payments easier than ever
  • Enhanced integration with Bank Zero, expanding how and where you can use your Mama Money Card. These updates will make the Mama Money Card even more powerful—helping you do more with your money, no matter where you are.

Perfect for Employers Too

The Mama Money Card isn’t just a great solution for individuals—it’s also an ideal payment option for employers who hire foreign nationals.

Here’s why:

  • Secure, fast salary payments
    Employers can pay wages directly to the Mama Money Card, and funds reflect within hours, helping workers access their money quickly and reliably.
  • No traditional bank account required
    Employees don’t need a bank account to get paid, removing one of the biggest barriers many migrants face when starting work in South Africa.
  • Empowers employees with financial access
    By paying staff via Mama Money, employers help their team access safe, flexible financial services—including the ability to save, shop, withdraw cash, and send money home.

This simple, inclusive solution makes life easier for both employers and their teams.

A Card That Gives You Freedom

The Mama Money Card is more than a payment card—it’s a gateway to greater financial freedom. It’s:

  • Easy to get with just a passport, asylum document, or South African ID
  • Safe to use for salary payments, shopping, sending money, and more
  • Flexible for everyday life, from buying airtime to saving for the future

Whether you’re new to South Africa or simply looking for a better way to manage your money, the Mama Money Card was made with you in mind.

Want to learn more or get your card today? Visit your nearest Pick n Pay, speak to a Mama Money agent, or manage everything directly on WhatsApp.📞 WhatsApp support: +27 60 091 5591👉 Or visit the Mama Money Card page to get started.