Digital payments company Visa has announced a partnership with crypto payments app Wirex to issue crypto debit cards to users in over 40 countries. A press release making the collaborative effort official was released on Monday, marking a long-term global partnership between the two companies.

The collaboration with Visa will enable the cryptocurrency company to grow its user base in the UK and the Asia-Pacific region (APAC). The company intends to immediately distribute cryptocurrency-enabled debit and prepaid cards to over 40 nations, according to the press release.

The press release also noted, “Membership of Visa enables Wirex to offer new innovative products to utilize crypto in every day improve user experience, and pilot new blockchain initiatives.”

According to the press statement, the announcement builds on the two companies existing relationship. In 2015, Wirex was the first company in the world to develop a crypto-enabled card, allowing users to buy, hold, exchange, and sell multiple traditional and cryptocurrencies, and spend them at over 80 million locations where Visa is accepted. 

Additionally, customers benefit from real-time point-of-sale conversion, exclusive interbank and OTC exchange rates, free international ATM withdrawals, zero monthly fees, free fiat-to-fiat exchanges, and up to 8% Cryptoback™ rewards for every purchase.

Svyatoslav Garal, Regional Managing Director of Wirex APAC, commented on the partnership saying, “It’s great to strengthen our partnership with Visa, who have played an important role in allowing us to bridge the gap between the traditional and digital economies. Visa’s proven commitment to safety, security, and innovation will help us to continue developing a next-generation app and card.”

Matt Wood, Head of Digital Partnerships, Asia Pacific, Visa, also added, “Visa wants to bring more payment options to consumers by connecting digital currencies with our network of banks and merchants. We’re excited that Wirex is expanding their focus on Asia Pacific, making it easy and seamless for people to spend their crypto balance at the millions of merchants that accept Visa in the region.”

Wirex also noted that the company will continue working closely with Visa to expand services and roll out its card program worldwide. The company will soon announce another significant partnership for card issuance in Australia.