Purchase Items of Up to 150,000 ETB Daily with Our Debit Card
The Bank of Abyssinia’s Apollo Debit Card is transforming Ethiopia’s financial landscape by merging digital convenience with robust security. Designed for daily transactions of up to 150,000 ETB, this Visa-powered card eliminates the need for physical cash while giving users ultimate control over their spending. Below, we’ll demonstrate how to maximize its features, avoid pitfalls, and comply with Ethiopia’s digital banking regulations.
What the Apollo Debit Card Solves
Traditional banking in Ethiopia often involves long queues, cash dependency, and limited transaction visibility. The Apollo Debit Card addresses these issues by:
- Digitizing payments: Convert your physical Visa Card into a digital version.
- Enabling high-value transactions: Spend up to ETB 150,000 daily online or in-app.
- Simplifying security: Lock/unlock your card instantly and set custom spending limits.
Let’s explore how to use it effectively:
Step 1: Download and Set Up the Apollo App
- Download the App:
a. Android: Google Play Store
b. iOS: Apple App Store
2. Register Your Account:
a. Open the app and select “Create Account.”
b. Enter your phone number, email, and government-issued ID (e.g., Woreda ID or passport).
c. Set a password and enable biometric login (Face ID or fingerprint) under “Security Settings” to reduce unauthorized access risks.
Step 2: Convert Your Physical Card to Digital
1. Link Your Existing Visa Card:
a. Tap “Cards” > “Convert to Digital”
- Enter your physical Visa card number, expiry date, and CVV.
- Verify via SMS OTP (which is sent to your registered number).
2. Activate Digital Card:
a. The digital card appears instantly in the app.
b. Use it for online purchases, bill payments, or in-app transactions.
Troubleshooting:
- If the card isn’t recognized, ensure that your physical card is active. Contact support at +251 11 5 5757 or visit the Bank of Abyssinia Support.
- If OTP not received, check network connectivity or request for a resend after 2 minutes.
Step 3: Customize Spending Limits and Security
1. Set Daily Purchase Limits:
a. Go to “Card Settings” > “Purchase Limits.”
b. Adjust the slider to your desired limit (max ETB 150,000).
c. Confirm with biometric authentication.
2.Lock/Unlock Your Card:
a. Navigate to “Card Controls” and toggle “Lock Card” for temporary freezes.
Pro Tip: Regularly review transactions under “History” to detect earlier unauthorized activity. Export PDF statements for the record.
Step 4: Use the Card for Online Purchases
1. Check on Websites/Apps:
a.Select “Visa” as the payment method.
b. Enter your digital card details from the Apollo app.
c. Complete the transaction with an SMS OTP or biometric approval.
2. Pay Bills:
a. In the app, go to “Pay Bills” > Choose provider (e.g., Ethiotelecom, DSTV).
b. Enter your account number and authorize payment.
Supported Platforms: E-commerce sites like ShebaMart, streaming services, and utility providers.
Step 5: Withdraw Cash from ATMs
1. Locate a Visa-Compatible ATM: Use the Visa ATM Finder for nearby options.
2. Withdraw via Mobile:
a. Open the Apollo app and select “ATM Withdrawal.”
- Generate a one-time code that will be valid for up to 10 minutes.
- Enter the code at the ATM to withdraw up to 10,000 ETB daily.
Step 6: Manage Business Transactions
1. Register as a Merchant:
a. Visit Apollo Business Portal and submit your business license.
2. Integrate Apollo Payments:
a. Add the Apollo Debit Card as a payment method on platforms like EthioShop or Shopify.
3. Tracking Sales:
a. Use the “Business Dashboard” in the app to monitor transactions and export invoices.
Compliance: Align with Ethiopia’s Payment System Proclamation No. 1282/2023 for digital transactions.
Step 7: Request a Physical Card (Optional)
1. Order through the App:
a. Go to “Cards” > “Request Physical Card”
b. Choose delivery to your address (with a fee of ETB 100) or free branch pickup.
2. Tracking Delivery:
a. Addis Ababa: 3(Three) working days via SMS updates.
b. other cities: 7(Seven) working days.
Delivery Issues:
- Damaged card? Report in the app for a free replacement.
Regulatory Framework: Ethiopia’s Digital Banking Rules
The National Bank of Ethiopia (NBE) enforces strict guidelines to ensure secure digital transactions:
1. Daily Limits: Caps on withdrawals (ETB 10,000) and purchases (ETB 150,000) to curb fraud.
2. Biometric Compliance: Mandated by the NBE Directive 2022 for high-value transactions.
3. E-commerce Growth: The NBE’s Digital Ethiopia 2025 Strategy aims to boost online business adoption by 30%.
The Apollo Debit Card adheres to all regulations, ensuring that your transactions are legally protected.
Security Best Practices
1. Avoid Phishing Scams:
a. Never share OTPs, PINs, or biometric data.
b. Verify SMS sender IDs (legitimate messages will come from “BOA” or “Apollo”).
2. Use Secure Networks:
a. Avoid public Wi-Fi for transactions. Use a VPN like Surfshark, if necessary.
3. Enable Two-Factor Authentication:
a. Activate under “Security Settings” > “2FA”
For more tips, visit the Ethiopian Cybersecurity Agency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the Apollo Debit Card internationally?
A: Yes, for online purchases. For ATM withdrawals abroad, request a physical card and enable international usage in the app.
Q: What if I forget my PIN?
A: Reset it via “Card Settings” > “Change PIN” after an SMS verification.
Q: Are there hidden fees?
A: No. The only fees are an ETB 100 card fee and ETB 100 for home delivery.
Why Choose Apollo Over Competitors?
1. Higher Limits: Competing cards from other banks cap purchases at ETB 50,000 daily.
2. In-App Control: Lock cards or adjust limits instantly—unlike competing banks, which require branch visits.
3. Business Support: Seamless integration with Ethiopian e-commerce platforms.
Final Checklist Before Using Your Card
☑️ Enable biometric authentication
☑️ Set a daily purchase limit matching your budget
☑️ Bookmark the Apollo Support Page for quick troubleshooting
Conclusion
The Apollo Debit Card empowers customers to transact securely, save time, and support national financial inclusion goals. By following this guide, you can safely spend up to ETB 150,000 daily, manage business revenues, and avoid cash-related risks.