Visa provides the technology and network required for processing credit card payments. When you buy an item with a Visa credit card, the transaction will be processed on Visa’s network. As one of the largest card processors in the world, broadly speaking, if a merchant takes credit card payments, they take Visa.
Compare Visa credit cards by type
Comparison is ordered by representative APR with affiliated products shown first.
Visa credit cards are offered by a number of different banks and card providers. These include:
Barclaycard
Chrome
first direct
HSBC
Nationwide
Vanquis
The Co-operative Bank
MBNA
AIB
Tymit
Onmo
Zopa
Capital on Tap
Debite
Jeeves
What is the best Visa credit card in 24?
This will depend on your individual circumstances and what you need your credit card for. For example, if you’re looking to spread the cost of an expensive purchase, you might want to consider a 0% purchase credit card. On the other hand, if you’re looking to clear existing credit card debt more cheaply, look for a 0% balance transfer credit card.
Alternatively, if you’re after a credit card that allows you to build up your credit score, consider a Visa credit builder credit card.
How can I compare Visa credit cards?
Annual/monthly fees. A minority of credit cards charge an annual fee, which could be as low as £25 or upwards of £450 for an ultra-premium option. The credit card issuer determines the annual fee based on the features available, with more perks usually equalling a higher cost. For this reason, premium Visa cards can have higher fees because of the extra features they offer.
Interest rates. Standard credit card interest rates can significantly increase the cost of the card you choose, so it’s important to look at both the purchase rate and the cash advance rate for each card you compare. Again, these rates are set by the issuer but tend to be higher for more premium products.
Rewards. A wide range of Visa credit cards come with rewards programs or frequent flyer programs. These products offer you points per £1 spent on purchases and usually include other additional features as well as higher annual fees. When comparing rewards cards, consider the earn rate, the type of rewards available and your average card spending so that you can decide if the annual fee will be worth it.
Complimentary extras. Credit card providers may offer a range of additional perks, including complimentary insurance, concierge services, airport lounge access and flight vouchers. These benefits vary significantly between products and they can add value to the card you choose if you use them.
Introductory offers. Credit card providers regularly offer new customers additional perks for a limited time, such as bonus points and 0% balance transfer rates or purchase rates. These features are available for an introductory period and can add short-term value to the card you choose.
Security services. In addition to the security services offered by Visa, such as “Verified by Visa”, credit card providers may offer 24/7 fraud-monitoring services, daily transaction limits or even the ability to temporarily lock your card if you have misplaced it. All credit cards are chip-and-PIN products, which offer superior security for in-person payments.
You may be able to benefit from perks such as cashback, airport lounge access or air miles
Zero liability protection is included which means you won’t be held responsible for unauthorised transactions
You may be able to enjoy 0% balance transfer or purchase rates
Round-the-clock customer service assistance is included
Cons
Depending on the card you choose, interest rates can be high
Annual fees and other charges may apply
Deals offered may not be the most competitive
Where can you use Visa?
You can use your Visa credit card anywhere in the world, wherever you see the Visa logo. You can use it to pay for goods in restaurants, supermarkets and retailers, and to withdraw cash at ATMs.
How to apply for a Visa credit card
You can apply for a Visa credit card in the same way as any other credit card. When comparing your options, you’ll need to consider what you need your credit card for before making your decision.
It’s also wise to use an online eligibility checker as this will show you which cards you’re most likely to get accepted for without damaging your credit score. Keep in mind that you will usually need a good credit rating to get accepted for the most competitive credit cards.
Once you know which card you want to apply for, you can usually do so online, over the phone or in a branch, depending on the card issuer/bank.
The history of Visa – when did Visa launch?
Visa’s history dates back to 1958 when the Bank of America launched the BankAmericard. This was the first mass-marketed credit card program and it quickly grew in popularity.
By the 1970s, BankAmericard was an independent entity and went on to take the name Visa. Visa then launched VisaNet, which was the first electronic payment authorisation, clearing and settlement system in the world. It has continued to grow as a card payment processor since then and, like Mastercard, has been at the forefront of technologies including chip cards and contactless payments.
How does Visa make money?
Visa’s profits primarily come from the entities that use its services, such as banks and shops. Some of its sources of revenue include the following:
Card issuer fees. Visa charges financial institutions service fees for the use of its payment systems.
Bank settlement fees. Credit card issuers pay this fee at the time of settlement of payments.
Overseas fees. Visa charges issuers a fee for processing payments made in a foreign currency. These charges are often passed onto credit card customers in the form of a foreign currency or international transaction fee.
Frequently asked questions
Visa is the larger of these companies as of October 2023, with a 12-month market capitalisation of US$475.58 billion and 26,500 employees. In comparison, Mastercard has a market capitalisation of US$347.36 billion and over 29,900 employees.
Visa cards are accepted in over 200 countries and territories around the world.
Yes. Eligibility requirements vary based on the credit card provider, but generally include the following:
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Chris Lilly is Head of publishing at finder.com. He's a specialist in personal finance, from day-to-day banking to investing to borrowing, and is passionate about helping UK consumers make informed decisions about their money. In his spare time Chris likes forcing his kids to exercise more. See full bio
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