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.
Visa credit cards are offered by a number of different banks and card providers.
These include:
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.
Different types of credit cards explained
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.
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.
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.
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:
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