Visa Card is one of the most important international payment cards issued by various banks and institutions. This card allows all users to pay for purchased goods and services in online or physical stores without the slightest issue. It is a credit card that can be used as long as there is sufficient balance or credit available in the bank account. But the question that may arise is: What are the uses and benefits of a Visa Card, and how can we obtain one? Stay with us as we answer all your questions about this credit card.
What is a Visa Card?
In 1950, the Visa Card company began its operations as one of the online payment service providers. A few years later, it introduced its first card under the name “BankAmericard” to enable individuals to make purchases in stores using the card. Although Visa initially operated under the name Bank of America, a few years later, in 1958, it was renamed American Express (AmEx). The company grew and expanded year by year to the point that today it is supported in more than 190 countries worldwide. Visa Cards are issued by the Visa International Service Association based in San Francisco, California. Like all other credit cards, they include various elements such as a 16-digit number, a three-digit CCV code, and an expiration date, all of which must be accessible to the user when making a transaction.
“In general, a Visa Card is a credit card that enables you to make international payments and even withdraw cash from ATMs in the destination country during your travels.”
Getting to Know the Types of Visa Cards
Now that you are familiar with the concept of a Visa Card, you should learn about its various types and choose the best option based on the features and characteristics of each. Generally, Visa Cards are categorized based on payment method and issuance type. Below, we introduce the main types:
Types of Visa Cards Based on Payment Method
Visa Cards are divided into several categories according to how payments are made, and each type is used in specific situations based on its features. The most important types of Visa Cards based on payment method are:
Visa Debit Cards
This type of Visa Card is also known by other names such as debit card, check card, or bank card. Since debit cards are linked to the main bank account, they allow you to make withdrawals, transfers, and payments. Additionally, you can use your card on any online payment gateway that displays the VISA logo.
Visa Credit Cards
Credit cards have similar features to debit cards, with one main difference: using this card, you can spend more money and then repay your debt to the bank within 15 to 45 days.
Visa Prepaid Cards
These cards are similar to debit cards; however, their balance is set beforehand and they are not linked to a bank account. Prepaid cards are available in two formats: Reloadable and Non-Reloadable (Gift Card), though the non-reloadable type is usually used as a gift.