What is a Visa Credit Card?
Visa is a global payment technology company that offers a variety of credit cards to consumers. Visa credit cards are issued by banks and financial institutions and provide cardholders with a line of credit that they can use to make purchases. With a Visa credit card, cardholders can make purchases at merchants around the world that accept Visa, either online or in-store.
Visa credit cards offer various benefits and features, such as rewards programs, cash back, travel insurance, and extended warranties. They also come with different interest rates, annual fees, and credit limits, depending on the card type and the issuing bank.
Visa also provides added security features for cardholders, such as zero liability for fraudulent purchases and dispute resolution services. You can pay your monthly cell phone bill with the cards.
Types of Visa Credit Cards
Visa Classic
It is one of the traditional credit cards from the line of credit cards from Visa. Since Visa services this card, you can pay with it almost anywhere in tens of millions of locations around the world. You can use any of the 1.9 million ATMs in more than 200 countries if you need cash. The cardholder can contact Visa's Global Customer Assistance Services 24/7. The Visa Classic Credit card includes such bonuses as a replacement and emergency cash advances.
Visa Gold
This credit card has numerous benefits of Visa Classic cards. This card is ideal for travelers as the Visa Gold owner gets access to VIP lounges in a large number of airports around the world. They have various types of travel insurance that help in case of, for example, lost luggage. The Visa Gold owner has car rental insurance and bonuses when booking hotels. The cardholder also has health insurance for travel.
Visa Platinum
It is the highest-tiered credit card among the classic three. Besides all the benefits that Visa Classic and Gold cards have, Visa Platinum offers cardholders Visa Concierge services with which they can book travel tickets, special event tickets, and a table in their favorite restaurant. Travelers get the opportunity to have Travel Emergency Medical Compensation and Shenzhen Medical Coverage Certificate. Visa Platinum cardholder has access to hotel room upgrades, late checkout, and VIP guest status in more than 900 hotels around the world.
Visa Signature Card
It is a card of a higher level than traditional Visa credit cards. Having a Visa Signature credit card, the cardholder can access extended warranty and cell phone protection. This card offers golf discounts and privileges, such as discounts on golf fees. The cardholder has year-round exclusive access to over 50 select Sonoma County Visa Signature wineries.
Visa Infinite
The card offers cardholders such unique benefits as auto rental collision damage waiver and discounts in car rentals like Avis, Hertz, and Silvercar. Avid travelers can receive non-refundable reservation coverage in case of cancellation or postponement of a trip and receive up to $500 compensation in case of flight delays. The owner of the Visa Infinite card has return protection, which allows them to return any purchase up to $300 within 90 days.
The best Visa Credit Cards to Get
Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card
The Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a good option for travelers who want to earn rewards for their travel spending and take advantage of travel benefits. However, the card's annual fee and high interest rate should be considered when deciding if it is the right card for you.
Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card is a travel rewards credit card offering the following benefits:
- Rewards. Cardholders earn unlimited 2x miles per $1 spent on all purchases. Miles can be redeemed for travel, including flights, hotels, and car rentals, as well as for statement credits and gift cards.
- Sign-up bonus. New cardholders earn a one-time bonus of 100,000 miles after spending $20,000 on purchases within the first 12 months of account opening.
- Travel benefits. The card offers a variety of travel benefits, including trip cancellation and interruption insurance, travel accident insurance, and baggage delay insurance.
Rates and fees for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card include:
- Annual fee. The card has an annual fee of $95.
- Interest rate. The card has a variable purchase APR of 16.24% to 26.24%.
- Balance transfer fee. The balance transfers fee is 3% of the amount transferred, with a minimum fee of $5.
- No foreign transaction fees. The card doesn't charge a foreign transaction fee, which makes it a good option for travelers who plan to use the card while abroad.
United Club Infinite Card
The United Club Infinite Card is a good option for travelers who frequently fly United and want access to airport lounges. However, the card's high annual fee and interest rate should be considered when deciding if it is the right card for you. Additionally, the rewards structure is designed for travelers who spend heavily on United flights and travel purchases, so it may not be the best option for those who do not.
The United Club Infinite Card is a premium travel rewards credit card that offers the following benefits:
- Lounge access. Cardholders have access to United Club lounge locations and participating Star Alliance lounge locations worldwide.
- Rewards. Cardholders earn 4 miles per dollar spent on United purchases, 2 miles per dollar spent on all other travel purchases, and 1 mile per dollar spent on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed for flights and upgrades.
- Sign-up bonus. New cardholders may earn a one-time bonus of 100,000 miles after spending $5,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening.
- Travel benefits. The card offers a variety of travel benefits, including trip cancellation, interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and lost luggage reimbursement.
Rates and fees for the United Club Infinite Card include:
- Annual fee. The card has an annual fee of $525.
- Interest rate. The card has a variable purchase APR of 17.99% to 22.99%.
- Balance transfer fee. There is a fee of 5% of the amount transferred, with a minimum fee of $5 on qualifying balance transfers.
The World of Hyatt Credit Card
World of Hyatt Credit Card is a good option for travelers who frequently stay at Hyatt hotels and want to earn rewards for their spending at Hyatt and other travel-related purchases. However, the card's high interest rate should be considered when deciding if it is a suitable card.
The World of Hyatt Credit Card is a hotel rewards credit card that offers the following benefits:
- Rewards. Cardholders earn 4 points per dollar spent at Hyatt hotels, 2 points per dollar spent on restaurants, on airline tickets purchased from the airline, and at car rental agencies, and 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for free nights at Hyatt hotels, room upgrades, and more.
- Sign-up bonus. New cardholders can earn a bonus of 50,000 points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first 6 months of account opening.
- Elite status. Cardholders receive automatic Discoverist status in the World of Hyatt program and can earn 2 qualifying night credits toward higher tier status with every $5,000 spent on the card.
- Travel benefits. The card offers a variety of travel benefits, including trip cancellation, interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and car rental insurance.
Rates and fees for the World of Hyatt Credit Card include:
- Annual fee. The card has an annual fee of $95.
- Interest rate. The card has a variable purchase APR of 17.99% to 22.99%.
- Balance transfer fee. The balance transfers fee is 5% of the amount transferred, with a minimum fee of $5.
Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card for Students
The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card for Students is a good option for students who are looking for an affordable and flexible way to earn rewards for their spending and build credit. The card's lack of an annual fee and foreign transaction fees, combined with its relatively low interest rate, make it a cost-effective option for students. However, the rewards rate is lower compared to other travel rewards cards, so it may not be the best option for those who are looking to earn rewards quickly.
The Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card for Students is a travel rewards credit card specifically designed for students that offers the following benefits:
- Rewards. Cardholders get 1.5 points per $1 spent on all purchases, with no limit to the number of points that can be earned. Points can be redeemed for a statement credit towards travel purchases, including flights, hotels, and more.
- No annual fee. The card does not require an annual fee, which makes it a good option for students who are looking for an affordable way to build credit.
Rates and fees for the Bank of America Travel Rewards credit card for Students include:
- Interest rate. The card has a variable purchase APR of 19.24%.
- Balance transfer fee. The balance transfers fee is 3% of the amount transferred, with a minimum fee of $10.
- No foreign transaction fees. The card does not charge any foreign transaction fees, which makes it a good option for students who plan to use the card while traveling abroad.
Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card
The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is a good option for Amazon Prime members who frequently make purchases on Amazon. The card's rewards rate of 5% on Amazon purchases, combined with its lack of an annual fee, make it a cost-effective option for those who want to earn rewards on their spending. However, the card's relatively high interest rate should be considered when deciding if it is the right card for you.
The Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card is a rewards credit card for Amazon Prime members that offers:
- Rewards. Cardholders earn 5% back on Amazon purchases, 2% back at restaurants, gas stations, and drugstores, and 1% back on all other purchases. Rewards can be redeemed for statement credits, purchases at Amazon, and more.
- Exclusive access. Cardholders receive early access to select Lightning Deals on Amazon, as well as access to special financing offers.
Rates and fees for the Amazon Prime Rewards Visa Signature Card include:
- Interest rate. The card has a variable purchase APR of 16.49% to 25.49%.
- No annual fee. The card does not require an annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for those who want to earn rewards for their spending.
- Balance transfer fee. The balance transfers fee is 3% of the amount transferred, with a minimum fee of $5.
Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card
The Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card is good for those who are looking to earn high cash back rewards on their spending. The card's lack of an annual fee, combined with its relatively low interest rate, makes it a cost-effective option for those who want to earn cash back on their spending. However, the card does have a balance transfer fee, so it may not be the best option for those who plan to transfer a balance from another card.
The Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card is a cashback rewards credit card that offers:
- Rewards. Cardholders earn 3% cash back on all purchases in the first year and 2.5% cash back on all purchases thereafter, with no limit to the cash back amount you can earn.
- Sign-up bonus. New cardholders can earn a sign-up bonus of $100 after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 90 days of account opening.
Rates and fees for the Alliant Cashback Visa Signature Credit Card include:
- Interest rate. The card has a variable purchase APR of 13.24% to 27.24%.
- No annual fee. The card does not require an annual fee, making it a cost-effective option for those who want to earn cash back on their spending.
- Balance transfer fee. The balance transfer fee is 3% of the amount transferred, with a minimum fee of $5.
Chase Sapphire Preferred Card
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a good option for those who are looking for a travel rewards card with a strong sign-up bonus and a rewards structure that rewards spending on travel and dining. The card's travel and purchase protections, combined with its ability to transfer points to frequent travel programs, make it a versatile option for travelers. However, the card does have an annual fee and a relatively high interest rate, so consider these factors when deciding if the card is the right fit for you.
The Chase Sapphire Preferred Card is a travel rewards credit card that offers the following benefits:
- Rewards. Cardholders earn 2 points per dollar spent on travel and dining purchases and 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases. Points can be redeemed for travel through the Chase Ultimate Rewards program and can also be transferred to participating in frequent travel programs at a 1:1 ratio.
- Sign-up bonus. New cardholders can earn a sign-up bonus of 100,000 points after spending $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.
- Travel and purchase protections. The card includes travel protections such as trip cancellation, interruption insurance, baggage delay insurance, and more. The card also includes purchase protections such as extended warranty coverage and purchase protection.
Rates and fees for the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card include:
- Annual fee. The card has an annual fee of $95, which is waived for the first year.
- Interest rate. The card has a variable purchase APR of 16.99% to 23.99%.
- Balance transfer fee. The balance transfer fee is 5% of the amount transferred, with a minimum fee of $5.
United Explorer Card
The United Explorer Card is good for those who frequently fly on United Airlines and want to earn rewards for their spending on travel and dining. The card's travel benefits, including a free first-checked bag and priority boarding, can provide significant value to frequent United flyers. However, the card does have an annual fee, so it is important to consider this when deciding if the card is the right fit for you.
The United Explorer Card is a travel rewards credit card that offers the following benefits:
- Rewards. Cardholders earn 2 miles per $1 spent on United Airlines purchases, hotel stays, and dining and 1 mile per $1 spent on all other purchases. Miles can be redeemed for award flights on United Airlines, as well as upgrades, merchandise, and more.
- Sign-up bonus. New cardholders can earn a sign-up bonus of 40,000 miles after spending $2,000 on purchases in the first 3 months of account opening.
- Travel benefits. The card includes benefits such as a free first checked bag, priority boarding, and two one-time-use United Club passes each year. Cardholders also receive a 25% bonus on miles earned through purchases made with the card.
Rates and fees for the United Explorer Card include:
- Annual fee. The card has an annual fee of $0 for the first year, then $95.
- Interest rate. The card has a variable purchase APR of 17.24% to 26.24%.
- Balance transfer fee. The balance transfer fee is $5 or 5% of the amount transferred, whichever is greater.
Pros and Cons of Visa Credit Cards
Pros
- Visa's Global Customer Assistance Services, which operates 24/7, is available for cardholders of cards of any level.
- Since banks themselves set bonuses and perks for their Visa credit cards, any future cardholder can pick up a card for their needs.
- Many cards have extremely favorable offers, welcome offers, perks, and bonuses.
- A Visa credit card holder can withdraw cash at over 1.9 million ATMs in more than 200 countries worldwide.
- Regardless of the issuing bank, all Visa cards have bonuses such as emergency card replacement and emergency cash advance.
- Some banks that offer credit cards apply for bad credit.
Cons
- Card-issuing banks set rates and terms themselves, so it can be unpredictable.
- The annual fee of some cards may be too high.
How to Get a Visa Credit Card?
When you get a credit card and apply for Visa, you have to meet the basic requirements:
- In most states, the applicant must be an adult, 18 years old. Some banks may require the applicant to be 21 years old.
- The applicant must be a citizen or permanent resident of the United States.
- Usually, banks and other financial institutions request downloads of additional documentation to confirm the identity of the future cardholder. Such documents can be a driver's license, state-issued ID, or passport.
Before applying for a Visa credit card, you need to check which credit score range your credit rating is in. You can request your credit score from the bank or credit bureaus for free. If your FICO score is less than 580, then you have bad credit. A credit score from 580 to 670 is fair credit, and a credit score of 670 is good credit. Different credit card issuers have different requirements for credit scores. The main points to know regarding the credit requirements for a Visa credit card:
- Cards with the most favorable welcome bonus offers, perks, and a high cashback rate require the cardholder to have good to excellent credit.
- You can find quite a few credit cards for fair credit.
- If you want to apply for a credit card having bad credit, you need to look for special offers on credit cards for low credit.
For most financial institutions, the income level of the future cardholder is also important. To confirm the level of income, in most cases, you will need to provide documents such as pay stubs, tax returns, bank statements, or W-2s.
Most banks have a fast and convenient Visa credit card application process. Usually, an application for opening a credit card is filled out in 10 minutes if all the necessary information is available. The approval comes in a matter of minutes.
How to Get a Visa Credit Card With No Credit?
You can still get a visa credit card for bad credit if you have no credit history. Credit cards for bad credit do not have many profitable offers for bonuses and perks. However, if you make a credit card application with bad credit, you will still get quite favorable cashback offers and will use a credit card cash advance.
One type of credit card for low credit is a starter credit card. Starter credit cards allow young people to build credit by making on-time payments on their credit balance. One of the best credit cards for new cardmembers is the Petal 1 "No Annual Fee" Visa Credit Card. This card does not have annual fees and does not require a future cardholder to have a credit score.
Secured credit cards for bad credit are the easiest ones to get with bad credit. Such credit cards require the borrower to make a security deposit as collateral, guaranteeing their solvency. The credit limit of such cards depends only on the security deposit amount. One of the best secured credit cards is the Bank of America Customized Cash Rewards credit card. You don't pay an annual fee on this card. It allows cardholders to receive 3% cash back for purchases from the category of choice, 2% cash back for grocery purchases, and 1% unlimited cash back for all other purchases.
