What are contactless payments?

Contactless payments are transactions made by tapping either a contactless card or payment-enabled mobile or wearable device over a contactless-enabled payment terminal. Cards, phones, watches and other devices use the same contactless technology.

Contactless payments can both improve the checkout experience and may also increase cardholder satisfaction. Because your institution engages directly with Visa cardholders across multiple in-branch and online touchpoints, you play a critical role in helping create a positive contactless payment experience.


Benefits of contactless payments for Issuers

Increase cash conversion

Contactless cards have proven effective in converting cash to card-based payments¹.

¹Transaction Lift Analysis of Tap to Pay Active Cardholders, VisaNet Data, January 2019 – January 2020


Offer a better customer experience 

Cardholders can tap to pay in seconds with no contact, allowing for an easy and touch-free experience at checkout.


Enable cardholders’ access to a growing global trend

As contactless continues to gain global momentum, contactless cards offer consistency, providing your cardholders with the same experience at merchants around the world.


How contactless payments work

Contactless symbol.
Front of a contactless card showing the contactless chip plate.
Back of a contactless card showing the contactless chip and the contactless antennae.

Ready to issue contactless cards?

Sign up for more information.