FAQs

How do I get a contactless Visa card?

As the introduction of contacless picks up speed, different banks will typically upgrade certain types of Visa card, so you could automatically receive a new Visa card that supports contactless, or be given the option to receive one. This could happen at any time, but it is most likely to happen when your existing card expires.

Some other banks may choose to introduce new types of Visa card which feature contactless. If so, you can apply for one of these new cards in the same way that you would apply for any other Visa card.

If you want contactless, you should therefore ask your existing bank about its plans, or keep an eye on the press for a Visa card that you could apply for.

How does contactless actually work?

Contactless works by using short range wireless technology, so the reader will pick up a signal from your Visa card when it's very close to it. You can use your card for payments of £15 or less and, as an extra security measure, your bank will set a limit to the number of contactless transactions you can make before you use your PIN.

How secure is my contactless card?

It is very secure. Visa contactless cards use the same secure technology as any other Visa chip and PIN cards. Also, because the card never leaves your hand, there’s actually less chance of fraud.

For payment to be taken, a retailer must enter the amount for you to approve and you then need to place your contactless card very close to the reader. Therefore, contactless payments cannot be made or duplicated without your knowledge.

If I get too close to a contactless reader, is there a risk of my Visa card getting charged accidentally?

If you come close to a contactless reader, you won’t be charged accidentally.

In order for a transaction to take place, you have to hold your card right in front of the reader at precisely the right time – and for more than half a second.

What types of retailer will support contactless?

Contactless is going to be popular in any busy places where people make lots of low value purchases – such as supermarkets, fast food restaurants, newsagents, pubs, cafes, coffee bars and convenience stores.