Can Visa gift cards be used internationally?

Visa gift cards offer almost as much flexibility as cash, but with much of the same convenience as a debit card. But you might be wondering whether they can be used in other countries.     

The short answer is yes, but it depends on the card. You’ll need to check either your physical card or the cardholder agreement to know for sure. If your Visa gift card can be used internationally, the back of the card will say something like, “valid worldwide where Visa is accepted.” 

But even with global-enabled Visa gift cards, there are a few limitations you should consider. 

Here’s what you need to know about using Visa gift cards abroad and sending them to recipients in other parts of the world.

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Send virtual Visa gift cards

Using Visa gift cards internationally

Virtual Visa gift cards (that are enabled for global use) can be used in over 200 different countries and territories. They work just like regular credit/debit cards at any merchant that accepts prepaid Visa cards. Although if you want to use a virtual Visa gift card in a physical store, you’ll need to load it onto a digital wallet (like Apple Pay or Google Pay). 

When you use a gift card for purchases in a foreign country, the currency conversion happens automatically. This means you don’t need to worry about tracking down the exchange rate or finding a local currency exchange.

Visa prepaid gift cards also work for many types of purchases online, like a regular debit card. (Just keep in mind not all merchants accept prepaid cards.) 

It's important to note that while Visa gift cards are widely accepted, they're not reloadable. Once the balance is spent, the card can't be topped up. However, this feature makes them an excellent choice for budgeting while traveling or for sending a specific amount as a gift.

Where can Visa gift cards be used?

Visa gift cards enabled for global use can be accepted in over 200 countries and territories (at merchants that allow prepaid cards). The digital Tremendous Visa® Rewards Card can be used in the following countries: 

Which countries don’t accept Visa gift cards?

While Visa gift cards are accepted in over 200 countries, they might not work in these countries due to economic sanctions and other restrictions:

Guidelines and considerations for employers issuing Visa gift cards internationally

Sending international customers, prospects, employees, or research participants a Visa prepaid gift card allows them a lot more flexibility in how they can use their reward or incentive.

International recipients can use Visa gift cards online at many of the same retailers that accept regular Visa cards. As a result, Visa gift cards are a much more attractive option than a gift card to a specific retailer, which significantly limits how recipients can spend their reward. 

While Visa gift cards are a great option for recipients in and outside of the U.S., there are some limitations and restrictions to consider.

Regional restrictions

Some Visa gift cards work only in the country where they're purchased. Check the cardholder agreement before sending rewards internationally.

Transaction fees

For international purchases, currency exchange rates vary and foreign transaction fees may apply. You can check the current exchange rate on Visa’s exchange rate calculator.

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