Founded in 1974 as IBANCO LTD, Visa International Service Association facilitates payment systems all over the globe. It manages the operation, expansion and support of these payment systems, establishing rules and standards for how the Visa payments network operates. Security is another important service of the Visa Association. It works continuously to protect the interests of both consumers and merchants.

The bulk of the Visa International Service Association clients include financial institutions, banks and credit unions, who participate to facilitate payments within the Visa company. The Visa company continues to grow, with over 2,400 members all over the world, including the Asia Pacific region, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean region. The Visa Association manages several aspects of the VISA brand, including:

1. Maintaining the standards for individual card design

2. Monitoring the transaction processing data requirements

3. Managing the dispute resolution process

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Read the profile on Visa for more information

There is a lot of info about Visa, including its history, mission statement and current economic forecast available to prospective merchants and customers. The Visa International Service Association is a subsidiary of Visa, Inc. and is headquartered in San Francisco, California.

I recommend: Read about Visa, including its entire corporate profile, to gain a better understanding of the company and its mission. Visa International Service Association information includes info for merchants, customers and financial institutions.

Find more info on Visa and its role in the global economy

Research on Visa includes a break down of the various cards and services offered by Visa. Along with credit cards, Visa facilitates payments in over 170 countries, allowing safe and secure transactions for banks, merchants, businesses and even governments. Find VISA International Service Association information at Visa Global, homepage of Visa, Inc.

I recommend: Learn more about Visa and how Visa cards work at Work.Com. Get a snapshot of Visa Global at their corporate site.

Get the low down on Visa's international rates

One of Visa's biggest benefits is the ease and convenience of using it around the world. However, international exchange rates vary from country to country. So, before you head off for parts unknown, find out how far your Visa card will take you in Australia, France, China or Brazil. Using a Visa card internationally is also safe and secure. And, if you do run into problems, they can walk you through the entire dispute process, from start to finish.

I recommend: Visit the FAQ at Visa for information on current Visa international rates. Their easy currency converter will help you budget your trip accordingly.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Along with facilitating global commerce, the Visa company also works with many non-profit and charity organizations. If you are looking for a corporate sponsor for your charity or fundraiser, VISA sponsors events worldwide.