MasterCard and Visa are the names of the global companies who manage credit cards. But, they are payment systems rather than actual credit cards, so they rely on providers to issue credit cards using their system. MasterCard and Visa credit cards are both internationally recognized, but one might be a better choice than the other depending on the country you wish to use it in. Although credit cards only used to be available from a small number of banks, nowadays you can get credit cards just about anywhere. There are literally thousands of companies and financial institutions supplying credit cards, so make sure you shop around to find a deal that suits your needs.

The Visa payment system is owned by 21,000 financial institutions and there are numerous Visa credit cards out there, issued by those same financial institutions. The Visa credit card company offers an online survey that helps prospective cardholders to choose the right card for them. Since visa offers a variety of cards, it is likely you will be able to find the right card for your needs.

Visa credit cards are available online making it easier for families and individuals to apply, since the applications are online, and are signed electronically. Platinum Visa credit cards are the most prestigious Visa cards to apply for, and they usually take a stable financial background to get one. Visa offers card members lots of extras; therefore Visa cardholders enjoy numerous benefits and security features. For instance, Visa platinum credit cards and low interest credit cards offer a great way to reward yourself with travel rewards or cash back. You will want to read each credit card application detail to see if the Visa card provider offers a rewards point system or else a cash back system. Depending on the visa credit cards and specific offers, your credit card may earn you rewards towards free travel in the future. Visa credit cards have gained worldwide acceptance and are therefore great for travel. Rewards Visa card providers may offer a 2% or more cash rewards program on any purchases made on your card with a cash reward limit up to $500 each year the card is used. Also, Visa card holders can obtain a cash advance from over 1 million ATM's displaying the Visa symbol from all member banks around the world and at more than 387,000 Visa member offices. Hassle-free banking can be accomplished at any ATM within the Visa network and for maximum convenience, Visa business check cards are welcome everywhere Visa credit cards are accepted. You can also use your Visa card online to take advantage of great discounts available to both business and personal account holders. In addition to these excellent discounts, Visa runs a number of promotions and contests throughout the year, offering customers cash and prizes.

Visa's security program has partnered up with a consumer hotline that provides help with identity theft if you ever need it. Plus, Visa gives cardholders multiple layers of protection from fraud and watches your account for spending that's outside of your usual purchasing pattern in order to catch fraud as soon as it happens and now it's even safer to shop online when you register your card with Verified by Visa. Verified by Visa protects your existing Visa card with a personal password, giving you reassurance that only you can use your Visa card online.

The features, benefits and rewards of Visa cards are numerous and varied. In a short article of this size they are too numerous to mention. The best thing to do if you are in the market for a credit card is to go to a reputable credit card website and compare the many offers set forth by Visa. If you really want a credit card, you are sure to find a Visa card to your liking.