Issue your own branded Visa cards: how a card programme works
By SendPay Business · · Updated · 2 min read
A card with your name on it is the most visible thing a financial brand can offer. Here is what is actually involved in issuing one, and what you can do today.
Who issues the card
Only a licensed issuer can put cards on the Visa network. Your platform works with our card partner, who issues the cards under their licence with your brand on the front. You operate the programme; they issue. Your terms say so.
Approval of you and your programme
Card issuing needs our card partner's approval of you and of what your programme does. It is not switched on the day you buy a platform. We tell you this before you pay, and we walk you through the application.
What your users get
A virtual card in the app straight away and a physical card in the post. Freeze and unfreeze, spending controls, and every payment listed with a receipt. Cards spend from the user's balance in pounds, euros or dollars.
Designing the card
You choose the design in the builder: navy, midnight, ocean, forest, plum, ember, ivory and more, or your own two colours. Your users can pick from the palette you allow, and you can offer a premium design as a paid extra.
Build it
Create your own financial platform.
Pick a template, name it, brand it, preview every page before you pay. Your brand, your users, your fees.
Build my platform →Questions people ask
Can I issue cards to customers in other countries?
Programme approval is per market. Start with the UK.
Mastercard or Visa?
Both designs are available in the builder; which network your programme runs on is agreed with the card partner.
What does a card programme cost?
The Card Issuing Platform is £3,500 as a one-off build. Partner and scheme fees apply once the programme is approved.
Can my users choose their own card design?
You decide. Offer a palette, let them pick, and charge for a premium design if you want to.
How can SendPay Business help me issue cards?
Design the card in the builder, preview it on the site, and we walk you through the card partner's approval. We say what is needed in writing before you pay.
Build my platform →Read next
This guide is general information, not legal or financial advice. SendPay Business is a technology company, not a bank, and does not take deposits; regulated services on the platforms are provided by licensed partners. PayPal, Patreon and Substack are named as reference points only and are not affiliated with SendPay Business.