Most people in India use debit and credit cards these days, but very few know what the name written on their cards like RuPay or Visa means and how they are different from each other. Choosing the right card network is very important as it affects many aspects like security of transactions, convenience and international usage.
This blog explains in detail what is the difference between RuPay and Visa, which card is better for whom, keeping in mind the fees, benefits, acceptance, and global usage of both.
What is a RuPay Card?
RuPay card is India’s own payment card network, which was launched by NPCI (National Payments Corporation of India) in the year 2012. Its purpose was that India does not have to depend on foreign networks like Visa and MasterCard and people can get a cheap, safe and suitable option to make domestic transactions.
Fast and cheap in domestic transactions : Transactions made through RuPay card are processed in India itself, which makes the processing speed fast and the transaction charges are also very low. This is the reason why this card has become very popular especially in small towns and rural areas. Government banks and private banks issue it at a low cost, due to which it is used extensively in Jan Dhan accounts, PM Kisan, and other government schemes.
Types of RuPay Cards
There are many types of cards available under the RuPay network:
- RuPay Debit Card : Money is debited directly from the bank account
- RuPay Credit Card : For limit based spending
- RuPay Prepaid Card : Use after preloading money
- RuPay Global Card : For international use
Global expansion of RuPay : In recent years, RuPay has also expanded internationally. RuPay Global cards are accepted at over 42.4 million POS locations and over 1.90 million ATM locations in 185+ countries and territories worldwide. This means that now it is possible to do shopping, ATM withdrawal and online transactions abroad with a RuPay card.
Important role in government schemes : RuPay card is being used in many schemes of the Government of India such as:
- Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana
- PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana
- E-Shram Card
- Ayushman Bharat Yojana
In these schemes, money is sent directly to the accounts of the beneficiaries through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), and in most cases a RuPay card is given.
Read Also: Rupay Case Study
What is a Visa Card?
Visa card is the world’s largest and oldest international payment network, which started in America in 1958. Visa is not a card issued by any bank, but it is a network provider, which allows banks around the world to issue cards. It is used in the form of debit, credit and prepaid cards.
Globally accepted and user-friendly : The biggest strength of Visa card is its global acceptance. Cards on the Visa network are accepted in more than 200 countries, whether it is withdrawing cash from an ATM, shopping at a POS machine or making online payment from international websites. Apart from this, many Visa cards also offer premium features like lounge access, global offers, travel insurance and cashback.
Types of Visa Cards
Banks issue three types of cards on the Visa network:
- Visa Debit Card : Directly linked to the bank account
- Visa Credit Card : For limit based purchases
- Visa Prepaid Card : Used by loading a fixed amount
Advanced in security and technology : Visa cards have security technology like EMV chip, 2-factor authentication, and fraud detection system, which makes transactions secure. Visa’s network called VisaNet is one of the fastest and secure payment processing systems in the world.
Key Differences Between RuPay and Visa Card
| Parameters | RuPay Card | Visa Card |
|---|---|---|
| Origin | Launched in 2012 by NPCI, supported by the Government of India | Founded by US-based Visa Inc., started in 1958 |
| Transaction Processing | All transactions processed within India, making it faster, cheaper, and more secure. | International processing involves currency conversion and cross-border fees, making it more expensive for foreign transactions |
| International Acceptance | Accepted in over 185 countries with over 42.4 million POS locations and over 1.90 million ATM locations. | Widely accepted in approximately 195 countries globally directly through Visa’s global network |
| Fees & Charges | Minimal charges for domestic use; slightly higher for international usage | Higher fees for international transactions due to currency conversion and network charges |
| Rewards & Benefits | Limited offers; government-issued cards typically don’t offer reward programs | Attractive rewards, cashback, travel benefits, and insurance on many cards |
| Usage in Government Schemes | Widely used in schemes like Jan Dhan, PM-Kisan, e-Shram, and other DBT programs | Not used directly in government schemes; popular among private users and international travelers |
| Usage Scope | Ideal for domestic payments, subsidies, ATM withdrawals, and local POS transactions | Suitable for both domestic and international payments |
| Card Issuance Cost | Low-cost issuance for banks minimal interchange and network fees | Expensive for banks as higher interchange and processing costs |
Read Also: Best Credit Cards in India: Factors and Features Explained
Which Card is Better – RuPay or Visa?
The use of each card depends on the needs – some need the card only for local payments, while others need it for international shopping or travel. Both RuPay and Visa have their own benefits, only the way of using them is different.
| Where you’re using it | Which card fits best |
|---|---|
| Daily expenses like ATM withdrawals or paying at local shops | RuPay |
| Receiving money from government schemes like Jan Dhan or PM-Kisan | RuPay |
| Making payments while travelling abroad at ATMs or swipe machines | Visa |
| Shopping on international websites or global online platforms | Visa |
| If you’re looking for extras rewards like travel benefits, insurance, or cashback | Visa |
| Want lower charges and faster domestic processing | RuPay |
RuPay is a network that has been created in India, for the people of India. This card is generally better for local transactions, government payments and low charge transactions. Its biggest advantage is that its entire process takes place in India – which makes the transactions fast and secure.
On the other hand, the network of Visa cards is spread all over the world. If someone uses it more for making payments on international websites, or while traveling abroad, then Visa becomes a more suitable option. It also offers some advanced features, like airport lounge access or global insurance cover.
Pros and Cons of RuPay Card
Pros :
- All transactions are processed in India, which leads to faster speeds and better data security.
- Card issuance is cost effective for banks, which allows users to avail it at low or no charges.
- Designed for domestic use easily accessible on ATMs, UPI and POS.
- Acceptable and compatible with government schemes like Jan Dhan, DBT schemes etc.
Cons :
- Limited acceptance for international transactions; not supported by all countries and websites.
- Less or no extra features like rewards, cashback, travel benefits.
- The international card variant (RuPay Global) still has a limited network.
Pros and Cons of Visa Card
Pros :
- Visa is an international payment network that is accepted in 200+ countries across the world.
- Works seamlessly with international websites and travel payments.
- Most cards offer features like reward points, cashback, and discount offers.
- Some premium Visa cards also come with advanced benefits like airport lounge access, travel insurance, and foreign transaction security.
- Visa’s fraud detection technology and secure payment system works at international standards.
Cons :
- International processing may lead to additional charges on transactions, such as foreign transaction fees.
- For those who use their card only in India, a Visa card is not a must it may seem over featured or overserved.
- Some basic Visa cards do not offer special offers or features, which may reduce value for money.
Read Also: Top 10 Best Credit Cards in India
Conclusion
Choosing between Visa and RuPay depends on your needs. RuPay is ideal for affordable, fast, and secure domestic transactions. Its lower fees and strong integration with government schemes make it ideal for local use. Visa suits international travelers and online shoppers, offering wider acceptance and premium perks like rewards and insurance. Assess your spending habits and transaction locations to pick the card that best fits your lifestyle and financial goals.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which is better: Visa or RuPay?
It depends on whether the transaction is domestic or international.
Can RuPay cards be used internationally?
Yes, RuPay Global card can be used for international transactions in select countries.
Is a Visa card accepted in India?
Yes, Visa cards are accepted worldwide including India.
Does RuPay card offer cashback and rewards?
RuPay cards of select banks offer rewards or cashback, but they are limited.
Are there any charges for using a Visa internationally?
Yes, additional charges may apply for foreign transactions.
Can I have both Visa and RuPay cards?
Yes, one person can own both the cards.
