Visa readies digital payments for projected 500,000 World Cup visitors

Visa, the Official Payment Service Partner of FIFA, is set to enable a cash-free fan experience to a projected 500,000 international visitors during the upcoming 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia.

In celebration of the Final Draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia, Visa, released travel and spending data for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Based on the spending trends and insights from Visa, it is projected that Russia will host an additional 300,000 to 500,000 international visitors.

“As the Official Payment Service Partner of FIFA, Visa is excited for fans all over the world to join us in Russia,” said Ekaterina Petelina, country manager, Visa Russia.

Visitors will have access to Visa enabled point-of-sale terminals that accept a Visa credit or debit card and a range of digital payments, such as those made via phone or watch. These enhancements ensure official FIFA venues are equipped with the latest in payment innovation and are ready for the increase in expected international visitors to Russia.

“From unveiling the latest payment innovations to upgrading payment terminals to allow for contactless cards and digital payments, such as those made via phone or watch, throughout official venues, Visa will continue to elevate the fan experience. Visa provides simple and secure payment options for those in attendance, so they can get back to their seats quickly and focus on the match.” Petelina added

Visa’s innovations will be available throughout official FIFA venues.

Know Before You Go to Russia

Notify your issuing bank or financial institution of anticipated travel plans, including use of Visa debit, credit or prepaid cards abroad to avoid any issues while processing transactions. Issuing banks can also provide information about travel-related benefits for Visa account holders, including opt-in mobile services, such asMobile Location Confirmation through your bank’s mobile app or Visa’s Travel Authorization Tag.
Register for SMS notifications with your specific bank, or the bank’s transaction notification service, to track purchases made on your Visa accounts as you travel.
Set up automatic bill pay for any credit cards to give you some peace-of-mind that your account will be current while traveling abroad.
Make two copies of important travel documents, namely your passport, in case of emergency. Leave one copy with a friend or relative and carry the other separate from your original documents. You can also take a photo with your cellphone of important documents.

Travel Tips for Fans in Russia

When paying by card, pay in “local currency” for a competitive exchange rate.
Use a credit or debit card for purchases. Visa offers security, convenience and ease when paying abroad. It is safer than carrying cash.
Whenever possible, pay through a chip-activated terminal when using your credit or debit card for enhanced security.
Look for the Visa or PLUS logo at any point-of-sale terminal to ensure international payment cards are accepted.