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Visa & Mastercard High-Risk Registration – FAQ


Overview

This FAQ explains Visa and Mastercard High-Risk (Specialty Merchant) Registration programs. It helps you understand what they are, who they may apply to, and how fees work. This information is general and may vary based on your business and account setup.

What is High-Risk (Specialty Merchant) Registration?

Visa and Mastercard require certain businesses to be registered when they are considered higher risk. These programs are managed through the acquiring bank.

Who does this apply to?

This may apply to merchants in regulated or monitored categories. It often includes businesses that process payments without face-to-face interaction (card-not-present).

Examples may include:

  • Subscription or negative option billing models
  • Digital goods or online services
  • Certain regulated industries

Final determination is made by the acquiring bank and card networks.

Is this based on MCC alone?

No. Merchant Category Code (MCC) is only one factor. The decision also depends on your business model, transaction methods, and risk profile.

What fees are involved?

Visa and Mastercard may require annual registration fees. These fees are:

  • Set by the card networks
  • Passed through by the acquiring bank
  • Non-refundable

Fee amounts and structures may change at any time. Your account will be billed based on current network requirements.

When will I be charged?

Registration fees are typically charged once per year. They are billed on your registration anniversary date.

New registrations follow the pricing in effect at the time of approval.

Why am I being charged this fee?

If your business meets network criteria, registration is required. This is a condition of accepting card payments.

What happens if I do not maintain registration?

Failure to maintain required registration may result in:

  • Processing restrictions
  • Account suspension
  • Termination of card acceptance

These actions are determined by the acquiring bank and card networks.

Can Bankful waive or change this fee?

No. These fees are set by Visa and Mastercard. Bankful does not control or modify these costs.

How do I know if this applies to my account?

If your account requires registration, you will be notified. Our team may request documents or authorization to complete the process.

If you are unsure, contact support@bankful.com.

Where can I find official information?

Note: These pages provide general guidance. Specific requirements may not be publicly listed.

Updated April 2026