Buzz
MasterCard is an international payment card accepted in at least 210 countries. It can be used for online and in-person transactions, as well as cash withdrawals, similar to an ATM card. The unique feature is that MasterCard allows withdrawals in any country where it is accepted.
Exploring the realm of MasterCard - What you need to know
A. What is MasterCard?
MasterCard is the quintessential international payment card, legally accepted as a cash alternative. Its standout feature lies in its ability to facilitate payments across a wide array of countries worldwide, breaking free from the constraints of physical currency. You can effortlessly make online purchases in any country that acknowledges this card, bypassing intermediaries and organizations.
Distinctive features of MasterCard: The card bears the MasterCard logo with white lettering, set within two interlocking circles of red and gold.
Advantages of MasterCard
- Similar to an ATM card, using MasterCard helps you avoid risks like losing or dropping cash.
- You don't need to go through the hassle of complex loan procedures at the bank; a credit MasterCard is all you need to solve your financial borrowing issues quickly.
- If you borrow money and reach the due date, a credit MasterCard allows you to make multiple payments, with a minimum of 20% per installment.
- When traveling or working abroad, you'll save the trouble of currency exchange by using MasterCard. It's widely accepted internationally, eliminating the need to exchange currency in various countries.
- In case of theft or loss, simply notify the bank to close the account. This ensures the security of the funds in your card.
Drawbacks of MasterCard
- For certain card types, you may need to prove your income and assets.
- Excessive spending can lead to accumulating debts.
- If critical details on your card, such as the cardholder's name, card number, expiration date, and CVC, are compromised, your card loses its security. At this point, your card is akin to stolen cash, susceptible to unauthorized use.
- Withdrawing money from an ATM may incur higher fees compared to using an ATM card.
Currently, Vietnam offers three types of MasterCard, each with its specific functions:
1. MasterCard Credit Card
MasterCard credit is granted based on your monthly income or the assets you own. Depending on your assets, the MasterCard credit card will be assigned a specific tier by the bank.
Banks categorize MasterCard credit into various card types based on user profiles, such as standard, gold, platinum, and more. Each card comes with its own set of benefits.
Since MasterCard credit is issued based on income or assets, obtaining one requires demonstrating your financial stability.
2. MasterCard Debit Card
MasterCard debit is an international debit card where you load a specific amount into the card, and you can only spend up to that maximum amount. It is linked to the bank account you are using. For instance, if you load 10,000,000 VND into the card, you can spend up to that limit.
Currently, the process of obtaining a MasterCard debit card is straightforward, requiring no income verification. You just need to bring your ID card to the bank and request the card. Some banks even offer online applications, allowing you to register on the provided link and pick up the card at the scheduled time.
3. MasterCard Prepaid Card
Characteristics of this type of MasterCard prepaid card include using only the funds available on the card, without being linked to any of your bank accounts.
When applying for a MasterCard prepaid card, you don't need to prove your financial status. Just bring your ID card and additional documents as required by the bank you choose for card issuance.
Where to get a MasterCard?
B. Where to Get a MasterCard? Which Banks?
Currently, numerous banks are affiliated with issuing various types of MasterCard. To choose the bank that best suits your needs for obtaining a MasterCard, consider the following criteria to meet your specific requirements.
1. Criteria for Obtaining a Free MasterCard
Getting a free MasterCard involves the following banks:
- For MasterCard credit cards: SCB, Vietcombank, MBBank, PVcombank, ACB, VPBank
- For MasterCard debit cards: GPBank, Maritimebank, SHB, BIDV, ACB, Eximbank ...
- For MasterCard prepaid cards: Nama Bank, Lienvietpostbank
3. Criteria for Free ATM Withdrawals within the System
Getting a free MasterCard involves the following banks:
- For MasterCard debit cards:
+ OCB, Seabank, VPBank, Lienvietpostbank, GPBank, Eximbank.
+ SHB and SCB provide free withdrawals at other banks' ATMs.
+ Maritimebank offers free withdrawals for the first two transactions each month at any ATM.
- For MasterCard prepaid cards: LienVietPostBank, VIB.
4. Criteria for the Lowest Annual Fee
Getting a free MasterCard involves the following banks:
- For MasterCard credit cards: SHB, VIB, Vietcombank, Viettinbank, Agribank.
- For MasterCard debit cards: Seabank, Vietcombank, Lienvietpostbank, BIDV, SCB.
5. Criteria for the Lowest Income Requirement
Obtaining a free MasterCard credit card includes banks like Sacobank, BIDV, SCB, Lienvietpostbank, VPBank.
Based on the criteria above, it's evident that Lienvietpostbank offers the most advantages for obtaining a MasterCard, followed by ACB, BIDV, SHB, and others. Additionally, consider choosing a bank with the best services, flexible MasterCard payments, and a fast application process.
MasterCard is highly convenient, but many individuals struggle with managing their expenses, leading to unwanted credit debts. Also, there's the risk of disclosing your card details, such as the card number, CVC, expiration date, and cardholder's name, making your card vulnerable to unauthorized use. Therefore, when using MasterCard, prioritize securing your card information and adjusting your spending sensibly.
Explore more:
- What is JCB Card?
- Debit Card vs. Credit Card
