The most widely accepted credit card brand is Mastercard, which is accepted in 210+ countries and territories. Virtually all merchants that take credit cards in those countries and territories will accept Mastercard, though there may be rare exceptions.
Most Widely Accepted Credit Card Brands
- Mastercard: 210+ countries and territories, nearly all merchants
- Visa: 200+ countries and territories, nearly all merchants
- American Express: 198 countries and territories, less merchant coverage than Mastercard and Visa
If you plan to use your card only within the U.S., almost all merchants should accept cards from all four major credit card networks. If you plan to use your card abroad, Mastercard and Visa are generally your best bet, though Amex cards can be fine as well depending on where you travel.
This answer was first published on 01/17/23. For the most current information about a financial product, you should always check and confirm accuracy with the offering financial institution. Editorial and user-generated content is not provided, reviewed or endorsed by any company.
