Instant card payment: fast and secure transactions
The speed and security of financial transactions come to the fore in business development. Instant card payment has become a solution that allows companies and individuals to transfer funds in real time. We explain how instant card transfers work, what advantages they offer to users, and how to integrate them into existing business processes.
What is instant card payment?
Instant transfer by card is a financial transaction mechanism in which funds are credited to the user’s card instantly. The transfer process takes a few seconds. Traditional bank transfers can be processed quickly, but they are based on a processing time of 1-5 business days. This is inconvenient and takes a long time, especially if the funds are needed now. It is for this reason that businesses and users are increasingly choosing cards with instant financial transaction processing.
To connect the service and conduct transactions, the technology uses modern payment gateways, APIs for direct interaction with VISA, American Express and other card networks and issuing banks.
When a payment is initiated, the system performs the following:
- When a payment is initiated, the system performs the following: Verification of the recipient's card details.
- Checking the validity of the transaction and the available balance.
- Protect the transaction using encryption and anti-fraud tools.
- Instant transfer of funds to the card if all checks are successfully completed.
Key features and benefits
Instant payment cards have advantages that make this payment method beneficial for businesses and users.
Real-time payments
The main advantage is speed. Whether you are paying a contractor, refunding a customer or transferring funds to a friend, instant card payments ensure that the recipient sees the money almost immediately.
Global coverage and support for multiple currencies
Modern real-time payment platforms work with 70+ currencies, enabling cross-border transfers without the delays and high fees associated with SWIFT. Companies can pay foreign partners or employees in local currency with minimal conversion costs.
Easy integration
APIs and SDKs allow instant card payments to be embedded directly into applications, websites or ERP systems. Compatibility with major card networks such as Visa and Mastercard guarantees reliability and versatility.
Enhanced security
Teal-time card payments use:
- end-to-end encryption;
- tokenisation (replacing card details with unique tokens);
- 3D Secure 2.0 technology for additional authentication;
- AI fraud detection systems.
Wide range of payment methods
Support for 100+ payment methods gives users the opportunity to choose their preferred option: debit, credit or prepaid card, digital wallets or local payment systems.
How instant card payments work
The basis of instant payments:
- Payment orchestrators – intermediary software that directs transactions to the optimal payment channel.
- Card networks (Visa, Mastercard and local systems) process the transaction.
- Issuing banks verify the validity of the card and the availability of funds.
- Acquirers/payment providers ensure the transfer of funds from the sender to the recipient.
The credit card payment instant process. The system sends a request via API, specifying the recipient’s card number, amount and currency. The payment orchestrator verifies the request and selects the optimal processing path. The card network forwards the request to the issuing bank. The issuing bank approves or declines the transaction based on the card status and available funds. Upon approval, the funds are credited to the recipient’s card account within seconds.
Areas of application
Real-time transfers have a wide range of uses.
E-commerce
Instant refunds increase customer loyalty: buyers see the money on their card immediately, rather than after several days.
Gig economy
Freelancers and on-demand workers receive payments instantly after completing a task, improving cash flow management.
Tourism and hospitality
Hotels and airlines can issue instant refunds or vouchers, reducing inconvenience for customers.
Payroll
It is a payroll management system that automates the payroll process for employees. It covers the accounting of time worked, the calculation of salaries, bonuses, deductions and taxes. The calculation can be carried out both internally and with the help of an external provider.
B2B supply chains
Businesses build supply chains with fast payments. This allows you to plan production, replenish stocks in a timely manner, and control transportation. By reducing costs and improving the visibility of vehicle movement, the efficiency and automation of all processes are increased.
Compliance with standards and regulations
Immediate card payments must comply with:
- PSD2 (Europe) – requires strong customer authentication (SCA).
- PCI DSS – ensures secure card data processing.
- Local regulations – some countries have specific requirements for reporting cross-border transfers.
Providers usually take responsibility for compliance, offering businesses a ready-made solution.
Instant card payment trends 2025
The main trends include the expansion of the use of RTP and FedNow systems in the United States, global growth in transaction volume, the development of mobile wallets and Open Banking.
Growth in the volume of instant payments
According to Juniper Research, the global volume of instant transactions will increase from $22 trillion in 2024 to $58 trillion by 2028, reflecting an increase of 161%. This growth is due to the increased use of account-to-account (A2A) wallets (for example, iDEAL, Twint) and the development of Open Banking, which allow transactions to be carried out directly from bank accounts, bypassing traditional card systems.
Development of RTP and FedNow systems in the USA
RTP and FedNow are two key immediate payment systems in the USA. RTP is operated by The Clearing House, and FedNow is operated by the Federal Reserve System.
As of 2025, about 58% of banks in the United States that support instant transactions use both systems simultaneously, which has become standard practice to ensure sustainability and expand coverage.
FedNow processes domestic payments in the United States around the clock, with immediate settlement and instant transfer of funds. The FedNow transaction limit has increased from $25,000 at launch to $10 million by November 2025.
RTP supports transactions of up to $1 million and uses the ISO 20022 standard to transfer rich data (for example, account numbers, account references).
The growth of Mobile Wallets and Open Banking
The mobile wallet segment is expected to grow from $12.85 billion in 2026 to $104.69 billion by 2033, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 26.3%. Technological advances such as biometric authentication and the integration of loyalty programs enhance user convenience and security.
Open Banking expands the capabilities of digital wallets, allowing them to access bank transactions without the need for separate partnerships with banks. This simplifies processes for consumers and reduces costs for merchants.
Regional trends:
- North America is positioned as a key hub for the development of instant payments due to significant investments from the government and the private sector.
- In Asia, initiatives such as Project Nexus aim to facilitate instant cross-border payments by promoting financial inclusion.
- Europe is also showing growth, especially in the context of regulation and the development of digital payment infrastructures.
Among the challenges is the need for widespread implementation of fraud prevention tools, improved error resolution, and the creation of more user–friendly interfaces for end users. The prospects include further development of API platforms, cloud services, and intelligent payment routing to optimize the choice between different payment rails.
How to choose an instant card payment provider
When choosing a provider, consider:
- Coverage – support for the markets and currencies you need.
- Fees – transaction costs, conversion margins, and monthly fees.
- API documentation – ease of integration and developer support.
- Uptime – SLA guarantees for transaction success.
- Customer support – 24/7 assistance with payment issues.
If you are looking for a reliable partner to implement immediate card transactions, consider BillBlend. Our platform:
- supports 70+ currencies and 100+ payment methods;
- provides instant crediting of funds to Visa and Mastercard cards;
- offers flexible rates with transparent commissions;
- provides detailed API documentation and technical support;
- guarantees a high level of security (PCI DSS, 3D Secure 2.0, tokenisation).
Connect to BillBlend today – leave a request on the website, and our manager will help you choose the best solution for your business.
How to integrate instant card payments
The integration of immediate card payments into a website or CRM system allows you to speed up settlements with customers and increase their loyalty. Below is a short algorithm of actions:
- Step 1. Choosing a provider. Find a payment provider that supports the necessary currencies and cards, offers clear API documentation, guarantees security (PCI DSS, 3D Secure), and has 24/7 technical support.
- Step 2. Getting access to the API. Register with the provider and request API keys, a test environment for debugging, and documentation on API methods.
- Step 3. Development and testing. Embed the API in the website or CRM code. Set up data transfer: recipient's card number, amount, currency. Test transactions in a test environment – check the correctness of sending and crediting funds.
- Step 4. Security settings. Provide end-to-end data encryption, tokenization of card details, and two-factor authentication (3D Secure 2.0).
- Step 5. Launching into production. Switch to the API combat mode. Make test payments with real cards. Make sure that payment notifications are received correctly.
- Step 6. Monitoring and support. Track the status of transactions, payment processing time, and customer requests for payments.
Credit card instant payout providers
Below is a comparison of key providers of instant card payments that enable businesses to transfer funds to credit/debit cards in seconds. The table highlights key features, fees, coverage, and integration options.
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| Provider | Supported currencies | Key networks | Integration methods | Typical fees | Notable features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BillBlend | 70+ | Visa, Mastercard, Local cards | API, SDK, webhooks | Individually for each client | PCI DSS compliant; 3D Secure 2.0; tokenisation; detailed API docs; 24/7 support |
| Stripe | 130+ | Visa, Mastercard, Local cards | API, hosted pages, plugins | 2.5% + €0.20 | Global reach; strong fraud tools; built-in reconciliation |
| PayPal | 25+ | Visa, Mastercard, local cards | API, batch uploads | 1–3.5% (varies by country) | Widely recognised; multi-currency wallets |
Conclusion
Instant card payments are not just a technological novelty, but a necessary tool for modern business. They allow you to:
- significantly speed up settlements with customers and partners;
- increase customer satisfaction through instant refunds and payments;
- enter the international market with minimal barriers;
- reduce operational costs for payment processing;
- ensure a high level of transaction security.
The introduction of instant payments is a strategic step that will help your business remain competitive in the era of digital transformation. By choosing a reliable provider such as BillBlend, you get not just technology, but a comprehensive solution for growth and development.
Frequently asked questions
What is an instant card payment?
It is a transaction in which funds are transferred to a debit or credit card in real time. It eliminates the delays associated with traditional bank transfers.
How fast is an instant payment?
Most instant card payments are completed in 10 seconds. In some cases, the process may take up to 30 seconds due to network congestion or additional checks.
Are instant card payments secure?
Yes. They use encryption, tokenisation and multi-factor authentication (e.g. 3D Secure) to protect data. Providers comply with PCI DSS standards and local regulations.
Can instant payments be sent abroad?
Yes. Many providers support cross-border instant payments in 70+ currencies. Fees and conversion rates depend on the provider and country.
Which cards are supported?
Major card networks (Visa, Mastercard) are widely supported. Some providers also accept local card schemes and prepaid cards. Check with your provider for a list of supported card types.
Are there fees for instant card payments?
Yes. Providers typically charge a transaction fee, such as 1–3% + a fixed amount. Cross-border payments may incur additional conversion fees. Discounts are often available for companies with high transaction volumes.
