Visa Integrity Risk Program (VIRP):

What Merchants Need to Know

As of April 1, 2024, Visa introduced the Visa Integrity Risk Program (VIRP) to replace the Global Brand Protection Program (GBPP). This update marks a significant shift for high-risk merchants across various industries, especially those operating in sectors like adult entertainment, pharmaceuticals, CBD, online gambling, and more.

At eDataPay, we understand the challenges high-risk merchants face under these new regulations. Our tailored payment solutions help merchants in the USA and Europe navigate these changes, ensuring compliance, better rates, and faster payouts.

What is the Visa Integrity Risk Program (VIRP)?

The VIRP is Visa’s enhanced framework for managing high-risk merchant accounts. It introduces stricter controls, higher fees, and improved oversight to address potential integrity risks within the Visa Payment System.

Key Highlights of VIRP

• Focus on integrity risk rather than brand risk.
• Higher registration fees for high-risk merchants ($950, up from $500).
• Additional transaction fees: $0.10 per transaction and 10 basis points applied to processed volume.
• Categorization of high-risk merchants into three tiers based on business type and risk level.
• Stricter compliance requirements for industries such as adult entertainment, dating services, online gambling, and pharmaceuticals.

Which Merchants Are Affected?

Merchants operating in the following high-risk industries are subject to additional scrutiny:

• Adult Entertainment (MCC 5967)
• Dating/Escort Services (MCC 7273)
• Online Gambling (MCC 7995)
• Pharmaceuticals/Weight Loss (MCC 5122, 5912)
• CBD and Vape Products

Three Tier Levels for High-Integrity Risk Merchants

Tier 1: Most Scrutiny

Merchants in this tier pose potential health, safety, or ethical risks. Industries include adult entertainment, dating services, gambling, and pharmaceuticals.

• Adult Entertainment: Age verification compliance, illegal content monitoring, and anti-trafficking policies required.
• Dating/Escort Services: Strict jurisdictional and anti-trafficking compliance.
• Gambling: Licensed and compliant with anti-money laundering and self-exclusion protocols.
• Pharmaceuticals: LegitScript certification and adherence to jurisdictional licensing.

Tier 2: Financial Harm Risks

Businesses in this tier face moderate scrutiny and include industries like crypto trading platforms (MCC 6051), skill-based gaming, and online storage services.

Tier 3: Non-Compliance Risks

This tier includes businesses with higher risks of non-compliance, such as telemarketing, negative option billing, and tobacco sales.

How VIRP Affects Merchant Fees

Under VIRP, merchants are subject to the following fees:

1. Registration Fees: Increased from $500 to $950 for high-risk merchants.
2. Integrity Risk Fees:
   • $0.10 per transaction.
   • 10 basis points added to processed transaction volume.
3. Specific MCC Application: Fees apply to industries classified as high-risk by Visa.

Why Choose eDataPay for VIRP Compliance?

Navigating the complexities of the Visa Integrity Risk Program requires an experienced payment partner. At eDataPay, we provide:

• Tailored High-Risk Merchant Accounts: Specialized solutions for Tier 1, 2, and 3 businesses.
• Fast Approvals: Get started quickly with faster payouts and seamless integration.
• Regulatory Expertise: Guidance on maintaining compliance with VIRP and industry regulations.
• Competitive Rates: Reduce costs while managing the additional fees imposed by Visa.
• Global Reach: Accept payments across the USA and Europe in multiple currencies.
• Advanced Fraud Prevention: Tools to lower chargebacks and improve processing efficiency.

How to Apply for a High-Risk Merchant Account

Getting started with eDataPay is easy. Follow these steps:

1. Fill out our online application: eDataPay Merchant Application.
2. Submit the required documents:
   • Business license and incorporation documents.
   • Recent bank statement and voided check.
   • LegitScript certification (if applicable).
3. Work with our team to ensure full compliance with Visa’s VIRP guidelines.

Adapting to VIRP: What Merchants Should Do

To thrive under the new VIRP framework, merchants should:

1. Ensure Full Compliance: Meet all legal, regulatory, and Visa requirements for your industry.
2. Analyze Risk Levels: Work with your payment processor to identify potential vulnerabilities.
3. Invest in Fraud Prevention: Use tools like 3DS, CVV, and chargeback mitigation solutions.
4. Monitor ROI: Regularly review the cost of compliance and adjust your strategies accordingly.

Partner with eDataPay for VIRP Success

The Visa Integrity Risk Program has raised the bar for high-risk merchant accounts, but with eDataPay by your side, you can navigate these changes confidently. From better rates to faster payouts and expert compliance support, we’re here to help your business thrive in this evolving landscape.

Apply Today and let eDataPay provide the solutions your business needs to succeed.

For more information, contact us at info@edatapay.com  or call 561-395-9554.

Let’s grow your business together!