FINA Makes History as Laos’ First Non-Bank Visa Card Issuer

FINA becomes the first non-bank financial institution in the Lao PDR to secure Visa Principal Membership and regulatory approval to issue Visa cards directly

VIENTIANE, 11 November 2026 – FINA has officially launched its Visa debit and credit cards, becoming the first non-bank financial institution in the Lao PDR to obtain Visa Principal Membership and regulatory approval to issue Visa cards directly.
Held at Holiday Inn Vientiane, the launch marks a milestone for Lao financial services, bringing international payments closer to individuals and businesses.
With FINA Visa, customers can fund their spending in Lao kip and pay wherever Visa is accepted worldwide — from shopping in stores and online to travel and business purchases. Foreign-currency transactions are converted into Lao kip at applicable exchange rates, with relevant fees.

Local Access. Global Reach.
FINA is a licensed deposit-taking microfinance institution operating under the supervision of the Bank of the Lao PDR. The company received approval for Visa card issuance on 16 September 2026.
Through its Visa Principal Membership, FINA issues cards directly and manages its card services and customer relationships within its approved scope. Visa provides the international payment network connecting cardholders with participating merchants worldwide.

Two Cards. More Choice.
The FINA Visa range offers debit and credit options for different customer needs.
FINA Visa Debit Card allows eligible customers to pay using available funds in their FINA accounts. Purchases are deducted directly from the account balance, helping customers manage everyday spending.
FINA Visa Credit Card provides eligible customers with an approved credit limit, subject to credit assessment, repayment obligations, interest, fees and applicable product terms.
Together, the cards expand payment choices for students, salaried employees, small business owners and travellers.

Confidence in Every Payment
FINA will provide practical guidance on card activation, payments, fees, spending management and credit card repayments.
Customer education will also cover protecting personal identification numbers (PINs) and one-time passwords (OTPs), recognising suspicious transactions and promptly reporting lost or stolen cards.
Clear information and ongoing customer support form part of FINA’s commitment to responsible financial services.

Connecting More People to Opportunity
The launch supports FINA’s broader commitment to financial inclusion and the development of Laos’ digital economy.
By connecting local financial services with international payment access, FINA aims to help more Lao people and businesses participate in an increasingly connected marketplace.
Customers can contact FINA’s service locations or official communication channels for application procedures, eligibility requirements, fees and product details.

FINA Visa — Your Card. Your Choice.
Card issuance and use are subject to eligibility, transaction limits and applicable product terms. Foreign-currency transactions are subject to applicable exchange rates and fees. Credit cards are subject to credit assessment and repayment obligations.

About FINA
FINA is a licensed deposit-taking microfinance institution supervised by the Bank of the Lao PDR. It provides financial and payment services for individuals and businesses, with a focus on accessibility, technology and customer support.

By Advertorial Desk
 (Latest Update November 13, 2026)