Stripe Issuing
API-first card issuing platform for software platforms to create virtual and physical Visa/Mastercard cards.
Overview
Stripe Issuing is an API-first infrastructure product that enables software platforms, fintech startups, and enterprises to build and operate their own virtual and physical card programs without managing bank relationships or card network certifications directly. With over 275 million cards created since launch, it serves as the card-issuance backbone for businesses ranging from pre-seed startups to global enterprises. The product offers two integration modes: Comprehensive Program Management (Stripe handles the sponsor bank relationship, compliance, and card network operations end-to-end) and Modular Issuer Processing (platforms that already hold banking licenses or direct bank relationships use Stripe as the underlying processor while retaining control of their banking layer). Cards can be issued on Visa and Mastercard networks, denominated in USD, EUR, or GBP depending on geography. Real-time authorization controls, per-card spending limits, merchant category blocking, and instant virtual card creation are managed via API. Key differentiators include time to launch (Ramp went live in under three weeks), deep integration with Stripe Treasury for BaaS workflows, stablecoin-backed card programs (private preview, expanding LATAM/Caribbean/Africa reach), support for local issuance in 22 countries, and compliance managed by Stripe in partnership with sponsor banks (Celtic Bank, Cross River Bank, Sutton Bank in the US). Platforms earn interchange revenue share on card spend. Pricing is transparent: $0.10/virtual card, $3.00/physical card, 0.2% + $0.20/transaction (first $500K waived).
Key features
- Virtual card instant issuance via API
- Physical card issuance (custom-branded)
- Real-time spend controls and MCC blocking
- Platform interchange revenue sharing
- Stripe Treasury integration for BaaS
- Cross-border issuing in 22 countries
Vertical focus
saas, ecommerce, marketplaces, b2b, gig economy
Notable customers
Ramp, Karat, Shopify, Postmates, Ambrook
At a glance
| Category | cards |
|---|---|
| Model | ["api","sdk","white_label"] |
| Pricing | ["transaction_fee","revenue_share","custom"] |
| Revenue share | Platforms earn gross interchange revenue share on cardholder spend; custom economics for large volumes |
| Best company size | ["startup","smb","mid_market","growth","enterprise"] |
| Time to launch | weeks |
| Technical complexity | medium |
| PCI scope | reduced |
| Founded | 2018 |
| Funding stage | late_stage |
| Website | https://stripe.com/issuing |
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