What Is VACP?
VACP is Visa's processing platform for accepting credit card payments in several regions, including the Caribbean.
Why Are VACP Updates Required?
Visa is updating its services, and new guidelines must be met to remain compliant with PCI. These VACP guidelines affect the use of older payment devices and swiped transactions.
What Do You Need to Do to Update Your Account?
Complete both of these steps for your merchant account to be considered updated for VACP:
- Update to EMV-capable devices.
- Transition to American Express OptBlue.
Which Devices Are EMV-Capable and Supported by Shift4?
Shift4's Universal Transaction Gateway (UTG) application supports the Ingenico Lane 3000 and the Ingenico Lane 7000 in the Caribbean. Confirm that your third-party Point of Sale (POS) or Property Management System (PMS) is compatible with these devices before you upgrade.
Why Is Your American Express Processing Platform Changing?
American Express (Amex) is moving its Caribbean customers off of ESA, its direct processing platform. Instead, Amex allows merchants to package Amex processing through the same platform they use for Visa and Mastercard.
To move to the Amex OptBlue program, contact your Merchant Service Provider (MSP) to complete the transition process.
What If You Do Not Accept American Express?
If your business does not accept Amex, no action is required.
If your business accepts Amex and you want to stop accepting it, contact Amex directly.
What If You Have Already Completed the OptBlue Transition?
Provide your Service Establishment (SE) number to Shift4, and Shift4 updates your gateway account. Updates to the service can take 24 to 72 business hours.
When Is the Deadline to Complete the VACP Updates?
The deadline to complete the VACP updates is February 26, 2027.
What Happens If You Do Not Complete the VACP Updates by the Deadline?
Accounts that have not upgraded to EMV-compatible equipment before February 26, 2027 should expect disruptions in all processing services until the changes are complete.