Costco : How do I use a VISA credit card at Costco?

Updated Sep 12, 2025
Fact checked by
Alexandrine Bertrand
Alexandrine Bertrand Alexandrine Bertrand
An avid solo traveller, Alexandrine is an expert on loyalty programmes such as Aeroplan, Avios, AIR MILES, Flying Blue and Marriott Bonvoy. With a budget-conscious approach, she helps travellers make the most of their points and miles to experience affordable, off-the-beaten-path getaways. She also shares a love of gastronomy and enjoys exploring local flavours and culinary traditions.
All posts by Alexandrine Bertrand
Costco Warehouse
To the point There's a simple way to use a VISA credit card at Costco, and earn lots of points or cashback!

Costco and credit cards

Our readers often ask how to use a Visa credit card at Costco warehouses.

For a number of years now, Costco Canada has only accepted in-store payments made with Mastercard credit cards (in addition to cash or debit card payments).

In fact, we have established a list of the best Mastercard credit cards to use at Costco. For example, you can collect 2X AIR MILES at Costco with the BMO® AIR MILES® World Elite Mastercard®*.

At the warehouse, you cannot use a VISA credit card (or an American Express card). However, there is a way to use a VISA credit card: on the Costco.ca website!

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The Costco.ca website

The costco.ca website lets you pay with a VISA or Mastercard credit card.

Costcoca Categories En

It is quite convenient for all products available on the website (however, most of these products will generally be more expensive than those found in the warehouse). This remains interesting for the purchase of household appliances.

But what interests us most here is the possibility of purchasing “Shop” cards with a VISA credit card, which can be used in the warehouse.

Costco Shop Cards

Costco “Shop” cards are simply Costco gift cards that you can use :

  • At the warehouse
  • At Costco gas stations
  • On costco.ca

They come in different denominations, from $50 to $2,000. For example, you could buy 3 $1, 000 cards (Costco’s purchase card limit is $10,000 per day).

And you can buy them with a VISA credit card.

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What’s more, you can receive them digitally, so you don’t have to wait for mail delivery, and you can use them quickly. Your Costco Shop Card will be delivered directly to your e-mail inbox. The delivery time is between a few minutes (most of the time) and a few hours.

costco digital cash card

These purchase cards can also be used by non-Costco members.

If you’re a Costco member, you can pass your membership on to others: in exchange for this service, you’ll use your credit card to buy them a Shop card (and they’ll send you an Interac transfer to reimburse you).

So you’ll earn Points and Cash Back on your VISA credit card 😉

Which VISA credit cards for Costco

The CIBC Costco Mastercard credit card

The CIBC Costco Mastercard is Costco’s official credit card. Read all about it in this article:

Frequently asked questions about Costco and credit cards

Does Costco accept Mastercard?

Yes, all Mastercard credit cards are accepted at Costco in Canada, such as the Rogers Red Mastercard® or the BMO VIPorter World Elite Mastercard.

Is Costco taking Amex?

Are Visa cards accepted at Costco?

No, Visa credit cards are not accepted directly at Costco in Canada. This article explains how to pay with a Visa card.

How can I pay at Costco?

In Canada, warehouses accept payment by cash, debit card and Mastercard.

Does Costco accept Apple Pay?

Yes, you can use your phone and your virtual wallet (Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, Google Pay) to pay for your purchases at Costco, with a Mastercard.

Come to discuss that topic in our Facebook Group!
Caroline Tremblay
Caroline Tremblay
Caroline, a loyalty program specialist, helps families maximize their points to travel more frequently and affordably. With expertise in Disney, AIR MILES, and Costco, she travels the world with her partner and two children through rewards. Passionate about the latest in loyalty programs, Caroline shares tips to help you earn more points and turn your travel dreams into reality.
All posts by Caroline Tremblay

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