Visa Passkey Brings Face ID to Online Payments: How Students Can Set It Up for Safer Checkouts

If you're shopping online with a Visa card, things just got way easier—and safer. Visa now supports passkeys, a new technology that lets you pay using Face ID, fingerprint, or device PIN instead of passwords.

This update makes checkout faster while protecting your personal data. In this post, we’ll explain how passkeys work, why they matter for first-time cardholders (especially college students), and how to set them up in just a few steps.

Key takeaways

• Visa now supports passkeys, which use biometric tools like Face ID or fingerprints to authorize payments
• Passkeys are more secure than passwords because they can't be reused, stolen, or guessed
• Setup is quick and easy—you only need a phone or laptop with biometric login enabled

What is a passkey, and how does it work?

A passkey is a new type of login credential that replaces passwords with something more secure—your face, fingerprint, or device PIN.

Instead of typing a password, your device creates a unique digital key pair. One part stays private (on your phone or laptop), and the other is used by the website or app you're accessing.

When you verify your identity (say, with Face ID), your device automatically confirms the match. Because your passkey is tied to your physical device and biometric login, it can’t be stolen or phished like a regular password.

TuitionHero Tip

Passkeys are perfect for students juggling multiple logins—no need to remember another password.

Why should college students use Visa passkeys?

As a college student, you're probably managing online shopping, food delivery, textbooks, and digital subscriptions—all requiring payment info.

Here’s why Visa passkeys make life easier:

• Faster checkouts: No need to retype long card numbers or passwords.
• Better security: Your biometric data is never shared—it stays on your device.
• Lower fraud risk: Passkeys reduce exposure to phishing and identity theft.
• Cross-device convenience: Once you set it up, logging in on your phone or laptop is seamless.

TuitionHero Tip

First-time cardholders can build good habits early by using secure tools like passkeys.

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How to set up a Visa passkey

You can set up Visa passkeys in under 5 minutes. Here’s how:

1. Update your device: Make sure your smartphone, tablet, or laptop is running the latest operating system.
2. Turn on biometric login: Enable Face ID, Touch ID, or your phone’s fingerprint scanner.
3. Shop at participating retailers: Look for a prompt to enroll in passkey login or secure checkout.
4. Follow the prompts: You’ll confirm your identity using your existing login, then create a passkey using Face ID or your fingerprint.
5. You’re done! The next time you shop online, you can log in and pay with a glance or a tap.

Visa’s passkey technology is currently integrated with the company’s Click to Pay system, supported by thousands of merchants across the globe.

TuitionHero Tip

Some apps may call this “passwordless login” or “biometric checkout.” It’s the same thing—passkey-powered security.

What devices support Visa passkeys?

Visa’s passkey technology is built upon existing industry standards, allowing strong compatibility with many devices. Most recent smartphones, tablets, and laptops already support passkeys.

Compatible devices include:

• iPhones and iPads (iOS 16 and later)
• MacBooks (macOS Ventura and later)
• Android phones (Android 9+)
• Windows PCs (with Windows Hello enabled)
• Chrome, Safari, and Edge browsers

Your device just needs to support biometric login (like Face ID or fingerprint scan) or a secure device PIN.

Is it safe to use biometric logins for payments?

Yes, biometric logins are generally more secure than traditional passwords. Your biometric data (like your fingerprint or face scan) never leaves your device and can’t be used by websites or hackers.

Benefits include:

• No stored passwords to hack or steal.
• Unique digital keys for each app or site.
• Hardware-level protection built into your device.

Visa follows industry security standards, including FIDO Alliance protocols, which are backed by companies like Apple, Google, and Microsoft.

TuitionHero Tip

Even if someone steals your phone, they can’t use your passkey without your face or fingerprint.

Why trust TuitionHero

At TuitionHero, we help students find the best credit cards by comparing rewards, low-interest options, and student-friendly benefits. Whether you're building credit, earning cash back, or managing expenses, we simplify the selection process. We also provide insights on scholarships, FAFSA assistance, private student loans, and refinancing to support your financial journey.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Do I need a Visa credit card to use passkeys?

No, passkeys are a versatile tool that are gaining popularity over traditional passwords. Using Visa’s passkey payments is just one of the ways you can use the technology.

Can I still use my password if I want to?

Yes, most platforms will let you choose between passkey login and traditional username-password login.

What if I lose my phone?

Your passkey is tied to your device. If lost, you’ll need to log in another way (like a backup code) and re-enroll on a new device.

Can I use passkeys for other logins too?

Yes! Many websites now support passkeys for email, banking, and social accounts.

Is this the same as Apple Pay or Google Pay?

Not exactly. Apple Pay/Google Pay use stored payment info. Passkeys replace your login, not your card details.

Final thoughts

Passkeys are changing how we pay online, and Visa’s support makes them easier to use than ever, especially for busy students. By enabling Face ID or fingerprint checkout, you’ll make online payments both faster and safer.

Whether you're a first-time cardholder or just want fewer passwords in your life, setting up a Visa passkey could be worth it for convenience and simplicity. And remember, TuitionHero is here to help you stay smart, secure, and financially empowered.

Source

• Visa Payment Passkey—a modern authentication solution
• What is a passkey? Here’s your 101 on passwordless login - Mastercard Newsroom
• Visa Passkeys: Payment Service that is Secure & Convenient - DEV Community