Authorization Time Limits: Explained

AuthorizationAuthorization authorization The real-time process of verifying that a payment method has sufficient funds or credit limit for a transaction. Results in an authorization code from the issuer. Time Limits: Explained

Authorization time limits will vary by transaction typeTransaction Type transaction-type Classifies transactions as sale, refund, reversal, etc. and by one’s MCC. Fortunately, VisaVisa visa A leading global payment technology company connecting consumers, businesses, and banks. provides a well-detailed table that outlines all of the time limits that every merchantMerchant merchant An individual or business that accepts payments in exchange for goods or services. should be aware of. By knowing how an Approval is valid, you will know how much time you have to settle the transaction.

TRANSACTION TYPE / MERCHANT / MCC	HOW LONG THE APPROVAL IS VALID FOR A TRANSACTION DATE
Aggregated Transaction in a Card-Not-Present Environment	(7)Seven calendar days from the date on which the first Authorisation Request received an Approval
In-Transit Transaction	Within 24 hours* of the Approval Response *Authorization may occur after the transaction is completed, while in transit, or when the cardholderCardholder cardholder The person or business to whom a payment card is issued. reached his or her final destination.
Installment Transaction Prepayment Recurring Transaction Unscheduled Credential-on-File Transaction Card-Not-Present transactionsTransactions transactions Interactions where value is exchanged for goods or services. classified with MCC 4121 (Taxis and Limousines)	The day when either of these transactions occur is when a Approval Response is valid.
Transactions* initiated at a turnstile, fare gate or point of boarding at a transit merchant classified with MCC 4111, 4112 or 4131 *Initial Authorization Request is required.	No later than 7 calendar days* from the date of the Approval Response to the Initial Authorization Request**. *The time limit the US Region is 3 calendar days. **Any Incremental Authorization Requests do not extend this timeframe.
Transactions* initiated by merchants who offer one of the following services: Aircraft rental Bicycle rental Boat rental Equipment rental Motorhome rental Motorcycle rental Trailer parks and campgrounds *An Estimated Authorization Request is required.	No later than 7 calendar days from the date of the Approval Response to the Estimated Authorization Request*. *Any Incremental Authorization Requests do not extend this timeframe.
Transactions initiated by merchants who offer one of the following services: Cruise Line Lodging Vehicle Rental *An Estimated Authorization Request is required.	No later than 31 calendar days from the date of the Approval Response to the Estimated Authorization Request*. *Any Incremental Authorization Requests do not extend this timeframe.
Mass Transit Transaction	No later than 3 calendar days from the date of the Approval Response
Other Card-Not-Present Transactions	No later than 7 calendar days from the date of the Approval Response
Other Card-Present Transactions	The day when either of these transactions occur is when a Approval Response is valid.
Source: Visa Core Rules and Visa Product and Service Rules