Use of Debit Card in the Caribbean?

[Lazz]

I won a Visa debit card with a good sum of money. I have never used a Debit Card on the islands in the Caribbean.

 

Are they accepted?

 

Will a transaction fee be charged like many credit cards?

 

How big is the fraud/theft threat?

 

Anything else I should be asking?

 

Thanks!

[Clarea]

The cards are accepted. You would need to contact the card provider to find out about any transaction fees.

[crookedhalo]

When you received the card there should have been terms and conditions. Not all Visa logo'd debit cards are usable outside of the US (has to do with the fact it was purchased with US dollars and the conversion process). I know this is true because the bank I work for sells these gift cards and the T&Cs specifically address this.

 

Another thing that may hamper use - if it does not have your name actually embossed on the card some will not accept it;).

 

Best bet is to see if you can get a pin for the card (if you didn't already receive it) and then draw the cash out and use it.