EMV® is a global standard for credit and debit payment cards based on chip card technology. As of Q2 2012, there were 1.55 billion EMV compliant chip-based payment cards in use worldwide.

EMV chip-based payment cards, also known as smart cards, contain an embedded microprocessor, a type of small computer. The microprocessor chip contains the information needed to use the card for payment, and is protected by various security features. Chip cards are a more secure alternative to traditional magnetic stripe payment cards.

A Guide to EMV
"A Guide to EMV" provides an introduction to the EMV Specifications, processes and the role of the technology within the wider payments industry. Of particular interest to parties migrating to EMV, it summarises ... Read More
 

EMVCo manages, maintains and enhances the EMV® Integrated Circuit Card Specifications for chip-based payment cards and acceptance devices, including point of sale (POS) terminals and ATMs. EMVCo also establishes and administers testing and approval processes to evaluate compliance with the EMV Specifications. EMVCo is currently owned by American Express, JCB, MasterCard, UnionPay and Visa.

A primary goal of EMVCo and the EMV Specifications is to help facilitate global interoperability and compatibility of chip-based payment cards and acceptance devices. This objective extends to new types of payment devices as well, including contactless payment and mobile payment.