SAN FRANCISCO, Calif. — Visa USA has announced that it will begin supporting the widespread issuance of unembossed credit and debit cards that carry the Visa logo.

The smooth cards carry the cardholders' name and card number printed on the card face rather than embossed into the card itself. Embossed cards typically require lengthier production times and more complex supply chain management, Visa noted.

Because the cards have to be created off site, they are generally shipped to the cardholders days after enrollment, leaving the new cardholder unable to make purchases or conveniently access cash at ATMs in the interim or relying on a temporary generic card. The ability to provide personalized printed cards instantly at the bank branch enables cardholders to take advantage of their cards immediately, Visa explained.