On 16 September 2025, the Payment Systems Regulator (PSR) launched a consultation on new remedies aimed at increasing transparency and oversight of card scheme and processing fees charged by Visa and Mastercard to UK businesses. The proposals come after the PSR found that Visa and Mastercard have raised their core scheme and processing fees by more than 25% in real terms between 2017 and 2023, resulting in an additional cost of at least £170 million annually for UK merchants (source).
The PSR’s proposed measures require Visa and Mastercard to:
- Disclose their scheme and processing revenues openly
- Publish price histories for business reference
- Implement internal governance processes before increasing fees
The regulator highlighted a lack of clear, detailed fee information from both card networks, which, according to the PSR, restricts competition and significantly increases costs for UK businesses. In its statement, the PSR noted, “The proposed remedies we have set out today are a clear way to address the findings in our final report that this market is not working well for businesses and ultimately consumers.” The PSR added, “Improving transparency will enable businesses to make informed choices about the card payment services they receive. These steps will also ensure we can scrutinise the performance of the card schemes and act quickly in the future if we need to take further action.”
The consultation period is open until 28 May 2025, with final decisions expected in early 2026. Businesses, payment service providers, and other stakeholders are encouraged to provide feedback during this period.
| Key Facts | Details |
|---|---|
| Fee increase (2017-2023) | +25% in real terms (Visa & Mastercard) |
| Annual extra cost | £170 million for UK businesses |
| Consultation deadline | 28 May 2025 |
For casino players and operators, these developments may affect transaction costs and withdrawal processing times, making it important to stay informed about payment method trends and regulatory changes. More information about common withdrawal issues can be found on our common issues page, or you can review the latest updates for payment options such as Visa and Mastercard. For broader context on UK gambling payments and regulations, visit our guides to fast payouts and UK licensed casino sites.
