How long do you stay on the VMSS list?

VMSS list retention period

Visa Merchant Screening Service (VMSS) entries are typically retained for 5 years from the date of termination or listing. During that time, any acquirer or PSP checking VMSS when you apply for a new Visa-accepting merchant account may see your listing. There is no automatic early expiration; the listing remains until the retention period ends or the acquirer/PSP that added you submits a removal request.

Can I get off the VMSS list early?

Yes. You can request removal before the retention period ends by submitting a formal removal request to the PSP or acquirer that added you to VMSS. They will review your case and, if satisfied, can request that your record be removed from VMSS. Visa does not remove listings on direct request from merchants—only the submitting acquirer/PSP can do so. We help you draft and submit that request. See VMSS removal and What is MATCH/VMSS? for more.

Frequently asked questions

How long do you stay on the VMSS list?

VMSS list entries are typically retained for a set period (often 5 years). There is no automatic early expiration; removal requires a formal request to the PSP or acquirer that added you.

Does the VMSS list entry expire automatically?

Entries do not expire automatically before the standard retention period. You can request removal earlier by submitting a formal removal request to the PSP that listed you.