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International Cards & AVS (Address Verification) Tips

Overview
When processing international cards, Address Verification Service (AVS) can sometimes fail because non-U.S. postal codes include letters. If a merchant experiences AVS-related declines on terminals, the tip below can help complete the transaction.

Why This Happens
Many terminals expect numeric-only ZIP/postal codes for AVS. International postal codes that include letters may not be accepted as entered.

Quick AVS Workaround for International Postal Codes
If the postal code contains letters, replace all letters with 0 (zero) and position them at the front of the code. Enter only numbers afterward.

Example
  • Original international postal code: K1Z1B6
  • Replace letters (K, Z, B) with zeros and move them to the front
  • AVS entry becomes: 000116

This approach mirrors how some terminals handle street addresses or PO Boxes by accepting numeric-only inputs.

Best Practices
  • Use this method only when AVS issues occur with international cards.
  • If declines persist, confirm terminal settings and processor AVS requirements.
  • Document the workaround for frontline staff to ensure consistent handling.
Note: AVS behavior can vary by processor and terminal model. If issues continue, contact support to review the configuration or obtain processor-specific guidance.