How do you register a Visa gift card?

You can register a Visa gift card by calling the gift card issuer, visiting the issuer's website or following the directions provided with the gift card itself, explains Visa. You should register a gift card if you plan to use it to make a purchase online or over the phone.

Activation instructions often vary based on the gift card issuer, notes Visa. Many Visa gift cards are available for use immediately; however, others require some form of activation. After following the activation instructions, a customer should sign the back of any Visa gift card before using it. Although Visa gift cards work like credit cards for most transactions, the gift cards are not credit cards. They are also not reloadable.