Assalamu Alaykum. What is the ruling on visa cards that allow their holders to buy what they like without the need to pay for it at once? However, this money has to be paid within 55 days from the day of purchase. After this 55 day-waiting period, they charge interest. Is this considered a form of Riba or what? And what would be the ruling if the price of the purchased items is paid before the 55 days expire, during which I do not get charged with interest?

In the name of Allaah, the Benevolent, the Merciful. All praise is due to Allaah, and peace and blessings be upon the Messenger of Allaah, his family, companions, and those loyal to him. In principle, credit cards are based on corrupted and invalid contracts; therefore, it is unlawful to use them because of what they consist of invalid conditions, that is to charge interest in case one is unable to pay what he owes after the waiting period. However, due to the massive spread of these cards in the West and the urgent need for those who live there to use them [for normalcy of life] while no alternative means are available, then the people of knowledge gave them exceptional ruling that allows the use of credit cards only to those who can know for sure that they are able to pay the amounts on time, so that they do not expose themselves to this invalid condition [interest]. May Allaah increase you and us in success. And Allaah, the Most High, knows best.