The second season of the American television drama series House of Cards began filming a set of 13 episodes in April 2013. Netflix had ordered two seasons of 13 episodes when it made its original commitment to the series in 2011. Filming for the season commenced April 29, 2013 and concluded on November 8, occurring primarily in Baltimore. On December 4, 2013, Netflix announced that the season will be released in its entirety on February 14, 2014. During the season Francis is the newly appointed Vice President of the United States.

Critics previewed the first four episodes of the season under non-disclosure agreements that they consented to embargo spoiler content. Reviews began appearing as early as January 31. Many critics who previewed the season noted the shocking first episode, but withheld the surprises of the four episodes made available for preview. However, at least one critic (Willa Paskin of Slate) broke the embargo nearly a day early revealing several spoilers. Whereas critics had been somewhat split on the propriety of bingewatching season 1, they were more supportive of the practice for season 2.

Early reviews were largely positive. The season was regarded as darker than season 1. Molly Parker was praised as an addition to the cast. Nonetheless, many critics were concerned at the domineering presence of Underwood who appears to have no worthy adversaries.