Portugal’s payment landscape is characterized by a strong reliance on cash, particularly for smaller transactions and in-store purchases. However, digital payment methods are gaining ground, driven by the increasing popularity of contactless payments and mobile wallets like MB Way. Portugal’s payment system is characterized by a mix of traditional and modern methods. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are widely accepted, particularly in urban areas and tourist locations. Contactless payments are gaining traction. Online banking is prevalent, and bank transfers are frequently used. While cash usage is gradually decreasing, it still holds a considerable share of the market, particularly in smaller businesses and among older generations. Mobile payment adoption is increasing but remains below levels seen in some other European countries.
Estimated Population
10.3 million
Currency
Euro (€)
All supported payment methods for Portugal:
SEPA Direct Debit, SEPA Credit, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, MB Way, Invoice Payment, Prepayment, Multibanco, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, UnionPay International, Discover, Diners Club, MaestroPopular payment methods
SEPA Direct Debit
Direct Debit
SEPA Direct Debit is a secure and convenient payment method for businesses operating within the European Union, allowing for automated payments from customers’ bank accounts.
SEPA Credit
SEPA Credit
SEPA Credit Transfer is a secure and efficient way for businesses to make payments within the European Union, streamlining cross-border transactions and simplifying international payments.
Apple Pay
Wallets
Apple Pay offers businesses a convenient and secure way to accept payments from iPhone, Apple Watch, and Mac users, enhancing the customer experience and boosting sales.
Google Pay
Wallets
Google Pay empowers businesses to offer a fast, secure, and convenient mobile payment experience, attracting a wide range of customers.
PayPal
Wallets
PayPal is a global leader in online payments, offering businesses a secure and convenient way to accept payments from millions of customers worldwide.
MB Way
Wallets
MB Way is Portugal’s leading mobile payment solution, offering businesses a seamless and secure way to accept payments from millions of customers.
Invoice Payment
Invoice
A document outlining the details of a purchase, including the goods or services provided, the amount due, and payment terms.
Prepayment
Prepayment
A payment method requiring buyers to pay for goods or services upfront before receiving them.
Multibanco
Online Bank Transfers
Multibanco is Portugal’s leading payment network, offering businesses a secure and convenient way to accept payments from millions of customers both in-store and online.
Mastercard
Credit/Debit Cards
Unlock a world of payment possibilities with Mastercard, a trusted global leader in secure and convenient transactions
American Express
Credit/Debit Cards
Elevate your business with American Express, a premium payment network that attracts discerning customers and drives higher-value transactions.
JCB
Credit/Debit Cards
JCB is a leading international payment network, offering a unique opportunity for businesses to reach a growing customer base, especially in Asia-Pacific.
UnionPay International
Credit/Debit Cards
UnionPay is the world’s largest payment network, offering businesses the opportunity to tap into the vast Chinese market and beyond.
Discover
Credit/Debit Cards
Discover is a leading payment network that offers a unique combination of security, rewards, and customer service, making it an attractive option for businesses.
