South Africa’s payment landscape reflects a diverse and technologically advanced market, with a growing embrace of digital solutions. Debit cards are the most common payment method, used for both online and in-store purchases. Credit cards are also widely accepted. While cash remains popular for smaller purchases, its usage is declining. Contactless payments are becoming increasingly common, and mobile wallets like Samsung Pay, Apple Pay, and Google Pay are gaining traction, particularly among younger generations. Digital payment solutions like Snapscan, Zapper, and Yoco are also gaining popularity for peer-to-peer payments and in-store transactions. This trend towards digital payments is driven by a desire for convenience, security, and greater flexibility. The country’s well-developed financial sector supports this sophisticated payment landscape.
Estimated Population
60 million
Currency
South African rand (ZAR)
All supported payment methods for South Africa:
Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, UnionPay International, Discover, Diners Club, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, MaestroPopular payment methods
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.
Diners Club
Credit/Debit Cards
Diners Club is a global payment network renowned for its premium services and exclusive benefits, offering businesses access to a discerning clientele.
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.
