French consumers exhibit distinct preferences and behaviors in the realm of online shopping. Notably, the use of bank cards, encompassing both credit and debit cards, stands out as the predominant payment method, with the local Cartes Bancaires system and international players like Visa and Mastercard being widely embraced. Despite the popularity of smartphones in France, the majority of online shoppers still favor using laptops or desktops for their transactions. The e-commerce market in the country is poised for robust growth, with projections indicating a value of $106.50 billion by 2023. Furthermore, French online shoppers display a noteworthy spending pattern, averaging over 2,200 EUR per year on their digital purchases. These trends collectively signify a mature and thriving e-commerce landscape in France, underscored by a strong inclination towards card payments, presenting a substantial opportunity for businesses to capitalize on this flourishing market.
Popular offline payment methods in France
Cash
Cheques
Carte Bancaire
Bank Transfers
Meal Vouchers
Mobile Payments
Prepaid Cards
Mandate
List of payment methods in France
Cartes Bancaires (CB), the predominant payment method in France, functions as a versatile debit and credit card system issued by French banks. Employing chip and PIN technology for enhanced security, CB cards are widely embraced by merchants for both online and in-person transactions. To complete a payment, users simply insert their card into a terminal and enter their PIN, while online purchases can be facilitated through card details entry on websites or secure payment gateways. CB cards enjoy broad acceptance at major establishments like retailers, restaurants, hotels, and ATMs, making them a convenient choice for diverse financial transactions. While other international options like Visa and Mastercard are also prevalent, it is prudent to confirm with merchants in advance regarding their preferred payment methods.
Visa is widely accepted as a payment method in France. It can be used at most retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and online merchants. Visa cards are also accepted at ATMs for cash withdrawals.
Mastercard is widely accepted as a payment method in France. It can be used at most retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and online merchants throughout the country. Mastercard is also accepted at ATMs for cash withdrawals.
PayPal is widely accepted as a payment method in France. Many online retailers and service providers in France offer PayPal as an option for customers to make payments. Additionally, PayPal can be used for international transactions, making it convenient for French customers to shop from overseas websites. PayPal offers secure and easy payment processing, allowing customers to make purchases without sharing their financial information with the merchant. Overall, PayPal is a popular and trusted payment method in France.
Maestro is a widely accepted payment method in France. It is a debit card issued by Mastercard and can be used for both online and offline purchases. Maestro cards are accepted at most merchants in France, including supermarkets, restaurants, and shops. They can also be used to withdraw cash from ATMs. To use Maestro as a payment method, simply present your card at the point of sale or enter the card details when making an online purchase.
American Express is widely accepted as a payment method in France. Many merchants, including restaurants, hotels, and retail stores, accept American Express cards. However, it is worth noting that American Express may not be as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard in some smaller establishments or outside of major cities. It is always a good idea to carry an alternative form of payment, such as a Visa or Mastercard, when traveling in France.
In France, meal vouchers, known as tickets restaurant, are a widespread method of payment for meals, often included in employees’ benefits packages. These vouchers, usually provided in paper form, can be used at various establishments such as restaurants, cafes, food delivery services, and even grocery stores. The value of these vouchers, determined by the employer, is generally tax-exempt up to a specified amount and has an expiration date. When used, the voucher is presented to the cashier or server, who deducts its value from the total bill; any remaining amount can be paid with other forms of payment. It’s important to note that meal vouchers can’t be converted to cash and must be used for their designated purpose. However, not all establishments accept them, necessitating prior confirmation. Overall, meal vouchers offer a convenient and popular tax-free benefit for employees, facilitating the enjoyment of meals at a variety of places in France.
Klarna is a popular payment method in France, allowing customers to buy now and pay later. It offers flexible payment options, such as paying in installments or deferring payments for a certain period of time. Klarna is accepted by many online retailers in France, making it convenient for customers to shop and pay for their purchases. The payment process is simple and secure, with customers being able to complete their transactions quickly and easily. Klarna also provides customer support in France, ensuring that any issues or questions are addressed promptly. Overall, Klarna is a convenient and popular payment method for customers in France.
Oney is a prominent payment method in France, serving as a financial services company that delivers a range of payment solutions, encompassing credit cards, installment payments, and revolving credit. Renowned for its wide acceptance, Oney credit cards are utilized for both online and in-store transactions, providing users with advantages like cashback rewards, discounts, and adaptable payment choices. Beyond credit cards, Oney facilitates installment payment plans for substantial purchases, enabling customers to distribute the expense over several months. Furthermore, the company extends revolving credit, permitting users to borrow within a specified limit and repay gradually with added interest. In essence, Oney stands out as a versatile and widely embraced payment option in France, offering customers diverse means to manage payments and enhance the affordability of their purchases.
Diners Club International operates as a global payment network, providing credit cards to customers worldwide, including in France. In the country, Diners Club cards are widely accepted at various establishments such as restaurants, hotels, and retail stores. To use the card, customers can present it at the point of sale, where it can be swiped or inserted into a card reader, and additional authorization may be required through a PIN or signature. While Diners Club cards enjoy broad acceptance in France, particularly at larger and international establishments, it is advisable for customers to verify acceptance with specific merchants. In addition to physical locations, Diners Club cards can also be utilized for online purchases on e-commerce websites, offering customers a convenient and secure payment option for transactions in both physical and virtual settings.
Amazon Pay is a popular payment method in France. It allows customers to make purchases on Amazon.fr and other participating websites using their Amazon account information. With Amazon Pay, customers can securely pay for their purchases without having to enter their payment and shipping information each time. This makes the checkout process quick and convenient. Additionally, Amazon Pay offers buyer protection and fraud detection measures to ensure a safe shopping experience for customers. Overall, Amazon Pay is a trusted and widely used payment method in France.
UnionPay is accepted as a payment method in France. It is widely accepted at many merchants, including hotels, restaurants, and retail stores. UnionPay cards can be used for both online and in-store purchases. Additionally, UnionPay has partnered with local banks in France to offer cardholders additional benefits and services.
Discover is not widely accepted as a payment method in France. The most commonly accepted payment methods in France are cash, debit cards (Carte Bleue), and credit cards (Visa and Mastercard). Some businesses may accept Discover cards, but it is not as widely accepted as other card networks. It is always a good idea to have alternative payment methods available when traveling to France.
Apple Pay, a mobile payment and digital wallet service by Apple Inc., is widely accepted in France at numerous retailers, online merchants, and apps, including Carrefour, Fnac, Sephora, Monoprix, Uber, Deliveroo, Airbnb, and Booking.com. To utilize Apple Pay, users in France must add their credit or debit cards to the Wallet app on their Apple devices, either through the app directly or via the Settings app. Once added, payments can be made in-store by holding the device near a contactless terminal and authenticating with Touch ID or Face ID. For online transactions, users select Apple Pay and authenticate using the same biometric features. The service extends to person-to-person payments through the Messages app with Apple Pay Cash. Overall, Apple Pay offers a secure and convenient payment method for users in France across a diverse range of transactions.
JCB, or Japan Credit Bureau, serves as a popular payment method in France, finding acceptance across various establishments such as restaurants, hotels, and retail stores. To utilize JCB for transactions in the country, one needs a JCB card issued by a supporting financial institution, which can be verified with one’s bank or credit card provider. Once in possession of a JCB card, transactions are straightforward—present the card at the point of sale, follow merchant instructions, and, if necessary, enter a PIN or sign a receipt. While JCB enjoys broad acceptance, there may still be occasional non-participating merchants, underscoring the importance of checking in advance or having an alternative payment option on hand. Overall, the convenience and widespread acceptance of JCB in France make it a favored choice for both residents and visitors.
Alipay, the widely-used Chinese mobile payment platform, has expanded its reach to France, enabling Chinese tourists and residents in the country to utilize the app for purchases at participating merchants. To avail this service, users must possess a registered Alipay account and link it to a bank card, after which they can scan a merchant-provided QR code through the Alipay app to complete transactions. This move aligns with Alipay’s global expansion strategy, aiming to serve the increasing number of Chinese tourists abroad by allowing them to make transactions in their preferred currency without the need for physical cash. Beyond payments, Alipay offers diverse services such as money transfers, bill payments, and travel bookings, consolidating its position as a comprehensive platform for Chinese users. French merchants accepting Alipay stand to gain by attracting more Chinese customers, tapping into the lucrative Chinese market, and leveraging Alipay’s marketing tools for promotions and discounts, ultimately creating a mutually beneficial scenario that enhances convenience for Chinese users and boosts sales for local businesses.
WeChat Pay, a widely used mobile payment method in China, has limited acceptance in France, primarily found in establishments catering to Chinese tourists or possessing a substantial Chinese clientele. To utilize WeChat Pay in France, users must have a WeChat account linked to their bank account or credit card, enabling payments through the app by scanning QR codes or entering payment codes. Notable locations accepting WeChat Pay include luxury retailers such as Galeries Lafayette and Printemps, prominent tourist sites like the Louvre Museum and the Palace of Versailles, as well as select hotels, restaurants, and transportation services. However, its acceptance remains less pervasive compared to traditional methods like credit cards or cash in France, necessitating alternative payment options for travelers in the country.
Google Pay is available as a payment method in France. Users can add their credit or debit cards to the Google Pay app and use it to make payments at participating merchants. They can also use Google Pay to make online purchases and send money to friends and family. Google Pay is supported by a wide range of banks and financial institutions in France, making it a convenient and secure way to make payments.
PaySafeCard is a prepaid online payment method available in France, offering a secure and anonymous option for users to make payments without requiring a bank account or credit card. Users can purchase physical cards from authorized retailers, each equipped with a unique 16-digit PIN code for transactions on various online platforms, including gaming, gambling, and e-commerce websites. Additionally, an online account with PaySafeCard allows users to buy virtual cards or vouchers directly from the website, eliminating the need for a physical card. Widely accepted in France, PaySafeCard provides a convenient and secure means of online payment on popular platforms like Amazon, eBay, and Steam, ensuring privacy by not requiring the sharing of personal or financial information.
SEPA Direct Debit is a prevalent payment method in France, enabling businesses to effortlessly collect payments directly from customers’ bank accounts, particularly for recurring expenses like utility bills and subscriptions. Businesses secure a mandate from customers, granting authorization for direct debit collection, obtainable through either a paper form or electronically. Transactions are facilitated via the SEPA system, ensuring smooth cross-border payments within the Eurozone. This method streamlines payment processes for businesses, enhancing security, efficiency, and cash flow management while reducing administrative costs and minimizing the risks associated with cash and checks. Customers benefit from the convenience of automatic deductions on due dates, eliminating concerns about late fees and the need to remember payment deadlines. Overall, SEPA Direct Debit is a trusted and widely adopted payment option in France, offering advantages for both businesses and customers in the realm of recurring payments.
