Poland has a high internet penetration rate, with over 80% of the population having access to the internet. This, combined with the increasing popularity of smartphones, has led to a significant growth in online shopping in recent years.
The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the growth of e-commerce in Poland, as consumers turned to online shopping due to lockdowns and social distancing measures. This trend is expected to continue even after the pandemic, as consumers have become more comfortable with online shopping and have experienced the convenience it offers.
When it comes to payment methods, direct payment through bank transfer has traditionally been the most popular option in Poland. However, alternative payment systems like PayPal and card payments are gaining popularity, especially among younger consumers. These payment methods offer convenience and security, which are important factors for online shoppers.
For merchants looking to expand into the Polish market, it is recommended to offer popular local payment methods like Przelewy24 and BLIK. Przelewy24 is a popular online payment system that allows users to make payments directly from their bank accounts. BLIK is a mobile payment system that allows users to make payments using their smartphones.
In conclusion, Poland is a growing e-commerce market with a high internet penetration rate. The COVID-19 pandemic has further accelerated the growth of online shopping in the country. Offering popular local payment methods like Przelewy24 and BLIK can help merchants localize their checkouts and cater to the preferences of Polish consumers.
Popular offline payment methods in Poland
Cash
Bank Transfers
Payment Cards
Mobile Payments
Cheques
Postal Money Orders
Cash On Delivery
Vouchers and Gift Cards
List of payment methods in Poland
Online Banking Poland is a widely embraced payment method in Poland, allowing customers to make online payments directly from their bank accounts without the requirement of credit or debit cards. Users must have an account with one of the participating banks, such as PKO Bank Polski, mBank, ING Bank Śląski, or Alior Bank. When opting for Online Banking Poland during an online purchase, customers are redirected to their bank’s secure online banking platform, where they can authenticate the payment. The process is swift, with funds instantly transferred from the customer’s bank account to the merchant’s account. This method enhances security by eliminating the need for card details and necessitating authentication through online banking credentials. Overall, Online Banking Poland stands out as a secure and convenient option, widely accepted in the country, streamlining online payments directly from users’ bank accounts.
Visa is a highly favoured payment method throughout Poland, accepted at a vast array of retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and online merchants. Additionally, Visa cards can be used at ATMs for cash withdrawals. In Poland, Visa offers a range of card types, including debit, credit, and prepaid cards, which can be issued by local banks or international financial institutions. To utilise a Visa card in Poland, simply present it to the merchant or insert it into a card reader. Some merchants may require a PIN for security purposes. For online payments with Visa, it is typically necessary to enter the card number, expiration date, and CVV code. It is worth noting that although Visa is widely accepted in Poland, some smaller merchants or establishments may only accept cash or specific local payment methods. Therefore, it is advisable to carry some cash as a backup. Overall, utilising Visa as a payment method in Poland is a convenient and widely accepted option, making it effortless for both travellers and residents to make purchases and access funds.
BLIK, introduced in 2015 by a consortium of Polish banks, has emerged as a leading mobile payment method in Poland, gaining substantial popularity among both consumers and merchants. To utilize BLIK, users must download the mobile app and link it to their bank account, enabling them to make payments by scanning QR codes or entering unique codes generated by merchants. The versatility of BLIK extends to both online and offline transactions, with acceptance spanning various sectors, including supermarkets, restaurants, online retailers, and public transportation providers. Its appeal lies in the convenience it offers, allowing users to swiftly and easily make payments via their mobile phones, eliminating the need for physical cash or cards. The app’s additional features, such as bill splitting and fund transfers among BLIK users, contribute to its attractiveness. Notably, BLIK prioritizes security, requiring transaction authentication through PIN codes or biometric data, enhancing protection against unauthorized use and safeguarding users’ financial information. Overall, BLIK’s success in Poland stems from its convenience, security measures, and widespread acceptance, playing a pivotal role in driving the adoption of mobile payments and reducing dependence on cash transactions in the country.
Mastercard is widely accepted as a payment method in Poland. It can be used at most retail stores, restaurants, and online merchants in the country. Additionally, Mastercard can be used to withdraw cash from ATMs throughout Poland. Many banks in Poland issue Mastercard debit and credit cards to their customers, making it a convenient and popular payment option for both locals and tourists.
Maestro is a widely accepted payment method in Poland. It is a debit card issued by banks and can be used for both online and offline transactions. Maestro cards are accepted at most merchants, including supermarkets, restaurants, and shops. They can also be used to withdraw cash from ATMs. Maestro cards in Poland are typically linked to the customer’s bank account and require a PIN for authorization. Overall, Maestro is a convenient and secure payment option for consumers in Poland.
American Express is a viable payment option, albeit not as ubiquitous as Visa or Mastercard. In major cities like Warsaw, Krakow, and Gdansk, American Express cards are accepted at numerous hotels, restaurants, and shops. Nevertheless, it is prudent to have a backup payment method, such as Visa or Mastercard, as some smaller establishments may not accommodate American Express. Moreover, it is advisable to notify your bank or credit card provider of your travel itinerary to guarantee seamless card usage overseas and to preclude any possible complications with fraud alerts.
Diners Club International is a widely embraced payment option in Poland, with acceptance extending to diverse businesses like restaurants, hotels, and retail establishments. The versatility of Diners Club is evident in its applicability to both online and offline transactions. Utilizing the card is straightforward for customers who only need to present it at the point of sale, where the payment is processed either through a Diners Club card terminal or an online payment gateway. In Poland, Diners Club provides cardholders with enticing perks, including reward points, travel insurance, and access to airport lounges, along with exclusive discounts at select merchants. Beyond local use, Diners Club cards are internationally recognized, making them a practical choice for both residents traveling abroad and foreign visitors in Poland. Overall, Diners Club stands out as a widely accepted and convenient payment method in Poland, offering users a host of benefits and rewards.
Apple Pay, introduced in Poland on June 19, 2018, is a mobile payment and digital wallet service enabling users to make transactions via their iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, or Mac. Adding credit or debit cards to the Wallet app is a straightforward process, allowing users to make secure payments by holding their device close to a contactless terminal and using Touch ID or Face ID for authentication. Widely accepted at various establishments, including supermarkets, restaurants, gas stations, and online stores, Apple Pay is versatile, extending its utility to public transportation and compatible apps. Beyond payments, the service offers features like loyalty card and boarding pass storage in the Wallet app, providing a convenient and secure payment solution for users in Poland.
Discover is not widely accepted as a payment option in Poland. The most commonly accepted credit cards in Poland are Visa and Mastercard. However, some merchants may accept Discover cards, especially in larger cities or tourist areas. It is always best to check with the specific merchant or establishment before attempting to use a Discover card for payment.
JCB, or Japan Credit Bureau, is a widely accepted payment method in Poland, available for both online and offline transactions. To utilize JCB, customers must possess a JCB card issued by their bank, which can be used at various merchants, including restaurants, hotels, retail stores, and online platforms. Presenting the JCB card at the point of sale or entering its details for online purchases allows customers to benefit from its advanced security features like EMV chip technology and tokenization, guarding against fraud. The use of JCB in Poland also grants customers access to special discounts and promotions offered by merchants, enhancing its appeal. Additionally, customers can earn rewards points or cashback on purchases, redeemable for travel vouchers or gift cards. In summary, JCB serves as a popular, secure, and convenient payment method in Poland, offering users not only a reliable transactional tool but also various perks such as discounts and rewards.
UnionPay has gained popularity as a widely accepted payment method in Poland, particularly among Chinese tourists and residents. The increasing influx of Chinese tourists and the growing presence of Chinese businesses in the country have contributed to the rise in the number of merchants accepting UnionPay cards. To use UnionPay, customers can simply present their card at the point of sale, where the payment is processed using UnionPay terminals or POS systems. Beyond physical card payments, UnionPay also offers mobile payment options such as QR code and contactless payments, which are gaining traction, especially among younger consumers. This convenience and acceptance are expected to continue expanding as more merchants in Poland recognize the significance of meeting the payment preferences of Chinese customers.
Google Pay is available as a payment method in Poland. Users can add their credit or debit cards to the Google Pay app and use it to make payments at participating merchants. Google Pay also supports contactless payments using NFC technology, allowing users to simply tap their phone on a payment terminal to complete a transaction. Additionally, Google Pay can be used for online purchases on websites and apps that accept this payment method.
Alipay, a popular Chinese mobile payment platform, faces limited acceptance in Poland, with its usage primarily concentrated among businesses catering to Chinese tourists or those with partnerships with Chinese companies. Certain hotels, restaurants, and shops in major tourist destinations like Warsaw and Krakow may accommodate Alipay transactions. Additionally, online travel agencies and e-commerce platforms may offer Alipay as a payment option. To utilize Alipay in Poland, users must have a registered account linked to their bank account or credit card, enabling them to make mobile payments or scan QR codes at participating merchants. Despite these options, Alipay’s recognition and prevalence in Poland lag behind more conventional payment methods such as credit cards or cash. As a result, travelers are advised to have alternative payment methods on hand when making purchases or transactions in the country.
PayPal is widely accepted as a payment method in Poland. Many online stores and service providers in the country offer PayPal as an option for customers to make payments. Additionally, individuals can also use PayPal to send and receive money from friends and family or make online purchases from international websites that accept PayPal. To use PayPal in Poland, individuals need to create a PayPal account and link it to their bank account or credit card. Once the account is set up, they can use PayPal to make payments by selecting the PayPal option at checkout on participating websites or by sending money directly to another PayPal user.
PaySafeCard is a prevalent prepaid payment solution in Poland, providing a convenient method for online transactions without the necessity of a bank account or credit card. Users can acquire a prepaid card in denominations ranging from 10 PLN to 100 PLN at authorized retailers, obtaining a unique 16-digit PIN code upon purchase. To execute a payment, users simply select PaySafeCard as their payment method on the desired website, enter the PIN code when prompted, and the payment is deducted from the card balance. This method is secure and does not require the sharing of personal or financial information. PaySafeCard extends its usability beyond online purchases, enabling users to top up digital wallets, prepaid cards, and make mobile payments through its dedicated app. Overall, PaySafeCard is widely embraced in Poland, offering a secure and hassle-free means for online transactions.
Klarna is a widely used payment method in Poland, enabling customers to effortlessly make online purchases and defer payment to a later date, whether in full or through installments. The checkout process is seamless, requiring only a few clicks for completion. To utilize Klarna, customers must select it at the online store’s checkout, leading them to the Klarna website to choose their preferred payment option and, in some cases, undergo a credit check. Klarna provides numerous advantages in Poland, such as the option to divide payments, interest-free financing, and a secure checkout experience. With widespread acceptance among online retailers, Klarna stands out as a popular and convenient choice for Polish online shoppers, offering flexibility and ease in their online transactions.
