Germany’s payment landscape is characterized by a strong preference for cash, but digital payment methods are gaining traction, with a particular interest in contactless payments and mobile wallets. Germany presents a well-developed payment system with a notable shift towards digitalization, yet cash continues to play a significant role. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, Girocard) are widely accepted, especially in urban centers and larger businesses. Contactless payments are increasing in popularity but are not yet fully mainstream. Online banking is extremely prevalent, and bank transfers remain a common method for various transactions. While cash is gradually declining, it’s still significantly used, particularly among older generations and in smaller businesses. Mobile payment solutions are growing but haven’t yet reached widespread adoption, partly due to entrenched habits and the preference for traditional methods.
Estimated Population
83 million
Currency
Euro (€)
All supported payment methods for Germany:
SEPA Credit, Visa, Mastercard, American Express, JCB, UnionPay International, Discover, Diners Club, SEPA Direct Debit, Apple Pay, Google Pay, PayPal, Trustly, Invoice Payment, Prepayment, Barzahlen/viacash, Online Bank Transfer, SEPA Direct Debit with Payment Guarantee, Instalment by SEPA Direct Debit, Instalment by Invoice, Invoice with Payment Guarantee, MaestroFrequently Asked Questions
German consumers prefer SEPA direct debit, invoice payment (Rechnungskauf), PayPal, credit/debit cards (especially Mastercard and Visa), and local cash payment methods like Barzahlen/viacash.
Yes. Novalnet offers invoice payments with optional payment guarantee—protecting merchants from defaults while providing a convenient “buy now, pay later” experience for German shoppers.
Absolutely. Novalnet is a BaFin-licensed payment institute headquartered in Germany and fully complies with PSD2, AML, GDPR, and all national regulatory requirements.
Yes. Novalnet enables merchants in Germany to accept cross-border payments, supports multiple currencies, and simplifies international settlement within and outside the EU.
Barzahlen/viacash allows customers to pay for online purchases with cash at retail partner stores across Germany. Novalnet supports this method, ideal for cash-oriented consumers.
Yes. Novalnet provides SEPA direct debit with optional payment guarantee, reducing payment risk while maintaining a customer-preferred method.
Yes. All payment pages, admin panels, and support communications are available in German and English, ensuring native-language support for German merchants.
Popular payment methods
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.
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.
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.
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.
Trustly
Online Bank Transfers
Trustly is a leading global online payment method, allowing customers to make secure and instant payments directly from their bank accounts, enhancing your online checkout experience.
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.
Barzahlen/viacash
Invoice, Other Payment Types
Barzahlen offers a convenient and secure way for customers in Germany to pay for online purchases with cash at a nearby partner location, bridging the gap between online shopping and cash transactions.
Online Bank Transfer
Online Bank Transfers
A widely accepted payment method, allowing buyers to make payments directly from their bank accounts.
SEPA Direct Debit with Payment Guarantee
Guaranteed Payments, Direct Debit
A payment method allowing buyers to make payments from their bank accounts with a guarantee that the merchant will receive the payment.
Instalment by SEPA Direct Debit
Instalment Payments, Direct Debit
A payment method allowing buyers to spread the cost of their purchase over several installments with payments automatically deducted from their bank accounts.
Instalment by Invoice
Instalment Payments, Invoice
A payment method allowing buyers to split the cost of a purchase into several installments, with each installment paid on a set schedule.
