Top payment methods in Brazil: A guide on best ways to pay
Wondering what the most popular ways to pay are in Brazil? Explore the top payment options and choose wisely.
Brazil, with a population of around 213.36 million people, has a GDP of approximately 2.13 trillion making it the 10th largest economy in the world. The official currency of Brazil is the Brazilian Real (BRL)
A diversified economy driven by a large services sector, advanced industries, and massive agricultural and mining exports. It is a founding member of Mercosur and has China, the United States, and Argentina as its key trading partners.
| Country | Brazil |
|---|---|
| Population | 213.36 million |
| GDP (USD) | 2.13 trillion |
| Global Ranking | 10th |
| Currency | Brazilian Real (BRL) |
Spend abroad with the mid-market exchange rate - no markups, and no sneaky transaction fees.
What is the main payment method in Brazil?
The Brazilian payment landscape has been revolutionized by Pix, an instant payment system created by the Central Bank that has become the dominant method for transfers and payments due to its speed, low cost, and ubiquity. Credit cards remain extremely popular, especially for online shopping and the cultural practice of paying in installments ('parcelas'). The Boleto Bancário, a voucher-based system, is also crucial, allowing consumers without bank accounts to make online purchases by paying in cash at various locations.
How to pay in Brazil
Each country has its own way of moving money, and choosing the right method can sometimes be difficult. That’s why we have curated the most popular and best payment options for you to use in Brazil.
| Payment Method | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Wise | Wise provides international money transfer services. It is known for offering transparent, low-cost currency exchange rates and fast transfers. Wise uses the mid-market exchange rate and charges a small, upfront fee, making it a cost-effective alternative to traditional banks for sending money abroad. The platform also offers multi-currency accounts, allowing users to hold and manage money in multiple currencies. | Online/In-person |
| Pix | Pix is a dominant, instant payment system created by the Central Bank of Brazil. It's used by a massive portion of the population for P2P, online, and in-store QR code payments 24/7. | Online/In-person |
| Cards (Credit & Debit) | Credit cards are extremely popular, famous for allowing customers to pay in interest-free installments (parcelamento). Debit cards are also widely used for everyday purchases. | Online/In-person |
| Boleto Bancário | A unique and still highly relevant payment method. It's a printable voucher/invoice that can be paid with cash at many locations (like lottery agencies) or online via a bank app, bridging online and offline commerce. | Online/In-person |
| Cash (Real) | While digital methods are surging, cash remains a key payment method, especially for lower-income individuals and in informal economies. It is also the payment method for many Boleto transactions. | In-person |
Is PayPal available in Brazil?
Yes, PayPal is accepted in Brazil.
Cover all your international travel expenses with the Wise Multi-Currency Card
Whatever you need to buy during your trip, whether it’s a travel adapter, train ticket or an extra bottle of sunscreen, the Wise Multi-Currency Card has you covered.
You can spend like a local in 150+ countries, as this clever contactless card automatically converts currency at the mid-market exchange rate whenever you spend - for just a small conversion fee.
And for extra convenience, you can add your Wise Multi-Currency Card to your Google Wallet or Apple Wallet. Then you can travel even lighter and pay using just your phone, with no need to pack the physical card.
Please see terms of use and product availability for your region or visit Wise fees and pricing for the most up to date pricing and fee information.
This publication is provided for general information purposes and does not constitute legal, tax or other professional advice from Wise Payments Limited or its subsidiaries and its affiliates, and it is not intended as a substitute for obtaining advice from a financial advisor or any other professional.
We make no representations, warranties or guarantees, whether expressed or implied, that the content in the publication is accurate, complete or up to date.