Top payment methods in Zambia: A guide on best ways to pay
Wondering what the most popular ways to pay are in Zambia? Explore the top payment options and choose wisely.
Zambia, with a population of around 21.71 million people, has a GDP of approximately 28.91 billion making it the 113rd largest economy in the world. The official currency of Zambia is the Zambian Kwacha (ZMW)
The economy is heavily reliant on copper mining and export, which is its primary source of foreign exchange earnings. It is a member of SADC and COMESA, with Switzerland and China being its most significant trading partners for copper.
| Country | Zambia |
|---|---|
| Population | 21.71 million |
| GDP (USD) | 28.91 billion |
| Global Ranking | 113rd |
| Currency | Zambian Kwacha (ZMW) |
Spend abroad with the mid-market exchange rate - no markups, and no sneaky transaction fees.
What is the main payment method in Zambia?
The leading digital payment method in Zambia is mobile money, with services from MTN Money and Airtel Money being used extensively for P2P transfers, bill payments, and merchant services. The primary payment method for most daily transactions remains physical cash, the Kwacha. For the banked population in urban areas, debit cards are used at point-of-sale terminals.
How to pay in Zambia
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 Zambia.
| Payment Method | Description | Type |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Money (MTN, Airtel, Zamtel) | Mobile money is the leading digital financial service. MTN Money and Airtel Money are the dominant providers, used for P2P transfers, bill payments, and merchant payments. | Online/In-person |
| Cash (Zambian Kwacha) | Cash is the primary and essential payment method for the majority of the population and for everyday economic activity. | In-person |
| Cards (Visa) | Card usage is growing but is mainly concentrated in urban areas and formal businesses like supermarkets and hotels. | In-person |
| Bank Transfers | Bank transfers are used for B2B and formal transactions. | Online |
| Online Banking | For the banked population, online portals allow for basic transactions and bill payments. | Online |
Traveling beyond Zambia? Explore payment methods by country.
Is PayPal available in Zambia?
Yes, PayPal is accepted in Zambia.
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.