Online payment methods in Argentina
Argentina ranks among South America’s leaders in economic scale, digitalisation, and e‑commerce. The online payment market has been growing fast lately. Local analysts say about 85 % of internet users have bought something online at least once – and electronic payments keep gaining ground each year.
But this progress has its own peculiarities. Argentina’s economy and consumer habits add a few twists to the story. For years, the country has dealt with:
- high inflation;
- strict currency controls;
- limits on international transactions.
- predictable revenue.
These hurdles pushed people to look for alternatives – from local e‑wallets to mobile apps letting them pay without traditional banks.
Nevertheless, cash has not lost its popularity. Older folks and people in small towns still trust it most. So today’s market is a mix of payment methods:
- classic card payments;
- interbank transfers;
- cash payments via intermediaries
- payment in cryptocurrency;
- digital wallets with QR codes.
This variety makes Argentina’s market especially appealing – both for locals and international businesses eyeing a foothold here.
Popular online payment methods in Argentina
The main online payment methods in Argentina.
Credit and debit cards
Mastercard and Visa are traditional international systems that are widely used in Argentina. They are accepted by most online retailers and offline stores.
Key features:
- Widespread use. More than 80% of online retailers support card payments.
- Security. EMV chip technology and 3D Secure protocols protect transactions.
- Flexibility. Consumers can use credit, debit or prepaid cards.
Despite their popularity, card payments face limitations due to currency controls and high acquiring fees, which some merchants pass on to customers.
MercadoPago
MercadoPago is a popular electronic payment system in Argentina, occupying about 65% of the market. It is integrated with almost all major merchants and supports payments via cards, bank accounts and cash.
Key advantages:
- Seamless integration with MercadoLibre, Argentina's largest e-commerce platform.
- QR code payments in offline stores.
- Installment plans for expensive goods.
- Low fees for merchants.
These criteria will help you choose the best way to accept recurring transactions.
Rapipago and Pago Fácil
These cash payment networks cover more than 9,000 locations (petrol stations, shops, pharmacies, etc.), allowing customers without bank cards or accounts to make transactions.
Key advantages:
- Accessibility. They operate in remote areas.
- Finality. Payments are irreversible (no chargebacks).
- Simplicity. Customers receive a voucher to pay for online orders in cash.
These systems are especially popular in regions where there are problems with traditional banking methods. Approximately 15% of the country’s population has limited access.
International e-wallets
Skrill, Neteller, MuchBetter and Payz e-wallets are very popular in Argentina. They are chosen for quick registration, the ability to pay without identification, and simple verification to increase limits. Electronic wallets are used for international transactions, replenishment of accounts in casinos and bookmakers, payments in online games and settlements with freelancers.
Local digital wallets and mobile apps
New fintech solutions such as Uala, Lemon Cash, and Buenos Aires Wallet are gaining popularity. These apps offer:
- instant P2P transfers;
- bill payments; integration with cryptocurrencies (e.g., stablecoins to protect against inflation);
- loyalty programmes.
For example, Uala has over 5 million active users and partners with major retailers.
Crypto Payments Argentina
Payment in cryptocurrency is becoming more popular in Argentina.This is due to high inflation in the country and the popularity of shopping abroad in Argentina. The use of stablecoins such as USDT and USDC allows for international trade, as well as the use of crypto payments for purchases within the country.
Key factors of popularity growth:
- Protection against inflation. Argentines use cryptocurrencies to preserve their purchasing power amid the rapid devaluation of the Argentine peso.
- Cross-border transfers. Cryptocurrency allows you to send money transfers and make international payments quickly and with low fees without the involvement of traditional banking intermediaries.
- Financial accessibility. Digital assets open up access to financial services for people without bank accounts or with limited access to banking services.
- E-commerce. Some online merchants accept cryptocurrencies to avoid high card payment processing fees and currency restrictions.
Crypto payments are positioned as a viable alternative in Argentina’s changing financial landscape — especially for those seeking protection from inflation and the ability to conduct cross-border transactions.
Regulatory environment and compliance
Argentina’s economy landscape is shaped by strict regulations. The Central Bank of Argentina (BCRA) controls all financial transactions. Exchange controls restrict foreign currency transactions. Tax reporting is mandatory for companies with a turnover of more than 100,000 Argentine pesos per month.
Recent changes:
- Mandatory use of electronic invoices (CFDI) for all online sales
- Tighter AML (anti-money laundering) checks for cross-border payments
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Payment gateways in Argentina
Payment gateways ensure transaction security using advanced data protection technologies. They use:
- Encryption to protect card data and personal information;
- Tokenisation to replace sensitive data with unique identifiers;
- Fraud detection algorithms to prevent unauthorised access.
The leading gateways in Argentina are BillBlend, MercadoPago Checkout, Pagomío, Red Pagos, and PayU Latam. These gateways act as intermediaries between banks, merchants, and consumers, reducing the risk of financial fraud. Optimise your finances with BillBlend: get a personalised solution for your business today.
Trends and prospects
When planning to open or expand a business, it is important to assess the development prospects and trends in payment methods in Argentina.
Expansion of QR code payments
More and more retailers are implementing QR codes for contactless payments thanks to MercadoPago and local banks.
Acceptance of cryptocurrencies
Stablecoins (e.g., USDT) are increasingly being used for cross-border transfers and inflation protection.
Open banking
The BCRA is testing an open banking API that could allow third-party fintech companies to securely access banking data.
Biometric authentication
Facial recognition and fingerprint scanning are being tested for high-risk transactions.
Cross-border payments
New partnerships with global providers (e.g., Wise, PayPal) could simplify international transfers.
Statistics on payment methods in Argentina
As of 2025, bank cards remain the main means of payment. They account for 54% of all transactions. Local cards occupy a share of 5%, while VISA and MasterCard are in the leading positions with figures of 61% and 29%. 27% of the Argentine population has credit cards.
Other payment methods in Argentina:
- E–wallets – 28%;
- Bank transfer – 10%;
- Cash – 4%;
- The remaining – 4%.
The e-commerce market is estimated at $19 billion, with growth expected to reach $39 billion by 2027.
Recommendations for businesses entering the Argentine market
If you’re planning to launch or expand your business in Argentina, you’ll need to fine‑tune your approach to match local expectations. Here’s what really matters on the ground.
Give customers payment options
Argentines appreciate flexibility. To boost your conversion rates, make sure you accept:
- bank cards (VISA and MasterCard are the most widespread);
- MercadoPago (a popular local e‑wallet);
- Rapipago (a well‑known cash payment network);
- cash (still a go‑to for many).
Get your paperwork in order
Compliance isn’t optional. You’ll need to:
- follow local tax rules;
- comply with data protection laws (they’re quite similar to what you might know from other regions);
- stay up to date with any regulatory changes.
Speak the local language
A little localization goes a long way:
- use Spanish for all customer‑facing materials;
- display prices in ARS (Argentine pesos);
- provide local customer support (people value being able to talk to someone who understands their context).
Consider instalment plans
High‑ticket items sell better when buyers can spread the cost. Offering instalments can be a real sales booster.
Put security front and centre
Trust is key. Choose payment gateways that are PCI DSS‑compliant, and don’t forget to educate your customers on how to stay safe online. A few tips on spotting fraud can go a long way in building confidence.
The market is a mix of tradition and innovation. You’ll find everything from cash payments to cutting‑edge fintech solutions. To thrive, you’ll need to:
- understand what local consumers actually want;
- navigate the regulatory environment;
- partner with reliable payment providers who know the local scene.
Get these right, and you’ll be well‑positioned to tap into one of Latin America’s most dynamic economies.
The BNPL market in Argentina: trends and prospects
The BNPL (“buy now— pay later”) market in Argentina is actively growing due to the development of e‑commerce, offline retail and the fintech sector. Key growth drivers are innovations in the field of payments, the integration of fintech companies with retailers, and the need for flexible payment solutions against the background of inflation.
- The average market growth from 2021 to 2024 was 53.5%;
- In 2025, the BNPL market is estimated at $2.15 billion.;
- The average market growth from 2025 to 2030 is estimated at 23.5% annually.;
- By 2030, the market will amount to $6.19 billion.
BNPL services are moving beyond retail: they are beginning to be used in healthcare and education, opening up new opportunities for consumers and businesses.
Key players:
- Uala. Launched an updated BNPL product for a young audience in large cities. It is aimed at tech-savvy consumers.
- MercadoPago. Expanded BNPL services in the first quarter of 2024. Partnerships with retailers Fravega and Musimundo. Installments for electronics and household appliances in offline stores.
- Nubi. Presented a solution for the public without bank access. Provides flexible financing options for clients with limited access to traditional loans.
Frequently asked questions
What are the most popular payment methods in Argentina?
The top three are bank cards, mainly VISA and MasterCard, the MercadoPag e-wallet, and cash.
Can international payments be accepted in Argentina?
Yes, but you need a gateway with currency conversion to local pesos. Skrill and Neteller e-wallets are suitable for payment. You can also use stablecoins for payment.
Are electronic invoices mandatory for online sales?
Yes, from 2025, their use will be mandatory for all online transactions in Argentina.
Are payments via MercadoPago secure?
Yes, the system uses encryption, tokenisation and other security methods, and is integrated with major local retailers.
How can a business start accepting online payments in Argentina?
You need to connect to the BillBlend payment gateway, ensure compliance with local regulations and offer several methods for customers.
