Payment methods in Bolivia

Bolivia's interoperable QR code payment system, established by the Central Bank (BCB) in 2019, allows users to pay any enrolled merchant regardless of their bank or wallet provider. By 2024, QR Simple transactions reached 385 million operations worth US$22.5 billion, a 182% volume increase year-on-year. 46.1% of transactions are for amounts under BOB 50, showing adoption for everyday micropayments. Integration with Mi Teleférico and La Paz Bus public transit was achieved in 2024.

International card schemes are processed through Banco Unión, Banco Mercantil Santa Cruz, BNB, and other major Bolivian commercial banks. Cards account for approximately 22% of electronic payments and are primarily used by urban and formally employed populations.

Simple is a digital wallet operated by e-Fectivo ESPM S.A. in Bolivia. Alongside Tigo Money, it has been instrumental in bringing mobile payments to segments of the population beyond traditional banking reach. Simple participates in Bolivia's interoperable QR system and enables basic financial services via mobile app.

Tigo Money is one of Bolivia's leading mobile wallets, operated by Millicom's Tigo Bolivia. With over 10 years in the market, it has reached underserved highland cities, eastern towns, and El Alto outskirts where traditional banks have limited presence. It supports QR payments, P2P transfers, bill payments, and utility payments, and participates in the national interoperable QR ecosystem.

ATC is Bolivia's domestic card processing network that connects ATMs and POS terminals across the country's banking system. It ensures interoperability for debit card transactions between Bolivian banks, forming the backbone of the domestic card infrastructure.