Payment methods in Guatemala

Tigo Money is the digital wallet operated by Millicom's Tigo Guatemala, enabling users to send and receive money, pay merchants, pay utility bills, and receive remittances (via Western Union and MoneyGram). It targets underbanked consumers without traditional bank accounts and has partnered with Visa to offer a Tigo Money Visa card linked to the digital wallet. It supports QR code payments at enrolled merchants.

Claro Pay is the digital payment and mobile money solution from América Móvil's Claro Guatemala. Competing directly with Tigo Money, Claro Pay enables prepaid mobile users to conduct mobile money transactions, bill payments, and P2P transfers, serving Guatemala's large prepaid mobile subscriber base.

American Express is accepted by larger merchants, hotels, and businesses serving international clients in Guatemala City and tourist areas. Its market share is limited compared to Visa and Mastercard but relevant in the premium segment.

Guatemala's banking system facilitates interbank transfers through the ACH network operated under the oversight of the Bank of Guatemala (Banguat). Online banking portals at major banks allow consumers and businesses to make direct transfers, representing approximately 11% of online payment volume.

International card schemes dominate Guatemalan e-commerce. Banco Industrial, Banrural, BAC Guatemala, and G&T Continental are among the major card issuers. Credit cards account for approximately 68% of online payment volume. The Bank of Guatemala reported daily average transfers of US$87.5 million in Q1 2025, a 25% increase year-over-year.