Payment methods in Uruguay

RedPagos is Uruguay's other major cash collection network, present across all major cities and towns. Like ABITAB, it enables bill payments, utility payments, and cash-based e-commerce settlements. Both ABITAB and RedPagos accept payments via cash and can be integrated into e-commerce checkout flows through payment gateway partners.

OCA is Uruguay's domestic credit card, issued by OCA S.A. in partnership with BROU. It has significant penetration in the Uruguayan market as a locally issued card accessible to consumers who may not qualify for international bank credit cards. OCA cards are widely accepted at Uruguayan merchants.

ABITAB is one of Uruguay's largest cash collection and bill payment networks, with an extensive distribution of agent points throughout the country. It allows consumers to pay bills, make cash deposits for online purchases, and access financial services without a bank account. ABITAB is integral to the payment infrastructure for the unbanked segment and for consumers who prefer to settle online orders in cash.

Mercado Pago, the financial services arm of MercadoLibre, is strongly established in Uruguay and is one of the most popular digital wallets and payment platforms in the country. It supports credit and debit card processing, QR code payments, P2P transfers, and installment-based purchases. Mercado Pago's integration with MercadoLibre marketplace drives significant e-commerce transaction volume.

International card schemes are the leading payment method in Uruguay's highly banked economy. Banco República (BROU), Banco Santander Uruguay, Itaú Uruguay, BBVA Uruguay, and Banco Scotiabank issue Visa and Mastercard credit and debit cards. Cards account for approximately 50% of e-commerce transactions. Uruguay's high banking penetration means card ownership is near-universal among the adult urban population.