Scan to Pay lets you pay at shops by scanning a QR code with your banking app. No card, no cash, no tapping. It works at thousands of retailers across South Africa and is supported by all major banks. Here is how to use it.
How Scan to Pay Works
- The cashier shows you a QR code on the payment terminal or a printed code
- You open your banking app and select Scan to Pay
- Point your phone camera at the QR code
- Confirm the amount and authorise the payment
- The payment goes through instantly, deducted from your bank account
Where Can You Use Scan to Pay?
- Grocery: Shoprite, Checkers, Pick n Pay, Woolworths, Spar
- Fuel: Engen, Shell, BP, Caltex
- Fast food: KFC, McDonald’s, Nando’s, Steers
- Retail: Mr Price, Edgars, Game, Makro
- Pharmacies: Clicks, Dis-Chem
- Online: Many websites now show a Masterpass or Scan to Pay QR code at checkout
How to Set Up Scan to Pay
Most banking apps have Scan to Pay built in. Here is where to find it:
- Capitec: Open app, tap Scan to Pay on home screen
- FNB: Open app, tap the QR code icon
- Absa: Open app, tap Scan to Pay under Payments
- Nedbank: Open app, tap Scan to Pay
- Standard Bank: Open app, tap Pay then Scan to Pay
Scan to Pay Fees
Most banks do not charge extra for Scan to Pay transactions. The fee is usually the same as (or cheaper than) a card transaction. Capitec and TymeBank typically offer it for free.
Is Scan to Pay Safe?
- You must authenticate with your banking app PIN or biometrics
- No card details are shared with the retailer
- Each transaction needs active confirmation
- Your phone must be unlocked and the app open, so a stolen phone cannot be used
Scan to Pay is actually more secure than tapping a card because there is no card number that can be skimmed or stolen.
Scan to Pay vs Tap to Pay vs Cash
| Feature | Scan to Pay | Tap to Pay (Card) | Cash |
|---|---|---|---|
| Speed | 5 to 10 seconds | 2 to 3 seconds | Varies |
| Security | High (PIN + biometric) | Medium (no PIN under R500) | Low (theft risk) |
| Fees | Free to low | Standard card fee | ATM withdrawal fee |
| Works offline? | No | Yes | Yes |
| Need a card? | No | Yes | No |