Slovakia launches free QR payment system for businesses.

Slovakia’s Financial Administration, in collaboration with the Slovak University of Technology, has launched a new state-operated QR payment system that enables instant, secure smartphone payments without traditional card terminals. Following pilot phases in late 2025 and early 2026, offering a cashless payment option—via card, private, or state QR system—will become mandatory for purchases over €1 starting March 1, 2026

The Financial Administration of Slovakia, in partnership with the Slovak University of Technology, has completed development of a new state-run QR payment system. The solution is now fully functional and has been provided free of charge to cash register manufacturers across the country.

QR payments allow customers to pay using their smartphones without needing a traditional card terminal. A cash register generates a unique QR code, which the customer scans. The payment details are pre-filled and confirmed instantly.

The system uses secure encryption and the new Instant Payment Notifier (IPN) to confirm transactions in seconds, helping businesses improve cash flow and reduce paperwork.

The deadlines:

·         Closed pilot begins: November 1, 2025

·         Public pilot starts: January 15, 2026

·         Mandatory cashless option for purchases over €1: March 1, 2026

Businesses will be required to offer a cashless payment method but can choose between card payments, their own solution, or the state QR system.