Planning a trip to Indonesia? You’re in for a vibrant mix of culture, cuisine, and adventure. As the country embraces digital innovation, cashless payments have become an essential part of daily life—from ordering street food to shopping at local markets. One of the most widely used systems is QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard), a unified QR code that simplifies payments across various merchants nationwide. The good news for foreign visitors? You don’t need an Indonesian bank account to use it. In this article, we’ll introduce three international e-wallets that let you pay seamlessly with QRIS while exploring Indonesia.
What is QRIS?
QRIS, or Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard, is Indonesia’s national QR code system developed by Bank Indonesia to unify various digital payment methods under one standardized format. With QRIS, users can make quick and secure payments simply by scanning a single QR code—regardless of their e-wallet provider. For travelers, this means no more fumbling with cash or worrying about currency exchange rates. QRIS is accepted in a wide range of places across the country, including street markets, cafes, restaurants, convenience stores, tourist attractions, and even public transportation. It’s a convenient, cashless solution that makes exploring Indonesia easier and more efficient.
Why QRIS is Useful for Foreign Tourists
QRIS offers foreign tourists a highly convenient and practical way to make payments without the need for cash. By using a compatible e-wallet, travelers can avoid the hassle and extra costs of withdrawing money from ATMs or dealing with unfavorable currency exchange rates. With QRIS widely adopted across Indonesia—from big cities to small towns—tourists can use it to pay for meals, shopping, transportation, and even street vendors, all with a simple scan. This widespread acceptance makes QRIS an ideal solution for visitors seeking a smooth and modern travel experience.
3 E-Wallets That Support QRIS for Foreigners
Several popular Indonesian e-wallets now offer features that make it easier for foreign tourists to make payments via QRIS. One of the leading options is GoPay, which allows tourists to register using an international phone number and link a Visa or MasterCard debit card for seamless QRIS transactions. Another user-friendly choice is Dana, which supports QRIS payments through international cards, enabling visitors to pay at a wide range of merchants without needing local currency. Additionally, some travelers have successfully used ShopeePay for QRIS payments by utilizing specific top-up methods, although this option may require extra steps depending on the user’s country of origin. These three e-wallets open the door for tourists to enjoy a smooth, cashless experience across Indonesia.
1. Gopay
GoPay is one of Indonesia’s most popular digital wallets, integrated within the Gojek super app. Known for its ease of use and wide acceptance, GoPay allows foreign tourists to register using an international phone number and link a Visa or MasterCard debit card for quick and secure QRIS payments. From ordering food to booking rides or shopping at local markets, GoPay makes cashless transactions effortless while exploring Indonesia.
2. Dana
Dana is a widely used digital wallet in Indonesia that offers a user-friendly interface and broad QRIS compatibility. For foreign tourists, Dana enables QRIS payments by linking international debit or credit cards, making it easy to transact without carrying cash. Whether you’re paying at restaurants, convenience stores, or tourist attractions, Dana provides a smooth and secure way to enjoy a cashless experience across Indonesia.
3. Shopeepay
ShopeePay is a widely used digital wallet in Indonesia that supports QRIS payments across various merchants nationwide. While primarily designed for local users, some foreign tourists have reported successfully using ShopeePay for QRIS transactions by employing specific top-up methods. However, it’s important to note that ShopeePay does not officially support international phone numbers or foreign-issued cards for registration. Therefore, travelers should be aware that using ShopeePay may require additional steps and may not be as straightforward as other e-wallet options.
For a more seamless experience, foreign tourists might consider e-wallets like GoPay or Dana, which offer more straightforward registration processes and support for international cards.
How to Use QRIS with Your E-Wallet in Indonesia
Using QRIS with your e-wallet in Indonesia is quick and straightforward, making it ideal for foreign tourists. First, open your e-wallet app and make sure you’re logged in. Then, scan the QRIS code displayed at the merchant’s counter. In some cases, you may need to manually enter the payment amount before confirming the transaction. Once confirmed, the payment will be processed instantly.
For a smooth experience, ensure your phone has a stable internet connection and that your e-wallet has sufficient balance or is linked to an active international card. Keep in mind that some e-wallets may automatically convert foreign currency into Indonesian Rupiah, so it’s good to check the exchange rate and any applicable fees beforehand.
Final Tips for a Smooth Cashless Experience in Indonesia
To ensure a smooth cashless experience while traveling in Indonesia, make sure your e-wallet is activated and fully verified before your trip—this includes linking your international card and confirming your identity if required. It’s also wise to carry a backup payment method, such as some cash or an international credit/debit card, in case your e-wallet encounters issues or is not accepted in certain locations. Always save digital receipts or payment confirmations after each transaction for your own records. Additionally, consider downloading supporting apps like Gojek or Grab, which not only integrate with e-wallets like GoPay and OVO but also offer services such as ride-hailing, food delivery, and digital payments—making your stay in Indonesia even more convenient.
Conclusion
In conclusion, QRIS offers a fast, secure, and convenient way for foreign tourists to make payments across Indonesia without the hassle of carrying cash or dealing with currency exchange. With growing adoption nationwide and support from popular e-wallets like GoPay, Dana, and even ShopeePay, accessing cashless transactions has never been easier. By preparing your e-wallet in advance and following a few simple tips, you can enjoy a smoother, more efficient travel experience. Embrace the ease of cashless payments with QRIS, and focus on enjoying all that Indonesia has to offer.
Awan Yulianto is the creator of Travelawan.com and shares his passion for Indonesian culture and cuisine through travel stories and local food guides. Follow his journey on Instagram at @travelawan for authentic tips and hidden gems across the archipelago.
