How can foreigners use local payment methods in the Philippines?

Foreigners using local payment methods in the Philippines need to be aware of the major local payment instruments, account opening requirements and alternatives. Below is a detailed guide:

I. Mainstream local payment methods

1. GCash

   • Functions: code payment/transfer/bill payment/online shopping
   • Conditions of Registration:
     - Philippine mobile phone number required (prepaid card available)
     - Valid passport + visa
     - L3 certification required for some functions (proof of address required)

2. PayMaya(now known as Maya)

   • Features: Virtual VISA card support
   • KYC Requirements:
     - L1 account: mobile phone verification only (limit 40,000 pesos/month)
     - L2 account: passport + selfie to be uploaded

3. Bank e-wallets

   • BDO Pay/Security Bank and other requirements:
     - Must hold an account with the bank
     - Foreigners are usually required to open an account:
     • ACR I-Card or long-term visa
     • TIN tax identification number (available on request)

II. Practical solutions

▶️ No Local Identity Programme

• GCash/PayMaya Basic:
  1. SIM card purchase at Globe/Smart shops (from 40 pesos)
  2. Digital banks like DigiBank offer temporary accounts

▶️ Large transaction programme

• UnionBank USD account:
  ✔️ accepts traveller's visa accounts
  ✔️ minimum balance $500

▶️ Offline Cash Recharge Channels
- Palawan Express Pawn Shop
- SM Shopping Centre Recharge Counter
- Bayad Center Convenience Store

III. Special reminders ⚠️

1. SIM real-name bill impact: all SIMs to require real-name registration from 2023, recommended to keep proof of purchase
2. BSP rules: non-residents' e-wallet balance capped at P50,000
3. OTC remittance options: Cebuana Lhuillier/MoneyGram fees around 1-3%

Short-term travellers are advised to prioritise the use of PayMaya virtual VISA cards tied to international apps, while long-term residents may consider cross-border top-ups through services such as SEPAYMENT.

IV. Advanced Tips for Foreigners Using Philippine Payment Methods

1. How can I bypass bank account restrictions?

• PayMaya Virtual Card (VISA): Even if you don't have a local bank account, you can apply for a virtual VISA card after L2 authentication, which can be used for online shopping (e.g. Lazada, Shopee), subscription services (Netflix/Spotify), or even tied to Alipay/WeChat payments.
• GCash AMEX Virtual Card: Apply for an American Express virtual card through the GCash App to support international transactions.

2. What if I don't have a Philippine mobile phone number?

• Short-term travellers can purchase a Globe/Smart SIM card and register it at the airport or convenience store (passport required).
• eSIM alternative: Airalo and others offer Philippine data eSIMs, but may not be able to receive SMS verification codes.

3. How do I top up my eWallet?

4. BSP exchange control responses

The Central Bank of the Philippines (CBN) has set a monthly e-wallet transaction limit of 50k pesos (~$900 USD) for non-residents, over which proof of source of funds is required. Solution:
✅ Splitting multiple small transactions (e.g. <10k pesos each)
✅Convert PHP stablecoins with cryptocurrency → Coins.ph cash out to GCash

V. Frequently asked questions

❓Q: What about Grab drivers who only take cash?
💡A: When GCash pays the fare, select "Send Money" → "Express Send" and enter the driver's mobile phone number for instant payment.

❓Q: Can I use a foreign credit card for Lazada purchases?
💡A: Yes, but some merchants only support local payments; PayMaya VISA or GrabPay virtual cards are recommended to avoid rejection.

❓Q: What's the deal with Airbnb hosts asking for Bank Transfer?
💡A: Use PandaRemitRemit PHP from China to landlord's BDO account (0 exchange rate loss)

VI. Safety reminders 🔐

⚠️ is alerted to the "KYC Upgrade" scam! Officials won't ask for OTP code via WhatsApp!
⚠️ Do not transfer money directly from FB Marketplace - use Shopee/Lazada secured transactions in preference!
⚠️ set up eWallet fingerprint/Face ID login + enable Transaction PIN

If you need a specific bank's English account opening form template or the latest fee comparison table, please leave a message.

VII. Alternatives to the Philippine mode of payment (no local status)

If a foreigner is unable to register for GCash/PayMaya or a bank account, there are still the following ways to complete a transaction:

1. International e-wallets + QR code payments

• Alipay+ (Paypal+): Some SM malls, Watsons and 7-Eleven support code-sweeping payment (foreign bank card binding is required).
• GrabPay: Visa/Mastercard can be bundled for taxi, takeaway and partner merchant payments.

2. Prepaid cards & cash exchange channels

• Beep Card(Transport Card): Can be topped up at LRT/MRT stations, and some convenience stores also accept small purchases.
• Payoneer Demo Account → Withdraw PHP to Palawan Express/Cebuana Lhuillier counter for cash withdrawal.