How to scan code to pay in Indonesia? Here's the tutorial

Detailed tutorials on the use of code scanning payment (QRIS) in Indonesia for tourists and local users are listed below:


I. Introduction to Indonesian Scanning Code Payment (QRIS)

  1. What is QRIS

    • Indonesia's central bank has introduced a unified QR code standard (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard) that integrates the code-scanning payment functions of major e-wallets and banks.
    • Local wallets such as DANA, OVO, ShopeePay, LinkAja, etc. are supported, and international cards/VISA are also supported in some scenarios.
  2. Applicable Scenarios

    • Convenience stores (Indomaret/Alfamart), restaurants, street vendors, taxis (e.g. Grab), shopping malls, etc.

II. Steps for visitors

Method 1: Directly bind international credit/debit cards

  1. Download Support APP

    • Grab APP: You can use GrabPay after binding VISA/MasterCard.
    • Gojek APP: Some merchants support foreign card payments.
  2. workflow
    Open the app → select "Scan QR" → scan the merchant's QR code → enter the amount to confirm payment.

Method 2: Purchase of local prepaid card or e-wallet top up

  1. Purchase [OVO/Gopay] prepaid vouchers at convenience stores or top up through partner agents.
  2. You can scan the code to pay after activation.

III. Steps for use by local residents/permanent residents

Register for local e-wallet (Indonesian mobile phone number + ID required)

  1. Recommended APP
    DANA | OVO | ShopeePay | LinkAja

  2. Real Name Authentication Process
    Download APP → Register with mobile phone number → Bind bank card/KTP ID card → Complete verification.

  3. Payment steps [using DANA as an example]::

    Open DANA → Click "Scan QR" → Align with the merchant's QR code → Enter the amount → Confirm the PIN code.

4Frequently Asked Questions

  • ❓ "Prompt for transaction failure"?
    Check whether the network is stable; make sure the balance is sufficient; some small transactions need to enable OTP verification.
  • ❓ "Where can I find merchants that support QRIS?"
    Look for stickers with [QRIS] or the logo of each e-wallet.

V. In-depth use of skills and considerations

1. How to identify QRIS-enabled merchants?

  • Merchants usually display the following logos:
    • QRIS official logo(blue and green QR code icon)
    • E-wallet Logo(e.g. DANA, OVO, ShopeePay, etc.)
  • Examples of common scenarios::
    • 🏪 Convenience shops: special scanners are available at the Indomaret/Alfamart counters.
    • 🍜 Snack stalls: static QR codes for individual merchants are posted in front of the stalls.

2. Temporary top-up strategy for tourists (no Indonesian bank card)

If you do not want to bind an international card, you can top up your local e-wallet in the following ways:

  • Offline purchase of e-wallet vouchers: Inform the clerk at Indomaret or Alfamart that you want to top up OVO/GoPay and redeem the balance in cash.
  • Get a local friend to transfer the money.: Some wallets support friend-to-friend transfers (requires Indonesian mobile phone number to receive verification code).

3. QRIS payment limits and handling fees

typology single-stroke limit cumulative daily limit handling fee
microfinance < Rp 1 million < Rp5 million freeware
large payment < Rp5 million < Rp20 million Possible collection of 0.7%

⚠️ Note: Some street vendors may set lower limits (e.g. Rp 500,000 per transaction).


6Security tips

  1. 🔒 Protect the payment code! Do not screenshot or send to others.
  2. ❌ Be wary of "fake QR codes": check that the merchant name matches before you pay.
  3. 📱Enable APP fingerprint/facial recognition payment function.

7Extended Application Scenarios

In addition to daily consumption, QRIS can be used:

  • ✈️ Airport Express Tickets (e.g. Soekarno-Hatta Airport, Jakarta)
  • 🚌 Motorway toll booths (partially supported)
  • 📱Online shopping (Lazada/Tokopedia and other platforms with code payment option at checkout)

8What to do if you have a problem?

1️⃣ Contact eWallet Customer Service:

  • dana: +62-31-51161100
  • OVO: +62-21