About Payfast
Payfast is a payment processing platform from Payfast that enables businesses to accept online payments efficiently. It provides functionality for credit card processing, bank transfers, and mobile payments so merchants can cater to a variety of customer preferences. The platform supports transactions in multiple currencies and offers integration with various e-commerce platforms. This flexibility allows businesses to reach a broader audience. Additionally, Payfast includes features like automated invoicing and fraud protection to improve security and usability. Key capabilities: payment gateway recurring billing integration options reporting tools customer support Best for: e-commerce businesses that need a reliable solution for processing online payments.
Payfast is the quintessential South African online payment processor, now part of the Network International group. In 2026, it remains the most accessible gateway for SMEs. It is famous for its "No Setup Fee" model and its ability to handle every major payment method in the country, from Credit Cards to Instant EFT. Its 2026 update includes a powerful mobile app that allows merchants to approve refunds and request payouts on the move.
Pros & Cons
- Start accepting payments within 24 hours with no upfront costs.
- One of the most recognized payment brands in South Africa, increasing customer checkout confidence.
- Access to the "unbanked" or "credit-averse" market through SCode (retail cash) and Instant EFT.
- At 3.5% + R2.00, it can be more expensive than merchant bank accounts for high-volume retailers.
- While it accepts international cards, all funds are converted and settled in South African Rand (ZAR).
- While "on-request" is fast, there is still a mandatory holding period that can affect very tight cash-flow businesses.
Features
Key features
A secure bank-to-bank transfer method that provides instant confirmation, favored by South Africans without credit cards.
A pure "Pay-As-You-Go" model, making it the lowest-risk entry point for new entrepreneurs.
Unlike some gateways that hold funds for weeks, Payfast allows merchants to "request a payout" and receive funds in their bank account within 48–72 hours.
Additional features
Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Masterpass, Mobicred (credit), MoreTyme (BNPL), SnapScan, and SCode (cash at retail).
Automated engine for managing recurring monthly payments.
Full account management, refund processing, and payout requests via smartphone.
Seamlessly matches payment records to accounting invoices.
High-level encryption and fraud monitoring included as standard.
Generate and email professional invoices with a "Pay Now" link directly from the dashboard.
Merchants can add their logos and brand colors to the secure Payfast payment page.
Pricing
Countries & Languages
Interface languages
Billing currencies
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About Payfast
Payfast is a payment processing platform from Payfast that enables businesses to accept online payments efficiently. It provides functionality for credit card processing, bank transfers, and mobile payments so merchants can cater to a variety of customer preferences. The platform supports transactions in multiple currencies and offers integration with various e-commerce platforms. This flexibility allows businesses to reach a broader audience. Additionally, Payfast includes features like automated invoicing and fraud protection to improve security and usability. Key capabilities: payment gateway recurring billing integration options reporting tools customer support Best for: e-commerce businesses that need a reliable solution for processing online payments.
Payfast Details
Payfast's In-App Market Place
Does Payfast have an in-app market place?
Yes
How many Mini-Apps in the marketplace?
1
Mini Apps
N/A
Pricing Options
Accepted Payment Currencies
ZAR
Pros & Cons
- Start accepting payments within 24 hours with no upfront costs.
- One of the most recognized payment brands in South Africa, increasing customer checkout confidence.
- Access to the "unbanked" or "credit-averse" market through SCode (retail cash) and Instant EFT.
- At 3.5% + R2.00, it can be more expensive than merchant bank accounts for high-volume retailers.
- While it accepts international cards, all funds are converted and settled in South African Rand (ZAR).
- While "on-request" is fast, there is still a mandatory holding period that can affect very tight cash-flow businesses.
Payfast's Support Options
Payfast's Alternatives
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