Offline card payments expand for essential goods
The Riksbank has expanded options for offline card payments for essential goods, effective July 1, 2026. This initiative, based on an agreement with market participants, aims to strengthen the resilience of the payment system.
Resilience in a digital age
From July 1, 2026, Swedish consumers gain expanded options for offline card payments when purchasing essential goods like food, medicines, and fuel.
This development stems from an agreement reached in October 2025 between the Riksbank and key market participants, including card issuers, networks, acquirers, and the retail sector.
Governor Erik Thedéen emphasized that by ensuring card payments function even during data communication disruptions, Sweden's contingency preparedness is significantly improved.
The functionality covers most Visa or Mastercard cards issued to individuals aged 18 or over by participating issuers.
It requires a physical card and PIN and is designed for use during serious disruptions, cyber-attacks, or peacetime crises.
A collaborative effort for stability
The expanded offline functionality is the culmination of a collaborative effort, with market participants implementing necessary technical and regulatory measures over the past year.
Governor Erik Thedéen specifically thanked the market for its active and constructive cooperation, highlighting that a resilient payment system requires all participants to take responsibility.
As a next step, the Riksbank has initiated a project with Getswish and other relevant companies to explore offline capabilities for the Swish payment service during the current year.
The central bank also encourages more banks and card issuers to join the agreement to further enhance Sweden's overall payment preparedness.
Pragmatic step, long overdue
This Riksbank initiative is a pragmatic and necessary step to bolster payment system resilience in an increasingly cashless society.
Though currently limited to essential goods and physical cards, it addresses a critical vulnerability.
The future exploration of offline Swish capabilities signals a comprehensive approach to securing Sweden's digital payment infrastructure.