Brussels, 9 October 2025 — From today, sending money across the euro area has entered a new era of speed and security. Thanks to the European Union’s new rules on instant payments, transfers in euro will now reach their destination in seconds—24 hours a day, seven days a week—whether within the same country or across borders inside the euro area.
The change, which builds on the Instant Payments Regulation adopted in March 2024, represents a major milestone in the EU’s efforts to modernize financial transactions and strengthen trust in digital finance. Since January 2025, banks and other payment service providers (PSPs) have been required to ensure their customers can receive instant euro payments. As of today, they must also enable sending them, alongside a mandatory verification of payee (VoP) system to protect consumers against fraud and payment errors.
“This is a turning point for Europe’s payment landscape,” said a Commission spokesperson. “Instant payments will make our economy more dynamic, our businesses more competitive, and our citizens’ lives easier.”
Money in Seconds, Anytime
Under the new framework, transfers that used to take up to two business days will now arrive within seconds, even during weekends or holidays. The regulation guarantees that fees for instant transfers cannot exceed those of regular bank transfers, ensuring affordability and fair access across the single market.
Crucially, the Verification of Payee feature will check if the recipient’s name matches the IBAN provided, reducing the risk of fraud and misdirected funds. This service must be offered free of charge to payers.
Benefits for Citizens and Businesses
For individuals, the reform means instant access to their funds, whether for managing unexpected expenses, splitting bills, or sending urgent family support.
For companies, it promises better cash-flow management, faster customer payments, and lower processing costs—key advantages for SMEs operating across borders.
Payment and e-money institutions will now be allowed to participate directly in payment systems, enabling more efficient competition and innovation in the financial sector.
Beyond the Eurozone
The new system will soon extend its reach. From January 2027, payment service providers outside the euro area will also be required to enable euro instant payments and verify beneficiaries.
The European Commission has pledged to monitor fees and accessibility, ensuring that the benefits of instant payments remain universal and affordable.
A Modern Step Forward
The reform updates the EU’s 2012 credit transfer rules to match the technological realities of 2025. With its full rollout, Europe is positioning itself as a global leader in real-time digital finance, fostering confidence in a borderless, resilient, and consumer-friendly payment environment.
As instant euro payments become the new norm, Europe’s single market takes another tangible step toward integration—one transfer at a time.
