Crypto payment infrastructure expanded in 2026: the gateway market is projected at $2.39 billion, retail volume at $600 billion, and stablecoin volume at over $33 trillion. Blockchain rails settle transfers in minutes rather than the 2β5 days typical of SWIFT, while encryption and final settlement protect data and remove chargeback risk. A payment gateway lets merchants accept these transactions securely by routing data, locking rates, monitoring confirmations, and settling funds.
The best option for Czech businesses in 2026 is NOWPayments. It supports 350+ digital assets and 30+ stablecoins, with deposit fees of 1% single-currency and 1.5% multi-currency, reducible to 0.3% for eligible partners. The platform confirms 99% of payments in under one minute and ties together acceptance, payouts, conversions, and treasury workflows. It is the best crypto payment solution for high-volume merchants, affiliates, gaming platforms, and cross-border teams.
Here is a list of the top payment gateways in the Czech Republic in 2026:
- NOWPayments
- GoPay
- PayU
- Stripe
- ComGate
Understanding the Czech Market in 2026
The Czech Republic is one of Central Europeβs most mature e-commerce markets, but it is not fully cashless. Bank transfers and debit cards, led by Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro, still account for the majority of online transactions. At the same time, mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay have grown rapidly, and cash remains common for customers who prefer click-and-collect or cash-on-delivery.
| Method | Type | Best For |
| Bank transfers / PayU | Online bank payment | Direct-bank checkout |
| Cards | Visa, Mastercard, Maestro | E-commerce, subscriptions |
| Apple Pay / Google Pay | Mobile wallet payment | Fast mobile checkout |
| Cash on delivery / pickup | Cash payment | Offline payment preference |
| SEPA Direct Debit | Recurring bank debit | Subscriptions, utilities |
| Crypto / stablecoins | Digital asset payment | Global, crypto-native buyers |
What We Considered When Choosing the Best Payment Gateway: Our Selection Criteria
We compared each crypto payment processor on the features that matter most to Czech and international merchants in 2026. Our review concentrated on supported payment methods, transaction costs, and business-focused capabilities that help merchants scale and automate operations without adding unnecessary banking complexity.
- Fee Structure & Transparency: Directly impacts profitability and is a top concern for cost-conscious merchants.
- Supported Payment Methods: Determines whether a merchant can convert local Czech shoppers who expect PayU transfers, cards, and wallets.
- Settlement Speed: Affects cash flow, especially for small businesses and high-volume sellers.
The comparison table below summarizes how each gateway performs in these three decisive categories, which we explore in detail for each provider.
| Feature | π₯ NOWPayments | π₯ GoPay | π₯ PayU | Stripe | ComGate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fee | 0.3%β1.5% | 0% 12 mo; then 0.95% |
1% promo; then 1.45% + 1 CZK |
1.5% + 6.50 CZK |
0%β0.6% promo; then 0.67%β1% |
| Speed | 99% <1 min; email <1 sec |
Seconds; payouts up to 5 WD |
Checkout <1h; payouts same/next BD |
Seconds; first payout 7β14d; then 3 BD |
Real-time; payouts D+1βD+3 |
| Checkout | β | β | β | β | β |
| Mass Payouts | β | β | β | β | β |
| API | β | β | β | β | β |
| Plugins | β | β | β | β | β |
| Stablecoins | β | β | β | β | β |
| 24/7 Support | β | β | β | β | β |
| Best For | High-volume crypto payments |
Local e-commerce |
Local bank transfers |
SaaS / dev | Omnichannel CZ |
*Rates, supported assets, and settlement options change frequently. Verify current terms on each providerβs official site before signing up.
NOWPayments
Best for: high-volume businesses that need a crypto payment and payout layer for stablecoin settlement, mass payouts, conversions, and cross-border operations.
NOWPayments operates as a crypto payment processor for accepting digital assets, converting coins, and sending mass payouts across borders. The ecosystem covers stablecoin checkout, custody balances, auto-swaps, and ChangeNOW Pro payouts that settle almost instantly. Czech sellers typically pair it with a local koruna gateway rather than using it as a standalone checkout replacement. It fits brands that pay global affiliates, creators, freelancers, or remote teams in crypto.
Fees. NOWPayments uses a partnership-based pricing model rather than a flat retail rate. Standard deposits start at 1% for single-currency payments and 1.5% for multi-currency settlements, with partner rates as low as 0.3%. Conversions cost 0.5%, crypto payouts carry a 0% service fee, and ChangeNOW Pro payouts have a $0 network fee.
| Fee Type | Rate |
| Single-currency deposits | From 1%, down to 0.3% for eligible partners |
| Multi-currency deposits | From 1.5% |
| Conversions | 0.5% |
| Crypto payouts | 0% service fee |
| ChangeNOW Pro payouts | $0 network fee |
| Integration, setup, dedicated support | Free |
Supported Payment Methods. NOWPayments supports crypto, stablecoin, and fiat settlement through a single account. Merchants can accept 350+ cryptocurrencies and 30+ stablecoins, including USDT and USDC on multiple blockchains. Funds can be held in custody, converted, or routed to mass payouts and email transfers. Fiat settlement is available via integrated off-ramps, making the platform flexible for hybrid treasury workflows.
| Feature | Status |
| USDT | β |
| USDC | β |
| Stablecoins | 30+ |
| Altcoins | 350+ |
| FIAT | β |
| Mass payouts | β |
| Custody payouts | β |
| Email payouts | β |
Business-Focused Features. NOWPayments focuses on fast settlement and automated payout flows. It confirms 99% of incoming payments in under one minute and supports mass payouts to wallet addresses or emails. Merchants can manage custody balances, set withdrawal whitelists, and automate treasury tasks through the dashboard or API. The platform also provides 24/7 support, e-commerce plugins, and subscription tooling for scaling operations.
| Feature Area | Key Capabilities |
| Revenue tools | Payments, payouts, custody, conversions |
| Speed | 99% <1 min; email payouts <1 sec |
| Automation | API, CSV, dashboard, webhooks |
| Stablecoins | USDT, USDC, auto-conversion |
| Support | 24/7 assistance |
Sources:Β
GoPay
Best for: Czech and Slovak SMEs and e-commerce merchants that need the most recognized local gateway with Czech-language support.
GoPay ranks among the most recognized checkout providers in the Czech Republic and Slovakia, with a long track record serving thousands of local sellers. The solution supports dozens of methods, multilingual checkout, and recurring billing for small and mid-sized e-shops. The merchants value its fast onboarding, domestic support, and familiar brand name at the point of sale. It works best as a primary local gateway for businesses focused on koruna-based online sales.
Supported Payment Methods. GoPay covers the most common Czech and Slovak checkout methods. Merchants can accept Visa, Mastercard, and Maestro cards; online bank transfers from major local banks; and mobile wallets such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. The gateway also handles standard bank transfers, SMS payments, and coupon payments. This mix makes it a strong fit for local e-shops serving Czech and Slovak shoppers.
| Feature | Status |
| Crypto | β |
| Stablecoins | β |
| Fiat payments | β |
| Cards | β |
| Online transfers | β |
| Mobile wallets | β |
| Bank transfers | β |
| Mass payouts | β |
Transaction Fees. GoPay does not charge a fixed per-transaction fee on its main plan. New merchants can start with zero fees for up to twelve months, after which the rate becomes 0.95% plus 0 CZK. A growth plan is also available. It targets lower volumes and adds a small monthly fee.
| Plan | Fee |
| Free / Start | 0% for 12 mo, then 0.95% |
| Growth | 0% for 3 mo / CZK 500K, then 0.95% + CZK 80/mo |
| Custom | Negotiated above CZK 1M |
Business-Focused Features. GoPay specializes in local checkout, recurring billing, and mobile payments. It offers real-time authorization for all supported methods and a business account with daily, weekly, or monthly payout schedules. Merchants get Czech-language support on business days and a wide library of modules and plugins. The platform also supports subscriptions, pre-authorizations, and one-click payments for returning customers.
| Feature Area | Key Capabilities |
| Local methods | Cards, bank transfers, wallets, SMS, coupons |
| Speed | Online seconds; bank transfers ~1h, max 24h; payouts up to 5 working days |
| Recurring billing | Subscriptions, pre-authorizations |
| Integrations | API, modules, e-commerce plugins |
| Support | Czech support on business days |
Sources:Β
- GoPay Official Website
- GoPay Czech Payment Methods and Confirmation Times
- GoPay Account Terms of Use
PayU
Best for: merchants wanting a trusted international brand with strong local Czech bank-transfer coverage.
PayU is an international processor with strong roots in Central Europe, including the Czech online bank-transfer segment. Its local gateway combines cards, express transfers, digital wallets, and buy-now-pay-later options under one integration. Merchants benefit from a familiar brand, broad shopper recognition, and a setup path that does not require deep engineering. It suits sellers seeking global infrastructure with localized Czech payment behavior.
Supported Payment Methods. PayU Czech supports cards, express bank transfers, QR codes, and mobile wallets from Apple and Google. Merchants can also offer Click-to-Pay and deferred checkout options such as Klarna and Twisto. The gateway covers major local bank-transfer brands as well as international card schemes. This combination works for both domestic Czech checkout and cross-border sales.
| Feature | Status |
| USDT | β |
| USDC | β |
| Altcoins | β |
| FIAT | β |
| Cards | Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay, Google Pay |
| Bank transfers | Online transfers, QR payments |
| Deferred payments | Klarna, Twisto |
| Mass payouts | β |
| Custody payouts | β |
| Email payouts | β |
Transaction Fees. PayU Czech offers an introductory rate of 1% plus 1 CZK for the first three months on cards and online transfers. After the promotional period, the standard cost becomes 1.45% plus 1 CZK per transaction. Activation is currently priced at 200 Czech koruna as a promotional price. There is no monthly fee.
| Payment Method | Fee |
| Online transfers incl. QR | 1% + 1 CZK for 3 mo, then 1.45% + 1 CZK |
| Cards incl. Apple/Google Pay | 1% + 1 CZK for 3 mo, then 1.45% + 1 CZK |
| Klarna | 1.99% + 5.80 CZK |
| Activation | 200 CZK one-time |
Business-Focused Features. PayU combines international infrastructure with local Czech payment behavior. It provides real-time checkout authorization and fast settlement for cards and online transfers. The four-step independent registration lets merchants start accepting payments without a long sales process. The platform also offers plugins, an API, a merchant panel, and support for over 50 countries.
| Feature Area | Key Capabilities |
| Local methods | Cards, transfers, QR, wallets, BNPL |
| Speed | Real-time checkout; cards/transfers <1h; bank transfer 2 BD; payouts same/next BD |
| International reach | 50+ countries |
| Integrations | API, plugins, merchant panel |
| Support | Varies by plan |
Sources:
Stripe
Best for: tech startups and SaaS companies that want developer-friendly APIs and built-in billing infrastructure.
Stripe is a developer-first payment provider for startups and SaaS firms that want customizable checkout, billing, and marketplace payouts. In the Czech Republic, it supports major card schemes, SEPA direct debit, and mobile wallets from Apple and Google alongside advanced tools like Tax and Identity. The service stands out for deep APIs, extensive documentation, and reliable European settlement rails. It is ideal for tech companies scaling subscription or platform models across borders.
Supported Payment Methods. Stripe supports major card schemes, SEPA direct debit, and mobile wallets from Apple and Google in the Czech Republic. Merchants can also use Billing for subscriptions, Tax for automated tax collection, and Connect for marketplace payouts. Identity verification and Radar fraud protection extend the platform beyond basic checkout. This range makes Stripe a strong choice for SaaS and platform businesses.
| Feature | Status |
| Stablecoins | β |
| Altcoins | β |
| FIAT | β |
| Cards | Standard, premium, international |
| Bank-based | SEPA Direct Debit |
| Wallets | Apple Pay, Google Pay |
| Mass payouts | β |
| Custody payouts | β |
| Email payouts | β |
Transaction Fees. Stripe Czech pricing is transparent and pay-as-you-go, with no monthly platform fee. Card processing carries a 6.50 KΔ fixed component plus 1.5% standard local, 1.9% premium local, 2.5% UK, and 3.25% non-European rates. SEPA Direct Debit is priced separately at 9.00 KΔ per transaction. This structure suits merchants with predictable card volume.
| Payment Method | Fee |
| Standard EEA cards | 1.5% + 6.50 KΔ |
| Premium EEA cards | 1.9% + 6.50 KΔ |
| UK cards | 2.5% + 6.50 KΔ |
| International cards | 3.25% + 6.50 KΔ |
| SEPA Direct Debit | 9.00 KΔ |
Business-Focused Features. Stripe is built for developers and scaling SaaS businesses. It offers near-instant payment confirmation, configurable payout schedules, and a 99.999% historical uptime. The platform provides APIs, SDKs, extensive documentation, and webhooks for custom integrations. It also supports subscriptions, invoicing, tax automation, and marketplace payouts through Stripe Connect.
| Feature Area | Key Capabilities |
| Developer tools | APIs, SDKs, docs, webhooks |
| Speed | Instant confirmation; first payout 7β14 days, then T+3 |
| Billing | Subscriptions, invoices, tax automation |
| Marketplace | Stripe Connect payouts |
| Support | 24/7 support |
Sources:
ComGate
Best for: cost-conscious Czech merchants wanting transparent local pricing, omnichannel sales, and Czech-language support.
ComGate is a Prague-region payment institution with over two decades of experience connecting Czech e-shops, terminals, and online invoicing. The provider holds a European license, is a principal Visa and Mastercard member, and publishes transparent fixed-rate pricing. Its omnichannel approach lets merchants accept orders on websites and in physical stores through one account. It appeals to local retailers and mid-market brands that want clear costs combined with domestic support.
Supported Payment Methods. ComGate supports cards, online bank transfers, QR payments, and meal vouchers for Czech and Slovak merchants. The provider also operates more than 9,000 payment terminals for in-store sales. Merchants can accept Visa and Mastercard online, at the point of sale, or through invoice links. This omnichannel mix works well for retailers selling both on websites and in physical stores.
| Feature | Status |
| Stablecoins | β |
| Altcoins | β |
| FIAT | β |
| Cards | Visa, Mastercard |
| Online transfers | Czech and Slovak bank transfers, QR |
| Terminals | 9,000+ payment terminals |
| Mass payouts | β |
Transaction Fees. ComGate advertises fixed final prices with no hidden scheme fee pass-through. The Start plan offers 0% for the first six months on card payments up to 50,000 Czech koruna per month, then 1% with no fixed component. Easy and Profi plans carry introductory rates of 0.6% and 0.47% plus a 1-unit charge for the first three months; standard rates then start at 1% and 0.67% plus the same flat add-on. Custom pricing is available for merchants processing over 3 million koruna monthly.
| Plan | Main Fee |
| Start | 0% for 6 mo up to CZK 50K/mo, then 1% |
| Easy | 0.6% for 3 mo, then 1% |
| Profi | 0.47% + 1 CZK for 3 mo, then 0.67% + 1 CZK |
| Bank transfers, Profi | CZ/SK 0.62%; PL 1.16% |
| Custom | Negotiated above CZK 3M/mo |
Business-Focused Features. ComGate offers online and in-store payment acceptance under one account. It provides real-time authorization and published daily payout schedules by currency. Merchants get Czech-language support on weekdays and a checkout SDK plus e-shop plugins. The provider also holds a European payment institution license regulated by the Czech National Bank.
| Feature Area | Key Capabilities |
| Omnichannel | Online gateway + terminals |
| Speed | Real-time checkout; CZK D+2, EUR D+1, PLN/other D+3 |
| Licensing | ΔNB-regulated European payment institution |
| Integrations | API, SDK, e-shop plugins |
| Support | Weekdays 8:00β20:00 |
Sources:Β
How to Choose the Right Gateway
Selecting a gateway depends on your customer base, transaction volume, technical resources, and payout needs. Use the steps below to narrow the choice.
- Match local payment habits. Czech shoppers prefer bank transfers, debit cards, and mobile wallets, so a local gateway is usually needed for CZK checkout.
- Add crypto only when relevant. NOWPayments works best as a crypto layer alongside a local CZK gateway.
- Compare total cost. Include processing fees, conversion spreads, fixed fees, payout costs, and monthly charges.
- Check settlement speed. Faster access to cash flow matters for high-volume sellers.
- Test integrations. Make sure the provider offers plugins or APIs for your platform.
- Run a pilot. Test conversion, settlement, reconciliation, and support before full rollout.
When Payment Gateways May Not Be a Good Option
A payment gateway may not be suitable for every business model. Avoid relying on a provider if:
- Your customers only use a payment method the provider does not support.
- The provider cannot settle in your required currency or timeframe.
- Compliance requirements in your industry exceed the providerβs coverage.
- Fees make low-margin products unprofitable.
- You need features such as mass payouts or stablecoin settlement that the gateway lacks.
Payment Gateway Fees Compared
Cost structures vary from flat percentage rates to custom enterprise pricing. Understanding the total cost of ownership, including processing fees, conversion spreads, payout costs, and network fees, helps merchants choose a suitable provider for their volume.
| Provider | Platform Fee | Fixed Fee | $1,000 Cost Example |
| NOWPayments | 0.3%β1.5% | $0 | ~$3β$15 |
| GoPay | 0% for 12 mo, then 0.95% | 0 CZK | $0 / ~$9.50 |
| PayU | 1% promo, then 1.45% | 1 CZK | ~$10 / ~$14.50 |
| Stripe | 1.5% | 6.50 CZK | ~$15 + fixed |
| ComGate | 0%β0.6% promo;Β then 0.67%β1% | 0β1 CZK | ~$0β$10 + fixed |
*Rates are based on publicly available pricing pages and may vary by volume, verification level, and settlement method. Verify current fees directly with each provider.
Total Cost Analysis
NOWPayments is the most competitive for large crypto flows, with 0% payout fees and $0 network fees on eligible ChangeNOW Pro transfers.
GoPay is competitive for local CZK e-commerce after the 12-month promotional period.
PayU is strong for bank-transfer volume, but the per-transaction fixed fee adds up on small tickets.
Stripe is predictable for card and SEPA volume, with premium rates for international cards.
ComGate has the lowest standard card rate among local fiat options at 0.67% + 1 CZK on the Profi plan, with a 0% Start plan for new merchants.
Fiat vs Crypto Gateway Models
Businesses in the Czech Republic can choose between local fiat gateways and crypto-native platforms. Each model controls funds, settlement speed, and operational responsibility differently.
Crypto-native platforms (merchant controls or custodies digital assets):
β NOWPaymentsΒ Β
Crypto payment solutions such as NOWPayments handle digital-asset acceptance, conversions, and mass payouts, often with faster settlement but exposure to network fees and custody risk.Β
Local fiat gateways (provider manages banking rails):
- β GoPayΒ Β
- β PayUΒ Β
- β ComGateΒ Β
- β StripeΒ Β
These providers route card and bank-transfer transactions through licensed banking infrastructure, simplifying CZK checkout but relying on traditional settlement cycles.
Which Payment Gateway Should You Choose?
Match a provider to your business model, transaction volume, compliance needs, and technical resources. NOWPayments stands out as the best crypto payment gateway and the strongest specialist option for digital-asset operations.
Choose NOWPayments if you:
- need crypto acceptance, stablecoin settlement, or mass payouts
- want 0% payout fees and $0 network fees on eligible ChangeNOW Pro transfers
- operate across borders and need 24/7 support
- serve high-volume businesses, affiliates, marketplaces, trading platforms, or cross-border teams
Choose GoPay if you:
- need a recognized local gateway for Czech e-commerce
- want Czech-language support and fast onboarding
- rely on local cards, bank transfers, and mobile wallets
Choose PayU if you:
- want international infrastructure with strong Czech bank-transfer coverage
- need deferred payments such as Klarna or Twisto
- prefer a four-step independent registration
Choose Stripe if you:
- are a tech startup or SaaS building custom checkout
- need billing, tax, or marketplace tools
- want developer-friendly APIs and 24/7 support
Choose ComGate if you:
- want transparent local pricing and omnichannel sales
- need payment terminals alongside online checkout
- prefer a Czech-language provider regulated by the ΔNB
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