The Ultimate QRIS Guide: Seamless Digital Transactions for Indonesia’s Youth | MoneyKu

The digital payment era has transformed how we transact daily. From small coffee stalls to big supermarkets, digital payment methods are becoming ubiquitous. Amidst the plethora of digital wallet and banking app options, a standard has emerged that unifies them all: QRIS. But, what exactly is QRIS? How does it work? And most importantly, how can we make the most of it? This article will thoroughly unpack everything you need to know about QRIS, your gateway to seamless digital transactions in Indonesia.

Your Gateway to the Digital Payment Era: What is QRIS?

Imagine this scenario: you’re grabbing some cilok from a street vendor, and they say, “Just pay with QRIS, please.” Or when you want to send money to a friend for a potluck, but they only give you one QR code. Back in the day, you might have been confused, thinking, “Is this GoPay’s QRIS or OVO’s?” Well, that kind of confusion is exactly what QRIS aims to solve.

The Digital Payment Revolution in Indonesia

In recent years, Indonesia has witnessed an explosion in digital payment usage. Digital wallets like GoPay, OVO, Dana, ShopeePay, and others have become an inseparable part of many people’s daily lives. Add to that the mobile banking apps from various banks that also offer transaction convenience. However, this diversity isn’t without its challenges. Each payment platform often has its own QR code, forcing merchants to display multiple codes or consumers to have numerous apps to transact in different places. This creates a bit of disruption and inefficiency, for both sellers and buyers.

Introducing QRIS: The National Payment Standard

To address these challenges, Bank Indonesia (BI) launched QRIS (Quick Response Code Indonesian Standard). QRIS is a national standard created by BI and the Indonesian Payment System Association (ASPI), aiming to unify various QR codes from payment service providers (PSPs) using just one QR code. This means, with a single QRIS code, you can make payments from any mobile banking app or any digital wallet that supports QRIS. Pretty neat, huh? QRIS acts like a bridge connecting all digital payment systems in Indonesia into a more integrated and efficient ecosystem.

Why is QRIS Important? Initial Benefits.

The presence of QRIS is not just about convenience; it also brings significant impact to Indonesia’s digital economy. For consumers, QRIS offers incredible comfort; no more carrying large amounts of cash, no more hassle choosing the right payment app at every store. Just scan, pay, done. For Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), QRIS opens wide doors to the world of digital payments without needing a large investment in expensive Electronic Data Capture (EDC) machines. This is a major step forward for financial inclusion in Indonesia.

To understand more deeply what QRIS is and its overall benefits, you can check out the article what is qris and its benefits.

Unpacking How QRIS Works: The Technology Behind the Code

You might often wonder, how exactly do those square codes make money move from your pocket to the merchant’s account? The process behind it might sound complex, but at its core, it’s incredibly smart and efficient.

A Brief History of QRIS and Bank Indonesia’s Initiative

Before QRIS existed, each bank or digital wallet company had its own QR code standard. For instance, there was Bank A’s Standard QR Code, Digital Wallet B’s Standard QR Code, and so on. This led to a lack of uniformity in practice. Small merchants often had to print multiple types of QR codes to serve customers from various banks or digital wallets. Realizing the need for uniformity and efficiency, Bank Indonesia, along with Indonesia’s payment system industry, initiated the creation of a national standard. The goal was clear: one QR code that anyone could use, from any bank, and any digital wallet.

How QR Codes Are Used for Financial Transactions

Essentially, a QRIS code contains the vital information needed to conduct a transaction. This information includes:

• Merchant Identity: Who the merchant receiving the payment is. This is crucial to ensure you don’t pay the wrong person.
• Transaction Details: This could be the payment amount (for dynamic QRIS) or instructions for the buyer to enter the amount themselves (for static QRIS).
• Payment System Information: Other technical details that ensure the transaction runs smoothly.

When you scan a QRIS code using your mobile banking app or digital wallet, the app reads the information within the QR code. Subsequently, the app forwards this information to your bank’s system or your digital wallet provider for processing. This process is very fast, usually taking only seconds. Your payment system then communicates with the merchant’s service provider’s system to verify and complete the transaction. Your money will be debited from your account or digital wallet balance and credited to the merchant’s account.

The Role of the National Payment Gateway (GPN)

Behind the smooth operation of QRIS transactions, there’s a crucial infrastructure working hard: the National Payment Gateway (GPN). GPN is a network that allows various payment instruments, both cards and QR codes, to connect and interact with each other. QRIS is one of the implementations of this GPN. With GPN in place, Bank A’s payment system can ‘talk’ to Bank B’s payment system, or Digital Wallet C’s payment system can interact with Bank D’s payment system. This creates a strong interconnection and enables QRIS to function effectively as a national standard.

Advantages of Using QRIS: More Than Just Convenience

QRIS offers many advantages, not just for consumers but also for businesses. Its benefits span various aspects, from time efficiency to security.

Ease and Speed of Transactions

Forget the hassle of counting change or entering card numbers multiple times. With QRIS, transactions become incredibly fast. Just open your app, point your camera at the QR code, enter the amount (if needed), and confirm. This process can be completed in seconds, much more efficient than typical cash or card payment methods, especially when you’re in a hurry or in a crowd.

Guaranteed Transaction Security

In digital transactions, security is the top priority. QRIS is designed with high security standards. Every transaction uses encryption and dual authentication (e.g., PIN or biometrics). Compared to carrying large amounts of cash which are vulnerable to loss or theft, using QRIS is much safer. Furthermore, because every transaction is digitally recorded, tracking it if issues arise becomes easier.

Wide Reach: One Code for All Payments

This is one of QRIS’s most prominent advantages. Imagine you’re at a small grocery store that only accepts cash or a specific type of e-wallet. With QRIS, that merchant can accept payments from various banks (BCA, Mandiri, BRI, BNI, etc.) and various digital wallets (GoPay, OVO, Dana, ShopeePay, etc.) with just one QR code. As a consumer, you won’t have to wonder which app to use anymore; just use your preferred digital payment app that’s already integrated with QRIS.

Support for Local MSMEs

QRIS has become the backbone of digitalization for Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. The registration and usage process for QRIS is relatively easy and much more affordable compared to traditional EDC machines. This allows MSMEs to reach more customers who are now transacting more digitally, and to improve their operational efficiency. In fact, 93.16 percent of total QRIS merchants in Indonesia are MSMEs. This demonstrates how vital QRIS is in empowering the people’s economy. Transactions via QRIS also show significant economic activity, evidenced by the average transaction value per QRIS user in Indonesia reaching Rp 5,561,403.51 (Q2 2025). With this convenience, local businesses find it easier to compete and grow. For more detailed guidance on these benefits, you can read benefits of transacting with qris moneyku.

Understanding QRIS Types: Static vs. Dynamic

Not all QRIS codes are the same. There are two main types you need to know, each with its own advantages and functions: Static QRIS and Dynamic QRIS.

Static QRIS: Simple and Practical for Small Transactions

Static QRIS is a QR code whose appearance doesn’t change and doesn’t display the payment amount. This code is usually printed and displayed at the payment point. When you want to transact using static QRIS, you need to:

1. Scan the static QRIS code.
2. Manually enter the payment amount in your mobile banking app or digital wallet.
3. Re-verify the amount before confirming the payment.

This type of QRIS is perfect for small merchants or individual sellers whose transactions tend to be small in value and high in frequency, such as street food vendors, traditional market sellers, or communities collecting dues. The convenience is that you can print one code and use it repeatedly without hassle.

Dynamic QRIS: Flexible for Diverse Business Needs

Unlike static QRIS, dynamic QRIS is a QR code that is automatically generated for each transaction. This code usually displays transaction details, including the amount to be paid, and is directly linked to the merchant’s cashier or Point of Sale (POS) system. The advantages of dynamic QRIS are:

• Reduces the risk of nominal input errors. The amount is already displayed, so customers just need to scan and confirm.
• Increases transaction speed as no manual input is required from the buyer.
• More suitable for large-value transactions or those requiring specific details.

Dynamic QRIS is commonly found at supermarket checkouts, restaurants, modern cafes, or on digital payment receipts. It’s a more advanced solution for businesses that require high efficiency and accuracy.

When to Use Static QRIS and When to Use Dynamic QRIS?

Choosing between static and dynamic QRIS depends heavily on business needs.

• Use Static QRIS if:

  • Your business is an MSME with small, frequent transactions.
  • You want the simplest digital payment method to implement.
  • You don’t have an integrated POS system.

• Use Dynamic QRIS if:

  • Your business requires high accuracy in payment amounts.
  • You want to speed up the customer checkout process.
  • You already use an integrated POS system or cashier app.
  • You need to track each transaction in detail for bookkeeping purposes.

Understanding these differences is important so you can choose or use QRIS appropriately according to the context. Learn more about the differences at static vs dynamic qris differences.

Step-by-Step: How to Make a QRIS Payment

Ready to transact with QRIS? It’s surprisingly easy! Almost all leading mobile banking apps and digital wallets in Indonesia already support QRIS payments. Here’s the guide:

Using Your Mobile Banking App

If you’re more comfortable using your banking app, the process is similar across most banks:

1. Open Your Mobile Banking App: Launch the mobile banking app from your chosen bank (e.g., BCA Mobile, Livin’ by Mandiri, BRImo, BNI Mobile Banking, etc.).
2. Find the QRIS Payment Feature: It’s usually in the main menu or under ‘Payments/Transfers.’ Look for options like ‘Pay QR,’ ‘Scan QR,’ or ‘QRIS.’
3. Point Your Camera: Allow the app to access your camera, then point it at the QRIS code in front of you.
4. Check Transaction Details: After the code is identified, the app will display the merchant’s name and the amount to be paid (if it’s dynamic QRIS). This is a crucial step: ensure the merchant’s name matches where you are transacting.
5. Enter PIN or Authenticate: Confirm the transaction by entering your mobile banking PIN or using another authentication method provided (e.g., fingerprint or facial recognition).
6. Transaction Complete: You’ll see a notification that the payment was successful. Save the transaction receipt if needed.

Using Your Preferred Digital Wallet (E-Wallets)

For those of you who frequently use digital wallets, the process is very similar:

1. Open Your Digital Wallet App: Launch your favorite e-wallet app (e.g., GoPay, OVO, Dana, ShopeePay, LinkAja).
2. Find the ‘Pay’ or ‘Scan’ Feature: Look for a button or icon labeled ‘Pay,’ ‘Scan,’ or a QR code icon.
3. Scan the QRIS Code: Point your app’s camera at the merchant’s QRIS code.
4. Verify Data: Double-check the merchant name and payment amount displayed on the screen.
5. Confirm Payment: Proceed by confirming the payment, which typically requires a PIN or biometric authentication according to your app’s settings.

Safety Tips When Scanning QR Codes

Security is key. Here are some tips to keep your QRIS transactions safe:

• Always Verify Merchant Name: This is the most crucial step. Before hitting the ‘Pay’ button or entering your PIN, ensure the merchant name that appears on your app screen matches the place you’re transacting at. Scammers sometimes replace official QR codes with their own, and the merchant name displayed on the app will be different.
• Examine the Physical Code: Make sure the QRIS code you’re scanning is an official sticker from the merchant, not one taped over suspicious locations or sent via unsolicited text messages/emails.
• Don’t Scan Codes Randomly: Avoid scanning QRIS codes from untrusted sources, like links on social media or WhatsApp messages from unknown numbers.
• Use PIN/Authentication: Always use your PIN or biometric authentication when confirming payments to add an extra layer of security.

Want to know more about transacting with mobile banking? Read more at how to use qris via m-banking. For app recommendations you can use, check out best qris payment app recommendations.

Choosing the Best QRIS Payment App in Indonesia

With so many apps supporting QRIS, you might be confused about which one to choose. Each app has its own pros and cons. The key is to find the one that best suits your needs and transaction habits.

Factors to Consider When Choosing an App

Before deciding, consider a few things:

• Ease of Use (UI/UX): How intuitive is the app’s interface? Is it easy to find the QRIS payment feature?
• Bank and E-Wallet Support: Is the app compatible with the banks or digital wallets you use most often?
• Transaction Fees: For consumers, most QRIS transactions are free. However, for merchants, these fees can vary. Make sure you understand if there are any hidden costs.
• Additional Features: Are there attractive promotions, loyalty programs, bill payment services, or other features that fit your lifestyle?
• Customer Service: How responsive is customer support if you encounter any issues?
• Security: How robust are the security features offered by the app?

Comparison of Popular Apps (Features, Fees, Support)

In Indonesia, some of the main, very popular players for QRIS payments include:

• Digital Wallets: GoPay, OVO, Dana, ShopeePay, LinkAja. Each has a strong user base and often offers cashback promotions or discounts.
• Mobile Banking Apps: BCA Mobile (myBCA), Livin’ by Mandiri, BRImo, BNI Mobile Banking. In addition to their primary banking functions, these apps are fully integrated with QRIS, offering convenience for loyal bank customers.

Each app has its own ecosystem and strengths. For example, if you’re a loyal user of ride-sharing services, GoPay might be your top choice. If you frequently shop online, ShopeePay could be very beneficial. Meanwhile, for those who prioritize integrated financial management, your bank’s mobile banking app might be the way to go.

Which App is Right for You?

There isn’t a single ‘best’ app for everyone. The best choice is the one that suits you most. Consider how you usually transact. Do you often use ride-sharing services? Do you enjoy online shopping? Do you prefer managing all your finances within one banking app? Answering these questions will help you find the most suitable QRIS app. For in-depth guides and app comparisons, refer to best qris payment app recommendations.

Keeping Your QRIS Transactions Secure

While QRIS convenience is tempting, like all digital payment technologies, there’s always potential risk if not used carefully. Understanding threats and implementing preventive measures is key to a secure transaction experience.

Common Security Threats: Phishing, Fake Codes, and More

Scammers are constantly looking for new ways to misuse technology. Some common threats related to QRIS include:

• QR Code Phishing: This is the most common tactic. Scammers will paste a fake QR code sticker over the legitimate QRIS code at a payment location (e.g., on a cafe table, at a minimarket checkout). When you scan the fake code, you’ll be directed to enter sensitive information or make a direct transfer to the scammer’s account.
• App Malware: Some malicious apps installed on your phone might steal transaction information or redirect your payments without you realizing it.
• Social Engineering Scams: You might receive messages or emails containing QR code links to ‘claim a prize’ or ‘confirm a payment,’ when in reality, it’s a trap.
• Fake QR Codes Online: Sometimes scammers spread fake QR codes on social media or untrusted websites.

Smart Tips for Identifying Safe QRIS Codes

Protect yourself by following these tips:

• Check for the QRIS Logo: Official QRIS codes usually have a clear QRIS logo. However, don’t rely on the logo alone.
• Always Verify the Merchant Name in the App: This is your strongest defense. Before confirming the payment, always check the merchant name displayed on your mobile banking or digital wallet app. If the merchant name doesn’t match where you’re transacting, DO NOT PROCEED WITH THE PAYMENT.
• Be Wary of Codes in Unexpected Places: Be cautious if you find QR codes in unusual spots (e.g., taped to street lamps, in restrooms, or sent via spam messages).
• Ensure the Physical Code is Neatly Applied: If the QR code looks like it’s been pasted over another code, or appears suspicious, it’s best to ask the staff at the location.
• Never Share Your PIN or OTP: QRIS codes never ask for your PIN or One-Time Password (OTP) to scan. This information is only needed to confirm a payment within your own app.

The Role of Financial Authorities in QRIS Security

Bank Indonesia (BI) and the Financial Services Authority (OJK) play a crucial role in safeguarding digital payment systems, including QRIS. They establish strict regulations for PSPs to ensure data and transaction security. The GPN infrastructure, which is the backbone of QRIS, is also designed with high security standards. BI also continuously educates the public on digital financial literacy and transaction security.

What to Do If a Problem Occurs?

If you believe you’ve been a victim of a scam or have a suspicious QRIS transaction:

1. Contact Customer Service Immediately: Reach out to your bank or digital wallet provider as soon as possible to report the issue and request a block or investigation.
2. Keep Transaction Proof: Save all evidence, including app screenshots, payment receipts (if any), and conversation records if available.
3. Report to Authorities (if necessary): For more serious fraud cases, consider reporting it to the police.

Understanding how QRIS works and its potential risks will help you transact more confidently and securely.

QRIS for Businesses: Driving MSME Growth

QRIS is more than just a payment tool for consumers; it’s a strategic solution for businesses, especially Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) in Indonesia. By adopting QRIS, local businesses can unlock new opportunities and improve operational efficiency.

Benefits of QRIS for Sellers and MSMEs

• Expanded Customer Reach: By accepting QRIS payments, you’re no longer limited to customers who carry cash or have specific bank cards. You can serve customers using various digital payment apps.
• Reduced Risk of Cash Loss: No need to keep large amounts of cash at the register, reducing the risk of theft or loss.
• Faster and Accurate Transactions: Whether with static or dynamic QRIS, the payment process becomes more efficient. Dynamic QRIS is particularly helpful in minimizing nominal input errors.
• Automatic Transaction Records: Every QRIS transaction is digitally recorded, making it easier for you to monitor daily, weekly, or monthly income. This is invaluable for bookkeeping and business analysis.
• Lower Transaction Fees: Generally, QRIS transaction fees for merchants are much lower compared to the fees charged by EDC machines for credit or debit cards.

The number of MSME merchants using QRIS continues to grow rapidly, reaching 39.82 million by the end of 2025. This shows that QRIS has become a vital payment standard for the survival and growth of MSMEs in Indonesia.

The QRIS Registration Process for Businesses

To start accepting QRIS payments, you need to register through one of the Payment Service Providers (PSPs) appointed by Bank Indonesia. These PSPs can be commercial banks or payment gateway institutions.

The general process includes:

1. Choose a PSP: Find a bank or payment gateway that offers QRIS services for merchants.
2. Submit an Application: Fill out the registration form provided by the PSP. You may be asked to complete documents such as personal identification (KTP), Business Identification Number (NIB) or other business permits, and supporting documents.
3. Select QR Code Type: Determine whether you need static QRIS (for small businesses) or dynamic QRIS (integrated with the cashier system).
4. Receive QR Code: After your application is approved, you will receive your QRIS code (as a sticker for static, or integrated into the cashier system for dynamic).

Integrating QRIS with Your Business Systems

For larger businesses or those already using a Point of Sale (POS) system, QRIS integration can be smoother. Modern POS systems usually have built-in features to automatically generate dynamic QRIS codes. This ensures that every transaction is neatly recorded and the checkout process is very fast. If you have an e-commerce website, QRIS can also be integrated as one of the payment options.

Success Case Studies of MSMEs with QRIS

There are many success stories of MSMEs transforming thanks to QRIS adoption. For example, a small coffee shop that previously only accepted cash can now serve hundreds of customers daily due to the ease of QRIS payments. A local handicraft store selling its products online has also experienced positive impacts, as customers can easily make payments.

With 93.16 percent of total QRIS merchants being MSMEs, this proves that QRIS is a highly effective tool for increasing the competitiveness and expanding the market for small to medium-sized businesses in Indonesia.

Challenges and Future Evolution of QRIS in Indonesia’s Financial Ecosystem

QRIS has become a major player in Indonesia’s digital payment ecosystem, but like all technologies, it faces challenges and is continuously evolving for a better future.

Addressing Adoption and Education Challenges

One of QRIS’s biggest challenges is ensuring widespread adoption across all segments of society and business actors. The digital literacy gap remains an obstacle, especially in rural areas or among less tech-savvy populations. Continuous education on how to use QRIS securely and its benefits for businesses is crucial. Ensuring small merchants understand how to register and use it is also an ongoing effort.

Potential for Innovation: AI Integration and Advanced Services

The future of QRIS looks bright with limitless innovation potential. Integration with artificial intelligence (AI) can pave the way for smarter new features:

• Deeper Business Analytics: AI can help merchants analyze their QRIS transaction data to gain richer insights into customer preferences, peak transaction times, and sales trends.
• Personalized Offers: Based on customer transaction history, businesses can offer more relevant and attractive promotions or discounts.
• Enhanced Security: AI can be used to detect suspicious transaction patterns in real-time, minimizing fraud risks.
• Financial Service Integration: QRIS could become further integrated with other financial services, such as micro-loans or simple investment products, offered based on transaction history.

Direction of QRIS Development in Indonesia’s Digital Financial Ecosystem

QRIS is projected to continue being the backbone of digital payment systems in Indonesia. Some development directions include:

• Cross-Border QRIS: This is a major step to facilitate tourists or business travelers between countries in the ASEAN region. Imagine being able to pay in a neighboring country with the same QRIS code.
• Deeper Integration with Other Platforms: QRIS will become increasingly integrated with various digital platforms, from e-commerce and online transportation to public services.
• Holistic Digital Financial Ecosystem: QRIS will be an integral part of a broader digital financial ecosystem, supporting various types of transactions and financial services.

With strong support from Bank Indonesia and continuous technological advancements, QRIS will continue to play a central role in driving financial inclusion and advancing Indonesia’s digital economy.

Manage Your Finances Smarter: Track QRIS Expenses with MoneyKu

As QRIS becomes more widely used in daily life, the number of transactions you make can increase. Monitoring these expenses is key to better personal financial management. This is where apps like MoneyKu come in to help you.

Why is Tracking QRIS Expenses Important?

QRIS transactions, often quick and convenient, can sometimes make us forget where our money is going. A morning coffee, a midday snack, an afternoon phone credit top-up – all can be small QRIS transactions that add up significantly. Without good tracking, you might struggle to identify your biggest spending areas or even realize if you’re being unnecessarily wasteful. Understanding where your money goes is the first step to controlling it.

MoneyKu Features for Daily Expense Management

MoneyKu is specifically designed to make expense tracking as easy, and even enjoyable, as possible! With a user-friendly interface and appealing visuals (including a cute cat theme to ease money-related anxiety), MoneyKu offers:

• Quick Expense Logging: Input your expenses in seconds.
• Clear Categorization: Where is your money going? Food & Drinks, Transportation, Bills, Subscriptions, Entertainment, or Personal Needs? MoneyKu helps you group them.
• Visual Summaries: Get a complete overview of your expenses through easy-to-understand graphs and reports. You can see at a glance where your money is allocated.
• Split Bill Feature: If you often split bills with friends or family, this feature is very helpful for dividing costs.

How MoneyKu Helps You Understand Your QRIS Spending Habits

When you make a QRIS transaction, you can easily log it in MoneyKu and categorize it. For instance, when you buy coffee with QRIS, you can put it under the ‘Food & Drinks’ category. When you pay for online transportation with QRIS, it goes into ‘Transportation.’

With this, MoneyKu can provide detailed reports showing how much of your QRIS expenses fall into each category. You can see if your ‘eating out’ expenses via QRIS have become too high, or if your ‘transportation’ costs using QRIS are within budget. This information is invaluable for making adjustments.

With MoneyKu, you don’t just record transactions; you gain insights that can help you make better financial decisions, so you can achieve your financial goals.

To better understand how MoneyKu can support your expense management, including QRIS transactions, check out benefits of transacting with qris moneyku.