Local payment systems in Europe are taking new steps to build a cross-border network around the Wero framework. The structure, which is similar to local solutions such as BKM Express previously introduced in Türkiye, aims to reduce Europe’s dependence on card networks.
The connection, which is carried out under the name of European Network of Payments, includes systems such as Bizum, Bancomat, MB Way and Vipps MobilePay, as well as Wero. The center is planned to be established in Madrid. The first goal is to make person-to-person money transfers work between countries.
According to the calendar, the cross-border money sending feature is expected to be activated in 2026. The payment side of workplaces is expected to start in 2027. Participatory networks operate in 13 countries.
The initiative aims to unify a space that can potentially reach 130 million users and approximately 72 percent of the European Union population. However, the same functions are not expected to open on the same date in all countries.
There is a compatibility test ahead of the public network
Each system has different authentication, banking connection and consumer protection rules. Therefore, in addition to technical connectivity, regulatory compliance will also be decisive. The scope of new entrants is not the same as the markets where Wero is available today.
To summarize, the initiative is not establishing a single card network that will immediately replace Visa and Mastercard. First, it enables existing local systems to talk to each other. If successful, money transfers and store payments within Europe could proceed through a more local infrastructure.