PaysafeCard is a type of prepaid payment card. Unlike prepaid cards offered by banks, it doesn't require a bank account or the provision of personal data when making payments. You simply buy the card and, when shopping online, enter a special code. The creators' intention is to allow for a level of anonymity similar to paying with cash in a physical store. But how does it work in practice?

In the following article, you will learn exactly how PaysafeCard works, how to purchase and top it up, and whether this payment method is safe for both the customer and the merchant.

Table of Contents

  • What is PaysafeCard?
  • How to pay using PaysafeCard?
  • Payment with or without registration?
  • How much does it cost to use PaysafeCard?
  • Not just PaysafeCard: alternatives to prepaid cards
  • FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

Key information at a glance:

  • PaysafeCard is a prepaid card for online payments. You don't need to provide personal data or link it to a bank account to use it;
  • payments are made using a 16-digit code that can be reused;
  • after 30 days from code purchase, unused funds will be subject to a fee. This is not the only fee in the PaysafeCard pricing list;
  • PaysafeCard offers account registration for easier code management. Registration requires providing personal details.

What is PaysafeCard?

When paying with cash in a physical store, you remain anonymous. You don't need to show ID or provide personal details — your transactions aren't linked to a bank account or card. PaysafeCard works similarly (referred to as “paysafecard” until 2024): it's a prepaid code payment method that allows you to pay online… as if using cash.

You can purchase a PaysafeCard prepaid code much like a gift card (voucher):

  • at a physical retail store — for example at Żabka, Delikatesy Centrum, or Carrefour stores. You can find authorized distributors using the PaysafeCard website. When buying the card in-store, you'll receive a printed physical code worth 20, 30, 50, 100, or 200 PLN, depending on your choice;
  • online, e.g. on the official PaysafeCard website — in that case, the card is digital, and you choose a top-up amount ranging from 25 to 675 PLN.

The card does not display the buyer's details, such as name or surname. It is also not linked to any bank account, which sets it apart from traditional prepaid payment cards. It only contains a 16-digit code required to complete payments.

How to pay using PaysafeCard?

You can use a PaysafeCard code to pay in online stores that accept it as a payment method. These include gaming platforms, music services, iGaming websites, and betting companies.

To complete a transaction on a partner store, simply select PaysafeCard from the list of available payment methods and then enter the 16-digit code. If you have the PaysafeCard mobile app, you can also use the QR code scanner. In the payment panel, choose “Pay with scan2pay” and scan the on-screen code (this won't work if the payment gateway is open on the same mobile device). After accepting the terms and conditions, you can complete the payment using Face ID, fingerprint, or a security code.

The transaction amount doesn't have to match the value on the prepaid card. If it's lower, the amount will simply be deducted from the available balance. The code can be reused until all funds are exhausted. The limit for a single transaction is 200 PLN. This can be increased by creating a PaysafeCard account and upgrading your status from Standard to Unlimited.

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Payment with or without registration?

Creating a PaysafeCard account is optional; it grants access to additional features, but you can still use prepaid cards without it. An exception applies to some websites that only support registered users. You can register via the website or mobile app. Here's what changes after registration:

  • you can store multiple codes in one place and have a single balance instead of separate vouchers;
  • you get transaction history insights and easier balance checking;
  • upon registration and obtaining Standard status, the transaction limit increases to 4,000 PLN;
  • to complete payments, you no longer need to enter the 16-digit code, only your PaysafeCard account credentials;
  • vouchers can be transferred directly from your PaysafeCard balance to another account;
  • service fees on your balance are charged starting in the 13th month (rather than the second).

Registration requires providing personal information (email address, first and last name, date of birth, address, phone number). This means transactions are no longer as anonymous as when using a one-time voucher without logging in. To upgrade your account to “Unlimited,” you’ll need to upload a scan of your ID card.

How much does it cost to use PaysafeCard?

If the voucher code is used within 30 days of purchase — no fees will be charged. After that, a monthly service fee of 10 PLN will be deducted from the remaining balance.

Other fees associated with using PaysafeCard include:

  • currency conversion fee — in the case of transactions requiring currency conversion, PaysafeCard charges a commission — the current rate (and fee) can be checked in the currency calculator on the operator's website;
  • funds refund — if you wish to withdraw funds from your PaysafeCard account to your bank account, a fee of 20 PLN will be charged;
  • service fee for the PaysafeCard account — if no transactions are made on the PaysafeCard account for 12 months, starting from the 13th month, a fee of 20 PLN will be deducted monthly. Fees will continue until the account balance reaches zero; overdraft is not possible.

Additionally, PaysafeCard notes that although it doesn't charge transaction fees, sellers may charge their own fees.

Not just PaysafeCard: alternatives to prepaid cards

If you're looking for an alternative to prepaid cards, it's worth considering online bank transfers offered by Przelewy24. This is a fast and secure payment method in online stores — instead of buying a voucher and typing in a long code, you simply choose your bank in the payment window, log in, approve the transfer and you’re done. The entire process is encrypted and secured, and the funds reach the merchant instantly.

You can also use this method to pay for services on gaming platforms or app stores.

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FAQ — Frequently Asked Questions

Is PaysafeCard safe?

PaysafeCard is generally safe — the user protects their data since transactions are only carried out using a code. However, caution is needed as codes may be intercepted or used by third parties. Additionally, the anonymity of transactions means that in case of fraud, obtaining compensation through a complaint may be difficult. The operator does not offer the ability to cancel or reverse a transaction but suggests contacting the online store directly.

Shops and platforms receive funds instantly, without the risk of customer data leakage.

Do PaysafeCard codes have an expiration date?

No, codes do not have an expiration date, but if not used within 30 days of purchase, a service fee of 10 PLN will be charged from the second month.

Is PaysafeCard only for adults?

Prepaid codes can also be purchased by minors, if permitted by local law. To register and use the PaysafeCard service, you must be at least 16 years old.

Sources:

  • How does PaysafeCard work?, online source: https://www.paysafecard.com/pl-pl/produkt-jak-to-dziala/#product-table, accessed December 3, 2025
  • All fees and limits at a glance, online source: https://www.paysafecard.com/en-pl/fees-limits/, accessed: December 3, 2025