New Features for Girocard Starting in 2027

Starting in 2027, holders of a Girocard, also known as EC card, will benefit from expanded functionalities. According to a press release from EURO Kartensysteme GmbH, the use of the Girocard will be made more versatile. New capabilities include the ability to make in-app payments within major grocery retailer apps. This development aims to integrate the Girocard into digital payment transactions. Another planned application for the Girocard is its use in car rentals and hotel bookings.

Previously, it was often necessary to present a credit card to access such services. The integration of the Girocard into these areas could facilitate usage for many consumers and reduce reliance on credit cards. To realize the new features, EURO Kartensysteme GmbH plans to introduce a whitelist for merchants. Customers can specify which merchants they frequently shop with. This measure is intended to enable faster transaction processing, as not every payment needs to be authenticated individually.

This could be particularly advantageous in stores with high customer traffic. Additionally, a function for age verification will be introduced, which is required when purchasing alcoholic beverages or tobacco products. This age verification can be done digitally or at kiosks. Users can utilize their digital Girocard to prove that they have reached the required minimum age. This measure could simplify access to regulated products while complying with legal requirements.

The new features of the Girocard are expected to be launched in spring 2027. However, a specific date has not yet been set. It is anticipated that some changes will be implemented gradually to ensure a smooth integration. Collaboration with payment providers such as Payback Pay is deemed necessary for the successful implementation of the new features. It is expected that no new Girocard will be required to use the new functionalities.

If a new card is necessary, the bank will automatically send a new card to the customer. Access to the enhanced features will be available through the online banking services of the respective bank, which must be activated beforehand. This could present an additional hurdle for many users that needs to be considered. The planned changes could significantly increase the acceptance of the Girocard in digital payment transactions. Consumers who have previously relied on credit cards may find an alternative through the new features of the Girocard.

EURO Kartensysteme GmbH aims to make the Girocard a more attractive payment method with these measures and better meet the needs of users. The introduction of the new features is seen by many experts as a step in the right direction. Adapting the Girocard to modern payment habits could help further reduce cash usage. According to the Deutsche Bundesbank, the cash share in payment transactions was 45% in 2025. EURO Kartensysteme GmbH has announced that the new features will also be tested in collaboration with various merchants.

This could help identify and resolve potential issues early on. The tests are intended to ensure that the new features function smoothly and meet consumer expectations. The development of the Girocard is being closely monitored by the industry. The adaptation to digital payment methods is an important trend that will continue to gain significance in the coming years. EURO Kartensysteme GmbH plans to fully implement the new features by spring 2027.