The National Payments Council, under the organization of the Central Bank of Kosovo (CBK), held its first meeting of 2025, where institutional commitment to financial inclusion, digital transformation, and preparation for SEPA membership was emphasized.
CBK Governor Ahmet Ismaili stated that Kosovo’s membership in SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) is expected to bring annual benefits exceeding €55 million, as CBK is building a modern payment infrastructure, enabling access to platforms such as Apple Pay and PayPal.
“One of our key priorities remains preparation for joining the SEPA zone. We view this not merely as a technical reform but as a profound structural transformation, aligned with our vision of European integration and increased economic competitiveness,” said Ismaili.
He added that the Assembly has already approved three essential laws covering the banking system, payment services, and anti-money laundering, while the CBK has issued 20 secondary legal acts to ensure compliance with EU standards. Kosovo submitted its preliminary application for SEPA membership on December 20, and is now actively participating in regional and European working groups to secure access for banks and non-bank financial institutions to SEPA schemes, reducing cross-border transfer costs.
According to current estimates, SEPA membership would bring over €55 million annually in savings and economic benefits for Kosovo’s citizens and businesses, through:
Reduced transaction costs
Greater efficiency
Improved conditions for exporters and the private sector
Key Developments Highlighted:
Real-Time Payments Infrastructure: CBK is working on building a TIPS Clone (fast payment system), in partnership with the Bank of Italy.
QR Codes & Request to Pay: Technical groups are exploring innovations like QR payments, alternative identifiers, and tech networks like SWIFT and Nexi.
IBAN Implementation: Standard IBANs have been adopted even by non-bank institutions.
Integration with e-Kosova: The Accounts and Credit Registers are now integrated into the e-Government platform in cooperation with the Agency for Information Society (ASHI).
Collaboration with KPST: Agreement reached to connect Kosovo’s Pension Savings Fund systems with the national Accounts Register.
Additionally, Kosovo is working towards enabling access to global digital payment platforms, including Apple Pay and PayPal, to further promote economic inclusion.
International Support:
Governor Ismaili acknowledged the crucial support of international partners:
IFC (International Finance Corporation): Supporting open banking, regulatory sandboxes, and digital innovation hubs.
World Bank: Assisting with legal and regulatory modernization and infrastructure advancement.
Acting Finance Minister Hekuran Murati emphasized:
Digital payments reduce costs for users
Help fight the informal economy
Increase transaction speed and transparency
Decrease risks from counterfeit cash and money laundering
“We are moving into the next phase—digitizing payments—which not only eases trade but also formalizes the economy. Our goal is to offer low-cost, efficient solutions for the people,” Murati stated.
This meeting underscored the ongoing collaboration with IFC and the World Bank for a modern, secure, and inclusive payment system in Kosovo.
