Afghanistan Payment System review
Updated October 13, 2026 · DebitCue Editorial Team
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Our verdict
Afghanistan Payment System operates the AF Pay Card as part of the national electronic payments switch in Afghanistan. It suits customers who want secure interoperable everyday card use across banks, ATMs, point of sale terminals and online stores locally and internationally.
Key facts
- Best for
- Customers wanting one national card for everyday payments
- Official website
- aps.gov.af
Pros and cons
Pros
- Operates as national switch connecting banks, electronic money institutions and payment institutions.
- Issues AF Pay national card for everyday purchases across banks and platforms.
- Supports Automated Teller Machines, point of sale machines, mobile applications and offline banking.
- Advances financial inclusion by reducing reliance on cash with real time transactions.
Cons
- Operates within the Afghan financial system with national rather than global scope.
- Provides cards and related services only through banks and money institutions.
Who it suits
- Customers preferring digital payments over cash for daily spending
- Customers using multiple Afghan banks with interoperable acceptance
Who should look elsewhere
- Customers wanting direct card issuance outside established institutions
Safety and regulation
Afghanistan Payment System functions as the national electronic payments switch under the authority and oversight of Da Afghanistan Bank. Oversight aligns the infrastructure with international standards and supports interoperability among financial institutions. The AF Pay card carries advanced security features that protect transactions against fraud. Integration of banks, electronic money institutions, payment institutions and government platforms supports transparency across the financial sector. The structure promotes secure, fast and reliable electronic payments while expanding safe digital services and supporting overall financial stability nationwide.
How Afghanistan Payment System compares
Frequently asked questions
What is the AF Pay Card?+
The AF Pay Card is the national card issued through banks and electronic money institutions. It supports everyday purchases through interoperable payments across different banks and platforms. The card includes advanced security features that protect each transaction against fraud.
Where can customers use the AF Pay Card?+
Customers can use the card at thousands of Automated Teller Machines, point of sale terminals and online stores. Acceptance covers use locally and internationally while supporting access to cash. Interoperable acceptance allows transactions across different banks and platforms.
Who oversees Afghanistan Payment System?+
Afghanistan Payment System operates under the authority of Da Afghanistan Bank. The central bank provides oversight as the switch is strengthened in line with international standards. This structure supports interoperability, transparency and overall financial stability.
Which services does the national switch provide?+
The national switch provides issuance of AF Pay cards alongside Automated Teller Machines and point of sale machines. Provision also includes mobile applications and offline banking services through USSD. Banks and electronic money institutions deliver these services to customers.
Not confirmed yet: Monthly fee, Currency conversion fee, Free ATM withdrawals, Card type, Protection.