Group trips are becoming more common, and with summer in full swing, friends heading abroad for getaways are multiplying. It’s increasingly normal for one person to handle the payments while others say, “we’ll send you a Bizum.” That practice is common in Spain, but in many other countries it isn’t as widespread or even familiar. So, is it possible to use Bizum from abroad?
Millions of Bizums are sent every day
Bizum has grown into one of the most-used apps on smartphones, as millions transfer money instantly on a daily basis. Alongside popular platforms like WhatsApp, Twitter, or TikTok, Bizum is among the apps Spaniards open most often. The service reportedly reaches over 26 million users and handles nearly 3,000 million transfers per year, totaling around 158.5 billion euros, according to Bizum’s own data.
These numbers surge in the summer when travel and dining out push spending higher. If you’re abroad, it’s important to stay mindful of any limitations or fees that could apply.
Can Bizum be used from outside Spain?
The Bank of Spain has addressed a common concern for travelers: yes, Bizum can be used from other countries, but with specific conditions. To perform this type of transfer outside Spain, two requirements must be met: you need a Spanish bank account linked to the Bizum service and a mobile phone number, which can be either Spanish or foreign.
In practical terms, this means your IBAN must start with “ES” if your account is Spanish, or “AD” if your account is in Andorra, where Bizum is also available. It is also essential to remember that sending Bizum from abroad may incur fees, which vary by bank, so it’s wise to check with the issuing institution before proceeding.
The international expansion of Bizum marks a notable advance for Spanish users, who can now manage finances more simply and efficiently from anywhere in the world. The service is expected to be well received, particularly by people who have family or friends overseas or who shop online with international retailers.