Payment Radar
Verifone and PagBrasil Launch International Pix for U.S. Merchants
Verifone and PagBrasil have launched an 'International Pix' solution allowing U.S. merchants to accept Brazilian Pix payments in BRL at the point of sale.
Payment RadarOriginal source: Verifone · linked publisher media; native reuse rights require confirmation 
What changed
U.S. merchants can now accept Brazilian Pix payments in Brazilian Real (BRL) at the point of sale. This new capability is delivered through a software application programming interface (API) update from Verifone and PagBrasil. The solution allows merchants to process real-time bank-to-bank transfers without requiring hardware upgrades or system overhauls. Transactions are processed at approximately 2% with no additional fees and are real-time bank-to-bank transfers, reducing chargeback risk. This represents a direct expansion of payment acceptance options for businesses serving international visitors.
Why a business should care
Accepting Pix, a dominant payment method in Brazil, opens a new revenue stream from Brazilian tourists who spend over $4.1 billion annually in the U.S. The processing cost of approximately 2% with no add-on fees is lower than standard credit card rates, which often run 2-3% plus fixed fees. Furthermore, because these are real-time bank-to-bank transfers, the risk of chargebacks is significantly reduced compared to traditional card payments. This combination of lower costs and higher security makes it an attractive option for capturing spending from a high-value demographic.
Who it affects
This change directly impacts U.S. merchants, particularly those in retail, tourism, and hospitality sectors. Businesses located in high-tourism markets like Florida and New York, which see significant numbers of Brazilian visitors, are the primary beneficiaries. Merchants using Verifone hardware can activate this capability via the application programming interface (API) to accept BRL payments from Brazilian tourists.
What to consider doing
Contact your payment processor or Verifone representative this week to request activation of the International Pix application programming interface (API) on your existing point-of-sale terminals. Ask specifically about enabling the alternative payment method (APM) integration for Brazilian Pix to start accepting BRL transactions immediately.
Uncertainty and risks
The verified assessment identifies no specific risks associated with this launch. However, merchants should be aware that acceptance depends on the continued availability of the software update and the stability of the cross-border banking rails. If the solution relies on third-party gateway integrations, any changes to those partnerships could affect availability. The long-term fee structure and regulatory environment for cross-border alternative payment methods in the U.S. remain subject to change.
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