Digital Payments Will Soon Be Mandatory: What Restaurant Owners in Germany Need to Know

While many restaurants, cafés, and bars in Germany already accept digital payments, it's far from universal. That’s about to change: Germany’s coalition government (SPD and CDU/CSU) has agreed to make it legally mandatory for everyday businesses, including hospitality, to accept at least one digital payment method in addition to cash.

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What's changing
A new law will soon require businesses like restaurants, bars, and cafés to accept digital payments — for example, with debit or credit cards, smartphones, or smartwatches. Cash is still allowed, but customers must be given the option to pay digitally.

 
Why it matters
‍This step aims to improve security and transparency — for both businesses and guests. Digital transactions are easier to track and help prevent errors or fraud. You might already be familiar with the TSE regulation introduced in 2020, which requires electronic POS systems in Germany to store transactions securely. The upcoming payment regulation is the next milestone in the country's digitalization journey.
 
The takeaway
The aim is not to abolish cash, but to offer guests freedom of choice when making payments. If you're prepared now, you’ll avoid stress later, and offer a more modern experience today.
Now is the ideal time to future-proof your own business — before there is legal pressure.
 
 

Digital Payments with luca: Simple, Flexible, and Fully Compliant

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luca helps you meet upcoming legal requirements and gives your guests a smooth, modern way to pay. Whether it’s card, phone, or smartwatch: luca makes your business future-proof.

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Tap to Pay: Your smartphone becomes a card reader
With luca Tap to Pay, you can accept card payments directly via an iOS or Android smartphone. No extra device or expensive hardware needed.

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Your benefits

• Card payments via smartphone: Accept debit cards, credit cards, Apple Pay and Google Pay right from your phone.
• ‍No additional hardware: Just download the app and start accepting payments. Perfect for taking payments at the table or outdoors.
• ‍No fixed costs or contract commitment: You only pay per transaction. Stay flexible and independent.
• ‍Legally on the safe side: luca meets all the requirements of the new regulations, so you can focus on your guests.
• ‍Quick set up: Register in minutes, enter your business info, and you’re ready to go.

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Even more flexibility for your business
luca also offers you other options for accepting digital payments. This allows you to decide for yourself what best suits your company.

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Other options include:

• ‍Payment links: Great for large bookings or special events. Send a digital link, and guests pay online.

• ‍QR code payment at the table: Guests scan a QR code, view the bill, and pay instantly.
• ‍Card terminals: Prefer a classic terminal setup? luca offers those too.

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What Restaurant Owners Should Focus on Now

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Already offering card payments? You’re on the right track. If not, now’s the time to act. Choosing the right solution will save time, improve service, and ensure you're ready for new legal requirements.

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Key things to consider:
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• TSE-compliant POS systems: Since 2020, systems must meet the TSE standard. Make sure yours is up to date.
• Fast, flexible payment options: Payments should work at the table, at the bar, or outside — without complicated setups.
• Transparent pricing: Avoid long-term contracts and hidden fees. Transaction-based pricing works best for small or seasonal businesses.
• POS integration: Payment systems should connect smoothly with your POS system to reduce errors and save time.
• Data protection & legal compliance: Not every provider meets German regulations. Choose one developed and operated in Germany.

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Bottom line: Your payment solution should fit your daily routine and make your life easier. The more prepared you are, the better experience you’ll offer — and the more competitive you’ll be. 

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Ready to make your restaurant fit for the future? 

With luca, this is easier than expected — without any contract or hardware.

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Get free, non-binding advice now and start right away: www.info.luca-business.de/luca-tap-to-pay