What is TWINT?
TWINT is a payment app that is widely used in Switzerland. It is usually linked to the user's bank account and works in shops, between private individuals and in online shops.
For your shop, this means customers do not have to type in card details. They confirm the payment in an app they already know.
How a TWINT payment works
On a computer: the customer selects TWINT at checkout, and the shop shows a QR code. They open the TWINT app on their smartphone, scan the code and confirm the amount in the app.
On a smartphone: the customer selects TWINT, and the browser switches straight to the TWINT app. Once they have confirmed, they return to the shop.
In both cases, the payment service provider sends the shop a confirmation as soon as the payment has gone through. Only then does the shop mark the order as paid and send the order confirmation.
Payment service provider and contract
A shop usually connects TWINT through a payment service provider. In Switzerland, examples include Datatrans, Payrexx, Wallee and Stripe. The payment methods and terms on offer depend on the provider.
Depending on the provider, you either need your own contract with TWINT, or access is included in the payment service provider's package. The money is paid into your business account at intervals set out in the contract.
Fees and refunds
Every TWINT payment incurs fees, usually a percentage of the amount, sometimes plus a fixed charge per payment. The level depends on the payment service provider and the contract, and there may also be monthly base fees. Compare the total costs for the turnover you expect.
You trigger refunds through the payment service provider, either in the provider's admin area or directly in the shop. The money goes back to the customer, and depending on the provider, partial refunds are possible too.
Combining TWINT with cards and invoices
TWINT does not replace other payment methods. Customers from abroad usually do not have TWINT, and some people prefer to pay by credit or debit card. Payment service providers generally cover TWINT and cards together.
Paying by invoice is common in Switzerland, especially for business customers. You can send invoices yourself with a QR-bill or integrate an invoice provider that handles the credit check and takes on the risk of non-payment.
Connecting Shopify, WooCommerce and custom shops
With Shopify and WooCommerce, you usually connect TWINT through an extension from the payment service provider. You enter your access credentials, activate TWINT and try out the payment flow in test mode.
A custom-built shop connects to the payment service provider through its interface (API). Make sure the shop processes the payment confirmation it receives directly from the provider, rather than relying only on the customer returning to the confirmation page.
Frequently asked questions
When do I receive the money from TWINT payments?
The payment service provider or TWINT pays the money into your business account. The payout schedule is set out in the contract and varies between providers.
Can customers from abroad pay with TWINT?
TWINT requires the TWINT app, which is usually linked to a Swiss bank account. So if you sell abroad, always offer card payment as well.
Can I test TWINT before launch?
Most payment service providers offer a test mode in which you can run through payments without real money. Test the flow on a computer and on a smartphone, including cancellations and refunds, before the shop goes live.