How to Create an EPC QR Code
Turn your IBAN into a scannable QR code for instant SEPA credit transfers across Europe. Works with all major European banking apps supporting the EPC (European Payments Council) standard. Compliant with EU regulations.
Step-by-Step Guide
Enter IBAN
Enter your International Bank Account Number (IBAN). This identifies your bank account across all SEPA countries in Europe.
Tip: Your IBAN starts with your country code (DE for Germany, FR for France, etc.) and is usually 15-31 characters long.
Add Payment Details
Optionally add recipient name, payment amount, and a reference message that will appear on bank statements.
Tip: Include a reference like 'Invoice 123' or 'Donation' for easier reconciliation.
Generate & Share
Customize and download your EPC-compliant QR code. Add to invoices, websites, or display for in-person payments.
Tip: Banking apps across Europe can scan and process these QR codes instantly.
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Create your QR code right here with our free tool
What is an EPC QR Code?
An EPC (European Payments Council) QR code encodes SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) credit transfer information into a standardized format recognized by European banks. When scanned with a compatible banking app, it instantly fills in all payment details for a bank transfer. This standard is supported by banks across the EU, EEA, and SEPA member countries, making cross-border Euro transfers as easy as domestic ones.
Why Use EPC QR Codes?
SEPA Compatible
Works across all 36 SEPA countries including EU, EEA, and Switzerland.
Bank Standard
Official EPC standard supported by major European banks and banking apps.
Error Reduction
Eliminates IBAN transcription errors - critical for international transfers.
Instant Setup
No merchant account needed - uses your existing bank account.
Low Cost
SEPA transfers typically cost €0-€1, much less than international wires.
Regulatory Compliant
Meets EU payment service directive (PSD2) requirements.
Popular Use Cases for EPC QR Codes
B2B Invoicing
European businesses include QR codes on invoices for faster payment.
E-commerce
Online stores offer SEPA transfer as a payment option at checkout.
Professional Services
Consultants, lawyers, and agencies collect fees via bank transfer.
Charity Donations
Nonprofits receive donations across Europe with a simple scan.
Membership Fees
Clubs and associations collect recurring dues via SEPA.
Rent Payments
Landlords provide QR codes for monthly rent collection.
Event Registration
Conference and event fees collected via SEPA transfer.
Freelance Work
Independent contractors invoice European clients easily.
EPC QR Code Best Practices
- Always verify your IBAN is correct before generating the QR code
- Include your business name so payers recognize the recipient
- Use clear reference text for easier payment reconciliation
- Test with your own banking app before sharing widely
- Inform customers they need a compatible banking app
- Keep the QR code design clean for reliable scanning
- Consider showing the IBAN in text format alongside the QR code
- Update the QR code if you change banks or IBAN
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries support EPC QR codes?
EPC QR codes work across all 36 SEPA (Single Euro Payments Area) countries: all EU member states, plus Iceland, Norway, Liechtenstein, Switzerland, Monaco, San Marino, Andorra, Vatican City, and the UK. Any bank supporting SEPA credit transfers can process these QR codes.
Which banking apps support EPC QR scanning?
Most major European banking apps support EPC QR codes including those from Deutsche Bank, ING, BBVA, BNP Paribas, Commerzbank, ABN AMRO, and many national banks. Support varies by country - German, Austrian, Dutch, and Belgian banks have particularly strong adoption. Check if your bank's app has a 'Scan QR' or 'PhotoTAN' feature.
How long do SEPA transfers take?
SEPA credit transfers typically settle within one business day. SEPA Instant Credit Transfers (SCT Inst) can settle within seconds, 24/7, but both banks must support the instant scheme. Standard SEPA transfers may take 1-2 business days depending on the time of initiation.
Is there a cost to receive SEPA payments?
Receiving SEPA credit transfers is typically free for the recipient. The sender may pay a small fee depending on their bank and account type (usually €0-€1 for standard transfers). SEPA transfers are significantly cheaper than traditional international wire transfers.
What information is encoded in the QR code?
EPC QR codes contain: Recipient Name, IBAN (bank account), BIC/SWIFT code (optional), Amount (optional), Payment Reference, and Purpose code. This standardized format ensures compatibility across all European banking systems.
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