BLIK: revolutionizing mobile payments in Poland — what you need to know (and how it compares)
In the rapidly evolving world of mobile finance, Poland stands out with an innovative solution that has transformed how people pay every day. That solution is BLIK – a mobile payment system built directly into Polish banking apps and used by millions of people nationwide.
What is BLIK, why did it become so popular, and how does it compare to US systems like Venmo? Let’s dive in.
What is BLIK?
BLIK is a Polish mobile payment system that allows users to make payments in physical and online stores, withdraw cash from ATMs, pay via phone number, and – increasingly – make contactless payments.
All of this happens inside your banking app, without needing a physical card.
How does BLIK work?
Generate a code:
Inside your banking app, you generate a 6-digit BLIK code (valid for about 2 minutes).
Enter the code:
Type it into a payment terminal, ATM, or online checkout form.
Confirm the transaction:
Approve the request within your banking app — this ensures an extra layer of security.
Advantages of BLIK
Convenience:
Pay without carrying cards or cash.
Speed:
Transactions are instant, including phone transfers.
Security:
Every payment must be authenticated in your banking app.
Versatility:
Use it in stores, online, at ATMs, and for phone-to-phone transfers.
BLIK in practice
In-store payments:
Provide the BLIK code at checkout → confirm in your app → done.
Online payments:
Skip entering card numbers — use the code or your bank’s quick-pay button.
ATM withdrawals:
Withdraw cash without a card, using the BLIK code.
Phone transfers:
Send money instantly using just a phone number (no need for a full account number).
Contactless BLIK:
On many Android phones, you can pay via NFC by holding your phone near the terminal and confirming in your banking app.
Is BLIK secure?
Yes — BLIK uses advanced encryption and requires in-app confirmation for every transaction.
The most significant risk comes from social engineering (e.g., scammers trying to trick users into sharing a code), not from the system itself.
The future of BLIK
BLIK continues to expand its features:
Contactless payments via NFC are available in many banks
Recurrent payments for subscriptions
Pay Later options in selected apps
Wider integration with e-commerce platforms and services
Its adoption already dominates Polish e-commerce — in some reports, over 70% of online transactions are made with BLIK.
BLIK vs. US mobile payment systems (like Venmo)
Both BLIK and Venmo are mobile payment tools, but they were built for very different ecosystems. Here’s how they compare:
Scope of use
BLIK:
Integrated directly into Polish banking apps. Works in stores, online, at ATMs, and for phone transfers.
Venmo:
Primarily for peer-to-peer payments and some online checkouts. In-store usage exists but is far less common.
ATM access
BLIK:
Unique advantage — cardless ATM withdrawals using only a code.
Venmo:
No direct ATM withdrawal option.
Integration
BLIK:
Part of nearly all major Polish banking apps, so users already have it by default.
Venmo:
A standalone app that must be linked to a bank account or card.
Security
BLIK:
Every transaction requires real-time confirmation inside your banking app.
Venmo:
Secure, but operates as a separate wallet and involves linking external accounts.
Cross-border use
BLIK:
Designed mainly for the Polish market. Some banks offer limited abroad usage (e.g., BLIK contactless), but it’s not universally available.
Venmo:
US-only — accounts must be tied to US residency, banks, and phone numbers.
Merchant acceptance
BLIK:
Extremely widespread in Poland — most major physical and online retailers accept it.
Venmo:
Merchant adoption is growing, but not nearly as universal as BLIK’s presence in Poland.
Conclusion
BLIK is a uniquely Polish success story. Its convenience, speed, and tight integration with banking apps make it one of the most versatile payment tools in Europe. While US apps like Venmo excel in social peer-to-peer payments, BLIK stands out thanks to its broad functionality — especially in-store payments and ATM withdrawals.
If you’re planning a trip to Poland, BLIK will likely be the easiest and fastest way to pay — primarily if your bank supports it.
FAQ
Is BLIK safe to use?
Yes. Each payment requires in-app confirmation, and transactions are secured with encryption.
Just remember: never share your BLIK code with anyone.
Which banks in Poland support BLIK?
Most major banks — including PKO BP, mBank, Santander, ING, Millennium, Pekao, Alior, and others.
Can I use BLIK in any store?
Most physical stores and online shops in Poland accept BLIK. Look for the logo at payment terminals.
Can tourists use BLIK?
Only if their bank supports BLIK or if they open a Polish bank account. It’s not universally available to foreign banks.