Is Google Pay available in the UK? / How does Google Pay work the UK?

27 Apr 2023 By PAYCEC

Yes, Google Pay is available in the UK. Users in the UK can download the Google Pay app from the Google Play Store and set up their payment method, such as their debit or credit card, bank account or PayPal account.

Google Pay was previously known as Google Wallet. In January 2018, it merged with Android Pay to form Google Pay. Google Pay is a free mobile payment system from Google that allows you to make purchases in person and through apps and websites using their NFC-enabled smartphones.

You can link your bank accounts, debit cards, and credit cards to your Google Pay account to pay others or make online or in-store purchases. However, while iPhones and Androids can download and use Google Pay for online purchases, contactless in-store purchases are only available on Android phones. You must also be 18 and above and have a Google account.

When you are paid or receive cash-back rewards, your money is saved in your app account balance, which you can transfer to your bank account. Once your identity has been verified, you can use the funds in your account balance to make purchases or send money to a peer.

Google Pay is a digital wallet and online payment system that allows users to make purchases online, in-store, and within apps using their Android device. Here is how Google Pay works in the UK:

Pay or receive payments from an individual or a group

Like Venmo or Zelle, Google Pay allows you to send or request payments from others via its mobile app. You can search for people in the app using their name, email address, phone number, or even a QR code. You can then start a chat, pay that person, or request payment from them.

To send or receive money from another individual using the new Google Pay app, the recipient must also have the app installed on their device. However, the app offers the option to invite others who do not have the app to join and begin using it.

You can also split a bill among several people in the app by selecting multiple contacts. If you don't want an even split, you can change the amount each person pays.

You must first add money to your Google Pay account before you can pay someone from your account balance. After verifying your identity, you can add funds from a synced bank account. Money received from friends is also added to your account balance and can be transferred to your bank account if desired.

Pay in stores

You must have an Android phone to use Google Pay for in-store payments. When you check out, you can pay by unlocking your phone, holding it near the payment terminal, and following the instructions on the screen.

You can also use this feature to access loyalty and gift cards, purchase flight or event tickets, or pay for train or bus tickets. You can also earn rewards on eligible purchases and find offers or discounts through the app.

Make in-app purchases or shop online

You can use Google Pay to make credit card purchases in apps and on websites that support Google Pay. When checking out, click the Google Pay icon and select your payment method. 

To change the card you use in Google Pay, go to "Payment methods" and then either edit an existing card or add a new one. If a card is about to expire, you can easily update it by tapping "Fix" next to it.

Google Pay also suggests enabling password protection to help prevent unwanted or accidental in-app purchases.