Antom | Knowledge Source

Everything you need to know about MB WAY

Written by Antom | Jul 29, 2025 4:01:11 PM

If your business operates in or around Portugal or serves Portuguese consumers globally, then MB WAY should be on your radar. As a mobile-first, bank-connected payment method with broad adoption, it plays a central role in the digital wallet ecosystem of the region. Understanding how MB WAY works, how to accept it, and what it means for your payments strategy could give you a more direct path to revenue, security, and market fit.

What is MB WAY and how does it work?

MB WAY is Portugal's leading digital wallet, trusted by over 3.5 million users. It connects directly with 28 of the country's banks, covering around 95% of the national banking infrastructure. Users can link their mobile phone number to their bank account or card through the MB WAY app, creating a unified, secure payment method across online and in-store channels.

The app enables transactions using only a mobile phone number and a one-time MB WAY PIN, removing the need to carry a physical card. Whether shopping on an e-commerce site or paying in person, MB WAY simplifies the payment experience.

MB WAY payment flow explained

Checkout experience for users

When checking out online, users select MB WAY as the payment method. They enter their mobile phone number and receive a push notification on their device. 

The MB WAY app opens, prompting them to validate the transaction using biometrics or their MB WAY PIN. Once authorised, the payment is complete. No need to input card details.

Merchant confirmation and refund process

Merchants receive immediate confirmation via their payment platform or dashboard. MB WAY also supports full or partial refunds, which can be processed within 365 days of the original transaction. This flexibility offers reassurance for both merchants and consumers.

MB WAY security features

Compliance standards

MB WAY complies with PSD2 regulations and meets PCI DSS requirements. It uses encrypted channels and secure authentication processes to meet the latest security mandates in the EU.

App-based two-factor authentication

All MB WAY payments involve two-factor authentication. Users must validate payments with something they have (their mobile device) and something they know or are (PIN or biometric scan). This layered approach aligns with PSD3 expectations around customer verification.

MB WAY's reach and compatibility

Which countries use MB WAY?

Although MB WAY is mostly used in Portugal, it is accepted internationally through partners and PSPs. It enables Portuguese consumers to pay abroad while allowing international merchants to connect with Portugal’s digital-first population.

Currency and payment context

All MB WAY transactions are processed in euros (EUR), reflecting its national focus. For international merchants, integrating MB WAY provides a localised experience without currency conversion friction for Portuguese buyers.

Integration paths for global merchants

To add MB WAY, businesses can integrate via API, hosted checkout, or through e-commerce platforms such as Shopify or Magento. For faster routes, MB WAY can be enabled through payment service providers offering out-of-the-box compatibility.

Key use cases for MB WAY

E-commerce and online purchases

MB WAY works seamlessly for online purchases. Merchants that accept MB WAY benefit from reduced cart abandonment and faster payment cycles, especially among mobile-first consumers.

In-store payments via QR or NFC

MB WAY also supports in-store payments. Shoppers can scan a QR code or use NFC to complete the payment using their phone. This contactless method is popular among younger buyers and urban shoppers.

Peer-to-peer transfers and ATM withdrawals

Beyond retail, MB WAY enables direct peer-to-peer transfers using only the recipient’s phone number. It also allows users to withdraw cash from ATMs without using a card—ideal for emergencies or when travelling light.

How to receive and process MB WAY payments as a merchant

To accept MB WAY as a merchant, here are the steps:

  1. Activate MB WAY through your PSP or platform dashboard.
  2. Link your merchant account to MB WAY during the setup phase.
  3. Run test transactions on Android and iOS to confirm correct behaviour.
  4. Go live once the integration passes validation checks.
  5. Start receiving payments, issue refunds, and view transactions in your dashboard.

Offering MB WAY expands your consumer base in Portugal. It connects merchants to a mobile-first audience that prefers quick, secure, and familiar payment experiences.

MB WAY FAQs

What does MB payment mean?

MB payment refers to Multibanco-based transactions in Portugal, often facilitated through MB WAY or other services linked to the national banking system.

What is the MB WAY payment method?

MB WAY is a mobile-based payment method where users authorise transactions via the MB WAY app using their phone number and PIN or biometric confirmation.

How to receive money from MB WAY?

To receive money via MB WAY, users simply select a contact or enter a phone number in the app, input the amount, and confirm. For merchants, integration through a PSP or platform dashboard is required.

Why offer MB WAY with Antom

Global merchants looking to add MB WAY benefit from Antom’s unified platform. With Antom, you gain access to hundreds of payment methods including local methods through a single integration. Onboarding is quick, reporting is consolidated across regions, and you receive local support tailored to your needs.

With Antom, you can meet local expectations while keeping control of your global payment operations.