The new functionality, known as SIP por Aproximación, will enable contactless payments using NFC technology. Implementation will take place in stages, with full production scheduled for June 14, 2027.
The Central Bank of Paraguay (BCP) has approved a mandatory implementation schedule for SIP por Aproximación, a new feature of the Instant Payment System (SPI) that will enable contactless payments using Near Field Communication (NFC) technology.
The schedule was established through Resolution G.G. No. 191/2026, dated October 16, 2026. The initiative is part of the ongoing development of Paraguay's Payment System (SIPAP) and expands the available options for initiating and processing electronic payments.
How will the new system work?
NFC technology allows compatible devices to exchange information when brought close together, without physical contact.
Under the new requirements, banks and finance companies must adapt their applications to enable the initiation and/or requesting of contactless instant payments.
Payment Initiation Service Providers (PISPs) must also implement mechanisms to transmit, via NFC, the information contained in QR codes generated through the SPI's QR Hub.
These requirements apply to banks, finance companies and PISPs participating in SIPAP.
Implementation timeline
The BCP has established a phased schedule covering the following milestones:
| Stage | Date |
| Project submission and technical documentation | October 16, 2026 |
| Proof of concept with selected participants | October 19 – December 30, 2026 |
| Feedback and final technical documentation | January 4–29, 2027 |
| Technical and operational development | February 1 – April 2, 2027 |
| Pilot testing with selected participants | April 5–30, 2027 |
| Pilot testing with remaining participants | May 3 – June 4, 2027 |
| Controlled production | Start date pending confirmation |
| Full production | June 14, 2027 |
The resolution does not establish a general effective-date provision, although it sets implementation obligations and deadlines beginning on October 16, 2026.
Implications for financial institutions and payment providers
The new functionality creates opportunities to improve the payment experience for users while introducing additional technological and operational requirements.
Affected institutions will need to assess their systems, applications, security procedures and transaction-processing mechanisms.
From a regulatory perspective, it will be important to ensure that these developments comply with applicable requirements concerning information security, operational risk management and user protection.
Implementation will also require coordination among legal, technology, compliance and operations teams, together with appropriate arrangements for interoperability, risk management and the allocation of responsibilities among participants.
The challenge will be to ensure that the adoption of new payment technologies is supported by adequate legal and operational safeguards.
Source: Central Bank of Paraguay – Resolution G.G. No. 191/2026
