Google Pay Launched in Bangladesh For The First Time: Everything You Need to Know About the Launch, Setup, and Usage

Introduction

Google Pay has officially launched in Bangladesh for the first time. This significant step, made possible through a partnership between City Bank and Google, is expected to transform the way people make payments using their smartphones.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know about Google Pay in Bangladesh including how to connect Google Pay with City Bank, how to use Google Pay for contactless payments, what makes this launch important, and what users should expect going forward.

Google Pay Officially Launches in Bangladesh

On June 24, 2025, Bangladesh officially welcomed Google Pay, marking a major step forward in the country’s push toward a cashless society. The launch event, held at the Westin Dhaka, brought together key representatives from Google, City Bank, Visa, Mastercard, and the Bangladesh Bank.

With this launch, Bangladesh becomes part of a growing list of countries using Google Pay to facilitate digital payments enabling users to simply tap their phones on NFC-enabled terminals to make purchases.

Why This Launch Matters

The launch of Google Pay in Bangladesh is significant for several reasons:

1. First of its kind

This is the first time Google Pay (via Google Wallet) has been introduced in Bangladesh.

2. Promotes cashless transactions

With more consumers preferring contactless payments post-COVID, this move comes at the perfect time.

3. Boosts investor confidence

The Bangladesh Bank Governor stated that such tech-based services increase financial transparency and investor confidence in the economy.

4. High Android penetration

Over 95% of smartphones in Bangladesh run Android OS, meaning a vast user base is already equipped to adopt Google Pay instantly.

What is Google Pay?

Google Pay, now bundled with Google Wallet, is a digital payment system that lets users add their debit, credit, or prepaid cards to their smartphone and make secure, contactless transactions at stores, restaurants, online platforms, and more.

It uses technologies like tokenization, encryption, and biometric authentication to protect your payment details.

Who Can Use Google Pay in Bangladesh?

Currently, only customers of City Bank are eligible to use Google Pay.

Eligible cards:

• City Bank Mastercard (credit, debit, or prepaid)

• City Bank Visa (credit, debit, or prepaid)

Requirements:

• A smartphone with Android 7.0 or later

• NFC (Near Field Communication) enabled device

• Latest version of the Google Wallet app from Google Play Store

How to Connect Google Pay with City Bank in Bangladesh

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to start using Google Pay in Bangladesh if you are a City Bank customer:

Step 1: Download Google Wallet

• Go to the Google Play Store and install Google Wallet (if not already installed).

Step 2: Add your City Bank Card

• Open Google Wallet.

• Tap on “Add to Wallet” → Payment Card.

• Use your phone’s camera to scan the card or enter details manually.

Step 3: Verify Your Card

• Google Wallet will connect with City Bank to verify the card.

• You may be asked to authenticate via SMS OTP, email, or app.

Step 4: Ready to Tap and Pay

• Once the card is verified, you’re all set!

• Use Google Pay wherever you see the contactless/NFC payment symbol.

How to Use Google Pay in Bangladesh

Using Google Pay is seamless and takes just seconds:

1. Unlock your Android phone

2. Tap it on any NFC-enabled POS machine

3. Wait for the vibration/success sound

4. Transaction complete!

You can use it at:

• Grocery stores

• Restaurants

• Supermarkets

• Retail shops

• International merchants (abroad or online)

For small transactions, no PIN is required. For larger ones, you may need to unlock your phone or provide biometric authentication.

Key Features of Google Pay in Bangladesh

1. Security-First Technology

• Tokenization ensures your card number is never shared.

• Biometric locks (face/fingerprint) add an extra layer of safety.

2. International Usability

• Google Pay can be used worldwide at any store that accepts contactless Mastercard or Visa payments.

3. Offline Capabilities

• In many cases, Google Pay works without internet, using previously authorized tokens.

4. No Additional Charges

• Google Pay does not charge users extra for transactions.

Is Google Pay Different from bKash or Nagad?

Yes. While bKash and Nagad are mobile wallets primarily for P2P transfers and QR-based payments, Google Pay operates as a global contactless card payment service using your bank card, not stored wallet balance.

Key differences:

FAQs About Google Pay in Bangladesh

❓ Can I use Google Pay without internet?

Yes. Some transactions can be done offline using pre-authorized tokens.

❓ What if I lose my phone?

Use Find My Device to lock or erase your phone. Also, notify City Bank to block your virtual card.

❓ Does Google Pay store my card info?

No. Card numbers are replaced by tokens; actual data stays secure.

❓ Can I use multiple cards?

Yes. You can add multiple eligible City Bank cards and choose a default one.

Terms & Conditions (City Bank)

Before using Google Pay, City Bank customers must agree to specific terms:

• Users are responsible for securing their device.

• Usual fees and limits of the card apply.

• City Bank may suspend or block the service in case of misuse.

Full terms are available at CITYBANK OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Future Expectations

• Other banks may join soon, expanding access to more users.

• Support for Transit Cards, Digital ID storage, and Rewards may be introduced in the future.
  
  

Conclusion

The launch of Google Pay in Bangladesh is a massive step forward for the country’s digital transformation. With the convenience of tap-and-pay, robust security features, and international usability, City Bank customers now have access to one of the world’s most advanced payment systems.