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The transition of the payment system management body’s functions and personnel
The South African Reserve Bank (SARB) has withdrawn the Payments Association of South Africa’s (PASA) recognition as a payment system management body (PSMB) as part of its ongoing work to strengthen the regulatory, supervisory, oversight and operational architecture and arrangements of the national payment system (NPS) that support safe, efficient, transparent and resilient payments in South Africa.
Effective 11 August 2026, the responsibility for PASA’s payment clearing house (PCH) and rule-related functions transferred to the SARB, whilst those transitioning to PayInc will do so effective 2 September 2026. In addition, the licensing, authorisation and registration of NPS payment institutions are undertaken by the SARB.
To read more, click here: https://www.resbank.co.za/en/home/publications/media-releases
For media queries, please email media@resbank.co.za.
In tribute – with gratitude to PASA
Established in 1996 and recognised by the SARB as the PSMB under the National Payment System Act 78 of 1998, PASA has served South Africa’s NPS for nearly three decades. The SARB extends its sincere appreciation to PASA’s members, staff and Council for their dedication, professionalism and stewardship in contributing to the development of a safe, efficient and trusted NPS.
PSMB transition – what you need to know
The SARB is strengthening the regulatory, supervisory, oversight and operational architecture and arrangements of the NPS. PASA’s recognition as a PSMB has been withdrawn and its functions are moving to the SARB and PayInc, with completion planned by early September 2026. There will be no disruption to everyday payments. This page will be updated as milestones are reached.
Frequently asked questions
The PSMB’s recognition is being withdrawn. Rule-making will move mainly to the SARB and PayInc; licensing, authorising and registering payment institutions will move to the SARB.
The transition will strengthen the regulatory, supervisory, oversight and operational architecture and arrangements of the NPS that support safe, efficient and resilient payments in South Africa. The completion date is 2 September 2026.
No. There will be no disruption to everyday payments. Clearing and settlement will continue as normal throughout the transition.
Use the who-to-contact guide on this page.
Further contact NPSDIRECTIVES@resbank.co.za for SARB queries and PCHPF@payinc.co.za for PayInc queries.
Who to contact from 11 August and 2 September 2026
The PSMB’s functions are moving to the SARB and PayInc. Use this guide to reach the right organisation for each function.
NPS members
The members portal is now accessible at https://npsmembersportal.resbank.co.za
Function guide
Function |
Now handled by |
Contact / website |
Rules and standards for the national payment system |
SARB |
|
Licensing, authorising and registering NPS payment institutions |
SARB |
|
PCH coordination and industry engagement |
SARB and PayInc |
|
Media and general queries |
SARB |
Query area |
Mailbox |
System operators |
|
PCH system operators |
|
Third-party providers |
|
General enquiries: Authorisations, designations and registrations |
|
Card PCH |
|
High Value PCH |
|
General enquiries (SARB) |
|
PayShap (Rapid Payments) |
|
Low Value Electronic Payments Credit (EFT Credit and RTC) |
|
Low Value Electronic Payments Debit (EFT Debit, Authenticated Collections, Registered Mandates)) |
|
General enquiries (PayInc) |
