ECB Opens Digital Euro Pilot Applications for Merchants

The European Central Bank (ECB) has opened applications for merchants to participate in its digital euro pilot, set to launch in 2027. The pilot will test the operations and user experience of a beta digital euro in controlled online checkout environments. Merchants operating in the euro area through e-commerce or mobile-commerce channels can apply until October 27, 2026.

The ECB has already selected 36 payment service providers for the pilot, which will begin in the second half of 2027 and run for 12 months. The beta digital euro will have no legal-tender status, and its acceptance will be tested alongside an acquiring pilot payment service provider. The pilot's focus is on technical functionality, operational processes, and user experience.

The merchant recruitment follows the selection of payment providers, narrowing the use case to remote checkout payments in controlled online or mobile settings. Applicants must submit an application questionnaire, declaration, and supporting evidence by the deadline. This formal process sets out a defined beta environment for online retailers and mobile-commerce operators to participate in.