Where to Spend Bitcoin in 2025
The phrase “Bitcoin Accepted Here” has evolved from a niche slogan into a global movement, signaling the widespread adoption of Bitcoin (BTC) as a legitimate payment method across various sectors. As of 2025, the integration of BTC into everyday transactions has expanded remarkably, encompassing industries from retail and education to travel and immigration.
Retail Revolution: Bitcoin at the Checkout
Spar Supermarkets in Switzerland
In April 2025, Spar, a global retail giant, introduced Bitcoin payments at its Zug, Switzerland location. Utilizing the Lightning Network through DFX Swiss’s OpenCryptoPay solution, customers can now complete transactions by simply scanning a QR code at checkout. This initiative positions Spar among the pioneers in integrating cryptocurrency into mainstream retail operations.
Pick n Pay Stores in South Africa
In South Africa, Pick n Pay, one of the country’s largest retail chains, has embraced Bitcoin payments across all its outlets, including supermarkets, clothing stores, and Express convenience stores. Customers can make purchases using the CryptoQR app, ensuring that daily goods are accessible through Bitcoin transactions wherever they travel within the country.
Education Embraces Cryptocurrency
Lomond School in Scotland
Lomond School, a private boarding institution in Helensburgh, Scotland, announced in April 2025 that it would accept Bitcoin for tuition payments starting in the autumn term. This move caters to both local and international families, aiming to mitigate currency exchange risks. The school collaborates with FCA-registered providers CoinCorner and Musqet to ensure compliance with financial regulations.
Sailing into the Future: Cruises and Crypto
Virgin Voyages’ Annual Pass
Virgin Voyages launched its “Annual Pass” program in December 2024, offering unlimited cruises for a year at a flat fee of $120,000, payable in Bitcoin. This initiative marks the cruise industry’s first foray into accepting cryptocurrency for comprehensive travel packages, reflecting a broader trend of digital currency adoption in luxury travel.
Mobility: Bitcoin in Immigration
Hong Kong’s Investment Visa Program
In a significant policy update, Hong Kong’s InvestHK confirmed in February 2025 that applicants for the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme could use Bitcoin and Ethereum to demonstrate the required net worth of HK$30 million ($3.8 million). While these cryptocurrencies are not permissible for the investment portion of the visa, their acceptance as proof of wealth underscores the growing legitimacy of digital assets in global financial systems.
Africa: Embracing Bitcoin Across the Continent
South Africa: A Leader in Crypto Adoption
South Africa stands at the forefront of Bitcoin adoption in Africa. A 2025 survey revealed that the country hosts 584 merchants accepting cryptocurrency payments, ranking it sixth globally for merchant crypto payment adoption.
In the town of Witsand, located along South Africa’s Garden Route, over 45 establishments accept Bitcoin as of early 2025. The community’s close-knit nature has facilitated rapid adoption, with locals and visitors enjoying the ease and security of digital payments.
Furthermore, Luno, a cryptocurrency exchange, has expanded its platform payment support in South Africa, increasing the number of merchants facilitating crypto payments. Partnering with Zapper, Luno announced that its customers can now transact using crypto at over 31,000 merchants nationwide using the Luno Pay app wherever Zapper QR codes are offered as a payment method at merchant points of sale or online.
Kenya: Innovative Platforms Driving Adoption
In Kenya, platforms like Tando are making it easier for individuals to use Bitcoin for everyday transactions. Tando allows users to utilize the Lightning Network for quick and affordable payments, enhancing the practicality of Bitcoin in daily commerce.
Additionally, the Afribit project, based in Kibera, Kenya, uses Bitcoin as a tool for financial empowerment. The initiative is becoming a model for others, demonstrating how Bitcoin can be integrated into local economies to foster financial inclusion.
Rwanda: Integrating Bitcoin with Mobile Money
Rwanda’s VugaPay is a cross-platform payment service that enables businesses and users to transfer money across major payment systems, including Bitcoin. By integrating Bitcoin with mobile money networks, VugaPay facilitates seamless transactions across Rwanda and neighboring countries.
Nigeria: A New Era of Crypto Adoption
In 2025, Nigeria has emerged as a significant player in the global cryptocurrency landscape. The enactment of the Investments and Securities Act (ISA) 2025 has officially recognized digital assets, including cryptocurrencies, as securities under Nigerian law. This legislative shift has provided a clear regulatory framework, encouraging businesses to integrate crypto payments into their operations.
Notably, SimplePay, Nigeria’s most popular web and mobile-based wallet service, now facilitates Bitcoin transactions, enabling users to make payments for goods and services using BTC.
Facilitating Transactions: Payment Gateways
BitPay’s Expanding Network
BitPay continues to be a leader in enabling Bitcoin transactions, with over 250 merchants across various sectors accepting BTC. Notable partners include Home Depot, IKEA, Newegg, and Ralph Lauren. BitPay also offers a crypto debit card and gift card options, broadening the avenues through which consumers can utilize their digital assets.
Crypto.com’s Integrated Solutions
Crypto.com complements this ecosystem by providing a platform that supports direct BTC payments and offers incentives like discounts and rewards. Through its app and Crypto.com Pay service, the company facilitates seamless cryptocurrency transactions for everyday purchases.
The Future of Bitcoin Payments
The integration of Bitcoin into diverse sectors signifies a shift towards broader acceptance of cryptocurrencies in daily life. As technological advancements continue and regulatory frameworks evolve, the use of BTC for transactions is poised to become increasingly commonplace.
