Greece to Increase IRIS Payments Limits in January 2026
Greece is preparing a major upgrade to its instant payment infrastructure. Beginning January 15, 2026, users of IRIS Payments will be able to send and receive higher-value transfers, following a decision to raise transaction limits across the platform.
The change applies to both individual users and businesses and forms part of Greece’s long-term effort to modernize its financial system and reduce dependence on cash payments.
Daily Transfer Limit Doubles
Under the new rules, the maximum daily transfer amount will increase from €500 to €1,000. The higher limit will apply to:
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person-to-person transfers,
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professional payments,
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business-related transactions.
This adjustment is expected to make instant transfers more practical for everyday use, especially for professionals who rely on quick settlements.
New Monthly Limits for Private Users
For the first time, IRIS Payments will introduce monthly caps for individual users. Starting in mid-January 2026, private account holders will be able to:
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send up to €5,000 per month,
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receive up to €5,000 per month.
The new thresholds significantly expand the system’s usefulness for routine expenses such as shared bills, personal reimbursements, and payments for small services.
While business users will not face new monthly restrictions, the higher daily ceiling is expected to particularly benefit small companies, freelancers, and self-employed professionals. Faster access to funds and higher instant payment limits can help improve liquidity and reduce reliance on traditional bank transfers.
A Step Toward a Cashless Economy
IRIS Payments has become a central component of Greece’s real-time payment ecosystem. By raising transaction limits, authorities aim to encourage wider adoption of digital payments and further limit the role of cash in everyday commerce.
For analysts tracking European payment trends, the move highlights Greece’s ongoing progress toward aligning with the continent’s most advanced digital payment systems. In practical terms, the changes could soon mean fewer banknotes in circulation and more payments completed instantly through mobile banking apps.
