It’s now official: proximity payment has started on the São Paulo Metro. As of this Monday, the 1st, Metro passengers can now enter stations using only a physical credit or debit card with contactless technology.
The novelty, which is in the testing phase and is expected to last six months, marks an important step forward in São Paulo transportation. After all, it promises to make life easier for those who live in the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
How proximity payment works on the Metro
The technology is simple: just bring the physical card (with contactless function enabled) to the validator on the exclusive turnstile. The system accepts Mastercard, Visa and Elo. For the time being, virtual cards on cell phones, smartwatches and wristbands do not work, but should be evaluated for future phases.
Important pilot rules:
- Only physical cards with proximity activated.
- 1 ticket per card every 30 minutes, after an initial interval of two uses separated by 1 minute.
- No integration with buses; those who need to integrate must continue using Bilhete Único or Top.
- Exclusive turnstiles for proximity payment, already signposted in the stations.
- No password, even for debits – the process is instantaneous.
In addition, trained promoters will be present at the busiest stations to guide passengers.
Which stations already accept proximity payments?
The pilot project began on lines 1-Blue and 3-Red and, throughout December, will be expanded to lines 2-Green and 15-Silver.
Each station will have at least one turnstile exclusively for proximity payment, identified with special signage.
Finally, Metrô highlights three major benefits of the new project:
- Faster boarding since payment takes place in seconds.
- More convenience by dispensing with tickets, refills and cash.
- More efficient flow in stations, reducing queues at peak times.
The technology brings São Paulo closer to systems already in use in London, New York and other major cities. For those who live between appointments, transfers and delays, it’s a change that literally opens doors.