finpeel Answers · Egypt · updated 2026-08-14

What is the difference between a PSP and PSO licence in Egypt?

A Payment Service Provider (PSP) provides regulated payment services to users, while a Payment System Operator (PSO) operates the payment system or infrastructure through which payment transactions are processed under the CBE framework. The applicable licence depends on the company’s role.

A single business model can contain both service-provider and system-operation elements, so CBE classification should follow the actual architecture and responsibilities.

Map customer contracting, transaction execution, network rules and settlement governance rather than selecting PSP or PSO based on branding.

Regulator: Central Bank of Egypt (CBE)

Primary sources: Central Bank of Egypt — Payment System Operators and Payment Service Providers Licensing Rules

Directional — not legal advice. Verify with the regulator before committing.

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