Comply with SCA requirements

Strong Customer Authentication (SCA) is a European regulatory requirement for online payments. Payment for Stripe handles 3D Secure authentication automatically, ensuring your European transactions are PSD2 compliant.

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How to get started

Follow these 4 simple steps to get up and running.

1

Process in-person payments normally

In-person payments using chip cards, contactless (Tap to Pay), or PIN entry already satisfy SCA requirements. No additional steps needed—just process payments as usual with your card reader or Tap to Pay.

2

Let Stripe handle online authentication

For card-not-present transactions like payment links or invoices, Stripe automatically determines when 3D Secure authentication is needed and presents the bank's verification screen to your customer.

3

Customer completes verification

When authentication is required, your customer verifies their identity through their banking app, SMS code, or biometrics. Payment for Stripe handles this flow automatically—just wait for confirmation.

4

Review declined authentications

If a customer fails to authenticate or cancels, the payment is declined. You can retry the transaction, and they'll be prompted to authenticate again. Check your Stripe Dashboard for details on failed authentications.

Common questions

What is the difference between SCA and 3D Secure?
3D Secure (3DS) is the technology used to fulfill SCA requirements. When SCA is triggered, the customer completes 3D Secure authentication through their bank. Payment for Stripe handles this automatically by presenting the authentication flow when required.
Does SCA apply to in-person card payments?
In-person payments using chip cards, contactless (Tap to Pay), or PIN entry already satisfy SCA requirements through the physical card and terminal interaction. No additional authentication step is needed for card-present transactions.
What happens if authentication fails?
If the customer fails to authenticate or cancels the 3D Secure flow, the payment will be declined. You can retry the payment, and the customer will be prompted to authenticate again. Failed authentications are shown in your Stripe Dashboard.
Do I need to enable SCA in the app?
No configuration is required. Stripe automatically determines when SCA is needed and triggers 3D Secure authentication. Payment for Stripe handles the authentication flow seamlessly, so you and your customers have a frictionless experience.

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