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PIX QR Code: How Brazil's Instant Payment System Works

PureTools Team· 7 min read
PIX QR Code: How Brazil's Instant Payment System Works

What Is PIX?

PIX is Brazil's instant payment system, launched by the Central Bank of Brazil (BCB) in November 2020. It allows real-time money transfers 24/7, 365 days a year, with transactions completed in seconds. By 2025, PIX processed over 4 billion transactions per month, making it one of the most successful instant payment systems globally.

PIX QR Code Types

PIX uses two types of QR codes:

TypeUse CaseAmount
Static QRReusable, same recipientOptional (payer can change)
Dynamic QRSingle transactionFixed, set by recipient

Static QR Code

A static QR code can be reused for multiple payments. It contains the recipient's PIX key and optionally a pre-defined amount. Ideal for small businesses, street vendors, and personal transfers.

Dynamic QR Code

A dynamic QR code is generated for each transaction with a specific amount and additional data. Used by e-commerce platforms, bill payments, and formal business transactions.

PIX Key Types

To receive PIX payments, you register a PIX key linked to your bank account:

  • CPF/CNPJ: Your tax ID (most common for individuals/businesses)
  • Email: Any email address
  • Phone: Your mobile number with country code (+55)
  • Random Key (EVP): A UUID generated by the system for privacy

Technical Structure

PIX QR codes follow the EMV standard (same used by credit cards). The payload contains:

// PIX payload structure (simplified)
{
  "merchantAccountInfo": {
    "gui": "br.gov.bcb.pix",
    "pixKey": "email@example.com"
  },
  "merchantName": "JOHN DOE",
  "merchantCity": "SAO PAULO",
  "transactionAmount": "150.00",
  "additionalData": {
    "referenceLabel": "INV-2026-001"
  }
}

Generate Your PIX QR Code

Need to create a PIX QR code quickly? Use the PureTools PIX QR Code Generator to create static QR codes for any PIX key. Enter your key, optional amount, and recipient name to generate a scannable QR code instantly. Perfect for freelancers, small businesses, and anyone who receives payments via PIX.