What is a cryptocurrency payment gateway and how to start accepting crypto

In modern business, more and more companies are implementing cryptocurrency payments to expand their audience and reduce fees. But to start accepting BTC, ETH, and USDT without errors, a reliable platform is needed — a cryptocurrency payment gateway. In this article, we will explain what this service is, how it works, and what advantages it offers. We will go through the steps of choosing and integrating, share practical advice and real cases. After reading, you will be able to independently connect the gateway and accept cryptocurrency on your website without complex setups and risks.

Main concepts: what is a crypto payment gateway

Definition and key functions of the gateway

A cryptocurrency payment gateway is a service that accepts payments in Bitcoin for businesses and other cryptocurrencies. It converts crypto funds, notifies the seller about the payment, and transfers fiat to the bank account.

Types of gateways: custodial and non-custodial

A custodial gateway stores funds in its wallets. A non-custodial gateway allows businesses to control the keys. The first is easier to integrate. The second is safer but requires wallet setup.

Advantages of a crypto payment gateway for businesses

Increasing audience and conversion growth

Accepting cryptocurrency on the website attracts new customers. According to How do cryptocurrency payments increase conversions in e-commerce?, e-commerce loses up to 30% of sales due to payment restrictions. A crypto payment gateway solves this problem in practice.

Reducing transaction costs and fees

The average fee for banking POS systems exceeds 2.5%. A cryptocurrency payment gateway reduces costs to 0.5%. For international transfers, this is up to 80% savings.

Criteria for choosing a cryptocurrency payment gateway

Support for currencies and blockchain networks

Look for a provider that supports BTC, ETH, and popular stablecoins. Check the networks Ethereum, BSC, Solana, and Tron. Compare fees and transaction speeds.

Security, AML/KYC, and regulatory compliance

The payment gateway must conduct KYC/AML checks according to FATF standards. This protects the business from risks. Reliable providers offer cold wallets and multi-signature.

Steps for connection: from registration to payment acceptance

Account registration and verification

Go to the provider's website and create an account. Complete KYC: upload your passport and confirm your address. Usually, verification takes no more than 24 hours.

Integration through API, invoices, and widgets

To accept cryptocurrency on the website, connect the API. Most gateways offer ready-made SDKs and code examples. You can send invoices via email or embed a payment widget on the page.

Practical tools for a quick start in accepting crypto

Generating links and QR codes without code

If you want to minimize IT costs, use links and QR codes. They are generated in the personal account with 1-2 clicks. The client scans, pays, and you receive a notification.

Integration example on Nord Pay

Nord Pay can be launched in 15 minutes. No complex settings. To start, select a currency, get your API key, insert the widget script, and start accepting crypto.

Also read: How do e-commerce and SaaS services accept cryptocurrency?

Common problems and their solutions with a crypto payment gateway

Volatility of the rate and auto-conversion

The cryptocurrency rate changes by up to 10% per day. To protect the business, enable instant auto-conversion to a stablecoin or fiat. Auto-conversion of cryptocurrencies: protecting business from volatility.

Transaction delays and network speed optimization

The Ethereum network can be overloaded. The solution is to choose less congested networks or use paid transaction accelerators. On BSC and Solana, delays are less than 10 seconds.

Trends and prospects for crypto payments in 2025

Regulation, stablecoins, and new standards

According to the report Crypto Industry Report 2025, by 2025, global AML rules for crypto payments will be adopted. Stablecoins will account for 60% of transaction volume.

Growth of institutional adoption of crypto

Large brands like Microsoft and Tesla are already accepting cryptocurrency. This is forming new standards. It is expected that businesses will adopt cryptocurrency alongside cards.

Checklist for connecting a cryptocurrency payment gateway

Ready to accept cryptocurrency today?

Connect Nord Pay and start accepting BTC, ETH, and USDT in 15 minutes without complex integrations and risks.

Connect NordPay