Regulatory Alerts2026-08-19
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Circular No. 13/2026
The Central Bank of Libya mandates that all financial institutions and payment service providers must integrate with the national electronic payment systems operated by Al-Wafa Company for Electronic Payments, specifically including Visa, Mastercard, MoneyGram, and Western Union. This requirement applies to all entities currently operating in the Libyan market, ensuring compliance with the unified national payment infrastructure.
(2026/H) Hijri Year . The Islamic Date: 1447 AH, 10 Dhu al-Qi'dah 2026/04/28 Gregorian Date
From: The Central Bank of Libya To: All Banks, Financial Institutions, Payment Service Providers, and Relevant Entities
Subject: Circular No. (1) of 2005 regarding the establishment of the National Electronic Payment System.
Reference is made to:
- Circular No. (43) dated 14/06/2018 regarding the implementation of the national electronic payment system.
- Circular No. (1) of 2026 dated 05/02/2026 regarding the integration of payment service providers.
- Circular No. (6) of 2026 dated 19/02/2026 regarding the technical specifications for integration.
- Circular No. (12) of 2026 dated 19/04/2026 regarding the deadline for full integration.
- Circular No. (1) of 2026 dated 23/04/2026 regarding the final notice for compliance.
This circular serves as a reminder and final directive to all licensed financial institutions and payment service providers operating within the Libyan Arab Jamahiriya to ensure immediate and full integration with the national electronic payment systems managed by Al-Wafa Company for Electronic Payments.
The Central Bank of Libya emphasizes that this integration is mandatory for all entities providing domestic and international payment services, including but not limited to:
- Visa International
- Mastercard International
- MoneyGram
- Western Union
Failure to comply with these directives will result in administrative and legal sanctions as per the applicable laws and regulations governing the banking and financial sector in Libya.
All institutions are required to complete the technical integration and commence full operational capability within the stipulated timeframe. Any delays or failures to meet these requirements will be subject to strict enforcement measures.
For further information and technical support, please contact Al-Wafa Company for Electronic Payments directly.
Central Bank of Libya Website: www.cbl.gov.ly SWIFT Code: CBLJLYLX Telephone: +218 21 444 1488 / +218 21 333 3591
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