Key takeaways

• If you live in Mexico, you can buy a bitcoin voucher or crypto gift card and pay by cash at over 45,000 locations.

• Bitcoin vouchers and crypto gift cards are available in Mexico for as little as $10 and you can redeem one to your wallet in less than a minute.

• You don’t need to create an account or verify your identity to buy an Azteco bitcoin voucherGo to /learn/articles/what-are-azteco-bitcoin-vouchers page with cash.

Table of contents

1. How do I buy bitcoin in Mexico?

2. What are Azteco bitcoin vouchers?

3. How do I buy bitcoin in Mexico and pay by cash?

4. How do I buy bitcoin in Mexico and pay online?

5. Why do people use bitcoin in Mexico?

6. Frequently asked questions

1. How do I buy bitcoin in Mexico?

The most popular ways to buy bitcoin in Mexico are bitcoin vouchers, crypto exchanges, and crypto ATMs.

Bitcoin vouchers in Mexico

Bitcoin vouchers and gift cardsGo to /learn/articles/what-are-azteco-bitcoin-vouchers page are prepaid vouchers that you redeem for bitcoin. They work just like digital gift cards or mobile phone top-up vouchers. They’re also sometimes called crypto vouchers or BTC gift cards.

Bitcoin gift cards and vouchers are available in Mexico from online and physical retail stores. They contain a unique 16-digit code or QR code that you use to redeem your voucher for bitcoin.

Learn moreGo to /learn/articles/how-to-buy-bitcoin-btc page about using bitcoin vouchers and gift cards in Mexico.

Crypto exchanges in Mexico

Crypto exchanges are online platforms or offline networks that allow people to buy or invest in bitcoin. Some crypto exchanges will expect to manage and control the bitcoin that you buy from them.

Cryptocurrency exchanges like CoinbaseLink to: https://www.reuters.com/business/finance/coinbase-says-hackers-stole-cryptocurrency-least-6000-customers-2021-10-01/ and BinanceLink to: https://www.reuters.com/legal/binances-ceo-zhao-faces-sentencing-over-money-laundering-violations-2024-04-30/ are centralized exchanges, which means that they manage and control the transfer of your bitcoin.

Learn moreGo to /learn/articles/how-to-buy-bitcoin-btc page about using crypto exchanges in Mexico.

Crypto ATMs in Mexico

Cryptocurrency ATMs are physical machines that allow people to buy or sell bitcoin using local fiat currency.

If you’re using a crypto ATM to buy bitcoin in Mexico, you’ll need to pay with cash or a bank card. Once your payment has been confirmed, you’ll need to enter your 24-digit wallet address into the ATM or scan a QR code to receive your bitcoin. It may take several minutes or more for the transfer to be confirmed in your wallet.

Learn moreGo to /learn/articles/how-to-buy-bitcoin-btc page about using crypto ATMs in Mexico.

2. What are Azteco bitcoin vouchers?

Azteco bitcoin vouchers are prepaid vouchers that you can redeem for bitcoin. They work just like digital gift cards or mobile phone top-up vouchers. They’re sometimes called BTC vouchers, crypto vouchers, or even cryptocurrency gift cards.

Azteco bitcoin vouchers are available in over 190 countries for as little as $10. It takes less than a minute to redeem an Azteco voucher and you don’t even need to create an Azteco account.

Beware of crypto cards and vouchers that force you to store your bitcoin on their platform or in their app. Some of them will also force you to verify your identity before you can receive your bitcoin.

Learn moreGo to /learn/articles/what-are-azteco-bitcoin-vouchers page about using Azteco bitcoin vouchers in Mexico.

3. How do I buy bitcoin in Mexico and pay by cash?

If you live in Mexico, you can buy an Azteco bitcoin voucher and pay by cash at over 45,000 locations.

You don’t need to create an Azteco account or verify your identity to buy an Azteco voucher. They’re available for as little as $10 and you can redeem one to your bitcoin wallet in less than a minute.

Here’s how it works:

• Step 1: Order an Azteco bitcoin voucher

• Step 2: Pay for your Azteco voucher at a store or bank

• Step 3: Receive your Azteco voucher by email

• Step 4: Redeem your Azteco voucher to a bitcoin wallet

Step 1: Order an Azteco bitcoin voucher

Visit azte.co/buy/mexicoGo to /buy/mexico page to order an Azteco bitcoin voucher.

Enter the amount you want to pay and the email address where you want to receive your Azteco voucher.

Note that your email address is only used to process your order and to deliver your Azteco voucher.

Step 2: Pay for your Azteco voucher at a store or bank

After you’ve ordered your Azteco voucher, you’ll be given a choice of stores and banks where you can pay by cash.

Stores

• 7-ElevenLink to: https://7-eleven.com.mx

• WalmartLink to: https://www.walmart.com.mx

• SorianaLink to: https://www.soriana.com

• Super FarmaciaLink to: https://www.superfarmacia.com.mx

• Farmacias del AhorroLink to: https://www.fahorro.com

• CalimaxLink to: https://www.calimax.com.mx

• Sam’s ClubLink to: https://www.sams.com.mx

• Bodega AurreraLink to: https://www.bodegaaurrera.com.mx

• Circle KLink to: https://www.circlek.com.mx

• ExtraLink to: http://www.extra.com.mx/

• Waldo’sLink to: https://www.waldos.com.mx

• Las Mas BarataLink to: https://farmaciaslamasbarata.com/sucursales/

• RomaLink to: https://twitter.com/farmaciasroma

• GestoPagoLink to: https://www.gestopago.com/como_vendemos.php

• KioskoLink to: https://www.mikiosko.mx/

• Multi RecargasLink to: http://www.multirecarga.com

• Pago RápidoLink to: http://www.pagorapido.mx

Banks

• BBVALink to: https://www.bbva.mx/

• SantanderLink to: https://branchlocator.santander.com/

• ScotiabankLink to: https://www.scotiabank.com.mx/sucursales-cajeros.aspx

• Banco AztecaLink to: https://www.bancoazteca.com.mx/ayuda/sucursales.html

Select a payment partner to receive your payment instructions.

Next, go to the store or bank, show them your payment instructions, and pay by cash or card.

The store or bank will give you a payment receipt but they won’t give you the bitcoin voucher. Keep the payment receipt safe in case you need to contact Azteco for help.

Step 3: Receive your Azteco voucher by email

As soon as you’ve made your payment in the store or bank, you’ll receive an email from Azteco with your bitcoin voucher.

If you don’t receive an email, make sure to check your spam folder before contacting Azteco for helpGo to /help-en page.

Step 4: Redeem your Azteco voucher to a bitcoin wallet

There are two types of Azteco bitcoin vouchers that you can redeem.

• Azteco lightning vouchers use the “Lightning Network” to send bitcoin.

• Azteco on-chain vouchers use the “Main Network” to send bitcoin.

In both cases, you’re receiving bitcoin. The only difference is how the bitcoin is sent, how much it costs to send, and how long the transfer takes.

You can learn more about lightning vs on-chain vouchers in our Help CenterGo to /help-en page.

Redeeming an Azteco lightning voucher

Azteco lightning vouchers will have either a QR code or a 16-digit code.

• If your lightning voucher has a QR code, you’ll need to launch your bitcoin wallet app, select “Receive”, and then scan the QR code on the voucher.

• If your lightning voucher has a 16-digit code, you’ll need to visit azte.co/redeemGo to /redeem page, enter your 16-digit code to receive a QR code, and then scan the QR code with your bitcoin wallet app.

Redeeming an Azteco on-chain voucher

Azteco on-chain vouchers will always have a 16-digit code.

• You’ll need to visit azte.co/redeemGo to /redeem page, enter your 16-digit code, and then enter your bitcoin wallet address.

4. How do I buy bitcoin in Mexico and pay online?

If you don’t want to buy your bitcoin with cash, you can still get an Azteco bitcoin voucherGo to /learn/articles/what-are-azteco-bitcoin-vouchers page in Mexico and pay online with a bank card.

Azteco bitcoin vouchers are available from approved partners in over 190 countries and you can redeem one to your wallet in less than a minute.

Visit azte.co/buyGo to /buy page to see the buying options for your country.

You don’t need to create an Azteco account or verify your identity to redeem an Azteco voucher. However, some partners may ask for identity verification as part of their payment fraud processes.

5. Why do people use bitcoin and crypto in Mexico?

People in Mexico use bitcoin for financial inclusion, international remittances, everyday spending, personal savings, international payments, business transactions, and more.

Bitcoin for financial inclusion

Many people in Mexico lack access to traditional banking services. Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies provide an alternative way for them to manage their finances. Bitcoin can be accessed via smartphones, making financial services more inclusive.

Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies also enable those without formal identification to participate in the financial system. Traditional banks often require extensive documentation. By contrast, setting up a crypto wallet is much simpler and more accessible.

Using bitcoin and crypto allows for greater financial independence. Individuals can control their funds without relying on traditional financial institutions. This empowerment is crucial for many unbanked individuals in Mexico.

Learn moreGo to /less-bitcoin-more-bitcoin page about how bitcoin helps the unbanked.

Bitcoin for international remittances

Sending funds across borders can be expensive and slow. Bitcoin offers a faster and cheaper alternative for international remittances. Many Mexicans use it to receive money from family members working abroad.

Traditional remittance services charge high fees and take several days to process. In contrast, bitcoin transactions can be completed in minutes. This speed and cost-effectiveness make crypto an attractive option for sending funds home.

Cryptocurrencies also provide a way to bypass the limitations of traditional financial systems. For those living in remote areas, access to remittance services can be limited. Bitcoin offers a more accessible and efficient solution.

Learn moreGo to /less-bitcoin-more-bitcoin page about how bitcoin can be used for international remittances.

Bitcoin for everyday spending

In Mexico, some people use bitcoin for everyday purchases. This can range from buying groceries to paying for services. The growing acceptance of bitcoin by merchants makes this possible.

Using bitcoin for daily transactions can offer benefits like lower fees. Traditional payment methods often involve additional costs. With crypto, these fees can be minimized, making everyday spending more affordable.

Moreover, bitcoin transactions are secure and fast. This efficiency appeals to those who prefer a more streamlined payment process. As more businesses accept crypto, everyday spending with bitcoin becomes increasingly common.

Learn moreGo to /stories page about how people use bitcoin for their everyday spending.

Bitcoin for personal savings

People in Mexico also use bitcoin as a way to save for their futures. Cryptocurrencies can provide a hedge against inflation. With traditional savings accounts offering low interest rates, bitcoin presents an alternative.

Saving in bitcoin allows individuals to diversify their savings. Instead of relying solely on pesos, they can hold a portion in crypto. This diversification can protect against currency devaluation.

Additionally, bitcoin offers the potential for higher returns. While the value can be volatile, many see the long-term growth potential. For those willing to take the risk, bitcoin can be an appealing savings option.

Learn moreGo to /stories page about how people use bitcoin for their personal savings.

Bitcoin for international payments

Bitcoin facilitates international payments without the need for currency conversion. This simplifies transactions for those buying goods or services from abroad. Many in Mexico appreciate the ease and convenience of using bitcoin for this purpose.

Traditional international payments can be complicated and costly. They often involve multiple intermediaries and high fees. Bitcoin streamlines this process, making it more efficient and affordable.

Moreover, bitcoin transactions are transparent and secure. This reduces the risk of fraud and errors in international payments. For businesses and individuals alike, using crypto for cross-border transactions is advantageous.

Learn moreGo to /stories page about how people use bitcoin for international payments.

Bitcoin for business transactions

Businesses in Mexico are increasingly adopting bitcoin for transactions. Accepting crypto can attract more customers, both locally and internationally. This trend is particularly noticeable among tech-savvy companies.

Using bitcoin can also reduce transaction costs for businesses. Traditional payment methods often involve significant fees. By accepting crypto, businesses can save money and increase their profit margins.

Furthermore, bitcoin transactions are processed quickly. This speed can improve cash flow and operational efficiency. For businesses, the advantages of using crypto for transactions are clear and compelling.

Learn moreGo to learn/articles/bitcoin-benefits-pros-cons-and-advantages page about the benefits of using bitcoin.

Bitcoin as a long-term investment

Many Mexicans see bitcoin as a valuable investment. The potential for high returns has attracted numerous investors. This interest has grown as the awareness of cryptocurrencies increases.

Investing in bitcoin allows individuals to diversify their investment portfolios. By adding crypto to their assets, they can spread risk. This diversification is a common strategy among savvy investors.

However, investing in bitcoin also comes with risks. The market is volatile, and prices can fluctuate significantly. Despite this, many are drawn to the potential rewards, making bitcoin a popular investment choice in Mexico.

Learn moreGo to /learn/articles/is-bitcoin-a-good-investment page about investing in bitcoin.