Authentication
How to authenticate your REST API 2.0 requests
Last updated: Jun 10, 2026
REST API 2.0 supports two authentication methods. Every request must include one of the following:
| Method | Header | When to Use |
|---|---|---|
| API Key | x-api-key: {your API key} | Recommended for most server-to-server integrations. Simple, stateless, and does not expire. |
| Bearer Token | Authorization: Bearer {token} | Used for token-based flows requiring temporary, scoped access or client-initiated operations. |
Obtaining Your Credentials
API Key
API keys are managed via the Control Panel under:
Settings > REST 2.0 API Credentials
Access is available to users with Developer Only or Temp roles.
Refer to REST 2.0 API Credentials for full instructions.
Types of API Keys
| Key Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Operations API Key | Used for payments, disputes, and data-related operations |
| Dispute API Key | Used for dispute-specific endpoints |
Tip: Multiple API keys can be created per Entity ID + Site Name pair to support key rotation, environment separation, and enhanced security.
Using Your Credentials
Example Request
POST /payment-api/payments HTTP/1.1
Host: api.nuvei.com
Content-Type: application/json
x-api-key: {your API key}
{
"processingEntityId": "dbdaacd8-e2b8-4e80-81e7-736a3e241fd0",
"transactionType": "Sale",
"amount": 60,
"currency": "EUR"
}
API Key Hierarchy
- Each parent and child entity can have its own API key (if defined)
- Child entities without a key inherit the parent’s API key
- Parent entity API keys are not visible from child entity views
Security Best Practices
⚠️ Warning: Never expose credentials in client-side code (e.g., browser JavaScript or mobile apps)
- Store credentials server-side only
- Separate credentials per environment (sandbox / production)
- Rotate API keys regularly (multiple active keys are supported)
- Restrict access to the API Credentials page.