Nintendo Japan eShop Now Rejects Foreign Credit Cards And PayPal Accounts

Nintendo has recently updated its payment policies for its eShop and My Nintendo Store in Japan, no longer accepting foreign-issued credit cards and PayPal accounts. This change, effective from March 25, 2025, aims to "prevent fraudulent use," according to a statement released on January 30, 2025. This new policy impacts how overseas customers can purchase from these platforms.

Termination Of Foreign Payments To “Prevent Fraudulent Use”

Nintendo's decision to restrict foreign payment methods was announced via its website and Twitter (X). The company encourages its international customers to switch to Japan-issued credit cards or other local payment methods to continue shopping on the Japanese eShop. "For customers who have previously used overseas-issued credit cards or PayPal accounts opened overseas, we ask that you please use other payment methods, such as credit cards issued in Japan," Nintendo stated.

While Nintendo has not detailed what constitutes "fraudulent use," it has clarified that this policy change will not affect games already purchased through the Japanese eShop. This means that fans can continue to enjoy their existing digital and physical game collections.

Perks When Buying From Nintendo eShop and My Nintendo Store Japan

The Japanese eShop is a treasure trove for gamers looking to access exclusive Switch titles not available in other regions, such as Yo-kai Watch 1's port for the Nintendo Switch, Famicom Wars, Super Robot Wars T, Mother 3, and various exclusive Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem games, along with retro titles from the SNES and NES. Additionally, the eShop often offers games at discounted prices, making it an attractive option for overseas consumers, especially when the exchange rate is favorable.

However, with the new policy in place, international customers will no longer be able to purchase these exclusive titles using their usual payment methods.

Alternative Payment Methods For Overseas Customers

For those affected by the policy change, Nintendo suggests obtaining a Japanese-issued credit card, though this can be challenging for non-residents due to the need for a residence card. An alternative solution is purchasing Japanese Nintendo eShop cards from online retailers like Amazon JP and PlayAsia. These cards allow customers to add funds to their eShop account without revealing their location, providing a workaround for the new restrictions.

As Nintendo prepares for its upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025, focused on the Nintendo Switch 2, fans are eager to learn more about this policy and any other forthcoming changes the company might introduce.