Nintendo has recently updated its payment policy for the eShop and My Nintendo Store in Japan, which now prohibits the use of foreign-issued credit cards and PayPal accounts. This change, aimed at "preventing fraudulent use," will significantly impact international consumers interested in purchasing from these platforms.
Termination Of Foreign Payments To “Prevent Fraudulent Use”
As of March 25, 2025, Nintendo eShop and My Nintendo Store Japan will no longer accept payments from credit cards and PayPal accounts issued outside Japan. This decision was announced on January 30, 2025, via Nintendo's official website and X (formerly Twitter). The company encourages foreign customers to utilize Japan-issued credit cards or alternative 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," stated Nintendo.
While Nintendo has not detailed what constitutes "fraudulent use," it is clear that this policy shift will not affect games previously purchased through the Japanese eShop. This means fans can continue enjoying their existing collection of physical and digital games from Nintendo eShop and My Nintendo Store Japan without interruption.
Perks When Buying From Nintendo eShop and My Nintendo Store Japan
The Japanese eShop has been a popular destination for overseas Nintendo enthusiasts due to its exclusive offerings and sometimes more favorable pricing due to exchange rates. Exclusive titles available only on the Japanese eShop include games like Yo-kai Watch 1's port for the Nintendo Switch, Famicom Wars, Super Robot Wars T, Mother 3, as well as exclusive entries in the Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem series, along with various retro titles from the SNES and NES eras. With the new policy in place, international consumers will face challenges in accessing these unique games.
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 cumbersome for non-residents due to the requirement of a residence card. A more accessible option for overseas customers is purchasing Japanese Nintendo eShop cards from online retailers like Amazon JP and PlayAsia. These cards allow buyers to add funds to their eShop account without revealing their location, providing a workaround for the new payment restrictions.
As Nintendo prepares for its upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025, focused on the Nintendo Switch 2, fans are hopeful for more clarity on this new policy and any additional changes the company might introduce in the future.
