Nintendo Japan eShop Now Rejects Foreign Credit Cards And PayPal Accounts

Nintendo has introduced a significant change in its payment policies for the eShop and My Nintendo Store in Japan, affecting how overseas customers can purchase products. Starting March 25, 2025, the use of foreign-issued credit cards and PayPal accounts will no longer be accepted, a move Nintendo claims is to "prevent fraudulent use."

Termination Of Foreign Payments To “Prevent Fraudulent Use”

In a statement released on its website and Twitter (X) on January 30, 2025, Nintendo outlined this new policy. 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 the specifics of what constitutes "fraudulent use" remain unclear, the policy change does not affect games already purchased through the Japanese eShop, ensuring that fans can continue enjoying their existing collections.

Perks When Buying From Nintendo eShop and My Nintendo Store Japan

The appeal of the Japanese eShop lies in its offering of exclusive Switch games 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 titles, along with a host of retro games from the SNES and NES eras. Additionally, the eShop often provides these games at a discounted rate due to favorable exchange rates, making it a preferred shopping destination for many international fans. However, with the new policy, accessing these unique titles will become more challenging for customers outside Japan.

Alternative Payment Methods For Overseas Customers

For those affected by this change, Nintendo suggests obtaining a Japan-issued credit card, though this can be a hurdle for non-residents due to the need for a residence card. Alternatively, customers can purchase Japanese Nintendo eShop cards from online retailers like Amazon JP and PlayAsia. These cards allow users 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 hopeful for more clarity on this policy and any forthcoming changes. This event could shed light on how Nintendo plans to continue supporting its international community amidst these adjustments.