Nintendo Japan eShop Halts Foreign Payment Methods

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 shift, effective from March 25, 2025, is aimed at curbing "fraudulent use," though Nintendo has not provided detailed explanations on what constitutes such fraud or the factors leading to this decision. For those impacted, Nintendo recommends using Japan-issued credit cards or alternative payment methods. Importantly, this change does not affect games previously purchased through these platforms, ensuring that fans can continue enjoying their existing collections.

Nintendo's New Policy on Overseas Purchases

In an announcement made on January 30, 2025, via its website and social media, Nintendo stated that the new policy aims to "prevent fraudulent use." The company encourages its overseas 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," the company noted.

Benefits of Shopping on Nintendo eShop and My Nintendo Store Japan

The Japanese eShop has been a go-to for many overseas fans, offering access to exclusive Switch games such as Yo-kai Watch 1, Famicom Wars, Super Robot Wars T, Mother 3, and various Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem titles, along with retro games from the SNES and NES. Additionally, the eShop often provides these games at discounted prices, especially beneficial when the yen's exchange rate is favorable. However, with the new policy, accessing these exclusive titles will become more challenging for consumers outside Japan.

Alternative Payment Options for International 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 need for a residence card. A more accessible alternative is purchasing Japanese Nintendo eShop cards from online retailers like Amazon JP and PlayAsia. These cards allow customers to add funds to their eShop accounts without revealing their location.

As Nintendo gears up for its upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025, focusing on the Nintendo Switch 2, fans are eager for more insights into this policy and potential future adjustments.