Nintendo's Japan eShop and My Nintendo Store Ban Foreign Payment Methods

Effective March 25, 2025, Nintendo is prohibiting the use of foreign-issued credit cards and PayPal accounts on its Japanese eShop and My Nintendo Store. This new policy, announced January 30, 2025, aims to combat fraudulent activity. While Nintendo cites "fraudulent use" as the reason, specifics remain undisclosed.

This change impacts international customers who previously relied on these payment methods to access Japan-exclusive titles and potentially lower prices due to favorable exchange rates. Existing purchases remain unaffected.

Why Buy From the Japanese eShop?

The Japanese eShop offers a unique selection of games unavailable elsewhere, including titles like Yo-kai Watch 1 (Switch port), Famicom Wars, Super Robot Wars T, Mother 3, and various exclusive entries in the Shin Megami Tensei and Fire Emblem franchises, along with numerous retro classics. The often-lower prices are another significant draw for international buyers.

Alternatives for International Customers

Nintendo recommends obtaining a Japanese credit card, a challenging prospect for non-residents. A more practical solution is purchasing Japanese Nintendo eShop gift cards from online retailers like Amazon JP and PlayAsia. These cards allow users to add funds to their accounts without revealing their location.

Future Outlook

The upcoming Nintendo Direct on April 2, 2025, might offer further clarification on this policy and potential future adjustments. The impact on international fans' access to Japanese-exclusive games remains a key concern.