How To Use Apple Pay in Nigeria – Updated December 2024

In this era of technological advancement, the way we make payments has evolved. With a variety of payment gateways facilitating fast and secure transactions, these platforms have changed how people and businesses make and receive payments. A popular option is Apple Pay, a mobile payment service known for convenience and security. 

Although this payment option is not as widespread in Nigeria as other payment methods, it is becoming a key player. It is especially key to cross-border transactions with fintech platforms like Flutterwave and Paystack integrating it into their systems. 

Do you want to learn more about using Apple Pay in Nigeria? This article will guide you through how to set up Apple Pay in Nigeria, the two main ways to use it, and how to receive money using the service.

What is Apple Pay?

Apple Pay is a mobile payment and digital wallet service provided by Apple Inc. It allows users to make fast contactless payments using an iPad, iPhone or Apple Watch. This service offers a seamless, secure payment experience regardless of whether you’re using it in-store or online. 

With Apple Pay, users can add credit, debit, or prepaid cards, or other payment methods to their Apple Wallet. It also allows users to redeem and use Apple gift card balances directly on the Wallet app. Once the balance has been added to Apple Wallet, users can use it to pay for products, services or subscriptions. 

This payment service is available in over 160 countries and territories including Nigeria where it is steadily gaining traction. Most often, it is available as a payment method at checkout on websites. 

How to Set Up Apple Pay in Nigeria

Before you can set up and use Apple Pay in Nigeria, there are a few things you need to have. The requirements are:

1. A compatible Apple device, such as iPhone 6 or later, iPad Pro, iPad Air 2 or later, iPad Mini 3 or later, or Apple Watch.
2. The latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or WatchOS.
3. A supported credit or debit card. Check with your bank/financial institution to see if they support Apple Pay.

Once you have all the requirements, setting up Apple Pay is easy. All you need to do is add your card to Apple Wallet by following these steps:

1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone, iPad, or Apple Watch.
2. Tap the “+” sign in the top right corner.
3. Follow the prompts to enter your card details manually or use your device’s camera to scan the card.
4. Verify your card by providing any additional details your bank or card issuer requests.
5. Once your card is verified, it will be added to your Apple Wallet, and you can start using Apple Pay. 

You can also add more than one card to your Wallet and select which one to use during transactions.

2 Ways to Use Apple Pay

You can use Apple Pay in-store or online. Follow the guides below to use Apple Pay online or physically. 

How to Use Apple Pay Online

You can easily use Apple Pay to shop online through Safari, the App Store, and other apps that support it. 

Here’s how:

1. Look for the Apple Pay logo at checkout on the website or app.
2. Select Apple Pay as your payment method and confirm the payment using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.
3. Wait for the payment to process, and once completed, you’re done.

How to Use Apple Pay In-Store

Using Apple Pay in-store is just as simple. Follow these steps:

1. Look for the Apple Pay or contactless payment symbol at the checkout.
2. Hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the terminal.
3. Use Face ID, Touch ID, or your passcode to confirm the payment.
4. Wait for the transaction to be completed.

You can also use Apple Pay to receive money, this service is called Apple Cash. It makes it easy to accept payments from friends, family, or customers directly to your device.

How to Receive Money with Apple Pay

To start receiving money with your Apple Wallet, follow these steps:

1. Open the Wallet app.
2. Tap “More” and select “Card Details”.
3. Set “Accepting Payments” to automatically accept Apple Cash payments.

Benefits of Using Apple Pay in Nigeria

Using Apple Pay in Nigeria comes with advantages like convenience, speed and security. Let’s take a look at these benefits.

1. Convenience: Nowadays, a lot of people make payments with cards or by transferring. With Apple Pay in the mix, you don’t need cash or a card, just use your Apple device to make or receive payments.
2. Speed: Apple Pay is much faster than using a physical card, saving you time at checkout. Receiving money is also quick and seamless with Apple Pay.
3. Security: Apple Pay as a payment method is secure. It uses strong security features like biometric authentication and tokenization to protect your transactions, ensuring your account and funds remain safe.

Frequently Asked Questions About Using Apple Pay in Nigeria

1. Is Apple Pay free in Nigeria?

Yes, Apple Pay is free to use in Nigeria. There are no extra fees for making payments or receiving money using the service. However, your bank may charge standard transaction fees depending on the type of card or payment method linked to your Apple Pay account.

2. Can I use Apple Pay with any bank in Nigeria?

No, not all banks in Nigeria support Apple Pay. You need to check with your bank to confirm if they allow Apple Pay transactions. If your bank doesn’t support Apple Pay, you can consider adding a virtual card to your Apple wallet. 

3. How do I add money to Apple Pay in Nigeria?

You can’t directly add money to Apple Pay in Nigeria. Instead, you link your debit, credit, or prepaid card to your Apple Wallet. Apple Pay then uses the funds from these cards for transactions. 

4. Can I use Apple Pay for international transactions?

Yes, you can use Apple Pay for international transactions. As long as the merchant accepts Apple Pay and your linked card allows international payments, you can use it to shop or send money abroad.

5. How can I withdraw money from Apple Pay?

To withdraw money from Apple Pay, you need to transfer it to your linked bank account. Open the Wallet app, select Apple Card, tap “Withdraw“, and follow the instructions to transfer the funds to your account.

Conclusion

Apple Pay is a secure and convenient payment option that is gaining traction in Nigeria. While not yet as widely used as some other methods, it offers significant advantages for both local and cross-border transactions, especially with support from fintech platforms like Flutterwave and Paystack. 

Setting up Apple Pay is simple, and once done, you can use it for online and in-store payments or receive money through Apple Cash. With its ease of use, fast transactions, and strong security features, Apple Pay is a valuable tool for anyone looking to simplify their payment experience in Nigeria. Follow our simple guide to set it up.