How To Use Apple Pay in Nigeria – Updated February 2025

Wondering how to use Apple Pay in Nigeria? Apple Pay is one of the most secure ways to make payments for goods and services with just a tap.  However, due to regional restrictions, Nigerian users often find themselves unable to add their bank cards to Apple Wallet.

The good news is that with the right approach, you can still take advantage of Apple Pay and enjoy this method of contactless payment in Nigeria. In this guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to set up and use Apple Pay in Nigeria.

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. 

Apple Pay is accepted by many businesses, websites, and banks around the world, including in Nigeria. Most often, it is available as a contactless payment method at checkout on websites. 

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
3. Confirm the payment using Face ID, Touch ID, or your device passcode.
4. Wait for the payment to process, and that’s it

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 

Aside from making payments, you can also use Apple Pay to receive money. This service, called Apple Cash, makes it easy to accept payments from friends, family, or customers directly to your device. 

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 for mobile payments in Nigeria comes with advantages like convenience, speed and security. Let’s take a look at these benefits.

1. Speed and Convenience

Most Nigerians today make payments with cards or mobile transfer. However, with Apple Pay in the mix, you don’t need cash or a card. You can make or receive payments quickly with just a tap of your device.

2. High-Level Security

With Face ID, Touch ID, and device-specific encryption, Apple Pay keeps your financial information secure and prevents unauthorized transactions.

3. No Extra Fees

Using Apple Pay in Nigeria does not come with additional charges. This allows you to make payments without worrying about extra costs.

4. Works Across Multiple Devices

Once set up, you can use Apple Pay on your iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad, and Mac. This gives you more flexibility in your transactions. 

How to Set Up Apple Pay in Nigeria

Before you can start using Apple Pay in Nigeria, you need to meet the following requirements:

• Compatible Apple Device: Apple Pay only works on iPhones, iPads, Apple Watches, and MacBooks. Make sure your device is running the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or macOS to avoid any compatibility issues.
• An Apple ID: You need a valid Apple ID signed in to iCloud to set up and use Apple Pay. Ensure your Apple ID is active and linked to your device.
• A Supported Card: Not all Nigerian banks support Apple Pay. Check if your bank or card issuer is compatible by visiting Apple’s official website or contacting your bank.
• The Wallet App: Apple Pay is managed through the Wallet app, which comes pre-installed on Apple devices. If you’ve deleted it, you can re-download it from the App Store.

Step 1: Check if Your Bank Supports Apple Pay

Before setting up Apple Pay, make sure your bank or card issuer in Nigeria supports it. You can check Apple’s official website or contact your bank for confirmation.

Step 2: Open the Wallet App

On your iPhone, locate and open the Wallet app. This is where you’ll add and manage your payment cards.

Step 3: Tap the “+” Button

In the Wallet app, tap the plus (+) button at the top-right corner of the screen to start adding your card.

Step 4: Add the Card Credentials

You can enter your card details manually or use your iPhone’s camera to scan the card. Follow the on-screen instructions to input your card information.

Step 5: Verify Your Card

Your bank may require you to verify your card through a text message, email, or bank app. Complete the verification process as instructed.

Step 6: Set Up Apple Pay on Other Devices

Once your card is added, you can also set up Apple Pay on your Apple Watch, iPad, or Mac by following similar steps in the Wallet & Apple Pay settings.

Step 7: Start Using Apple Pay

After setting up Apple Pay, you can use it for contactless payments in stores, online shopping, and within apps. Simply double-click the side button on your device and authenticate with Face ID or Touch ID to make a payment.

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

Common Apple Pay Issues in Nigeria

• Limited Bank Support: Not all Nigerian banks support Apple Pay, which can make it difficult for some users to add their cards. If your bank does not support Apple Pay, consider using a supported international bank or a virtual card service.
• Card Verification Issues: Some users experience difficulties verifying their cards. If you encounter this issue, ensure your bank supports Apple Pay and that your card details are entered correctly. Contact your bank for assistance if needed.
• Transaction Decline: Sometimes, Apple Pay transactions may be declined even if your card is valid. This could be due to bank restrictions, insufficient funds, or security measures. If your payment fails, check your bank account and contact customer support if necessary.

Alternative Solutions to Apple Pay in Nigeria

Some Apple Pay alternatives in Nigeria include: 

1. Wise

Formerly TransferWise, Wise is a platform that offers virtual debit cards that can be used for online transactions around the world. Here’s what you can expect when using a Wise virtual card:

• Transaction Limits: In Nigeria, you can send up to 95 million NGN per transfer. However, transaction limits may vary depending on your account verification level.
• Fees: Wise typically charges around 1-2% for currency conversion and international payments.
• Processing Time: Most transactions are processed on the same working day. However, some transactions can take up to 2 working days. 
• Supported Merchants: Wise virtual cards work with 90% of international retailers and online services, making them a great alternative for Apple Pay.

2. PayPal

PayPal is another widely used digital payment service that allows users to send and receive money and make online purchases. Although it’s not directly linked to Apple Pay, you can use it as an alternative mobile payment in Nigeria method:

• Transaction Limits: Limits vary depending on account verification, but users can generally send and receive up to $10,000 per transaction.
• Fees: PayPal charges fees for international transfers and currency conversions, usually ranging from 2-5%.
• Processing Time: Transactions are typically instant for PayPal-to-PayPal transfers, but withdrawals to Nigerian bank accounts may take a few days.
• Supported Merchants: PayPal is accepted by millions of online merchants, making it a viable option for purchases when Apple Pay isn’t available.

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.