Why Your Nigerian Debit Card Fails on Google Play and How to Fix It

There is an increase in frustration among Nigerians who are repeatedly faced with the  “Not Eligible” error each time they try to pay for apps, games, movies, or subscriptions on the Google Play Store with their local debit cards. 

If you have experienced this firsthand, I must tell you that you are not alone. Just like the recent post of someone in my community complaining of how she couldn’t make a payment on Apple Music, the Google Play, in the same way, keeps locking out Naira cards. This has left a lot of people wondering what the problem could be.

In this article, I will explain why Nigerian debit cards don’t work on Google Play and how to fix the issues. Help is here; stay with me till the end.

Why Your Nigerian Debit Card Isn’t Working On Google Play

The reason behind your Nigerian debit card not working on Google Play is because of the federal law regarding restrictions on Foreign Exchange (FX) transactions. Before the law, international transactions were seamless with Naira cards, but with a monthly spending limit.

I could remember when I wanted to make a foreign school fee payment with my Access card. One of the issues I had then was the transaction limit thingy. But now, even a $10 international transaction would frustrate you.

So, you should know that the reason behind your debit card not working is not at all related to insufficient funds. CBN passed the FX transaction restriction to all commercial banks in 2022. Apparently, the regulation was passed because the country is experiencing low circulation.

This basically explains why your debit card doesn’t work on Google Play. Now that the reason is clear, how do you address it? 

How To Make Payment On Google Play Store

Three different ways are feasible when it comes to making payments on the Google Play Store. They are:

1. The use of a domiciliary card
2. The use of a virtual dollar card
3. The use of a Google Play gift card

Also Read: How to Use Google Pay in Nigeria

Use a Domiciliary Card to Pay on Google Play 

This is basically a dollar card. You can walk into any bank in Nigeria to request one. Based on the documents requested from me when I opened the Access Dom account, you will need two passport photographs, a NIN, a utility bill, and a 100-dollar bill. You will be given two documents to give to two people as references. 

They will only need to fill in their details and vouch for you. Once you can open a Dom account, you can request the card. You can then use the DOM card details to make a payment on the Google Play Store.

Use a Virtual Dollar Card to Pay on Google Play

With the rise of fintech apps in Nigeria, there are several virtual dollar card options you can pick from. These cards exist solely in digital form, with unique card numbers, expiry dates, and CVV codes, just like physical cards. 

The first milestone in getting a virtual dollar card is to research and select a reputable Fintech platform. Once you are able to do so, every other registration will be done easily. In this case, I personally recommend Nosh. Nosh is a tested, trusted and safe fintech platform to get an instant virtual dollar card.

Use Google Play Gift Card to Pay on Google Play

This right here works like magic. It doesn’t require any stress like opening a Dom account or signing up for a virtual dollar card. What you simply need is a Google Play gift card. So, you won’t use any debit card in this case, but just the gift card. Note that the region of the gift card you buy must be the same as your billing address. This means if you got a US Google Play gift card, ensure to change the default address on your Google Play to a US address.

Where To Buy Google Play Gift Card In Nigeria

The best platform to buy Google Play gift cards in Nigeria is Nosh. There are all kinds of Google Play gift cards available on the platform in terms of country/region. Form (physical and ecode) and denomination. You can easily buy a Google Play gift card on Nosh within  few minutes. There are also other kinds of gift cards available for purchase. 

Conclusion

So, your Nigerian card failing on Google Play is not your bank acting up.  It’s a nationwide problem everybody is dealing with because of the FX rules. But don’t let that stop your app downloads or movie nights! This article as provided you with feasible options of a physical dollar, virtual dollar card, or grab a Google Play gift card. 

Thinking of the easiest way to get this done? Think Nosh! Nosh is your safe haven to either get a virtual dollar card or buy a Google Play gift card. Nosh makes it all quick and hassle-free. So, get back to enjoying all the cool stuff on Google Play – Nosh can help you get there!