The Apple App Store offers a wide variety of apps and services that differ based on your region. Certain apps, subscriptions, or features may only be available in specific countries. If you’ve moved to a new country or want access to region-specific apps, you may need to change the country or region associated with your Apple ID.
This guide will provide a comprehensive, step-by-step explanation of how to change your App Store country, along with precautions and tips to ensure a smooth transition.
Why Change the App Store Country?
There are several reasons to update your App Store country:
1. Regional App Access: Some apps or services are only available in specific countries.
2. Relocation: If you’ve moved to another country, you’ll need to update your App Store region to match your payment method.
3. Access Local Features: Certain features like Apple Pay or local apps are region-specific.
4. Subscription Availability: Some subscriptions, like streaming platforms, vary by region.
What to Know Before Changing Your App Store Country
Changing your App Store country isn’t always straightforward.
Here’s what you need to know beforehand:
Active Subscriptions Must Be Canceled
1. You cannot change your App Store country if you have active subscriptions linked to your Apple ID.
2. Cancel current subscriptions and wait for the billing period to end.
3. Re-subscribe to the services after changing your country.
Spend Remaining Store Credit
If you have an Apple ID balance, it must be used up before changing your country.
You can check your balance in the App Store by:
1. Opening the App Store app.
2. Tapping your profile picture and checking your remaining credit.
Payment Method
You need a valid payment method for the new country, such as a local credit card, debit card, or Apple Gift Card.
Family Sharing Restrictions
If you’re part of a Family Sharing group, you must leave the group to change your country.
Loss of Regional Content
Apps, movies, and music purchased in one country may not be available after switching regions.
Step-By-Step Guide to Changing Your App Store Country
Method 1: Change Country on iPhone or iPad
This is the most direct method to change your App Store country using your device.
Step 1: Open Your Account Settings
1. Go to the Settings app.
2. Tap your name at the top of the screen.
3. Select Media & Purchases > View Account.
Step 2: Access Country/Region Settings
1. Scroll down and tap Country/Region.
2. Tap Change Country or Region.
Step 3: Choose Your New Country
1. From the list, select the country or region you want to switch to.
2. Review the terms and conditions, then tap Agree.
Step 4: Enter Payment and Billing Details
1. Add a valid payment method for the new country.
2. Provide a billing address for the selected region.
3. Tap Next to save your changes.
Your App Store country is now updated, and you’ll see content specific to the new region.
Method 2: Change Country Using iTunes on a Computer
If you prefer using a computer, iTunes offers an alternative way to change your App Store country.
Step 1: Sign In to iTunes
1. Open iTunes on your Mac or PC.
2. Sign in with your Apple ID by clicking Account > Sign In.
Step 2: View Account Settings
1. Click Account in the menu bar.
2. Select View My Account and sign in again if prompted.
Step 3: Change Country or Region
1. In the Apple ID Summary, click Change Country or Region.
2. Select your new country from the dropdown menu.
Step 4: Enter Payment Details
1. Provide a valid payment method and billing address for the new region.
2. Confirm your changes to update your account.
Method 3: Create a New Apple ID for a Different Country
If you don’t want to change your existing Apple ID’s country, you can create a new one specifically for the desired region.
Steps to Create a New Apple ID
1. Sign out of your current Apple ID on your device.
Go to Settings > [Your Name] > Sign Out.
2. Open the App Store and try downloading a free app.
3. When prompted to sign in, choose Create New Apple ID.
4. Select the desired country during the account setup process.
5. Provide a valid payment method and billing address for the selected region.
Using a second Apple ID allows you to access apps from multiple regions without permanently changing your primary account.
What Happens When You Change Your App Store Country?
1. Loss of Access to Regional Content
Apps, music, and movies purchased in the old country may no longer be available for download.
2. Subscriptions Are Canceled
Active subscriptions tied to your old region will be canceled. You’ll need to re-subscribe in the new region.
3. Pricing Differences
Apps and services may be priced differently in the new region.
4. Gift Cards
Apple Gift Cards are region-specific and can’t be transferred between countries.
Troubleshooting Issues
Can’t Change Country Due to Subscriptions
1. Cancel subscriptions in Settings > [Your Name] > Subscriptions.
2. Wait for the billing cycle to end before trying again.
Insufficient Store Credit
If you have a small amount of store credit, you can:
1. Purchase an inexpensive app or song to use up the balance.
2. Contact Apple Support for assistance.
Payment Method Not Accepted
Ensure your payment method is valid for the new region. Some countries accept only local cards or specific services like Apple Pay.
Family Sharing Restrictions
If you’re part of a Family Sharing group, go to Settings > [Your Name] > Family Sharing and leave the group.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I switch back to my original country later?
Yes, you can switch back by repeating the steps above, provided you meet the requirements.
Q2: Will I lose my purchased apps after changing countries?
You won’t lose the apps on your device, but they may not be available for re-download in the new region.
Q3: How long does it take to change the App Store country?
The change is usually immediate, but syncing data across devices may take a few minutes.
Q4: Can I use the same payment method across multiple countries?
No, your payment method must be valid for the selected region.
Q5: Can I access apps from multiple regions simultaneously?
Yes, by using separate Apple IDs for different countries, you can access apps from multiple regions.
Best Practices for Managing Multiple Regions
1. Create a Secondary Apple ID: This allows access to apps from another country without affecting your main account.
2. Use a Virtual Credit Card: Some virtual cards work across regions, offering more flexibility.
3. Consider a Family Sharing Group: If you manage multiple Apple IDs, a Family Sharing setup can help you share content across accounts.
Conclusion
Changing your App Store country is an essential step if you’ve relocated or need access to region-specific apps and services. While the process requires preparation—such as canceling subscriptions, using up store credit, and providing a local payment method—it’s straightforward when you follow the steps outlined above.
By understanding the implications, like potential loss of regional content or the need to resubscribe to services, you can make an informed decision and transition seamlessly. Whether you’re updating your existing Apple ID or creating a new one, changing your App Store country opens up a world of possibilities tailored to your needs.