Change App Store Country on iOS Devices: Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Changing the App Store region can be necessary when moving between countries or accessing apps available in a different storefront. This guide explains how to change App Store country on iOS devices, what to check first, and how to resolve common issues.

Why change the App Store country

Changing the App Store country may be needed after relocation, to access region-specific apps or content, or to match a local billing address. App availability, pricing, taxes, and payment methods depend on the selected country or region. Apple’s terms and local regulations affect what content is offered in each storefront.

Prerequisites and important considerations

Apple ID balance and purchases

Any Apple ID balance must be spent before switching regions. Remaining store credit, active orders, or unpaid balances will block the change until resolved.

Subscriptions and memberships

Active subscriptions (including Apple Music, app subscriptions, and third-party services billed through Apple) typically need to be cancelled or allowed to expire. Family Sharing can also restrict changes if a family organizer’s settings are tied to a different country.

Payment method and billing address

The new country requires a payment method issued in that country or a compatible payment option. A valid billing address for the selected country is usually required. Payment rules differ by region and may be subject to local tax and consumer protection regulations.

App and content availability

Apps, in-app purchases, movies, and books available in one country’s App Store might not appear in another. Any apps purchased in the previous country remain on the device but future updates may not be available if those apps are not offered in the new region.

How to change App Store country on iOS: step-by-step

Follow these steps on an iPhone or iPad running a recent iOS version. Exact menu names can vary slightly with iOS updates.

Step 1 — Sign out of media purchases (optional)

Some users sign out of Media & Purchases first to ensure account settings update cleanly. Open Settings, tap the name at the top, then tap Media & Purchases and choose Sign Out if desired.

Step 2 — Open account settings

Open Settings, tap the Apple ID name at the top, then tap Media & Purchases. Choose View Account (you may be asked to authenticate).

Step 3 — Change Country/Region

In Account settings, tap Country/Region and then Change Country or Region. Select the new country from the list.

Step 4 — Review terms and enter payment details

Accept the terms and conditions, then provide a valid payment method and billing address for the new country. If no payment method is available, some countries allow selecting None, but that option may not always appear.

Step 5 — Complete the change

Confirm the change. The account will be updated to the selected country, which may affect available apps, pricing, and tax display.

Troubleshooting common issues

Error: "You have a balance remaining"

Spend the remaining Apple ID balance on eligible purchases or contact Apple Support for options. Gift card credit typically must be used before switching.

Blocked by active subscriptions

Review subscriptions in Settings → Apple ID → Subscriptions. Cancel or transfer subscriptions where possible and wait for them to expire. Alternatively, complete a subscription through the new region if supported.

Family Sharing restrictions

If Family Sharing is active, the family organizer’s country may restrict members. Temporarily leaving the family group or changing the organizer’s country might be necessary, but consider the implications for shared purchases and subscriptions.

Apps not updating after region change

Some apps may no longer be available in the new store. Previously installed apps will remain on the device but might not receive updates until the account returns to the original country or the app becomes available in the new region.

Reversing the change or switching again

Follow the same steps to switch back to a previous country. Ensure all prerequisites are met each time. Frequent country changes may require additional verification and may trigger Apple account checks.

For official guidance from the platform provider, consult the region change support documentation: Apple Support — Change your Apple ID country or region.

Additional tips and compliance

Keep records of billing addresses, receipts, and subscription details when changing regions. Taxes, consumer protections, and refund policies vary by country. When in doubt about legal or tax implications, consult local regulations or an appropriate professional; this article does not provide legal or financial advice.

FAQ

How do I change App Store country on iOS devices?

Open Settings → Apple ID → Media & Purchases → View Account → Country/Region → Change Country or Region. Choose the new country, accept terms, and enter required payment and billing information for that country.

Will changing the App Store country delete apps?

Changing the country does not delete installed apps. However, some apps may not be available in the new country and could stop receiving updates until the account is returned to the original region.

Can subscriptions prevent changing the App Store country?

Yes. Active subscriptions billed through Apple often block country changes until they are cancelled or expired. Check Settings → Apple ID → Subscriptions for details before attempting a change.

Is a local payment method always required?

Many countries require a payment method issued in the selected country. In some regions, it is possible to select None, but availability varies. Confirm the payment options available for the target country before switching.

Who can help if the change fails?

Contact Apple Support for account-specific issues. Official support can clarify blocked changes related to balance, subscriptions, or verification requirements.