Why can't I download free apps without adding a payment method?

I only have completely free apps. I know I personally can download and update these apps without having a payment method, or even any account balance. However, Apple has multiple criteria requiring the presence of a payment method. Since you are apparently encountering one of those situations, you have no option but to enter a valid payment method if you wish to continue downloading. Read the support article Add a payment method to your Apple ID - Apple Support about how to do that. The payment method may not be charged if you also have account balance, but the payment method has to be present. This next article lists valid payment methods for different countries but note that in this case Apple Account balance alone apparently does not meet the requirement: Payment methods that you can use with your Apple ID - Apple Support .