How does location affect Apple Gift Card redemption?

Hello chau216,

thanks for writing in the Community.

If you purchase a gift card from Apple UK (or in an Apple Store located in the UK) you can redeem the gift card only using an Apple Account with location set in the UK and a billing address/payment method from the UK: you cannot redeem an Apple Gift Card bought physically in the UK with your Hong Kong Apple Account.

If you need an Apple Gift Card that can be redeemed while you are in the UK from your HK Account you can buy it directly from the HK Apple Store Online.

Thanks,

Matteo

Very doubtful IMO.

You’re still “virtually” in a Hong Kong Apple Account and the Hong Kong App Store; even if your feet are physically on UK soil.

Plus there would be the whole international exchange rate “complications” which would otherwise be involved.

If you can't redeem your Apple Gift Card or App Store & iTunes Gift Card - Apple Support

Here you are Chattanoogan,

Chattanoogan wrote: Cite please.

Code must be redeemed in a different country or region! See here this paragraph:

If you can't redeem your Apple Gift Card or App Store & iTunes Gift Card - Apple Support

If you see a message that says the code must be redeemed in another storefront, the card was probably purchased in another country or region. You can't redeem Apple Gift Cards or App Store & iTunes Gift Cards outside of the country or region of purchase. For example, if you bought an App Store & iTunes Gift Card in France, you can't redeem it in the App Store in the United States. If you have a physical gift card, you can return to the retailer where it was purchased.

Please see also this useful links:

Payment methods that you can use with your Apple Account - Apple Support

Availability of Apple Media Services - Apple Support

What you can buy with your Apple Gift Card or Apple Account balance - Apple Support

Thank you can also see the International Store Directory: Choose your country or region - Apple

If you buy from the HK Apple Store Online, and you have an HK billing address, there wouldn't be any international exchange rate (if you use an HK payment method). Instead, that will happen if you buy from the UK Apple Store Online using an HK payment method.

Thanks,

Matteo

Cite please.

There might be some time limits involved … and the need for an in-region payment method.

All designed to help prevent money laundering.