One challenge I faced as a Nigerian when I received my first Amazon gift card was region restriction. By region restriction, I mean that using Amazon cards as a payment option in Nigeria was restricted because it was only limited to residents in the US.
Some say this restriction was a measure to reduce gift card scams and unauthorized use, but this may not be completely true. The “restriction” was because Nigeria did not have the facilities to process international payments and transactions. So, this affected many Nigerians who had Amazon cards.
If you have ever had challenges redeeming Amazon gift cards in Nigeria, this article is for you. We will discuss everything you need to know about using Amazon gift cards in Nigeria.
What Is an Amazon Gift Card Used For?
1. Shopping on Amazon
You are most likely used to associating Amazon cards with shopping on Amazon. Yes, you’re correct. Amazon gift cards are primarily used to purchase items on the Amazon website. Once redeemed, the card balance is added to your Amazon account and can be used to buy a wide range of products like electronics, books, and clothes.
You can also use the balance for digital services like Kindle books or Prime subscriptions. The idea is to create a convenient and flexible payment method for frequent shoppers and other customers.
2. Sending as an E-Gift
You can also use Amazon gift cards as gifts that can be sent digitally via email or text. This makes Amazon cards a more suitable gifting option for occasions when you’re unsure of what the recipient likes. Also, Amazon offers customization options such as adding a personal message or choosing theme designs so you can create a more personal experience without physical delivery.
3. Converting to Cash or Crypto
For people in countries like Nigeria, where using Amazon gift cards directly can be challenging, converting them to cash or cryptocurrency is a better alternative. Platforms like Prestmit allow you to trade Amazon gift cards for Naira or cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and USDT at competitive rates. This option gives you more flexibility and ensures you get real value from gift cards, even if you can’t shop directly on Amazon.
Common Challenges When Using Amazon Gift Cards in Nigeria
Using an Amazon gift card in Nigeria isn’t always smooth sailing. Here are some common headaches you might run into and how to fix them.
1. Amazon Gift Card Region Restrictions
You’ll likely encounter a regional restriction when redeeming an Amazon gift card in a different country. Amazon gift cards are region-specific. A US Amazon gift card wouldn’t work in the UK. How much more in Nigeria? So, we are facing regional restrictions in Nigeria
2. Amazon Account Verification Issues
Another challenge Nigerians encounter when using Amazon gift cards is account verification. There’s already a transaction limitation for Nigerians. Then there’s this fight for account verification from Nigeria. So, while you can maneuver your way around the payment method from Nigeria, account verification is another hassle you’ll encounter.
3. Claim Code Locked
Claim codes are usually locked when you did not purchase the gift card. To salvage this situation, contact the original buyer and ask them to provide Amazon customer support with the gift card details.
4. Amazon Payment Method Limitations
Even after redeeming a gift card, certain purchases on Amazon may require a linked credit or debit card. Many Nigerian bank cards are unacceptable for such purchases, so alternative payment methods are necessary.
5. Invalid Code
If you receive an “Invalid Code” error, carefully review the code to ensure you entered it correctly. If the issue persists, contact Amazon support with your gift card details and proof of purchase.
Best Place To Sell Amazon Gift Card In Nigeria
Since you cannot use Amazon gift cards directly on the Amazon store from Nigeria, the best way is to sell the card in Nigeria, and Prestmit is the best place to do that. The platform offers features like advanced security, automated gift card rates calculator, fast payment, multiple payment method, responsive customer support, etc., to enable you have easy and profitable trading.
Step-by-Step Guide to Redeeming Amazon Gift Cards in Nigeria – Prestmit
- Visit the official Prestmit website or download the Prestmit app on the Google Play Store or Apple Store.
- Create a Prestmit account and log in.
- Click “Gift Cards” and choose “Sell Gift Cards.”
- Select your preferred payment method.
- In the gift card category, select “Amazon” and select the gift card type.
- Enter the amount of the Amazon gift card that you want to sell.
- Upload the Amazon gift card image or enter the code in the comment section.
- Follow the prompts to complete the transaction.
- You will receive payment immediately after the transaction is confirmed.
How to Avoid Amazon Gift Card Errors in Nigeria
1. Ensure You Are Using a Compatible Gift Card
Incompatible gift card errors are common when people try to redeem their cards from Nigeria. The reason is simple—Nigerians are not aware that Amazon gift cards are region-specific. This means that UK Amazon gift cards don’t work on US Amazon sites and vice versa. That’s why it’s important to always check the current and issuing country of the card before you attempt to redeem it.
2. Link a Valid Payment Method
Sometimes, Amazon may request an additional payment method from you as a verification process. You’ll likely face this when making digital purchases or setting up a new account. To tackle this challenge, you must link a valid payment method that matches the billing address on your account.
3. Double-check the Gift Card Code
Finally, on our list are typos. Typing errors can lead to a failed gift card redemption process. Misreading similar characters like “0” (zero) and “O” (capital letter O) or “1” and “I” can easily trigger an invalid code error. To prevent this, ensure you carefully enter the gift codes again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Using Amazon Gift Cards In Nigeria
Can I Use a Nigerian Card to Buy an Amazon Gift Card?
No, most Nigerian bank cards are not accepted on Amazon. It’s better to buy from Prestmit or any other trusted vendors.
Do Amazon Gift Cards Expire?
No, Amazon gift cards do not expire and can be redeemed anytime.
Can I Transfer My Amazon Gift Card Balance?
No, you can never use an Amazon balance to transfer to another account. But you can buy or gift an Amazon gift card for someone.
Why Is My Amazon Gift Card Not Working?
Your Amazon gift card is likely not working because of incorrect entry codes or insufficient balance. So you may need to check your Amazon gift card balance.
Where Can I Get the Best Rates for Selling Amazon Gift Cards?
Prestmit offers some of the best exchange rates and instant payment options in Nigeria.
Conclusion
An Amazon gift card is more than just a digital voucher. It’s an asset. Whether you want to shop for gadgets, give them to a friend, or flip them for cash or Bitcoin, you know exactly how to do it without running into annoying errors. Thinking of where to sell your Amazon gift card for cash or crypto? Prestmit is the place to be.
