Can You Use PayPay or Rakuten Pay Abroad? Access Japanese QR Payments with a VPN

As Japan continues to expand its cashless ecosystem, QR code payments like PayPay and Rakuten Pay have become essential tools for daily life. But what happens if you’re living abroad or traveling outside Japan? Can you still use these apps overseas?

The short answer: Not without a workaround.

Due to regional restrictions, these apps are often geo-blocked or limited when accessed from outside Japan. Fortunately, a VPN (Virtual Private Network) can help you regain access to your favorite Japanese payment platforms—safely and securely.

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Why Can’t You Use PayPay or Rakuten Pay Abroad?

Many Japanese QR code payment apps restrict access based on your IP address location. This is often done for:

• Security reasons (blocking foreign access to prevent fraud)
• Licensing or banking regulations
• App store availability issues outside Japan

For instance, if you’re trying to use PayPay from Europe or the US, you might see error messages or limitations when accessing the app or performing transactions.

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How a VPN Can Help

A VPN allows you to connect to the internet through a Japanese IP address, making it appear as though you’re accessing the app from within Japan—even if you’re overseas.

Benefits of Using a VPN:

• Regain access to Japan-only QR payment apps
• Bypass geo-restrictions on app updates and features
• Secure your connection when making payments over public Wi-Fi
• Reduce the chances of account lockouts or verification issues

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Step-by-Step: Access PayPay or Rakuten Pay Abroad Using a VPN

1. Subscribe to a VPN with reliable Japanese servers We recommend: Surfshark VPN for its speed and stability
2. Install the VPN app on your smartphone
3. Connect to a Japan server
4. Open the PayPay or Rakuten Pay app
5. Log in and use it as if you were in Japan

⚠️ Note: Some functions (like topping up via Japanese bank accounts) may still require a Japanese financial link or SIM, depending on the app.

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Can You Download the Apps from Overseas?

You may also face issues downloading PayPay or Rakuten Pay if your app store region isn’t set to Japan.

Here’s how to get around that:

• iOS (Apple ID): Create a new Japanese Apple ID and log into the Japanese App Store
• Android (Google Play): Create a Japanese Google account and switch your Play Store region

Then, download the apps while connected to a Japanese VPN server.

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Is Using a VPN for Payment Apps Safe?

Yes—as long as you use a trusted VPN provider. Surfshark, for example, offers:

• Military-grade encryption
• No logs policy
• Strong Japanese server coverage
• Unlimited simultaneous device connections

It’s widely used by Japanese expats, international travelers, and remote workers who need secure access to Japan-only digital services.

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Final Thoughts

If you’ve been frustrated trying to use PayPay or Rakuten Pay abroad, you’re not alone.

With the right VPN setup, you can stay connected to Japan’s cashless ecosystem—no matter where you are.

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✅ Get Surfshark VPN and Reconnect to Japanese Payment Apps

Make secure QR payments from anywhere in the world.