Digital wallets like Google Pay and Apple Pay have become very popular worldwide, allowing people to pay for goods and services directly with their smartphones or smartwatches. While Ghana is still catching up with these services, there are ways you can set them up and use them especially for online purchases and international transactions.
What is Google Pay / Apple Pay?
•Google Pay is a mobile payment service by Google that lets Android users pay with their phone.
•Apple Pay is Apple’s version for iPhone, iPad, and Apple Watch users.
Instead of carrying physical cash or cards, your phone becomes your wallet.
Can You Use Google Pay / Apple Pay in Ghana?
Currently, Google Pay and Apple Pay are not fully supported for local Ghanaian bank cards. However, you can still use them if:
1.You have a foreign bank card (Visa/MasterCard) from a bank that supports Google Pay/Apple Pay.
2.You use a virtual card service like Payoneer, Chipper Cash Card, Eversend, or PayPal-linked cards.
How to Register for Google Pay in Ghana (Android Users)
1.Download the Google Wallet app from the Play Store.
2.Open the app and sign in with your Google account.
3.Add a payment card:
•Tap “Add to Wallet” → Payment Card.
•Enter your Visa/MasterCard details (must be from a bank/virtual card that supports Google Pay).
4.Verification: Your bank/virtual card provider will send an OTP (One-Time Password) via SMS or email to verify.
5.Start using it: You can now pay for apps, subscriptions, and online services that accept Google Pay.
How to Register for Apple Pay in Ghana (iPhone Users)
1.Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.
2.Tap “+” to add a card.
3.Add a payment card:
•Enter your Visa/MasterCard details.
•Works best with international bank cards or virtual cards that support Apple Pay.
4.Verification: Confirm with OTP or email verification.
5.Start using it: You can pay for apps, subscriptions (Apple Music, iCloud, Netflix, etc.), and international online purchases.
Where Can You Use Google Pay/Apple Pay in Ghana?
•Online purchases (Amazon, Netflix, Spotify, etc.).
•App Store / Google Play Store subscriptions.
•Some international websites that accept Google Pay / Apple Pay.
•Local physical stores — still limited in Ghana, but some modern shops with NFC card readers may support it.
Alternatives in Ghana
Since Google Pay and Apple Pay are not fully mainstream here, you can also use:
•MTN MoMo Pay
•AirtelTigo Money
•Vodafone Cash
•Chipper Cash Card / Eversend Card for international payments
Final Thoughts
Even though Google Pay and Apple Pay are not fully supported for local Ghanaian bank cards yet, you can still register and use them with international or virtual cards. This makes it easier to pay for apps, subscriptions, and global online purchases all from your phone
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