Nintendo eShop credit
A Nintendo eShop card adds funds to your Nintendo account, not to a specific console. Because the Switch 2 uses the same Nintendo accounts as the original Switch, eShop credit works on both devices without any changes.
Nintendo Switch Online subscription
Nintendo Switch Online provides access to online multiplayer, cloud saves and a library of classic games. The subscription is also account-bound, so a card you buy now stays valid if you later upgrade to a Switch 2.
Regional differences
eShop credit is split into three broad regions, the Americas, Europe including the UK, and Japan with parts of Asia. A card for the American eShop won't work on a European account, so always check your account's country before buying.
Redeeming on the console
Open the eShop on your Switch or Switch 2, tap your profile icon, choose Add Funds and then Redeem Code. Enter the 16-character code and the amount appears on your account immediately.
Frequently asked questions
- Does an older Switch eShop card work on Switch 2?
- Yes, as long as the card is meant for your region, since the credit lives on your Nintendo account rather than the console.
- Can I use a US card on a European account?
- No, eShop credit is region-locked, so always buy a card for the region your Nintendo account is registered in.
- Is Nintendo Switch Online required for Switch 2?
- Only for online multiplayer and some GameChat features, offline play works fine without a subscription.
