How to change the region if there is an unpaid purchase and the card that is linked does not pass for payment. I've been trying all day to add a new card to a new country, but it doesn't work to make a payment, and the card that is linked also doesn't make the payment.
iPhone 15 Pro Max, iOS 18
You have to use a valid card in the current region of the device to pay for the unpaid purchase. If it has previously failed to process the charge it is likely not considered a valid payment method anymore, so it will require a different one. You will not be able to pay for an unpaid purchase in one region with a card of a different region.
Normally I would recommend using a Gift Card purchased in the original region to pay for an unpaid purchase. You won't be able to change regions though if there is a current balance on your Apple Account, which would likely be the case after the unpaid purchase was paid, so you would need to contact Apple directly to clear that balance left over if you are unable to spend it.
Contact Apple Support - Apple Support
You have to use a valid card in the current region of the device to pay for the unpaid purchase. If it has previously failed to process the charge it is likely not considered a valid payment method anymore, so it will require a different one. You will not be able to pay for an unpaid purchase in one region with a card of a different region.
Normally I would recommend using a Gift Card purchased in the original region to pay for an unpaid purchase. You won't be able to change regions though if there is a current balance on your Apple Account, which would likely be the case after the unpaid purchase was paid, so you would need to contact Apple directly to clear that balance left over if you are unable to spend it.
Contact Apple Support - Apple Support
If the method suggested by Mac Jim ID does not work, your only alternative is to create a new Apple Account in your new region as discussed in Change your Apple Account country or region - Apple Support. This is not ideal since you would lose access to many things done with the old account.
This article explains how to create a new Apple Account --> How to create a new Apple Account - Apple Support
“Enter your payment method and billing information, then click Continue. You can also choose None. You won’t be charged until you make a purchase.”
Unpaid purchase prevents region change; payment method fails
