With over 300 million paid memberships in over 190 countries, Netflix is a leading entertainment provider. It launched in Nigeria in 2016 and has become a household name and one of the most popular streaming services in the country.
Netflix’s wide range of options, plus mobile plans, makes it a fan favourite. Viewers can stream on their mobile devices and watch their favourite shows on the go, from blockbusters to Nollywood films, TV shows, and series.
For me, Netflix is my No. 1 source of entertainment. I rely on it to relax and catch my breath each weekend after a week-long load of work. And due to international payment problems in Nigeria, I often opt for a virtual dollar card to keep the fun going without interruptions.
In this guide, I will share everything you need to know about subscribing to Netflix using a virtual dollar card. Be sure to read to the end.
How to Pay for a Netflix Subscription in Nigeria (Step-by-Step)
To subscribe to Netflix, download the app and enter your email or sign up. Tap “Get Started” and then tap “Send link.” Check your email and use the “Create your account” button. Tap “Finish sign up.” Then tap next. Choose your plan and payment method, and enter your card details.
- Download the Netflix app from the Play Store or App Store.
- Enter your email address and tap the “Get Started” button. Or proceed to SIGN IN (top right) if you have an account already.
- Tap “Send Link.”
- Check your email and tap the “Create your Account” button.
- Select “Finish sign-up.”
- Tap “Next”
- Choose your preferred plan, i.e., mobile, basic, standard, or premium. Then scroll down and tap “Next”.
- Choose a payment method. Tap “Credit or Debit Card.”
- Be sure to fund your virtual dollar card to avoid payment errors.
- Enter your virtual dollar card details, i.e., card number, expiration date, CVV, and name on the card. Then scroll down and tap “Start Membership.”
- You will get a message: “You’ve started your Membership.” Please check your email to view your membership details.
Congratulations! You have successfully subscribed to Netflix.
Common Issues With Paying For Netflix Subscriptions in Nigeria
Nigerians often face Netflix payment issues such as declined cards, error codes, unsupported payment methods, double charges, unauthorised use, and unexpected pricing changes — all of which can be resolved by updating payment details, switching cards, or checking account settings.
1. Error code E101 (Account on Hold Due to a Problem With Your Last Payment)
This error typically occurs if your payment method has expired or has insufficient funds. Other possible reasons could be incorrect payment information or restrictions from your payment provider.
How to fix it? Please update your payment information. Ensure that you enter the card details correctly or that you load enough funds onto your card. If the issue persists, contact your payment provider for advice.
2. Sorry, Something Went Wrong. Please Try Again Later
This type of error can pop up when trying to sign in or pay for a Netflix subscription. The solution is to restart your device and restart your home network. If the error persists, consider checking your payment method. Cross-check the payment details and ensure that it’s valid and that you still have sufficient funds.
3. This Card is Not Supported in This Territory
If you ever receive an error message that your card is not accepted in this territory, then it literally means that Netflix does not recognise your card as a valid payment method.
Here is what you should do: Update your payment method and use either a virtual card, a Naira card, or even a Netflix gift card. Once done, everything should return to normal.
4. Double Charges
If you recently added a payment method and Netflix debits you twice, chances are that one is an authorization hold used to check that your payment method is perfect. The withdrawn amount will typically be refunded to your account in only a few days.
This type of charge can also occur if you recently upgraded to a higher plan. Your billing date may change, and you may be charged a prorated amount.
5. Unauthorised Use
Another payment-related issue with Netflix is that it receives charges from unauthorised sources. This could be from someone using your payment information.
What should you do? If you suspect that someone is using your payment information without your consent, please contact Netflix immediately.
6. Pricing Changes
If you’re being charged an unexpected amount, such as a higher price than before or being charged after cancelling Netflix, what do you do? You may want to check the latest Netflix subscription cost.
However, if you happen to be charged after account cancellation, sign into Netflix, go to “Cancel Plan” and select “Finish Cancellation.” You can now change your password and sign out of all devices to prevent any intruders from restarting your account.
