Xbox digital codes are a popular way to buy Game Pass subscriptions, Xbox Live Gold, or gift cards. Sometimes, users find deals online for Xbox codes sold in other countries—like Argentina. These offers often look tempting due to lower prices, but can you redeem an Argentina Xbox code in the United States?
Here’s what you need to know before redeeming a foreign Xbox code.
What Are Xbox Digital Codes and How Do They Work?
Xbox codes are 25-character keys that activate digital content like memberships, store credit, or game downloads. These codes are often region-locked, meaning they’re tied to a specific country or Microsoft Store region.
If your Microsoft account is set to the United States, only codes from the US or global/unlocked codes will work on your account.
Will an Argentina Xbox Code Work on a US Account?
No—Argentina Xbox codes will not work with a US-based Xbox account. When you try to redeem one, you’ll likely see an error that says:
“This code can’t be redeemed. It was purchased in a different region from your account. ”
Xbox Store checks the region of the code against the area of your Microsoft account. If they don’t match, the code won’t go through. A region mismatch will block the redemption even if you use the correct Xbox console or have the right language settings.
Why Are Argentina Xbox Codes So Popular?
Argentina often has lower pricing on digital services, including Xbox Game Pass and Xbox gift cards. Third-party resellers sometimes take advantage of this and offer these codes at discounted rates to users in other countries.
While this may sound like a great deal, the codes are intended only for Argentina, and that creates a risk when used outside the country.
Can You Work Around the Region Lock?
Yes, but with limitations and risks. Here’s how users try to bypass regional restrictions:
- Change Microsoft account region to Argentina
- You can do this in account settings
- You can only change areas once every 3 months
- Some features and balances may not transfer
- Use a VPN to spoof your location
- It might allow access to Argentina’s store
- Not officially supported by Microsoft
- May break terms of use
- Create a separate Argentina-based Xbox account
- Works for redeeming region-locked codes
- You’ll need to switch profiles when accessing that content
- Game sharing may not work smoothly
These methods are not guaranteed, and Microsoft may block accounts that frequently change regions or attempt unauthorized redemptions.
What Happens If You Try to Redeem and It Fails?
If the code doesn’t work, it stays unused, but some platforms, especially third-party sellers, won’t refund it. Microsoft support won’t help with region-locked code problems unless the code came from their official store.
A code can become locked or unusable once tied to an incorrect region or account.
Safe Alternatives for US-Based Xbox Users
To avoid issues:
- Buy from official Microsoft channels or verified US retailers
- Look for codes marked “Region-Free” or “Global”
- Avoid third-party sites selling foreign-region codes unless you understand the risk
- Use services like Amazon, Best Buy, or GameStop for region-matched codes
These options may cost more, but they guarantee smooth redemption.
Conclusion
Argentina Xbox codes do not work by default in the USA. They’re tied to the Argentina Microsoft Store and require special account settings or risky workarounds. For US players, the safest option is to buy region-matched or global codes.
If you’ve tried using a foreign Xbox code before, drop your experience in the comments. It may help others avoid a bad purchase.
