IOS Compliance information

This article outlines how to integrate Stash Pay into iOS apps in compliance with Apple’s requirements.

Understanding these requirements helps you align your app with Apple’s guidelines and prepare for the App Store review process.

United States regulatory framework

In the United States, you can implement Stash Pay without joining the External Link Account Entitlement program, as long as you process transactions outside the app.

Apple’s documentation states that SFSafariViewController is a Safari browser instance that runs independently from the app, making it an external browser solution for Stash Pay even when shown inside the app’s interface.

Apple’s guidelines require that when you present this view controller, it must be clearly visible to the user and not hidden or obscured.

“When you present this view controller, it must visibly present information to users. You may not hide or obscure the view controller…” — Apple documentation

Many well known platforms follow this same approach. Under current United States rules, SFSafariViewController qualifies as an external browser for Stash Pay payments. This allows digital product sales without joining entitlement programs or paying related fees. These exemptions are region-specific and also apply in Europe and other international markets.

Apple review process

When you submit your app to the Apple App Store, clearly document the use of Stash Pay in the review notes. This helps the Apple review team understand your integration and confirm compliance with Apple’s guidelines.

Apple review process steps

1. Review Notes: In App Store Connect, include details on how Stash Pay is integrated into your app. Specify that transactions are processed through SFSafariViewController to show compliance with Apple’s external payment guidelines.

2. Test Accounts: Create dedicated test accounts with Stash Pay enabled for Apple reviewers. Include working credentials in the review notes so reviewers can complete the payment flow.

3. User Experience: Explain in your review notes that the payment process is clearly presented to the user as occurring in a browser environment, in line with Apple’s requirements.