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Apple extends developer program fee waivers to 8 countries

Apple on Monday announced an immediate expansion to Developer Program fee waiver incentives, allowing eligible institutions in eight countries the option of foregoing a usual yearly charge.

Announced in a post to Apple's developer portal, fee waivers for the company's Developer Program are now available in Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Israel, Italy, Mexico and South Korea. The new countries add to existing support in Brazil, China mainland, Japan, the UK and the U.S.

Under the plan, nonprofit organizations, accredited educational institutions and government entities that intend to distribute free apps on the App Store can request a waiver for Apple's standard annual membership fee. The company reviews each appeal on an individual basis.

Waivers are not available for groups distributing paid apps or apps with in-app purchases, members of the Apple Developer Enterprise Program, and individuals and sole proprietorships. Organizations that have received a waiver will be charged the regular fee if they institute paid app distribution or enable in-app purchases.

Apple first debuted fee waivers in early 2018, enabling nonprofits, schools and government agencies in the U.S. to skirt a $99 per year membership charge.