FAQ about updates to our Partner Program Agreement and API License and Terms of Use
On July 9, 2024, Shopify announced updates to our Partner Program Agreement and API License and Terms of Use. These updates, which come into effect on August 9, 2024, include terms that aim to support the growth of Shopify Partners and merchants while ensuring the security and integrity of our platform. The following are the key updates to our partnership policies that will take effect on August 9, 2024:
- The Referral Inactivity penalty is being removed, allowing Partners to maintain eligibility for revenue sharing without needing to conduct a Revenue Generating Activity within a 12-month period.
- Starting January 1, 2025, developers will be subject to new requirements on how their agreements must allow merchants to engage freely with third parties and compete in the market.
- Blockchain apps are required to follow Shopify’s standard app submission and support processes.
- Partners are prohibited from blocking good faith reviews from Shopify merchants.
- Updates to the Partner Directory terms will be implemented, and all mentions of the discontinued Experts Marketplace and Experts Directory will be removed.
Refer to the email sent to your business email for more information on these changes.
On this page you can find answers to frequently asked questions related to these changes, and how they affect Partners.
On this page
Development store referral earnings
When did Shopify remove the inactivity penalty?
As of September 28, 2023, Shopify has removed the inactivity penalty for Partners, allowing them to focus on long-term development without the need to engage in additional referral activities annually to retain their revenue share from development store transfers.
Will previous referrals, impacted by the inactivity penalty, be reinstated?
No, previous referrals that were removed due to past inactivity won’t be reinstated. However, you can continue to earn from new stores that you refer moving forward.
What are the new commission terms for development store referrals?
For detailed information on how Partners can earn based on their contributions to the Shopify ecosystem, refer to Shopify Partner earnings.
Blockchain Shopify App Store requirements
What is a blockchain app?
A blockchain app is any application that introduces merchants to blockchain assets or functionalities, such as cryptocurrency, non-fungible tokens (NFT) distribution, and tokengating.
What are the Shopify App Store requirements for blockchain apps?
Blockchain apps, whether listed or unlisted, must meet specific requirements to be distributed through the Shopify App Store. After developing your blockchain app and completing the automated checks, you can submit your app for review.
Partner Directory terms
When was the Partner Directory launched?
The Partner Directory was launched in October 2023, replacing the now-discontinued Experts Marketplace and Experts Directory. The Partner Program Agreement is being updated by removing all references of the Experts Marketplace and Experts Directory.
How does the Partner Directory work?
The Shopify Partner Directory helps merchants find and collaborate with skilled Partners. Partners who meet the eligibility requirements will receive an invitation to create and publish their profiles.
Merchant agreements
Why is Shopify adding requirements for merchant agreements?
To promote healthy competition within the Shopify ecosystem, Shopify is implementing new requirements that apply to Partner agreements with merchants. These ensure that Shopify merchants retain the right to work with third-parties after their relationship with a Partner ends and to freely conduct their business and compete in the market.