When I first started playing Genshin Impact a few years back, I missed out on over 1,200 Primogems in my first two months because I had no clue how to use codes in genshin impact. I saw people posting random code strings in community groups, but I had no idea where to put them, or if they were even real. If you've ever stumbled on a Genshin Impact code and felt confused about the next steps, this guide is for you. I've redeemed hundreds of codes over the last few years, so I've broken down every part of the process to help you avoid the mistakes I made early on.
How to Use Codes in Genshin Impact: Step-by-Step Redemption Process
The redemption process varies a little depending on what device you use to play, but all paths lead to the same reward landing in your in-game mail. First, let's cover the two most common methods, starting with the official website redemption, which works for all players regardless of device. Make sure you're logged into the correct HoYoverse account before redeeming any code, because rewards can't be transferred between accounts once claimed.
For website redemption, head to the official Genshin Impact code redemption page. You'll see a dropdown to select your server region, your account's UID will auto-populate if you're logged in correctly, and a box to paste your code. Enter the captcha if prompted, hit redeem, and you'll get a pop-up confirmation if the code worked. Rewards will show up in your in-game mail within 15 minutes, though they usually arrive in 1 or 2 minutes.
If you prefer to redeem codes directly in-game on mobile or PC, open the Paimon menu, click the Settings icon, navigate to the Account tab, and select the Redeem Code option. Paste your code into the box, hit exchange, and you'll get an immediate confirmation. For PlayStation players, you'll need to use the website redemption method, as the in-game code redemption option isn't available on PSN accounts. That means you just need to log into your linked HoYoverse account on the official site to claim rewards, and they'll still show up in your PS game mail as normal.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Redeeming Genshin Impact Codes
Even if you follow the steps perfectly, you might run into errors if you miss small details that break the redemption process. I've made almost all of these mistakes at least once, so I can tell you exactly what to watch out for to avoid disappointment. All Genshin Impact codes have strict expiration dates, most ranging from 24 hours to 2 weeks after release, so you should always redeem codes as soon as you find them to avoid missing out.
Some of the most frequent errors people run into include:
- Using a code intended for a different server region than your registered account
- Trying to redeem an expired code that was only available for a limited event window
- Entering the code with extra spaces or typos when typing manually instead of copying
- Redeeming a code on an alt account by accident when you meant to claim it on your main
If you get an error message saying the code is invalid, first double check that you copied the full code with no extra spaces. If that doesn't fix it, confirm the code was released for your server region, and check the original post for the expiration date. Most codes work for all regions, but some limited event codes are only for players in specific parts of the world. You also can't redeem the same code twice on the same account, even if you see it posted again months later.
What Rewards You Can Get From Genshin Impact Codes
Most codes give out a mix of resources that help you progress faster in the game, without requiring you to spend real money. The exact rewards vary depending on when the code is released, but there are a few standard items you can expect to see from most official codes. Primogems are the most sought-after reward from codes, as they let you pull for limited 5-star characters and weapons that aren't available in the permanent banner pool.
Other common rewards include Mora, the game's main currency used for leveling characters and weapons, Hero's Wit for character experience, Mystic Enhancement Ore for weapon upgrades, and sometimes event-exclusive items like special food recipes or namecards. During big anniversary events or major patch releases, codes can give out as much as 300 Primogems each, with 3 codes released per patch for a total of 900 free Primogems per update cycle.
It's important to set realistic expectations for code rewards, though. You won't get rare character or weapon pulls directly from codes, so any site promising that is a scam. Official codes will never give you a free 5-star character, unlimited Primogems, or paid battle pass access for free. If a site asks you to complete surveys or download apps to get "exclusive" codes with those rewards, you should leave immediately, as those are almost always phishing attempts.
I usually save all the Primogems I get from codes for limited banners I'm saving up for, and use the Mora and experience books to level up new characters I pull. Over the course of a year, code rewards can add up to over 10,000 Primogems, which is enough for around 60 pulls on a limited banner. That's a huge amount of free value for just 30 seconds of work per code.
How to Stay Updated on New Genshin Impact Code Releases
Codes are released regularly throughout each patch cycle, so if you know where to look, you'll never miss a free reward again. Official codes are almost always released through HoYoverse's official channels first, so sticking to those sources is the best way to avoid fake or expired codes. I follow a few simple steps to get codes as soon as they drop, and I've only missed one code in the last two years.
The biggest code drops happen during the Special Program livestreams held a few days before each new patch releases. Three codes are shared during each 40-minute stream, each giving 100 Primogems plus extra resources. These codes usually expire 24 hours after the stream ends, so you need to redeem them fast to get the rewards. I turn on post notifications for the official Genshin Impact Twitter and YouTube accounts, so I get an alert as soon as the stream starts and the codes are posted.
You'll also get occasional codes sent directly to your registered email address from HoYoverse, especially for account milestones or small event rewards. Some brand collaboration events also release exclusive codes, like recent fast food and tech brand partnerships that gave out free Primogems and in-game namecards. Never share your account login details with any third-party site claiming to give you exclusive codes, as official code redemption never requires you to enter your password or personal information beyond your UID.
You don't need to enter your password to redeem codes on the official HoYoverse site, so if any page asks for your password when you try to redeem a code, it's a fake site designed to steal your account. I always double check the URL of any redemption page I use to make sure it's an official hoyoverse.com domain before entering any information. That small extra step has kept my account safe for years, even when I'm clicking links from community groups.
Now that you know how to use codes in Genshin Impact, you can start claiming all the free rewards you've been missing out on. The process only takes 30 seconds per code, and the rewards add up fast enough to make a real difference in your gameplay, whether you're a free-to-play player or someone who spends occasionally on banners. If you ever run into a redemption error that you can't fix, you can reach out to HoYoverse customer support through the in-game help center for assistance. Happy redeeming, and may your next limited banner pull be the 5-star you've been waiting for.