The system's first update will make the shop a reality worldwide.
http://www.nintendoworldreport.com/news/24984
The 3DS's eShop won't be available in any region until May when the first system update will be made available, according to Nintendo President Satoru Iwata in last week's investors meeting.
On that same date, the web browser will also be available for download, and players will be able to transfer their DSiWare purchases to the system. Both Super Mario Land and The Legend of Zelda: DX have been confirmed as some of the first titles available for purchase. 3DSWare will also be available, though there have been no announcements about 3DSWare titles.
Iwata also noted that the 3D Classics, which he called "Classic games with a new 3D look", will be part of the eShop service. These were first shown at last year's E3.