How to Set Up Apple Pay: A Step-by-Step Guide

To start using Apple Pay, simply open the Wallet app on your iPhone, Apple Watch, or another compatible Apple device, and add a debit card, credit card, or prepaid card.

What You Need to Use Apple Pay

Before you set up Apple Pay, make sure you have:

  • A compatible Apple device with the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, watchOS, or macOS
  • A supported card (debit, credit, or prepaid) issued by a bank or card provider that works with Apple Pay
  • An Apple ID signed in on your Apple device
  • Residence in a country or region where Apple Pay is supported

💡 If you’re not sure whether your card works with Apple Pay, contact your card issuer or bank and ask if your card supports Apple Pay.


How to Add a Debit or Credit Card to Apple Pay on iPhone

  1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.
  2. Tap the Add button (+ icon).
  3. Tap Debit or Credit Card to add a new card.
    • To add a previously used card, tap Previous Cards.
  4. Tap Continue.
  5. Follow the on-screen instructions to add your card.
  6. Your bank or card issuer will verify your information.
    • They might ask you for additional details or ask you to download their app before approving the card for use with Apple Pay.
  7. If you have a paired Apple Watch, you’ll also see the option to add the card to your Apple Watch.

How to Remove a Card from the “Previous Cards” Screen

  1. On the Previous Cards screen, tap Edit.
  2. Tap the Remove button, then tap Delete.
  3. Confirm by tapping Delete Card.
    • The card will be removed from all of your devices.

Add a Card to Apple Pay on Apple Watch

  1. On your paired iPhone, open the Apple Watch app.
  2. In the My Watch tab, tap Wallet & Apple Pay.
  3. Tap Add Card.
  4. Tap Debit or Credit Card to add a new card.
    • Or tap Previous Cards to re-add a card you’ve used before.
  5. Tap Continue.
  6. Follow the on-screen instructions to add your card.
  7. Your bank or card issuer may verify your details and request more information or an app download before approving the card for Apple Pay.

Add a Card to Apple Pay on Mac or iPad

  1. Open your Wallet or Wallet & Apple Pay settings on your device.
    • On a Mac with Touch ID:
      Go to System Settings (or System Preferences) > Wallet & Apple Pay.
    • On iPad:
      Go to Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay.
  2. Tap or click Add Card.
  3. Follow the on-screen steps to add your card.
  4. Your bank or card issuer will verify your information and may ask you for additional details.

👉 On a Mac without built-in Touch ID, you can still use Apple Pay by completing purchases with a compatible iPhone or Apple Watch:

  • On your iPhone, go to Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay and turn on Allow Payments on Mac.

If You Can’t Add a Card to Apple Wallet or Apple Pay

If you’re having trouble adding a card to the Wallet app, try the following:

  1. Check iCloud sign-in on all devices
    • Make sure you’re signed in to iCloud on every device.
    • On iOS devices, you must have Face ID, Touch ID, or a passcode turned on.
    • On Apple Watch, you must set a passcode.
    • If you sign out of iCloud or remove your passcode, all credit, debit, prepaid, transit cards, and student IDs will be removed. They will be removed from that device.
  2. Age restrictions
    • If you’re under 13, you can’t use Apple Pay or add a card to the Wallet app.
    • The minimum age may vary by country or region.
  3. Regional limitations (web/Safari usage)
    • In Mainland China, Apple Pay on the web in Safari is only available on compatible iPhone and iPad models. These devices must have iOS 11.
    • In the Netherlands, Apple Pay on the web is only available on supported iPhone or iPad models.
  4. Card network restrictions by country
    • In Italy, you can’t add a Maestro card to an iPad or Mac.
    • In Australia, you can’t add an eftpos card to an iPad or Mac.
    • In the Netherlands, you can add Maestro cards to all compatible devices except Mac.

Important Notes About Third-Party Products and Websites

Information about products not made by Apple or independent websites not controlled or tested by Apple is provided. These are without recommendation or endorsement.

Apple is not responsible for the choice, performance, or use of third-party websites or products. Apple makes no representations regarding the accuracy or reliability of those sites. For more details, contact the respective vendor or provider.

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