Setting up and using Apple Pay transforms your compatible Apple device into a secure, convenient digital wallet. It allows you to make contactless purchases in stores, within apps, and online using your stored credit or debit cards without revealing your actual card number. Here is a complete guide to setting up and using Apple Pay on your iPhone and other devices.
Setting Up Apple Pay (Adding a Card)
The setup process is fast and only needs to be done once per card on each device you wish to use.
Before you start, make sure you have an iPhone (iPhone 6 or later), Apple Watch, iPad (with Touch ID or Face ID), or Mac (with Touch ID).
Latest Software: Your device must be running the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or watchOS.
A passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID must be enabled on your device.
A Supported Card: A credit or debit card from a participating bank (most major banks worldwide are supported).
Setting Up on iPhone
The iPhone acts as the main hub for managing your cards.
Open the Wallet App: Find the Wallet app (it looks like a stack of cards) and tap to open it. Tap the Add Button: Tap the plus sign icon (+) in the upper-right corner. You may be asked to sign in to your Apple ID.
Choose Card Type: Select Debit or Credit Card.
Enter Card Details:
Scan: Position your physical card within the frame on the screen to let the camera automatically capture the card number and expiry date.
Manual Entry: Tap Enter Card Details Manually and input the details.
Enter Security Code (CVV): Manually enter the three or four-digit security code (CVV) from the back of your card.
Agree to Terms: Read and agree to your bank’s Terms and Conditions.
Verify Your Card: Your bank or card issuer will need to verify your identity. This usually involves, receiving a one-time code via text message (SMS), email, or a phone call. Confirming through your bank’s mobile app.
Card Activated: Once verified, the card will appear in your Wallet and is ready for use with Apple Pay.
Setting Up on Apple Watch
You can add cards to your Apple Watch using your paired iPhone: Open the Apple Watch App on your iPhone. Go to the My Watch tab, then tap Wallet & Apple Pay.
Tap Add Card. Select a Previous Card (from your iPhone) or add a New Card, then follow the on-screen steps and bank verification process.
Using Apple Pay
Apple Pay can be used wherever you see the contactless symbol (four curved lines) or the Apple Pay logo.
Paying in Stores (Contactless Terminals)
This is the fastest way to pay in shops, restaurants, and other places that accept contactless payments.
Device Action to Initiate Payment Authentication Method
iPhone with Face ID Double-click the side button (on the right). Glance at your phone (Face ID) or enter your passcode.
iPhone with Touch ID Double-click the Home button. Place your finger on the Home button (Touch ID).
Apple Watch Double-click the side button (below the Digital Crown). You may need your watch passcode if the watch was not recently unlocked while on your wrist.
Finalizing the Payment:
Once you initiate Apple Pay and authenticate, your default card will appear. Tap the card to choose a different one if needed.
Hold the top of your iPhone or the dSetting up and using Apple Pay transforms your compatible Apple device into a secure, convenient digital wallet. It allows you to make contactless purchases in stores, within apps, and online using your stored credit or debit cards without revealing your actual card number. Here is a complete guide to setting up and using Apple Pay on your iPhone and other devices.
Setting Up Apple Pay (Adding a Card)
The setup process is fast and only needs to be done once per card on each device you wish to use.
Before you start, make sure you have an iPhone (iPhone 6 or later), Apple Watch, iPad (with Touch ID or Face ID), or Mac (with Touch ID).
Latest Software: Your device must be running the latest version of iOS, iPadOS, or watchOS.
A passcode, Face ID, or Touch ID must be enabled on your device.
A Supported Card: A credit or debit card from a participating bank (most major banks worldwide are supported).
Setting Up on iPhone
The iPhone acts as the main hub for managing your cards.
Open the Wallet App: Find the Wallet app (it looks like a stack of cards) and tap to open it. Tap the Add Button: Tap the plus sign icon (+) in the upper-right corner. You may be asked to sign in to your Apple ID.
Choose Card Type: Select Debit or Credit Card.
Enter Card Details:
Scan: Position your physical card within the frame on the screen to let the camera automatically capture the card number and expiry date.
Manual Entry: Tap Enter Card Details Manually and input the details.
Enter Security Code (CVV): Manually enter the three or four-digit security code (CVV) from the back of your card.
Agree to Terms: Read and agree to your bank’s Terms and Conditions.
Verify Your Card: Your bank or card issuer will need to verify your identity. This usually involves, receiving a one-time code via text message (SMS), email, or a phone call. Confirming through your bank’s mobile app.
Card Activated: Once verified, the card will appear in your Wallet and is ready for use with Apple Pay.
Setting Up on Apple Watch
You can add cards to your Apple Watch using your paired iPhone: Open the Apple Watch App on your iPhone. Go to the My Watch tab, then tap Wallet & Apple Pay.
Tap Add Card. Select a Previous Card (from your iPhone) or add a New Card, then follow the on-screen steps and bank verification process.
Using Apple Pay
Apple Pay can be used wherever you see the contactless symbol (four curved lines) or the Apple Pay logo.
Paying in Stores (Contactless Terminals)
This is the fastest way to pay in shops, restaurants, and other places that accept contactless payments.
Device Action to Initiate Payment Authentication Method
iPhone with Face ID Double-click the side button (on the right). Glance at your phone (Face ID) or enter your passcode.
iPhone with Touch ID Double-click the Home button. Place your finger on the Home button (Touch ID).
Apple Watch Double-click the side button (below the Digital Crown). You may need your watch passcode if the watch was not recently unlocked while on your wrist.
Finalizing the Payment:
Once you initiate Apple Pay and authenticate, your default card will appear. Tap the card to choose a different one if needed.
Hold the top of your iPhone or the display of your Apple Watch near the contactless reader. The transaction is complete when you see “Done” and a checkmark on your device, or hear a gentle tap/beep.
Paying in Apps and on the Web
You can use Apple Pay when shopping online in Safari and other browsers, or within many mobile apps. Select Apple Pay: During the checkout process, look for and tap the Apple Pay button. Review Details: A payment sheet will appear, showing your selected card, shipping address, and total cost. You can tap to change the card or your shipping/contact details. Confirm Payment. When successful, you will see a “Done” message and a checkmark.
isplay of your Apple Watch near the contactless reader. The transaction is complete when you see “Done” and a checkmark on your device, or hear a gentle tap/beep.
Paying in Apps and on the Web
You can use Apple Pay when shopping online in Safari and other browsers, or within many mobile apps. Select Apple Pay: During the checkout process, look for and tap the Apple Pay button. Review Details: A payment sheet will appear, showing your selected card, shipping address, and total cost. You can tap to change the card or your shipping/contact details. Confirm Payment. When successful, you will see a “Done” message and a checkmark.

