How to set up and use Apple Pay on an Apple Watch

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Paying with the watch works even when your iPhone is not with you, and needs no internet connection at the till. Cards have to be added to the watch separately from the phone.

These steps are for recent versions of watchOS. The pictures are simplified diagrams of the watch screen, not screenshots.

Step by step

1. Set a passcode on the watch

   Apple Pay needs one. In the Watch app, tap Passcode, Turn Passcode On.

   Done

2. Open Wallet & Apple Pay in the Watch app

   Scroll down the My Watch tab.

   Done

3. Tap Add Card

   Cards already on your iPhone are listed with an Add button. Otherwise choose Debit or Credit Card and scan a new one.

   Done

4. Verify with your bank

   The bank confirms by text message, in its app or by phone. The card is ready a moment later.

   Done

5. Pay

   Double-click the side button. Your default card appears. Hold the display a few centimetres from the reader until you feel a tap and hear a beep.

   Done

Good to know

To use another card, double-click the side button and swipe to it before holding the watch to the reader.

The watch stays unlocked only while it is on your wrist. If it is taken off, the passcode is needed again, so a lost watch cannot be used to pay.

If your watch is lost, open icloud.com/find and mark it as lost. That suspends the cards.

Not every bank supports Apple Pay. Your bank's website lists which cards work.

In short: Watch app, Wallet & Apple Pay, Add Card. Pay with a double-click of the side button.