How to set up Apple Pay on an iPhone

2 min read · 5 steps · Updated 2 October 2026

Short answer

Open the Wallet app, tap the plus button, choose Debit or Credit Card and hold the card in the frame or tap it on the phone. Verify with your bank. To pay, double-click the side button, look at the phone and hold it near the reader.

Apple Pay stores your bank cards on the iPhone so you can pay in shops, apps and websites without the physical card. The shop never receives your card number.

Step by step

  1. Open Wallet and tap the plus button

    It is in the top right corner.

  2. Choose Debit or Credit Card and tap Continue

    Cards used with your Apple Account before are offered first.

  3. Add the card

    Hold it in the camera frame, or enter the details by hand. Some cards can be added by holding them against the back of the phone.

  4. Verify with your bank

    The bank confirms through its app, a text message or a phone call. Accept the terms.

  5. Pay in a shop

    Double-click the side button, authenticate with Face ID and hold the top of the phone near the reader until you see Done and a tick.

Good to know

On an iPhone with Touch ID, rest your finger on the Home button and hold the phone to the reader.

To pay with another card, tap the card stack after double-clicking and choose it. Set the default under Settings, Wallet & Apple Pay.

If the phone is lost, mark it as lost in Find My. Cards are suspended and cannot be used.

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

In short: Wallet, plus, add the card, verify. Pay with a double-click of the side button.

Sources
  • Apple Support: Set up Apple Pay

Rules and prices change. Check the official source before you act.