How to Add Gift Card to Apple Wallet

Gift cards have become one of the most popular and convenient ways to give — and receive — presents. They’re easy to send, practical to use, and fit almost any occasion. But keeping track of plastic or paper cards can be inconvenient. Thankfully, Apple Wallet eliminates that problem. By storing your gift cards digitally, you can access and redeem them directly from your iPhone or Apple Watch.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll learn exactly how to add a gift card to Apple Wallet, the types of cards you can add, common issues you might face, and how to make the most out of your digital wallet.

Pro tip: Tap Here to Add your Gift Card to Apple Wallet

What Is Apple Wallet?

Apple Wallet, formerly known as Passbook, is a built-in app available on iPhones and Apple Watches that securely stores your cards and passes. It’s more than just a digital payment tool — it’s a central hub for credit cards, debit cards, boarding passes, event tickets, loyalty cards, and of course, gift cards.

Adding gift cards to Apple Wallet helps you:

• Access them easily whenever you’re shopping in-store or online.
• Avoid card clutter since everything is stored digitally.
• Receive automatic updates for balance changes or expiration dates (if supported by the card).
• Use them with Apple Pay for eligible retailers.

Which Gift Cards Can You Add to Apple Wallet?

Not every gift card supports Apple Wallet, but many major brands do. Typically, gift cards with a barcode, QR code, or Apple Pay compatibility can be added.

Some common examples include:

• Apple Gift Cards (App Store, iTunes, or Apple Store)
• Starbucks
• Target
• Amazon (via certain apps)
• Nike
• Best Buy
• Sephora
• Walmart (when linked through their own app)

If your gift card doesn’t automatically support Apple Wallet, don’t worry — there are still a few creative workarounds we’ll cover later.

How to Add a Gift Card to Apple Wallet (Step-by-Step Methods)

There are several ways to add gift cards to Apple Wallet depending on how you received the card:

Method 1: Add Directly from an Email or Message

If someone sent you a gift card via email or text message, the process is usually automatic.

Steps:

1. Open the email or message containing the gift card.
2. Tap the “Add to Apple Wallet” button or link (look for the Apple Wallet logo).
3. Review the card’s details on the preview screen.
4. Tap Add in the upper-right corner.

✅ Best for: Apple, Starbucks, and other major brands that directly support Apple Wallet.

Method 2: Add via a Brand’s App

Many retail apps allow users to store their gift cards within the app and link them to Apple Wallet.

Steps:

1. Download the brand’s mobile app (e.g., Starbucks, Target, or Sephora).
2. Sign in or create an account.
3. Go to the Gift Cards or Wallet section.
4. Add your gift card’s details — typically the card number and PIN.
5. When you see an “Add to Apple Wallet” option, tap it.
6. Confirm by selecting Add on the Apple Wallet preview screen.

✅ Best for: Brands like Starbucks, Target, and Nike that integrate with Apple’s Wallet API.

Method 3: Add a Physical Gift Card Using a Barcode or QR Code

If you have a physical gift card, you may be able to scan it and store it digitally.

Steps:

1. Open Apple Wallet on your iPhone.
2. Tap the “+” icon (top-right corner).
3. If available, select Add Other Card or Pass.
4. Scan the barcode or manually enter the number shown on your card.

If the brand doesn’t directly support Wallet, you’ll see an error message — but don’t worry; you can use an alternative app (see below).

✅ Alternative apps: Use third-party apps like Pass2U Wallet or Stocard, which generate a digital version of your card compatible with Apple Wallet.

Method 4: Add an Apple Gift Card (Specifically for Apple Purchases)

If someone gives you an Apple Gift Card, adding it is simple — and automatic in most cases.

Steps:

1. Open the App Store app.
2. Tap your profile picture at the top of the screen.
3. Select Redeem Gift Card or Code.
4. Use your camera to scan the barcode on the card or manually enter the code.
5. Once redeemed, the amount is automatically added to your Apple account and can be accessed through Apple Wallet.

✅ Note: Apple gift cards usually link directly to your Apple ID balance, making them usable for App Store, iTunes, and Apple services.

Workarounds for Unsupported Gift Cards

Not every gift card brand has Apple Wallet integration, but if you want to digitize it anyway, here’s what you can do:

1. Use a Third-Party App

Apps like Pass2U Wallet or Stocard can create a custom pass compatible with Apple Wallet.

• Scan your card barcode or manually enter its information.
• Customize the design (e.g., store logo, color).
• Add it to Apple Wallet as a “Generic Pass.”

2. Take a Screenshot

While not interactive, you can store a clear image of your card (front and back) in the Notes app and pin it for quick access during checkout.

3. Add Through a Web Link

Some online retailers provide a Wallet link after you check your card balance or redeem an online gift card. Look for “Add to Apple Wallet” on the confirmation page.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can you add any gift card to Apple Wallet?

Not all gift cards are compatible. Only those that the retailer supports via Apple Wallet or Apple Pay can be added directly. Others may require third-party apps to generate digital passes.

How do I use a gift card once it’s in Apple Wallet?

Open Apple Wallet, tap the card, and show the barcode or QR code at checkout. If it’s Apple Pay compatible, you can pay by holding your phone near the terminal.

Can I check my gift card balance in Apple Wallet?

Some brands like Starbucks and Target automatically sync balance updates. Others may require checking through their respective apps or websites.

Is it safe to store gift cards in Apple Wallet?

Yes. Apple Wallet uses encryption and Face ID/Touch ID for protection. Your card details are stored securely and never shared with vendors directly.

Can I add multiple gift cards from the same brand?

Absolutely. You can store multiple gift cards (like two Starbucks or Apple cards) — each appears as a separate pass in Apple Wallet.

Can I transfer a gift card from someone else’s phone?

You cannot directly transfer cards between Apple IDs. Instead, ask the sender to share the redemption code or resend the eGift link to your Apple account.

Final Thoughts

Adding a gift card to Apple Wallet is a smart, secure, and convenient way to manage your digital finances. Gone are the days of forgetting plastic cards at home or losing track of balances. Whether you’re adding an Apple Gift Card, a retail brand, or even a restaurant pass, Apple Wallet ensures you have everything you need on your phone — safely stored and just a tap away.

If your favorite store doesn’t support Apple Wallet yet, use a third-party app or digital workaround. The future of shopping is digital, and Apple Wallet makes sure you’re always ready to pay — quickly and effortlessly.