Hong Kong · Banking & Payments

Octopus

Hong Kong's ubiquitous contactless stored-value payment system, used far beyond transport for retail, vending and more.

What it helps with

Paying for MTR, bus and ferryTap and go.
Small purchases7-Eleven, supermarkets.
Octopus on an iPhoneApple Wallet.

About Octopus

Originally launched for public transport fare payment, Octopus has grown into one of the world's most widely embedded contactless payment systems, accepted at convenience stores, supermarkets, vending machines, parking meters and many other everyday touchpoints across Hong Kong.

Key Features

Universal Acceptance: Works for MTR, buses, minibuses and ferries as well as retail purchases at thousands of merchants.
Tap-and-Go Speed: Transactions complete in under a second with a simple tap, no PIN or signature required for small amounts.
Physical Card and App: Available as a traditional plastic card or through the Octopus app on supported phones.
Auto Add-Value: Can link to a bank account or credit card for automatic top-ups when balance runs low.

How to Get Started

Buy a physical Octopus card at any MTR station customer service counter or convenience store, or set up Octopus on your phone via the app.
Add value using cash at add-value machines, or link a card for automatic top-ups.
Tap the card or phone on any Octopus reader to pay for transport or retail purchases.
Check your balance and transaction history through the app or at add-value machines.

Before you use it

Payment: Tourists can add Octopus to Apple Wallet and top up with a foreign card, without buying a physical card.
Good to know: MTR gates also accept contactless Visa, Mastercard and UnionPay cards.

English available Local number needed Local ID needed

Frequently Asked Questions

Does Octopus work with a foreign bank card in Hong Kong?: Not reliably - a foreign card may be declined. Check the notice above, or plan to use a local payment method.
Is Octopus available in English?: Yes, Octopus has an English-language interface.
Do I need a local phone number to use Octopus?: Yes, Octopus requires a local phone number to register.
Do I need local ID or residency for Octopus?: Yes, Octopus requires local ID or residency status.
Where can I use Octopus?: iOS · Android · Web
How much does Octopus cost?: Card with HK$50 deposit; tourist cards sold at MTR