Add Bee Network Travel Card to Apple Wallet

Updated 6 November 2026 · Standard formula, shown below

This guide shows you how to add your Bee Network travel card (the smartcard used for buses and trams in Greater Manchester) to Apple Wallet on your iPhone or Apple Watch. Once added, you can tap your device to pay for journeys instead of carrying the physical card. You’ll need your Bee Network card number and a valid payment method (credit or debit card) to top up if needed.

What You’ll Need

An iPhone or Apple Watch with the latest version of iOS or watchOS.
The Bee Network travel card number (printed on the back of the card).
A valid credit or debit card to add funds if you want to top up directly from Apple Wallet.
The official Bee Network app (optional, but helpful for managing your account).

Step-by-Step

Open the Wallet app on your iPhone. If you have an Apple Watch, you can also add the card from the Watch app, but the iPhone method is the same.
Tap the “+� button in the top-right corner of the Wallet screen. This opens a menu of card types.
Select “Transit Card� from the list. You’ll see a list of supported transit systems. Look for “Bee Network� or “Transport for Greater Manchester� (the exact wording may vary). Tap it.
Choose “Add Card� or “Continue�. The app will ask for your Bee Network card number. Enter the 19-digit number found on the back of your physical card.
Verify your card. The system may ask you to confirm the last four digits of the card or enter a verification code sent via SMS or email. Follow the on-screen prompts.
Select a top-up amount (if prompted). You can add a specific amount or choose a preset. If you don’t want to top up now, you can skip this step (though some cards require a minimum balance).
Confirm your payment method. If you added funds, you’ll need to select a credit or debit card to pay. This is the same card you use for Apple Pay.
Wait for the card to be added. The process may take a few seconds. Once done, you’ll see your Bee Network card in Apple Wallet with a balance displayed.
Set as Express Transit Card (optional but recommended). Go to Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay > Express Transit Card, and select your Bee Network card. This allows you to tap without Face ID or passcode, just like a physical card.
Test it. On your next bus or tram, hold your iPhone or Apple Watch near the card reader until you feel a vibration and see a checkmark. Make sure the screen is on (or just wake it) if you haven’t set Express Transit.

Common Mistakes

Entering the wrong card number. Double-check the digits on the back of the card. It’s easy to misread a 0 for an O or a 1 for an I.
Skipping the verification step. If you don’t verify your card, it won’t be added. Check your email or SMS for the code.
Not setting Express Transit. Without it, you’ll need to authenticate with Face ID or passcode every time, which can slow you down at the gate.
Assuming the card updates automatically. If you add funds via the Bee Network app, they may not appear in Apple Wallet instantly. You may need to refresh the card in Wallet.
Using an old card. If you have a replacement card, the old one may not work. Remove it from Wallet and add the new one.

Tips

Keep your physical card as a backup in case your phone battery dies or the reader has issues.
Use the Bee Network app to check your balance and top up. The app also lets you buy tickets and plan journeys.
Set a default card if you have multiple transit cards in Wallet. Go to Settings > Wallet & Apple Pay > Default Card.
Check for updates to iOS or watchOS, as transit card support improves with updates.
If you have an Apple Watch, add the card to the watch as well. You can do this from the Watch app on your iPhone, under Wallet & Apple Pay.

Troubleshooting

Card not appearing in Wallet: Make sure your iPhone is connected to the internet. Restart your iPhone and try again. If it still fails, contact Bee Network customer service.
Verification code not received: Check your spam folder, or request a new code. Ensure your phone number or email is up to date in your Bee Network account.
Balance not showing correctly: Pull down on the card in Wallet to refresh. If it’s still wrong, remove the card and add it again.
Tap not working: Make sure your phone is unlocked (if not Express Transit). Hold the top of your phone near the reader, not the screen. If you have a thick case, try removing it.
Card is disabled: If you reported your physical card lost or stolen, the digital version may be disabled too. You’ll need to get a new card and add that.
Apple Watch not working: Double-press the side button to bring up the wallet, select the card, and hold the watch face near the reader.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use my Bee Network card in Apple Wallet on any iPhone?
Yes, if you have an iPhone 6s or later with iOS 13 or newer, and the card is supported. Check Apple’s list of supported transit cards for your region.

Do I need a separate Bee Network account to add the card?
No, you just need the card number. But having an account helps with top-ups and balance checks.

Can I use the same card on my Apple Watch and iPhone?
Yes, you can add the same card to both devices. They will share the same balance, but you must add it separately to each.

What happens if my phone battery dies?
If your phone is off, you can’t use the digital card. Keep your physical card as a backup, or use a power bank.

Is there a fee to add the card to Apple Wallet?
No, adding the card is free. However, you may be charged a minimum top-up amount when adding funds.

Can I get a refund for the balance on my digital card?
Refunds are handled by Bee Network, not Apple. Contact their customer service for refund requests.

Method: the standard formula for this calculation, rounded as each result states. See how the calculators work or report an error.