Debit cards with an expiry date of December 2027 or later, and credit cards without an activation sticker, are ready to be used, so you won't need to activate them. Just use chip and pin once - then you can go contactless. All other debit and credit cards will need to be activated before use.

 

App update: If your HSBC UK app looks different to what’s shown or described on this page, it may be because it's recently been updated. Find out more about our redesigned app.

How to activate your card

The quickest way to activate your new card is through our mobile app or online banking. We'll show you how to do it below. 

Make sure we’ve got your latest mobile number, as we may need you to confirm online card purchases by text message. Don't forget to sign the back of your card.

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Activate with mobile banking app

Log on

Log on using biometrics or your Secure Key and then tap the account for the card you want to activate.

Manage cards

Go to ‘Manage cards’ and then select ‘Activate card’.

Select card

Choose the card you need to activate.

Confirm

Review the information displayed and tap ‘Confirm’. Your card is now activated.

Activate with online banking

Log on

Log on to online banking using your Secure Key and select the account for the card you want to activate.

Manage cards

Go to ‘Manage’ and then select ‘Activate card’.

Select card

Choose the card you need to activate.

Confirm

Review the information displayed and select ‘Confirm’. Your card is now activated.

Log on to online banking This link will open in a new window

Activate by phone

Activate your card in under 60 seconds by calling our automated line, available 24/7. You'll just need your card details and to confirm a few personal details we'll already have on file.

Debit cards

Call us on 0800 783 5263

Credit cards

Call us on 0800 328 1370

Activate at a cash machine

If you have a new card, and it’s not your first debit card with HSBC, you can activate the card at an ATM.

Locate a cash machine

Make a PIN transaction, such as a cash withdrawal, or balance enquiry at a cash machine and your new card will be automatically activated.

Joint accounts

If you're a joint account holder, and have more than one card on the account, you'll need to activate each card individually.

Find out more about using your card

Freeze or unfreeze your card

 

Place a temporary block on your card.

Lost, stolen or damaged cards

 

What to do if you've lost your card or it's not working.

PIN services

 

Forgotten your PIN, entered it incorrectly or need to change it?

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