When your new debit or credit card arrives, you'll need to activate it before you can use it. The fastest way to do this is online or using the HSBC Mobile Banking app.
Once you've activated it, make sure you check we hold an up-to-date mobile number for you so we can use it to confirm online card purchases.
To activate it, sign the back of your card and then choose one of the following options:
Using the mobile app
- Log on using biometrics or your Secure Key.
- Tap on the account for the card you want to activate.
- Tap 'View more' and go to ‘Manage cards’.
- Select ‘Activate my card’.
- Choose the card you need to activate.
- Review the information displayed and select 'Activate'.
Your card is now activated.
Using online banking
- Select ‘Log on to activate your card’
- Enter your log on details using your Secure Key
- Follow the instructions
By phone
Activate your card in under 60 seconds by calling our automated line, available 24/7.
All you'll need is your card details and to answer a few questions about your personal details we have on file.
For debit cards: call 0800 783 5263
For credit cards: call 0800 328 1370
At a cash machine
If you have a debit card (and it's not your first debit card with HSBC), you also have another option.
Just make a PIN transaction (such as a cash withdrawal, balance enquiry or mobile top-up) at a cash machine and your new card will be automatically activated.
If you're a joint account holder and have more than one card on the account, you'll need to activate each card individually.
Activating your contactless feature
To activate your contactless feature on your new card, you’ll need to make a PIN transaction with the card first.
For your security, you will be prompted to enter your PIN from time to time to complete your purchase.
