3 Ways to Top Up Your Octopus Card Balance in Hong Kong

In the previous article, I shared five different methods to check the remaining balance on your Octopus card. Now, if you find that your Octopus card balance is low, it's time to reload it.

There are several options available for topping up your Octopus card. However, for travelers visiting from abroad, I suggest using one of the three methods I will describe below. Let's find out what they are.

1. Add Value Machine

The first method to reload your Octopus card is by using an Add Value Machine, which you can find at every MTR station. These machines are usually located near the ticket purchase machines and the Octopus balance enquiry machines.

To top up your Octopus card, start by looking for a machine labeled "Add Value Machine." Please note that this machine only accepts $50 and $100 bills. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Place your Octopus card into the number 1 card slot, which is at the top left of the screen.
2. Wait until the light indicator near the money slot on the right side of the screen turns green.
3. Once it's green, insert your money one bill at a time into the money slot.
4. Monitor the "Total amount inserted" displayed on the screen, making sure it matches the amount of money you've inserted.
5. If the displayed amount is correct, press the "Confirm" button located on the right side of the screen.

The process of adding value to your card is quick, only taking a few seconds. Once complete, don't forget to take your Octopus card back from the card slot.

2. Customer Service Center

If you don't have $50 or $100 bills, another option is to top up your Octopus card at a Customer Service Centre counter. These counters can be found at all MTR stations, usually located near the entrance or exit gates.

To top up your card, go to the counter and inform the staff member that you want to add money to your Octopus balance. Then, hand over your Octopus card and the money to the staff member.

The process of topping up your card only takes a few seconds. Once it's done, the staff member will return your card along with a receipt for the transaction.

3. Minimarket

Lastly, you can also recharge your Octopus card at minimarkets like 7-Eleven or Circle K. The process is similar to topping up at the Customer Service Centre. Simply give your card and the money to the cashier at the minimarket.

An interesting tip: if you're shopping at a minimarket and paying with cash, you can ask to have your change added to your Octopus card balance. This method is particularly useful if you prefer not to carry a lot of small change while in Hong Kong.

So, these are three convenient ways to top up your Octopus card balance. While there are other methods available, these three are particularly easy for travelers.