How to Create a Custom Apple Wallet Pass in iOS 27

iOS 27 can create a custom Apple Wallet pass for a physical membership or loyalty card that has a barcode or QR code but no official digital pass. You can build the pass from a clear photo or screenshot, or enter its details manually inside Wallet.

Apple’s Wallet guide for iOS 27 says photo-based pass creation uses Apple Intelligence. That route requires a compatible iPhone, a supported language and region, and an image in which the full barcode or QR code is readable.

A custom pass is intended to reproduce useful card information, not to create a payment card, government ID, access credential, or ticket that an issuer must authenticate. The scanner at the business still needs to support the barcode format and underlying account.

Create a pass in Apple Wallet

Use the photo method when you already have a card or screenshot with a code. Choose the manual method when you want more control over the template and fields or when the automatic Add to Wallet prompt does not appear.

Create a pass from a photo or screenshot

Apple Intelligence reads the visible code and prepares a pass. A sharp, straight image with good contrast gives it the best chance of recognizing the card correctly.

1. Take a photo or screenshot that clearly includes the entire barcode or QR code.
2. Open the image and tap Add to Wallet when the option appears.
3. Review the detected information and follow the onscreen prompts.
4. Confirm the pass, then open Wallet to check the code and displayed details.
5. If needed, open the pass and tap View Original Photo to compare it with the source image.

Create a pass manually

Manual creation lets you choose a template and type the pass information yourself instead of relying on image recognition.

1. Open the Wallet app on your iPhone.
2. Tap the Add Card button, then choose Create a Pass.
3. Tap Create Pass Manually and select a suitable template.
4. Tap each field to enter or correct the name, identifier, and other available details.
5. Tap Done after checking every field and the code.

Edit an existing custom pass

You can update the appearance and information later without building the pass again.

1. Open Wallet and select the custom pass.
2. Tap the More button, then choose Edit Pass.
3. Use the palette button to change the background or color.
4. Use the edit control to add or remove fields, then tap any field whose text needs changing.
5. Tap Done to save the updated pass.

For related troubleshooting and background, see our guide to everything Apple announced at WWDC 2026.

Tips

A pass is useful only when the displayed code scans reliably and the details match the original card.

• Photograph the card in even light and avoid glare across the barcode.
• Keep all four corners of a QR code inside the frame.
• Test the pass at the normal scanner before leaving the physical card at home.
• Do not store sensitive identifiers in optional visible fields.
• Keep the original image until you confirm the custom pass works.

FAQs

Which iPhones can create a pass from a photo?

Apple says the Apple Intelligence method works on an Apple Intelligence-enabled iPhone 15 Pro, iPhone 15 Pro Max, or iPhone 16 model or later running iOS 27 or newer. Language, region, and usage limits can also apply.

Can a custom pass replace a bank card or driver’s license?

No. Payment cards, identity documents, keys, and other secure credentials require support and verification from the issuer. The custom pass tool is suited to items such as loyalty, membership, library, or gym cards with ordinary codes.

Why is Add to Wallet missing from my photo?

The device may not support Apple Intelligence, the feature may be unavailable in your language or region, or iOS may not recognize the code. Use the manual creation route in Wallet and enter the information yourself.

Can I change a pass after creating it?

Yes. Open the pass, tap More, and choose Edit Pass. Available options include changing colors, editing fields, and adding or removing supported fields.