OVpay: Who Qualifies and What You Get
Learn how to use your bank card or phone to pay for public transport in the Netherlands without needing a dedicated travel card.
OVpay is a way to pay for public transport using your own payment methods instead of a dedicated travel card. It allows you to use existing technology to move through the transit system.
Who it's for
This system is designed for anyone who possesses a contactless bank card or a mobile phone that supports contactless payments. If you have a card or device that can be used for "contactloos betalen" (contactless payment), you can use this method for your travel.
What you get
The main benefit is the convenience of paying for public transport without the need to purchase, carry, or top up a specific transit card. By using the device or card you already carry in your wallet, you can simplify your travel process across different transit providers.
What it costs you
Using this method does not involve an extra service fee, but you will be charged the standard fare for your journey. You must ensure that your bank card or mobile payment account has sufficient funds to cover the cost of the trip at the time of travel.
The catch to know
The most important thing to remember is that you cannot use specific travel discounts with this payment method. For example, if you have a subscription like NS Flex, those specific benefits will not apply when you pay via OVpay. You will be charged the regular fare rather than the discounted rate associated with those specific travel products.
How to apply
- Check that your bank card or mobile phone is capable of contactless payments.
- Use your card or phone to "inchecken" (check in) at the start of your journey.
- Use the exact same card or phone to check out at the end of your journey.
- Visit the official portal for more details: https://www.ovpay.nl