Method 1: Activate Online at bmo.com/activate
This is the fastest and most recommended way to complete BMO card activation.1
Visit bmo.com/activate
Open your browser and go to https://www.bmo.com/activate. This is the official BMO card activation page.
2
Sign in to BMO online banking
Enter your BMO online banking username and password and click Sign In. If you have not registered for online banking yet, click Register Now and complete the setup before returning to activate.
3
Enter your new card details
Provide your card number, expiry date, and CVV (the 3-digit security code on the back of your card).
4
Click Activate Now
Select Activate Now and wait for the confirmation message. Your card is active immediately.
Method 2: Activate by Phone
Call BMO’s dedicated activation lines to complete BMO card activation over the phone.1
Call the correct BMO number
For BMO credit card activation, call 1-877-225-5266. For BMO debit card activation, call 1-800-363-9992. Both lines are available 24/7.
2
Choose card activation from the menu
Follow the automated prompts and select the option for card activation.
3
Enter your card and personal details
When prompted, enter your card number, expiry date, and your date of birth or last four digits of your SIN.
4
Confirm activation
Wait for the automated system to confirm that your BMO card activation is complete.
Have your card ready before calling. The automated system requires you to enter the card number and verification details to proceed.
Method 3: Activate via the BMO Mobile App
1
Download the BMO app
Install the BMO Mobile Banking app from the Apple App Store or Google Play Store if you have not already.
2
Sign in
Open the app and sign in with your BMO online banking credentials.
3
Go to My Cards
From the main menu, tap My Cards or navigate to your card account.
4
Tap Activate
Find your new card listed and tap Activate Card. Follow the on-screen steps to complete BMO card activation.