Oyster Card (London)

FAQs

Why purchase my London Oyster Card before I arrive in London?
It is best to purchase your Oyster card before you go as it avoids having to wait in long queues in London. You will have your credit and be free to jump on any train/bus and travel. It is an easy and hassle free way to travel.

Can I add a 7 Day Travelcard to my Oyster card for visitors?
No. You can only add money to your Oyster card for visitors, to pay as you go.However you can buy a London Travelcard separately.

Can I claim a refund if I lose my Oyster card for visitors?
No.

Does the Oyster Card cover travel on all Zones on the Underground?
The Oyster card covers travel on Zones 1-6 and charges the card according to the journey.

Can I let someone else use my Oyster card for visitors?
Yes. You can lend your card to anyone when you are not using it to travel at adult-rate.

Can I get a child-rate Oyster card for visitors?
No. Oyster cards for visitors are only available at adult-rate.

Can I get a refund on any unused credit when I have finished with my Oyster card for visitors?
If the remaining balance is under £5, you can get a refund at a Tube station ticket office, and they will cancel the card.

If the balance on the card is more than £5, you will need to complete a refund form (available from Tube station ticket offices). The card will be cancelled and you will be sent a refund by cheque.

Alternatively, you can send your Oyster card for visitors to the Oyster helpline to claim a refund.

Please note that cheques will be issued in Sterling and you will be responsible for paying any exchange rate fees.

Does my Oyster card for visitors ever expire?
No, it does not have an expiry date. The pay as you go credit will sit on your card until you are ready to use it again.

Do I need a replacement card when the money runs out?
No, you can top up your card when the pay as you go balance runs out. You can do this at Tube station ticket offices, self service ticket machines at Tube stations, London Travel Information Centres, and Oyster Ticket Stops.

What should I do if my Oyster card for visitors stops working?
If your Oyster cards for Visitors stops working, you should take it to a Tube station ticket office between 8 am and 8 pm daily. The ticket seller will determine how much money is left on your card and this will be transferred to a replacement Oyster card.

If you are unable to get to a Tube station, send the card to Oyster Ticketing and Refunds, 55 Broadway, London, SW1H 0BD, and they will arrange to refund the outstanding balance.

Please note that cheques will be issued in Sterling and you will be responsible for paying any exchange rate fees.

Can children travel free?
Children under 5 travel free on all London on buses, Tube, trams, DLR, and London Overground services as long as they are accompanied by an adult who has a valid ticket,

5 - 10 year olds: A maximum of four 5 to 10-year-olds can travel free when accompanied by an adult who has a valid ticket.