https://support.apple.com/en-us/HT207154

Apple Pay Suica can be funded by using most cards with Apple Pay.

I just added 100 yen using Visa credit. Visa/MasterCard/AMEX credit cards worked. Don't know about debit.

When you initially set up, Visa doesn't work for most people but subsequently, when you top up, it works. Don't ask me why. So use Mastercard to set up initially.

Thank you for the replies! She will try her M/C however, the M/C is a credit card not debit. I assume it will not be considered getting a cash advance?

And after the initial purchase, should a debit card work for topping off?

Thanks again.

it is not a cash advance.

Never used a debit card for Suica, so I don't know. Suica charges show as purchases at JR East. Not cash advance.

Great info thank you! Although now she is considering getting the physical Welcome Suica card if she can find it once she arrives because she prefers to have her phone put away (I saw it mentioned they are available at Haneda terminal 3).

Are the Welcome Suica cards (Or Pasmo Passport) available in the kiosk machines in terminal 3 or does she need to find the JR East office? (I saw they are sold at the Monorail station in a vending machine - but not clear on where the monorail station is - and if it is after exiting the airport). Again, thanks so much.

Welcome Suica are available at the kiosk @ T3 Haneda Airport.

They only accept cash to load.

There are Welcome Suica exclusive vending machines at T3 at HND in addition to the service center. The monorail station is within the airport Just follow the signs in English.