A method of applying at least one magnet to a surface of a component made of a magnetic material includes placing the at least one magnet in a holding apparatus, and positioning the holding apparatus in the immediate vicinity of the component. A holding element applies a holding force to the at least one magnet to hold it in the holding apparatus. The holding element is deactivated such that the holding force is reduced, and the at least one magnet is transferred to the surface of the component. A holding apparatus for applying at least one magnet to a surface of a component made of a magnetic material includes a surface region for supporting the at least one magnet and at least one deactivatable holding element for applying a force on the at least one magnet.