The best credit card promotions and sign up offers for 2026

March 20, 2026
The best credit card offers in Canada deliver hundreds of dollars in first-year value through welcome bonuses, elevated earn rates, and annual fee waivers. These are the best credit card promotions in Canada for 2026 across cash back, rewards, balance transfer, and premium cards so you can compare the strongest offers currently available.
Best offers and promotions for cash back credit cards
Featured
BMO CashBack® World Elite®* MasterCard®*
Get up to $650 in value including $40 cash back each month in your first year. Plus we’ll waive the $120 annual fee in the first year. Plus, get a 0% introductory interest rate on Balance transfers for 12 months with a 2% transfer fee.*
Featured
TD Cash Back Visa Infinite* Card
Earn up to $600 in total value†, which includes 10% in Cash Back Dollars in the first 3 months on Bonus Eligible Purchases up to a total spend of $3,500† and receive an Annual Fee rebate for the first year†. Conditions apply.
Featured
SimplyCash Preferred by AMEX
Get 10% cash back on all purchases (up to $2,000 total) for the first 3 months, plus $50 statement credit when you make a purchase in month 13. Annual fee: $119.88 annually ($9.99/month); $119 for QC residents.
Best offers and promotions for rewards credit cards
Featured
American Express Cobalt Card
Get 1,250 bonus points for each month you spend $750 in the first 12 months, up to a maximum of 15,000 points (~$150 value). Annual fee: $191.88 ($15.99/month).
Featured
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card
Earn up to $1,400 in value†, including up to 165,000 TD Rewards Points, receive an annual fee rebate for the first year†, and 4 complimentary lounge visits with Visa Airport Companion Program†. Conditions Apply.
Featured
RBC Avion Visa Infinite
Get up to 55,000 Avion points (max travel value of $1,100†), that’s up to 3 round trip flights ^. Apply by June 15, 2026
Best offers and promotions for balance transfer credit cards
Featured
MBNA True Line Mastercard
Get a 0% promotional annual interest rate (“AIR”) for 12 months (3% transfer fee). Conditions apply. Offer not available for residents of Quebec. Annual fee: $0.
Featured
CIBC Select Visa Card
Get a 0% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for the first 10 months (1% transfer fee; no fee for QC residents) and an annual fee rebate for 2 years. Annual fee: $29.
Featured
BMO Preferred Rate Mastercard®*
Get a 0% introductory interest rate on Balance Transfers for 9 months with a 0.99% transfer fee and we’ll waive the $29 annual fee for the first year.*
Best offers and promotions for premium credit cards
Featured
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
Get up to 60,000 Aeroplan points within your first 3 months. Annual fee: $599.
Featured
American Express Platinum Card
Get up to 70,000 Membership Rewards points within your first 3 months. Annual fee: $799.
Featured
Scotiabank Platinum American Express
Get up to 80,000 bonus Scene+ points within your first 14 months. Annual fee: $399.
Our guide to the best credit card offers in Canada
Credit card promotions in Canada typically include welcome bonuses, elevated earn rates, cash back offers, and first-year annual fee waivers. While these offers can deliver strong first-year value, the headline bonus doesn’t always reflect the full picture.
Many of the best credit card offers require you to meet a minimum spending requirement within a set period, and some bonuses are paid out in stages rather than all at once. Travel rewards cards may advertise large point bonuses, but their value depends on how those points are redeemed.
When comparing credit card sign-up offers, it’s important to consider both the short-term value of the promotion and the long-term value of the card. The best credit card deals in Canada combine a competitive welcome bonus with strong ongoing earn rates and perks that match your spending habits.
FAQ
What is the best cash back credit card offer in Canada right now?
The best cash back credit card offers in Canada right now is the BMO CashBack World Elite Mastercard. It typically features a strong welcome offer along with high cash back earn rates on everyday categories like groceries, gas, and recurring bills. Combined with flexible redemption options and solid overall value, it’s one of the top choices for maximizing cash back in the first year.
Which is the best credit card to start with?
The best credit card to start with depends on your financial situation. If you are a student or just got your first job, a great first credit card is the BMO CashBack Mastercard - Student, a no annual fee rewards credit card.
What is the best rewards credit card offer in Canada?
One of the best rewards credit card offers in Canada is the American Express Cobalt Card. Instead of a one-time sign-up bonus, it offers monthly bonus points — you can earn 1,250 points for each month you spend $750, up to a maximum of 15,000 points. What makes this one of the best welcome bonus credit cards in Canada is that the value doesn’t just come from the bonus. The card also earns up to 5x points on groceries and dining, allowing you to continue earning rewards at a high rate long after the promotion ends.
How do credit card sign-up bonuses work in Canada?
Most credit card sign-up bonuses in Canada require you to spend a minimum amount within the first few months of opening your account. Some bonuses are awarded all at once, while others are paid out in stages, such as monthly bonuses or anniversary rewards. Always check the terms to understand how and when the bonus is earned.
Cash back credit card signup offers and promotions
Best for Everyday spending
based on spending $2,200/mo after $120 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1% – 5% / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
Earn up to $480
- Annual fee
$120 $0 first year waived
Perks of the BMO CashBack® World Elite®* MasterCard®*
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| No foreign exchange fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Up to $500,000 per insured person | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Up to $5,000,000 per person (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP up to $65,000 for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | up to $2,500 per Insured Person to an overall maximum of $5,000 per Account | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | up to a maximum of $2,000 per Insured Person | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Up to $500 per occurrence | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Up to $1,000 per occurrence | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Up to $1,000 per occurrence | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Up to $1,000 per occurrence for all insured persons combined | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | up to ninety (90) days from date of purchase | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | One additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Get up to $650 in value including $40 cash back each month in your first year. Plus we’ll waive the $120 annual fee in the first year.*
Plus, get a 0% introductory interest rate on Balance transfers for 12 months with a 2% transfer fee.* - Earn more cash back on the categories that mean the most:
– 5% on groceries*
– 4% on transit including ride sharing, taxis and public transportation*
– 3% on gas and electric vehicle charging*
– 2% on recurring bill payments like your monthly phone bill or favourite streaming service* - Plus, get 1% cash back on all other purchases* with no limit on how much cash back you can earn!
- Save up to 20% on National Car Rental®†† and Alamo Rent A Car®†† and up to 5% on Enterprise Rent-A-Car®†† at locations worldwide using the Car Rental Booking tool.*
- Purchase Protection*
- Extended Warranty*
- Complimentary membership in Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass.*
- Complimentary Roadside Assistance Program*; Including battery boosts, flat-tire change, lockout service and towing – a $69/year value.
- BMO CashBack World Elite Travel and Medical Protection*, with 8-day out-of-province/out-of-country emergency medical benefits – up to $5 million in coverage, and more.
- Unlock Mastercard Travel Rewards cashback offers when you travel and shop outside of Canada.*
- Enjoy six months of Instacart+ and a $10 monthly Instacart credit when you enroll your eligible BMO Credit Card.*
- Cash Advance & Balance Transfer Interest: 21.99% for Quebec residents
- BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information
- *Terms and conditions apply.
Ratehub’s take
The BMO Cashback World Elite Mastercard is a great pick if you want easily accessible and unlimited cash back rewards. The card does come with some extra features, too, which are not usually typical for cash back credit cards, although they are not the most competitive perks on the market.
Pros
- Access cash back at any time: Unlike some other cards which require you to redeem only once per year or set a higher minimum redemption, this card allows you to redeem cashback rewards at any time at a minimum of $1
- Strong earn rates: The 5% cash back on groceries is one of the highest in the market
- Unlimited cash back: 1% cash back on all purchases is not subject to any limits or maximums like with other cards
Cons
- Bonus rewards are limited: For bonus categories including groceries, transit and bill payments, you can only earn rewards on the first $300-$500 spent each month, then you’ll earn at the base rate (1%)
- Insurance package: The travel medical coverage only applies for the first 8 days of your trip, which isn’t the most competitive package on the market, plus, the card doesn’t include mobile device insurance
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: $80,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 23.99%
Balance transfer: 0.00% for the first 12 months. 23.99% after promo.
Best for Household spending
based on spending $2,200/mo after $139 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1% – 3% / dollar spent
- Annual fee
$139 $0 first year waived
Perks of the TD Cash Back Visa Infinite* Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| No foreign exchange fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Not included | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Included | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Included | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Not included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Not included | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Included | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Not included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Included | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Included | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Earn up to $600 in total value†, which includes 10% in Cash Back Dollars in the first 3 months on Bonus Eligible Purchases up to a total spend of $3,500† and receive an Annual Fee rebate for the first year†. Conditions apply.
- Bonus Eligible Purchases are Grocery, Gas & Electric Vehicle Charging, Public Transit, Recurring Bill Payments, and Streaming, Digital Gaming & Media Purchases, until a total collective spend of $3,500 of such purchases have been made†
- Receive 24/7 Roadside Assistance with Free Deluxe TD Auto Club membership†.
- Get an annual fee rebate for the first year†.
- To receive the first-year annual fee rebate for the Primary Cardholder, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening. To receive the first Additional Cardholder first-year annual fee rebate, you must add your first Additional Cardholder while the offer is in effect.
- Offer may be changed, withdrawn, or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise indicated.
- Earn Cash Back Dollars on every eligible Purchase.
- Emergency Road Services with Deluxe TD Auto Club Membership†
- Complimentary Visa Infinite* Concierge service† available 24/7
- Mobile Device Insurance†
- Earn 3% in Cash Back Dollars on Grocery, Gas & Electric Vehicle Charging, Public Transit Purchases†.
- Earn 3% in Cash Back Dollars on Recurring Bill Payments, and Streaming, Digital Gaming & Media Purchases†.
- Earn 1% in Cash Back Dollars on all other Purchases made with your Card†
- Redeem your Cash Back Dollars to help pay down your Accounts balance whenever you please – the choice is yours†!
- Earn more at Starbucks: Link your eligible Card to earn more Starbucks Stars at participating Starbucks stores. Conditions apply.
- This offer is not available for residents of Quebec
- †Terms and conditions apply.
- Financial institutions pay us for connecting them with customers, including by paying for advertisements, clicks, or when someone applies for/is approved for a product. Terms and conditions apply between you and the provider of the product – please be sure to review them. Product information and details vary for Quebec. The content provided on our site is for information only; it is not meant to be relied on or used in lieu of advice from a professional. Partners/Advertisers are not responsible for the accuracy of information on our site. However, not all products we list are tied to compensation for us. Our industry-leading education centres and calculators are available 24/7, free of charge, and with no obligation to purchase. To learn more, visit our About us page.
Ratehub’s take
The TD Cash Back Visa Infinite offers a strong earn rate on rewards and the option to redeem your cash back at any time (minimum $25). Plus, the card packs a punch with added benefits like travel insurance coverage – which is rare for a cash back card.
Pros
- High earn rate: Strong earn rate of 3% cash back on gas, groceries and recurring bills and 1% on all other purchases
- Additional perks: Complimentary roadside assistance through Deluxe TD Auto Club membership, discounts at Avis and Budget Rent-A-Car locations
- Travel insurance: This card includes travel medical and delayed/lost baggage insurance, which is quite uncommon for non-travel cards. Additional insurance includes purchase security and extended warranty protection.
Cons
- Cap on key spending categories: $15,000 yearly spending cap for gas, groceries and recurring bills – after which the rate drops to 1%. Big spenders in these categories may want to consider partnering this card with one that offers non-capped rates
- Income requirements: $60,000 minimum personal income requirement may pose a hurdle for some users
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: $60,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 22.99%
Balance transfer: 22.99%
Best for Everyday spending
based on spending $2,200/mo after $120 annual fee
- Earn rewards
2% – 4% / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
Earn up to $250
- Annual fee
$120
Perks of the SimplyCash® Preferred Card from American Express
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| No foreign exchange fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | up to $100,000 | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | up to $5,000,000 under age 65 | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | up to 48 days; MSRP up to $85,000 | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Not included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Included | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | up to $500 per trip for all insured person(s) | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | delayed 6 hours or more; up to $500 (combined maximum with Flight Delay Insurance) | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | up to $500 | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Up to $1,000 per occurence | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Covered for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Apply with confidence! See if you’ll be approved before you apply – with no impact to your credit score*.
- *Instant decisions are only available for Consumer (also known as Personal) Card applications.
- Earn a bonus 10% cash back on all purchases for your first 3 months (up to $2,000 in purchases). Plus, earn a $50 statement credit when you make a purchase in month 13. This could add up to $250 in bonus value in your first 13 months.
- Earn accelerated earn rates on eligible gas and grocery purchases
- Earn 4% cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada, 4% cash back on eligible grocery store purchases in Canada (up to $1,200 cash back annually) and 2% cash back on all other purchases
- Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex ExperiencesTM
- Extensive insurance coverage and 24/7 Customer Service
- $9.99/month (Equals $119.88 annually) for non-Quebec residents. $119/annual for Quebec residents.
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Ratehub’s take
The SimplyCash Preferred Card from American Express offers a standard 2% cash back on everything with 4% on gas and groceries, plus top robust insurance coverage and all the benefits of American Express perks.
Pros
- Generous cash back rewards: Offers an impressive cash back rate of 2% on all purchases, 4% on gas and groceries up to $30,000 annually, and then 2% cash back on those categories
- Robust travel and purchase protection insurance: Comprehensive travel and purchase protection, including travel accident insurance, purchase protection, and extended warranty
- 24/7 concierge services
- Exclusive access: Enjoy privileges such as access to Front of the Line Presale and Reserved tickets to concerts, theatre performances, movie screenings, culinary events, and other special offers
Cons
- Limited acceptance: American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
- Annual fee: The card comes with an annual fee, which could be a drawback for individuals who prefer no-fee credit card options, particularly as this card isn’t seen as the best cash back card on the market
- Low redemption flexibility: Cash back rewards are only redeemable once per year
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Rewards credit card signup offers and promotions
Best for Groceries & dining
based on spending $2,200/mo after $192 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 5pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
Earn up to 15,000 points (a $150 value)
- Annual fee
$192
Perks of the American Express Cobalt® Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| No foreign exchange fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | up to $250,000 | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | $5,000,000 for first 15 consecutive days (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $85,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Not included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Not included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | up to $500 (combined maximum with Baggage Delay Insurance); delays 4 hours or more | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | $500 per trip for all persons | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | $500 (combined maximum with Flight Delay Insurance); delays 6 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | $500 against the loss of most personal items (excluding cash) | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Up to $1,000 for 90 days | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Up to $1,000 for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | up to 1 additional year | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Apply with confidence! See if you’ll be approved before you apply – with no impact to your credit score*.
- *Instant decisions are only available for Consumer (also known as Personal) Card applications.
- In your first year as a new Cobalt Cardmember, you can earn 1,250 Membership Rewards® points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $750 in net purchases on your Card. This could add up to 15,000 points in a year. That’s up to $150 towards a weekend getaway or concert tickets
- Earn 5x the points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.
- Earn 3X the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada
- Earn 2X the points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada
- Earn 1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online
- Earn 1X point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else
- Enjoy access to hotel bookings, a room upgrade (when available), 12pm check-in and late check-out (when available), and up to $100 USD hotel credit to use on amenities when charged to the room for a stay of 2 or more consecutive nights through The Hotel Collection from American Express Travel
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
- Access Front Of The Line® Amex Presale & Reserved Tickets to some of your favourite concerts and theatre performances and special offers and events curated for Cardmembers with Amex ExperiencesTM
- $15.99/month (Equals $191.88 annually) for non-Quebec residents. $191.88/year for Quebec residents.
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Ratehub’s take
The American Express Cobalt is one of Canada’s best travel credit cards. If you’re looking for a versatile credit card that rewards both everyday spending and travel, the American Express Cobalt is an ideal choice. Cardholders can enjoy strong travel insurance, a generous welcome offer, and flexible point redemption options.
Pros
- Exceptional point earning: 5x the points on eligible restaurant and food delivery, 3x the points on eligible streaming services, 2x the points on ride shares, transit and gas. The earning potential for restaurants and takeout is significantly higher than most other cards
- Flexible point redemption: Travelers can choose from three ways to use their points: points 1:1 to several valuable loyalty programs including Aeroplan, use the Fixed Points Program to simplify redemptions regardless of travel dates, or use points for statement credits at a rate of 1 point = 1 cent. Or, redeem Membership Rewards for travel, gift cards, merchandise, or purchases
- Exclusive access: Enjoy privileges such as Front of the Line Presale and Reserved tickets to concerts, theatre performances, movie screenings, culinary events, and other special offers
- Comprehensive travel insurance: Benefit from a strong travel insurance package, including up to $5,000,000 in travel emergency medical
- No additional fee for authorized users: Add authorized users for no extra cost (an average fee of $30-50 on other comparable cards)
Cons
- Monthly fee: A monthly fee of $15.99 (totalling an annual fee of $191.88, which is higher than most other rewards cards)
- Limited acceptance: American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
- Travel insurance age limitations: The travel insurance package does not cover trip cancellation or medical coverage for cardholders over the age of 65
- Lack of airport lounge access: Frequent travellers may be disappointed as this card does not offer access to airport lounges
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Best for Travel
based on spending $2,200/mo after $139 annual fee
- Earn rewards
2pts – 8pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
Earn up to 165,000 points (a $825 value)
- Annual fee
$139 $0 first year waived
Perks of the TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| No foreign exchange fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | Included | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Included | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Included | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Included | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Included | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Included | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Included | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Included | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Included | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Earn up to $1,400 in value†, including up to 165,000 TD Rewards Points, and receive an annual fee rebate for the first year† and additional travel benefits. Conditions Apply.
- Earn a welcome Bonus of 20,000 TD Rewards Points when you make your first Purchase with your Card†.
- Earn 145,000 TD Rewards Points when you spend $7,500 within 180 days of Account opening†.
- Earn a Birthday Bonus of up to 10,000 TD Rewards points†.
- Get an annual TD Travel Credit† of $100 when you book at Expedia® For TD†.
- Get an Annual Fee Rebate for the first year†.
- Enjoy your time at the airport with global airport lounge access and 4 complimentary lounge visits with Visa Airport Companion Program (a value of up to $277)†.
- To receive the first-year annual fee rebate for the Primary Cardholder, you must activate your Card and make your first Purchase on the Account within the first 3 months after Account opening. To receive the Additional Cardholder(s) first-year annual fee rebate, you must add your Additional Cardholder(s) while the offer is in effect.
- Offer may be changed, withdrawn, or extended at any time and cannot be combined with any other offer unless otherwise indicated.
- Reward Points on all the things you normally do, whether you use your Card for groceries, dining, paying bills, public transit, streaming services or booking travel. The rewards will add up quickly so you can enhance your travel experience or enjoy a wide variety of rewards.
- Your Card also allows you to enjoy:
- An annual TD Travel Credit† of $100 when you book at Expedia® For TD†.
- Take a break at the airport and relax in one of the 1,200+ global lounges before you take off – enjoy your 4 complimentary visits by enrolling now for the Visa Airport Companion Program†.
- TD Rewards Birthday bonus† that helps you celebrate your special day.
- An extensive suite of travel insurance coverages which helps you travel prepared
- No travel blackouts†, no seat restrictions† and no expiry† for your TD Rewards Points as long as your account is open and in good standing.
- Earn 8 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend when you book travel through Expedia® For TD†
- Earn 6 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on Groceries, Dining, and Public Transit†
- Earn 4 TD Rewards Points† for every $1 you spend on Recurring Bill Payments and Streaming, Digital Gaming & Media†
- Earn 2 TD Rewards Points For every $1 you spend on other Purchases made using your Card† plus earn an annual Birthday Bonus† of up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points
- Earn more at Starbucks: Link your eligible Card to earn 50% more TD Rewards Points plus more Starbucks Stars. Redeem points for even more Stars. Conditions apply.
- This offer is not available for residents of Quebec
- †Terms and conditions apply.
- Financial institutions pay us for connecting them with customers, including by paying for advertisements, clicks, or when someone applies for/is approved for a product. Terms and conditions apply between you and the provider of the product – please be sure to review them. Product information and details vary for Quebec. The content provided on our site is for information only; it is not meant to be relied on or used in lieu of advice from a professional. Partners/Advertisers are not responsible for the accuracy of information on our site. However, not all products we list are tied to compensation for us. Our industry-leading education centres and calculators are available 24/7, free of charge, and with no obligation to purchase. To learn more, visit our About us page.
Ratehub’s take
The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite is your passport to travel rewards, offering flexible redemption options and value for frequent travellers looking for a Visa credit card with travel points.
Pros
- Flexible redemption: Redeem points on flights, hotels, car rentals and more through Expedia for TD, with points redeemable in increments as low as one dollar
- Exclusive offers: Enjoy 10% off car rentals from select Avis and Budget locations, an annual discount to Priority Pass Memberships
- Extensive travel package: Enjoy comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency travel medical (up to $2 million), trip cancellation/interruption, and more
- TD Travel Credit: Receive an annual TD Travel Credit of $100 when you book at Expedia for TD
- Complimentary airport lounge access: Enjoy your time at the airport with global airport lounge access and 4 complimentary lounge visits with Visa Airport Companion Program (a value of up to $277)
Cons
- Income requirement: A minimum personal income of $60,000 and $139 annual fee may limit eligibility for some users
- Low point value: The average dollar value of one TD Reward point is $0.005, which is low compared to other travel credit cards
- Low earn rate for specific categories: Other cards offer high point values for specific spending categories like dining and entertainment
- No waived foreign transaction fees: Foreign transaction fees are not waived, so consider this if you plan to use the card for shopping abroad
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: $60,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 22.99%
Balance transfer: 22.99%
based on spending $2,200/mo after $120 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 1.25pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
Earn up to 55,000 points (a $1,100 value)
- Annual fee
$120
Perks of the RBC Avion Visa Infinite
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Not included | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| No foreign exchange fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $500,000 per person | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Unlimited for first 15 days under 65 years | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $65,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Up to $1,500 per person | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Up to $5,000 per person | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | $250 per person; 4 hours or more | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Included | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | $500 per person; 4 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | $2,500 per occurrence | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Up to $1,500 per occurence | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Covered for 90 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Get up to 55,000 Avion points1 (max travel value of $1,100†), that’s up to 3 round trip flights ^
- Get 35,000 Welcome Points on approval and 20,000 bonus points when you spend $5,000 in your first 6 months1. Apply by June 15, 2026.
- Earn 1 Avion point for every dollar you spend* and an extra 25% on eligible travel purchases.
- Avioners can book flights with points on any airline, on any flight, at any time, early or last minute, with no blackout periods or restrictions.
- Avioners earn points that never expire so your points will be waiting for your next adventure.
- Redeem your points for travel and more. Use points for anything from paying bills and paying your card balance to redeeming for Gift Cards and Merchandise at top brands like Apple. The Avion Rewards program gives you the freedom of choice to use your points your way, and helps you make the most as an Avioner.
- Eligible Avion rewards members can also convert points to other loyalty programs including WestJet dollars, British Airways Avios points and Hudson’s Bay Rewards points.
- Link your RBC card with a Petro-Points membership to instantly save 3₵ per litre on fuel at Petro-Canada stations and earn 20% more Petro-Points and 20% more Avion points
- Link your RBC card with a Rexall Be Well account and get 50 Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall. Redeem Be Well points faster for savings in store on eligible purchases where 25,000 Be Well points = $10
- Add your credit card to your DoorDash account and get a free 12 monthly DashPass subscription16
- Get up to 20% off at Hertz10 and earn 3x the Avion points11
Ratehub’s take
The RBC Avion Visa Infinite credit card is a versatile travel credit card that offers flexible rewards for frequent flyers. With a strong emphasis on travel perks and a valuable rewards program, it’s an excellent option for travellers looking to elevate their experience.
Pros
- Flexible travel redemption: This card provides unparalleled choice when it comes to redeeming points as it does not have blackout dates or seat restrictions. You can book flights, hotels, car rentals, and more with your points
- Comprehensive travel insurance: Benefit from extensive travel insurance coverage most notably including trip cancellation and interruption and emergency medical. Travel with peace of mind knowing you are protected
- Exclusive concert access: Enjoy exclusive access to concert tickets, like the highly sought-after Taylor Swift Eras concert. With this perk, you’ll have the opportunity to secure tickets before they are available to the general public.
Cons
- Annual fee: This card comes with an annual fee of $120 which may be high for some. However, for frequent travelers who take full advantage of the card’s perks, the benefits can often outweigh the cost.
- No waived foreign transaction fees: Foreign transaction fees are not waived, so consider this if you plan to use the card for shopping abroad
- Low earn rate: The standard earn rate of 1 point per $1 may not be as competitive as other travel credit cards
Eligibility requirements
Minimum income: $60,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 20.99%
Cash advance: 22.99%
Balance transfer: 22.99%
Balance transfer credit card signup offers and promotions
for the first 12 months. 17.99% after promo.
- Pay $325.00/mo
during the promo to pay off $3,900 transferred balance
- 3% Balance transfer fee
A fee of $117 will be added to your balance
- Annual fee
$0
Perks
- Ratehub.ca’s 2023 Award Winner – Best Low Interest Credit Card and Best Balance Transfer Credit Card
- This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.
- No annual fee
- Standard Annual Interest Rates of 12.99% on purchases, 17.99% on balance transfers✪, and 24.99% on cash advances
- You could get a 0% promotional annual interest rate (“AIR”)† for 12 months on balance transfers✪ completed within 90 days of account opening, with a 3% transfer fee.
- This card is made from 100% recycled plastic
- Around-the-clock fraud protection
- Use available credit on your credit card to transfer funds right to your chequing account.
Apply for the MBNA True Line® Mastercard® credit card today.
Ratehub’s take
For those looking to reduce their credit card debt, the MBNA True Line Mastercard comes packed with helpful features. The card has no annual fee and a below-average purchase interest rate of 12.99% on purchases. For anyone trying to work themselves out of debt and rebuild their credit score, the 0% promotional annual interest rate for 12 months provides an excellent head start.
Pros
- Best promotional balance transfer offer on the market: A promotional balance transfer of 0% is available for a full year helping pay down or eliminate credit card debt (note: there is a 3% balance transfer fee)
- Fixed low interest rate: The low interest rate of 12.99% is fixed and won’t change regardless of your credit rating, income, or the bank’s prime lending rate
- Accessibility: No annual fee and no income requirements to qualify making it very accessible
Cons
- Lack of additional benefits: This card does not include insurance or other benefits
- Restrictions for Quebec residents: Offer not available to residents of Quebec
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 660
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 12.99%
Cash advance: 24.99%
Balance transfer: 0.00% for the first 12 months. 17.99% after promo.
- Pay $390.00/mo
during the promo to pay off $3,900 transferred balance
- 1% Balance transfer fee
A fee of $39 will be added to your balance
- Annual fee
see Details
Perks
- Transfer your credit card balance of $100 or more – Get 0% interest for up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee† (BT fee does not apply for Quebec residents) and a two year annual fee rebate†
- Check full offer details below†
- Transfer your credit card balance of $100 or more and get 0% interest for up to 10 months with a 1% transfer fee† (BT fee does not apply for Quebec residents)
- Transfer up to 50% of your assigned credit limit†
- If you choose to carry a balance and you make your minimum payments on time, a balance transfer could save you money on interest
- Take advantage of this 0% introductory interest rate on balance transfers of $100 or more for your first 10 months. You’ll only have to pay a 1% fee† (BT fee does not apply for Quebec residents) when you transfer your balance from another card to the CIBC Select Visa Card
- This balance transfer offer is only available at the time of your online application.† Simply tick the checkbox to select the balance transfer option when you’re filling out your application
Once you take advantage of this offer, you will have a promotional rate balance on your account. As a result, you will lose your interest-free grace period on new purchases unless you pay your amount due, including any promotional rate balances, in full each month. While you will enjoy the promotional rate on the balances you transfer by using this offer, new purchases will be subject to the purchase interest rate. - Balance transfers of amounts less than $100 are not eligible for this promotional balance transfer offer and will be subject to the regular interest rate for Cash Advances applicable to your account
- Save over $600 with CIBC and Skip
- Get a 12-month Skip+ free trial and other exclusive benefits when you link your CIBC Select Visa Card with Skip.†
- Save on gas with CIBC and Journie Rewards
- Link and use your CIBC Select Visa Card with Journie Rewards to save up to 10 cents per litre† at participating Pioneer, Fas Gas, Ultramar and Chevron gas stations.†
- Purchase Interest Rate – 13.99%
- Ongoing Balance Transfer APR – 13.99%
- Cash advance Interest – 13.99%
- †Terms and Conditions Apply. Select Apply Now to learn more.
Ratehub’s take
The CIBC Select Visa tops our list for best balance transfer cards, offering a below-average interest rate of 13.99% across all transactions. With a low annual fee, a strong welcome bonus, and additional benefits like extended warranty and purchase protection, it is a strong choice for efficiently managing credit card debt.
Pros
- Low APR across the board: Below-average APR of 13.99% across the board on purchases, balance transfers, and cash advances
- Affordable annual fee and readily accessible: Low $29 annual fee (which is rebated for the first two years) and has a minimum household income requirement of just $15,000 making it accessible to most Canadians
- Free secondary cards: Get up to three free secondary cards, enhancing flexibility for shared finances
- Additional benefits: Access additional benefits including extended warranty, purchase protection, and access to CIBC’s 24/7 customer service team
Cons
- Limited perks: As a low interest credit card, the CIBC Select Visa doesn’t offer much in the form of perks
- Online exclusive offer: The balance transfer offer is exclusively available to new cardholders applying online
- Transfer limit restrictions: You can only transfer 50% of your assigned credit limit (e.g. if you’re approved for the CIBC Select Visa with a $2,000 credit limit, you can only transfer up to $1,000 from another credit card)
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 660
Minimum income: $15,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 13.99%
Cash advance: 13.99%
Balance transfer: 0.00% for the first 10 months. 13.99% after promo.
Annual fee
$29
for the first 9 months. 15.99% after promo.
- Pay $433.33/mo
during the promo to pay off $3,900 transferred balance
- 0.99% Balance transfer fee
A fee of $39 will be added to your balance
- Annual fee
$29 $0 first year waived
Perks of the BMO Preferred Rate Mastercard®*
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Purchase assurance | Included | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Included | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
Other perks
- Get a 0% introductory interest rate on Balance Transfers for 9 months with a 0.99% transfer fee and we’ll waive the $29 annual fee for the first year.*
- Enjoy our lowest interest rate of 13.99% on purchases*
- Extended warranty and purchase protection.*
- Add another cardholder for free.*
- Zero Dollar Liability: protects you from unauthorized use of your credit card*
- Worldwide acceptance at over 30 million locations*
- Enjoy three months of Instacart+ and a $5 monthly Instacart credit when you enroll your eligible BMO Credit Card.*
- BMO is not responsible for maintaining the content on this site. Please click on the Apply now link for the most up to date information
- *Terms and conditions apply
Ratehub’s take
The BMO Preferred Rate Mastercard stands out as an excellent choice for those looking for a balance transfer credit card with a low interest rate and added benefits. Despite charging an annual fee, the competitive 15.99% interest rate, along with other features, make it a compelling option.
Pros
- Additional cardholder protection: The Zero Dollar Liability provides protecting against against unauthorized purchases.This card also includes free extended warranty which doubles the manufacturer’s warranty up to one year and purchase protection
Cons
- Higher promotional balance transfer rate: This card has a higher promotional rate for balance transfers compared to other balance transfer credit cards
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 660
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 13.99%
Cash advance: 15.99%
Balance transfer: 0.00% for the first 9 months. 15.99% after promo.
Premium credit card signup offers and promotions
based on spending $2,200/mo after $599 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1.25pts – 3pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
Earn up to 60,000 points (a $1,200 value)
- Anniversary bonus
Earn up to 25,000 points (a $500 value)
- Annual fee
$599
Perks of the American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Enjoy access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf LoungesTM* and Air Canada CaféTM in North America for you and a guest, with a same day ticket on a departing Air Canada or Star Alliance flight | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| No foreign exchange fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | up to $500,000 | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | up to $5,000,000 under 65 years old | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | up to 48 days; MSRP up to $85,000 | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | up to $1,500 per insured person per trip, to a maximum of $3,000 for all insured persons combined | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | up to $1,500 per insured person per trip, to a maximum of $6,000 for all insured persons combined | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | flights delayed 4 hours or more; up to $1,000 (combined maximum with Baggage Delay Insurance) | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | up to $1,000 per trip for all insured person(s) combined | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | delayed for 6 hours or more; up to $1000 (combined maximum with Flight Delay Insurance) | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | up to $1,000 | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | up to 90 days; up to $1,000 per occurrence | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Apply with confidence! See if you’ll be approved before you apply – with no impact to your credit score*.
- *Instant decisions are only available for Consumer (also known as Personal) Card applications.
- New American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Cardmembers can earn up to 85,000 Aeroplan points.
- Earn 60,000 Aeroplan points after spending $7,500 in purchases on your Card within the first 3 months
- Plus, earn an additional 25,000 Aeroplan points when you spend $2,500 in purchases in month 13
- You could earn up to $4,400 in value within your first 13 months. When you combine the Welcome Bonus offer of up to $1,700 in value, your earn potential in accelerated and everyday spend earn rate categories with approximately $1,760 in value, and the $1,000 in value you get from exceptional benefits, you can earn up to $4,400 or more in value within your first 13 months. Terms and usage assumptions apply.
- Cardmembers can now get an extra night free for every 3 hotel nights redeemed with Aeroplan points. Enjoy even more at over 300,000 hotel properties worldwide
- Receive up to $100 CAD in statement credits every four years when a NEXUS application or renewal fee is charged to your American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
- Highest Air Canada earn rate on an Aeroplan payment card in Canada: Earn 3X the points on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®* and Air Canada Vacations®*
- Standard Earn Rate: Earn 2X the points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada and earn 1.25X the points on everything else
- Get through the airport quicker with Air Canada Priority Check-In, Air Canada Priority Boarding and Air Canada Priority Baggage Handling
- Receive one Annual Worldwide Companion Pass when you spend $25,000 in net purchases prior to your Card anniversary date; your Pass entitles you to buy an accompanying Air Canada economy class ticket for a companion at a fixed base fare from $99 to a maximum of $599 CAD (plus taxes, fees, charges, and surcharges)
- Enjoy access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf LoungesTM* and Air Canada CaféTM in North America for you and a guest, with a same day ticket on a departing Air Canada or Star Alliance flight
- Enjoy your eligible first checked bag free for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada flights
- Get a 10% Head Start. Starting in 2027, eligible Basic Cardmembers with Aeroplan EliteTM* Status will receive a 10% head start toward qualification, based on Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) accumulated the year before. Roll over any unallocated unused eUpgrade Credits to the following year to enjoy during your travels
- Get access to more than 1,200 Priority PassTM airport lounges and enjoy an oasis of comfort before your flight, regardless of your airline or cabin class
- Amex ExperiencesTM opens doors for you to access a number of special events, including special dining experiences, VIP parties, advance film screenings and more
- Get more from your travel experience at Toronto Pearson International Airport with:
- Access to Pearson Priority Security Lane
- Complimentary valet service at the Express Park and Daily Park
- 15% discount on parking rates at the Express Park and Daily Park
- 15% discount on Car Care Services
- Insurance Coverage: whether you’re shopping nearby or travelling abroad, you can feel confident knowing you can be taken care of
- American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card is made from precision cut and engraved 13g metal – it’s the perfect companion on your next exceptional journey
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Ratehub’s take
The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card is a top-tier Aeroplan credit card, offering a large welcome bonus and a blend of premium perks from both Air Canada and American Express. If you like VIP treatment while traveling, this card definitely delivers.
Pros
- Premium travel benefits: Enjoy exclusive perks with Air Canada, such as priority boarding, check-in, and a free first checked bag on all Air Canada flights. Plus, complimentary visits to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges within North America
- Comprehensive insurance coverage:The American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card offers a wide array of insurance coverage, including travel insurance for Aeroplan flight rewards and 11 types of coverage such as flight delay, baggage delay, and hotel burglary
Cons
- High annual fee: While the card offers impressive perks, the annual fee is steep at $599. Consider maximizing the benefits to offset this cost
- Limited acceptance: American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
- Subpar rewards rates: Despite the high annual fee, the card doesn’t have the best earn rates, especially compared to other Aeroplan cards. It may not be the most rewarding unless you frequently fly with Air Canada or dine out often
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 21.99%
Cash advance: 21.99%
Balance transfer: N/A
Best for Premium perks
based on spending $2,200/mo after $799 annual fee
- Earn rewards
1pt – 2pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
Earn up to 70,000 points (a $700 value)
- Anniversary bonus
Earn up to 30,000 points (a $300 value)
- Annual fee
$799
Perks of the American Express® The Platinum Card®
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Complimentary access; 1,400 lounges | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| No foreign exchange fees | Not included | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | $500,000 per person | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | $5,000,000 for first 15 days (under 65) | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | MSRP of up to $85,000, for 48 days | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | $2,500 per person, $5,000 per trip | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | $2,500 per person, $6,000 per trip | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Up to $1,000; delays over 4 hours | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Combined maximum $1,000 | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Up to $1,000; delays of 6 hours or more | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | Included | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | Not included | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Up to $1,000 within 120 days | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Up to one additional year | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Apply with confidence! See if you’ll be approved before you apply – with no impact to your credit score*.
- *Instant decisions are only available for Consumer (also known as Personal) Card applications.
- Ratehub.ca’s 2023 Award Winner – Best Perks Credit Card
- Unlock special experiences with the Platinum Card®
- Earn up to 100,000 Membership Rewards® points – that’s up to $1,000 towards a weekend away
- New Platinum® Cardmembers, earn 70,000 Welcome Bonus points after you charge $10,000 in net purchases to your Card in your first 3 months of Cardmembership
- Plus, earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase between 15 and 17 months of Cardmembership
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada, 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel, and 1 point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
- Access a $200 Annual Travel Credit through American Express Travel Online or Platinum® Card Travel Service
- Enjoy a $200 Annual Dining Credit at some of Canada’s best restaurants
- Unlock $200 or more in additional value with Member extras. You can earn statement credits for qualifying purchases with participating brands
- Take full advantage of The American Express Global Lounge CollectionTM which unlocks access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide. This includes The Centurion® Lounge network, Plaza Premium Lounges, and hundreds of other domestic and international lounges designed to enhance your travel experience. Terms and Conditions apply
- Enjoy flexible ways to use your points such as statement credits for any eligible purchase charged to your Card, new travel purchases booked on American Express Travel Online through the Flexible Points Travel Program, and eligible flights through the Fixed Points Travel Program
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs
- Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $550 USD at over 1,600 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + Resorts
- Platinum Cardmembers can enjoy access to special events and unique opportunities
- Enjoy premium benefits at the Toronto Pearson Airport
- You will also have access to many leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs. Our partners include Marriott International, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Hertz and Avis
- Interest applies in accordance with your Cardmember Agreement, Information Box, and Disclosure statement if the total New Balance is not paid by the Payment Due Date each month. All payments must be received by the Payment Due Date shown on the monthly statement
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment
Ratehub’s take
While the American Express Platinum card’s annual fee is steep, the premium travel perks arguably outweigh the cost to use it. You’ll enjoy free, unlimited airport lounge access (while most other cards only offer a free membership or a few passes per year), hotel upgrades, a valuable annual travel and dining credit, and more.
Pros
- Unlimited lounge access: Enjoy free, unlimited lounge visits at over 1,400 lounges across the world with the
- American Express Global lounge collection
- Strong travel insurance offering: Includes everything from out-of-province emergency medical to $500,000 travel accident insurance
- Stretch your points values further: Transfer points to other travel loyalty programs at a 1:1 ratio for increased value and flexibility
- Upgraded gold hotel status with Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honors and deals on car rentals through American Express Online
Cons
- Very high annual fee
- Doesn’t waive foreign transaction fees, which can really add up when you’re traveling
- This is a charge card, so you’ll have to pay off whatever you spend in full each month or face a high interest rate
- American Express isn’t as widely accepted in Canada compared to Visa and Mastercard
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 725
Minimum income: N/A
Interest rates
Purchase interest: N/A
Cash advance: N/A
Balance transfer: N/A
based on spending $2,200/mo after $399 annual fee
- Earn rewards
2pts / dollar spent
- Welcome bonus
Earn up to 80,000 points (a $800 value)
- Annual fee
$399
Perks of the Scotiabank®* Platinum American Express® Card
| Perks | Details | |
|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | Enjoy complimentary lounge access with Priority Pass™ and Plaza Premium lounges with access to over 1200+ VIP lounges around the world. Enjoy up to 10 free visits per year from the date of enrolment. | You’ll gain complimentary passes to airport lounges. The number of passes and lounges you have access to will vary. |
| No foreign exchange fees | Scotiabank Platinum American Express Cardmembers aren’t charged the usual 2.5% foreign currency conversion markup on foreign currency purchases. | A surcharge that credit card holders pay for purchases made in a foreign currency (typically 2.5%). |
| Travel accident insurance | When you charge at least 75% of your trip to your Card, you’re insured against accidental loss of life or dismemberment. | If you suffer a loss as a result of an accidental bodily injury sustained while occupying a common carrier, you are eligible for this coverage. |
| Travel emergency medical | Receive up to $2 million CAD in emergency medical coverage for you, your spouse, and your eligible dependent children. | If you require urgent medical care while on a trip outside of your home province, you will be covered for any eligible medical expenses incurred. |
| Car rental insurance | Charge the full cost of your eligible rental car to your Card and you’re automatically insured if your rental is damaged or stolen. | Credit card rental car insurance usually covers theft, loss and damage to your rental car in the case of an accidental collision. |
| Trip cancellation | Protect your travel investment with trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance at no extra cost when you charge at least 75% of your trip costs to your Card. | If you have to cancel your trip before it’s even started, your prepaid travel costs will be covered up to a maximum amount if the cause of cancellation is eligible for the insurance. |
| Trip interruption | Protect your travel investment with trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance at no extra cost when you charge at least 75% of your trip costs to your Card. | If your trip has to be cut short or is delayed after the scheduled departure date, you will be covered up to a maximum amount for an eligible cause of interruption or delay. |
| Flight delay insurance | Charge at least 75% of the full ticket cost to your Scotiabank American Express Platinum Card and you’ll be eligible for reimbursement of necessary expenses such as hotel accommodations, meals and other emergency items. | If your flight departure is delayed by a certain number of hours, you’ll be reimbursed a certain amount for necessary and reasonable expenses. |
| Baggage loss insurance | Charge the full cost of your airplane, train, bus or cruise ship tickets to your Card. If your checked luggage is delayed or lost – you’re covered. | If your checked bag cannot be located by a common carrier, you’ll be reimbursed for a portion of the replacement cost of lost personal property. |
| Baggage delay insurance | Charge the full cost of your airplane, train, bus or cruise ship tickets to your Card. If your checked luggage is delayed or lost – you’re covered. | If your checked bag is not delivered within a specified time upon your arrival, you’ll be reimbursed for the cost to replace essential items. |
| Hotel/motel burglary | When you use your Card to pay for your stay at any hotel or motel in Canada or the US, you’re eligible for coverage against theft if your room is broken into. | Provides protection, while you’re checked in, for your personal belongings when left unattended in your room up to a certain dollar amount. |
| Mobile insurance | You may be covered for up to $1,000 in the event your cell phone, smartphone, or tablet is lost, stolen, accidentally damaged, or experiences mechanical failure. | Reimburses a portion of your cell phone in the event it’s damaged or lost. Device coverage is limited to a certain period of time after purchasing with your credit card. |
| Purchase assurance | Most of the new items you buy with your Card are insured against theft, loss, or damage for 120 days from the purchase date. | Automatically protects new purchases by insuring them for 90 days from the date of purchase in the event of loss, theft or damage. |
| Extended warranty | Most of the new items you buy with your Card are insured against theft, loss, or damage for 120 days from the purchase date. | Either doubles the length of the item’s manufacturer’s warranty coverage or extends it by 1 year, whichever is less. |
| Price protection | Not included | If, within a certain amount of time of purchasing an item, its price drops or you find an identical item offered for a lower retail price than what you paid, you will be reimbursed for the difference. |
Other perks
- Earn up to $2,500* in value in the first 14 months, including up to 80,0001 bonus Scene+ points
- Plus earn 2X Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
- Earn additional benefits + up to 4X Scene+ points for every dollar you spend on hotel bookings, car rentals, and things to do with Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia
- No Foreign Transaction Fee
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance coverage
- Mobile Device Insurance coverage
- 10 complimentary Airport Lounge Passes per year
- Platinum VIP Offers+
- American Express Invites®
- Premium Complimentary Concierge Services
- Rates, fees and other information are effective as of October 31, 2025. Subject to change.
Ratehub’s take
The Scotiabank Platinum American Express card offers a unique combination of benefits: rewards, travel perks like airport lounge access and a low purchase interest rate – but you pay for those benefits with the higher annual fee.
Pros:
- Low interest rates with added perks: Not only do you get a below-average interest rate but you also get Scene points, airport lounge access, travel insurance and other perks
- Save on foreign transaction fees: You won’t be charged 2.5% in forex fees with this card on top of the exchange rate
Cons:
- Very high annual fee: The annual fee is very high compared to other low-interest cards, some of which have a $0 annual fee
- Lower rewards earn rate: You’ll get a lower return on your spending with this card than with some other rewards credit cards, although for a low-interest card, earning rewards at all is rare
Eligibility requirements
Minimum credit score: 760
Minimum income: $12,000/yr
Interest rates
Purchase interest: 9.99%
Cash advance: 9.99%
Balance transfer: 22.99%