Best American Express Cards in Canada
American Express established itself by offering cards that were status symbols as much as payment methods. Since issuing its first Canadian card in 1958, American Express has expanded its lineup significantly, providing cards with generous rewards, valuable benefits, and appealing perks.
NerdWallet analyzed American Express cards available in Canada, comparing rewards, earn rates, benefits, fees, and more. Whether you prefer premium perks or a straightforward no-fee card, you'll likely find an American Express card that suits your needs.
Summary of the best American Express Cards
| Card | NerdWallet rating | Annual fee | Rewards rate | Intro offer | Apply Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| American Express® Aeroplan®* Card | APPLY NOW on American Express' website | ||||
 APPLY NOW on American Express' website | 4.4/5 | $120 | 1x-2x Points | Up to 45,000 Points | |
| American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card | APPLY NOW on American Express' website | ||||
 APPLY NOW on American Express' website | 5.0/5 | $599 | 1.25x-3x Points | Up to 85,000 Points | |
| American Express Cobalt® Card | APPLY NOW on American Express' website | ||||
 APPLY NOW on American Express' website | 5.0/5 | $191.88 | 1x-5x Points | Up to 15,000 Points | |
American Express cards available in Canada
☝ Use the tabs above to see our best-overall picks or compare more Amex cards.
Our Top Pick: American Express Cobalt® Card
View details
Points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery.* Spend cap applies.
Points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada.
Points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada.
Point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else.
Additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online.
A standout everyday earner with up to 5x points on a spectrum of everyday spending categories, including eats and drinks, streaming services, gas and more. Unusually robust travel insurance for a mid-tier card makes it a decent travel companion, too. Best for: Those who spend big on groceries, entertainment or transit and want a flexible rewards program.
Pros
- Includes 10 forms of insurance.
- Points can be transferred to other rewards programs, including Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy.
- Up to $60 in Instacart statement credits.
Cons
- No lounge access.
- The 5x earn rate is capped at $2,500 monthly — purchases above the cap drop to 1x.
- 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 Experiences™
- 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.
Whether you’re indulging in your favourite takeout, settling in for a streaming marathon, or both, the American Express Cobalt® Card earns big while you treat yourself. Cardholders get 5 points per dollar spent at restaurants and on food delivery, plus 3 points per dollar on streaming services. Add to those a solid 2x on gas, transit and ride shares and the Amex Cobalt puts itself firmly into ‘well-rounded rewards’ territory — all for a modest $15.99 monthly fee ($191.88 annually).
I have to call out the Amex Cobalt’s respectable insurance offerings, too, which include a suite of travel insurance and mobile device protection, plus the usual suspects: extended warranty and purchase protection. So, whether you’re jetting off on vacation or just buying a new mobile device, you’re covered.
Still, this card won’t be for everyone. Unless you frequently splash cash on dining, groceries or streaming services, the Amex Cobalt’s rewards structure won’t provide a satisfying bang for your buck.
Pros:
High rewards rate on dining and entertainment.
Comprehensive insurance coverage.
Access to American Express Experiences.
Cons:
Not all streaming services qualify for accelerated rewards, including Amazon Prime and Paramount+.
No airport lounge access.
Best American Express cards in Canada
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery.* Spend cap applies.
Points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada.
Points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada.
Point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else.
Additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeA standout everyday earner with up to 5x points on a spectrum of everyday spending categories, including eats and drinks, streaming services, gas and more. Unusually robust travel insurance for a mid-tier card makes it a decent travel companion, too. Best for: Those who spend big on groceries, entertainment or transit and want a flexible rewards program.
Pros
- Includes 10 forms of insurance.
- Points can be transferred to other rewards programs, including Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy.
- Up to $60 in Instacart statement credits.
Cons
- No lounge access.
- The 5x earn rate is capped at $2,500 monthly — purchases above the cap drop to 1x.
Card details
Card details- 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 Experiences™
- 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.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations.
Points on eligible Dining and Food Delivery purchases in Canada.
Points on on everything else.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeThis top-shelf Aeroplan card offers 3x points on purchases made with Air Canada — the highest Aeroplan earn rate on the market. Comprehensive insurance coverage, annual companion passes and priority airport services add to the luxe factor, but the hefty $599 annual fee may be more than some cardholders are willing to spend. Best for: Air Canada enthusiasts who want to maximize their Aeroplan point accumulation.
Pros
- Up to 3x points on eligible dollars spent.
- Free Maple Leaf Lounge access, plus a complimentary Priority Pass membership.
- Free checked bags.
- Priority check-in, boarding and baggage handling.
Cons
- Steep $599 annual fee.
- Priority airport services only apply to Air Canada itineraries.
- Pay-per use rates apply to Priority Pass lounges.
Card details
Card details- 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 Lounges™* and Air Canada Café™ 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 Elite™* 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 Pass™ airport lounges and enjoy an oasis of comfort before your flight, regardless of your airline or cabin class.
- Amex Experiences™ 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.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdowncash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada.
Cash back on eligible grocery store purchases in Canada (up to $1,200 cash back annually).
Cash back on all other purchases.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeGetting 2% back on everything is very rare, which makes this card one of our favourites. It also offers 4% back on gas and groceries, comes with comprehensive travel coverage and offers up to $60 in statement credits with Instacart. But the $119.88 annual fee ($9.99 a month) may be too steep for some users. Best for: People who value earning cash back over extensive travel perks.
Pros
- Unlimited 2% cash back.
- Up to $60 statement credit with Instacart.
- Comprehensive travel insurance.
Cons
- $119.88 annual fee is higher than average for a cash-back card.
Card details
Card details- 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 Experiences™
- Extensive insurance coverage and 24/7 Customer Service.
- 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
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints on eligible dining and food delivery purchases in Canada.
Points on eligible travel purchases.
Points on all other purchases.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeAs the name suggests, this card offers top-tier perks like free airport lounge access, an annual $200 travel credit and a full suite of insurances. However, it’s a charge card, so you must pay off the balance in full each month or face steep interest. And, for a premium travel card that costs $799 a year, the 2.5% foreign transaction fee is a bit of a letdown. Best for: High-end jetsetters who spend big on travel and don’t carry a balance.
Pros
- Annual credits totalling $640.
- Comprehensive and unlimited airport lounge access.
- No pre-set spending limit.
Cons
- Very steep $799 annual fee.
- 2.5% foreign transaction fee.
- Must pay off balance each month.
Card details
Card details- 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 Collection™ 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, NerdWallet may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more.
Points for every $1 you spend on dining & food delivery. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
Points for every $1 you spend at other eligible grocery stores.
Points for every $1 you spend in Canada on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
Points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas purchases.
Points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more.
Points for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services.
Point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeA well-rounded rewards earner that stands out for its top-tier rates in popular categories, like groceries and entertainment spending. Its waived foreign exchange fees and travel insurance will appeal to travellers, but there’s no complimentary airport lounge access, just discounted membership to Priority Pass. Best for: Travellers and families who spend big on groceries, restaurants and commuting and want to collect Scene+ points.
Pros
- Generous rewards rates of up to 6x Scene+ points.
- No FX fees.
- Priority Pass airport lounge membership discount.
Cons
- No complimentary airport lounge access.
- Highest earn rate only applies to dollars spent at Sobeys and its subsidiary stores.
Card details
Card details- Earn up to $850 in welcome offers, first year rewards and savings value and up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points.¹
- Earn 6x Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
- Earn 5x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
- Earn 5x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
- Earn 3x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
- Earn 3x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
- Plus earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday 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
- AMEX Offers®
- AMEX Front of the Line®
- American Express Invites®
- Complimentary Concierge Services
- Rates, fees and other information are effective as of January 2, 2026. Subject to change.
- *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
Points for every $1 in all other Card purchases.*
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeThe Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card helps travellers earn free stays and experiences at some of the world’s ritziest hotels, restaurants and spas. But if you’re not a frequent hotel guest, there’s little reason to get this card. Best for: Marriott Bonvoy loyalists who spend big on hotels.
Pros
- High 2x base rate on all purchases.
- Full suite of travel insurance.
- Ability to convert points to other popular frequent flyer programs.
Cons
- Top 5x earn rate only applies to Marriott Bonvoy purchases.
Card details
Card details- Earn up to 110,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy® points
- New Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Cardmembers can earn up to 110,000 bonus Marriott Bonvoy® Points– Earn 80,000 points after you spend $6,000 on your Card in your first 6 months of Cardmembership. Plus, earn 30,000 points when you make a purchase in your 15th month of Cardmembership. Offer ends April 7, 2026.
- 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 5 points for every dollar in eligible Card purchases at hotels participating in Marriott Bonvoy®.
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in all other Card purchases.
- Receive an Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points at eligible hotels and resorts worldwide every year after your first anniversary.
- No annual fee on Additional Cards.
- Redeem points for free nights with no blackout dates at over 7,000 of the world’s most desired hotels.
- Automatic Marriott Bonvoy Silver Elite status membership.
- Receive 15 Elite Night Credits each calendar year with your Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card. These can be used towards attaining the next level of Elite status in the Marriott Bonvoy program.
- Enjoy an automatic upgrade to Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status when you reach $30,000 in purchases on the Card each year or when you combine 10 qualifying paid nights within one calendar year with the 15 Elite Night Credits from your card.
- 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. Conditions Apply. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, NerdWallet may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints on on eligible hotel bookings.
Points on eligible car rental bookings.
Point on all other eligible purchases.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeAn uncomplicated, no-fee entry point into Amex Membership Rewards. You earn a flat 1x on every dollar spent, and get baseline insurance — extended warranty and purchase protection — is included. That’s it, though. No travel insurance or bonus goodies, like car rental and fuel discounts, that are sometimes offered by no-fee competitors. Best for: People who want a simple, no-fee starter card.
Pros
- No annual fee.
- Earn bonus points through the Amex Travel Online portal.
Cons
- No accelerated earn rates on everyday spending categories.
- No travel insurance.
Card details
Card details- Get the Card that lets you live in the moment while getting ready for the future.
- The American Express® Green Card lets you go for it with every swipe or tap of your Card.
- As a new American Express® Green Cardmember, you can earn a Welcome Bonus of 10,000 Membership Rewards® points when you charge $1,000 in purchases to your Card in the first 3 months of Cardmembership. That’s $100 towards groceries or concert tickets.
- Earn 1x the points on Card purchases.
- Charge an eligible purchase to your Card and redeem your Membership Rewards points for a statement credit (All eligible purchases: 1,000 points = $10 statement credit).
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs.
- With Amex Experiences™ and Front Of The Line® Amex Presale Tickets, American Express Cardmembers get access to amazing events in Canada
- 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. Conditions apply.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations®*.
Points for every $1 spent on eligible hotels and car rentals.
points for every $1 spent on everything else.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeThe annual fee is no joke, but cardmembers have plenty of reasons to smile thanks to the American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card’s strong earn rates, extensive travel benefits and overall convenience.
Pros
- Serious bonus point potential in the first six months.
- Relatively low interest rate.
- Strong earn rates on eligible Air Canada travel purchases, hotel bookings and car rentals, even after the 6-month even after the introductory period ends. Plus, premium travel perks and benefits, like airport lounge access and priority upgrades, to make sure your next trip goes smoothly.
Cons
- High annual fee.
- Earning the Annual Worldwide Companion Pass may not be possible for all businesses.
- The purchase interest rate rockets to 24.99% if you miss a payment.
Card details
Card details- Earn up to 90,000 Welcome Bonus Aeroplan®* points.
- Earn 65,000 Aeroplan points after spending $10,500 on your Card within the first 3 months as a new American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Cardmember.
- Plus, earn 25,000 Aeroplan®* points when you spend $3,500 in month 13.
- Earn Aeroplan points that you can redeem in a variety of ways.
- Earn 3 points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations®*, 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible hotels and car rentals.
- Earn 1.25 points for every $1 spent on everything else.
- Make the most out of a full suite of business management tools that give you more control over your business - anytime and anywhere.
- Leverage your cash flow with the option of carrying a balance or paying in full each month.
- Control employee expenses plus track and accumulate points on your account with Employee Cards, so you have an opportunity to maximize the points you earn.
- Unlock business travel possibilities to make every work trip one to look forward to.
- Access more than 1,200 Priority Pass™ airport lounges around the globe. That means an oasis of comfort before your flight—regardless of your choice of airline or cabin class.
- Enjoy access to select Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges™ for you and a guest, and Air Canada Café™; in North America, with a same day ticket on a departing Air Canada or Star Alliance®* flight.
- Enjoy Priority Check-In, Priority Boarding, and Priority Baggage Handling when you fly with Air Canada, together with up to eight companions.
- 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).
- Stay focused on getting where you need to go. Receive up to $100 CAD in statement credits every four years when NEXUS application or renewal fees are charged to your Aeroplan Business Reserve Card.
- Pay with your American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card and present your Aeroplan Membership Card at over 170 Aeroplan partner brands and 120 online retailers via the Aeroplan eStore to earn points twice.
- If you’re departing from Toronto Pearson International Airport, enjoy the benefits of being an American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Cardmember. Get more from your travel experience with access to Pearson Priority Security Lane, Complimentary Valet Service, 15% discount on parking rates, and 15% discount on Car Care Services.
- Get a 10% Head Start. Starting in 2027, eligible Basic Cardmembers with Aeroplan Elite™* 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.
- Enjoy priority access to the standby list and eUpgrades. Get prioritized on the standby waitlist for an Air Canada flight and higher priority when you request an eUpgrade.
- Get 1,000 Status Qualifying Credits (SQC) for every $5,000 in eligible net purchases charged to your Card, up to 25,000 SQC
- Book flight reward tickets for even fewer points with Air Canada. In addition to flights, you can also redeem for hotel stays, car rentals, vacation packages, merchandise and more.
- Unlock two-car-class rental upgrades, expedited service, dedicated phone line, and more with complimentary upgrade to Avis President’s Club.
- 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, NerdWallet may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints for every $1 you spend on all your eligible purchases.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeScotiabank’s Platinum Amex doesn’t just offer top-tier travel perks — such as emergency medical coverage and airport lounge access — it also comes with a low 9.99% interest rate on purchases and a flat earn rate of 2x Scene+ points per $1 spent. The high $399 annual fee, however, may be too steep for some users. Best for: Frequent travellers who spend big abroad, want airport lounge access and don’t mind using the Scene+ Travel platform to book travel.
Pros
- Low 9.99% APR.
- No foreign transaction fees.
- 10 free airport lounge passes per year.
Cons
- High $399 annual fee.
- Must book through Scene+ Travel platform to earn extra 3x points.
Card details
Card details- 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.
- *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco and more.
Points for every $1 you spend on restaurants, fast food, drinking establishments. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
Points for every $1 you spend on eligible grocery stores.
Points for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
Points for every $1 you spend on eligible gas.
Points for every $1 you spend eligible daily transit. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more.
Points for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services.
Point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeThe Scotiabank American Express Card offers solid Scene+ point rewards on everyday purchases like groceries and dining — all with no annual fee and a few built-in perks.
Pros
- Great earn rates on everyday purchases.
- Includes mobile device insurance.
- Enjoy special offers, experiences and more with American Express Invites.
Cons
- Limited insurance — only includes mobile device coverage, purchase security, and extended warranty.
- No Amex Membership Rewards — only earns Scene+ points, which have limited redemption options and can’t be transferred to airline or hotel programs.
Card details
Card details- Earn up to 5,000 bonus Scene+ points within your first 3 months (that’s up to $50 towards travel).¹
- Earn 3x Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco and more
- Earn 2x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on restaurants, fast food, drinking establishments and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
- Earn 2x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
- Earn 2x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
- Earn 2x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
- Plus earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday 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.
- Mobile Device Insurance coverage
- American Express Invites®
- Rates, fees and other information are effective as of October 31, 2025. Subject to change.
- *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeA low-interest, low-fee card designed to help keep costs down while offering some practical perks, like travel accident insurance and access to Amex Experiences. You won’t earn any rewards, but the trade-off could be worth it for budget-conscious cardholders. Best for: Anyone who typically carries a credit card balance or is working to pay down their debt.
Pros
- Low $25 annual fee.
- Low 12.99% interest rate on purchases and cash advances.
Cons
- Doesn’t earn rewards.
Card details
Card details- Enjoy an annual interest rate of 12.99% on purchases and funds advances.
- With an annual interest rate of 12.99%, you can save on interest payments if you choose to carry a balance and make your minimum monthly payments on time.
- Access virtual events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with Amex Experiences™
- 24/7 Customer Services.
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details, current product information and Terms and Conditions, click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
Rewards breakdown
Rewards breakdownPoints on eligible travel purchases.
Points on eligible purchases at gas stations in Canada.
on eligible purchases at grocery stores in Canada.
on eligible purchases at drugstores in Canada.
Point on purchases everywhere else.
NerdWallet's take
NerdWallet's takeThis flexible, mid-tier travel card is outfitted in an eye-catching stainless steel, typically reserved for premium cards with $500+ annual fees. The Amex Gold Rewards boasts broad rewards earning categories for eligible dollars spent on travel, gas, groceries and drugstore purchases. Perks like a $100 annual travel credit and airport lounge access add tangible value but only help offset the $250 annual fee if they’re put to use. Best for: Travellers seeking occasional lounge access and flexible, everyday rewards.
Pros
- Four complimentary Plaza Premium lounge visits annually.
- $50 NEXUS statement credit.
- Comprehensive travel coverage.
Cons
- Limited airport lounge passes.
Card details
Card details- Earn up to 60,000 Membership Rewards® points:
- New American Express® Gold Rewards Cardmembers, earn 5,000 Membership Rewards® points for each monthly billing period in which you spend $1,000 in net purchases on your Card.
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases for eligible travel purchases, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more.
- Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases at eligible gas stations, grocery stores and drugstores in Canada, and 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else.
- The Card is now available in your choice of Gold or Rose Gold metal options.
- Receive a $50 CAD statement credit when a NEXUS application or renewal fee is charged to your American Express Gold Rewards Card.
- You have access to an annual $100 CAD Travel Credit, compliments of your American Express Gold Rewards Card. Use the credit once annually towards any single travel booking of $100 or more charged to your Gold Rewards Card through American Express Travel Online.
- As a Gold Rewards Cardmember, you can receive complimentary membership in Priority PassTM – one of the world’s largest independent airport lounge programs. Escape the chaos of airports and relax in an oasis of calm and simply enjoy the fact that the travel experience has begun before your plane has even left the ground. Enrollment is required and entry fees apply.
- Enjoy four (4) complimentary visits per Calendar year to Plaza Premium Lounges across Canada. Entry fees apply once complimentary visits have been used.
- Charge any eligible purchase to your credit Card then log in to redeem your earned points for a statement credit.
- Transfer points 1:1 to several frequent flyer and other loyalty programs.
- 1 Free Additional Gold Rewards Card (a $50 value) to help you earn points faster.
- Subject to approval. The preferred rate for purchases is 21.99% and funds advances is 21.99%. If you have Missed Payments, the applicable rates for your account will be 25.99% and/or 29.99%. See the information box included with the application for the definition of Missed Payment and which rates apply to charges on your account and other details
- American Express is not responsible for maintaining of monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply.
- To be eligible, you must have a Canadian credit file and be a Canadian resident of the age of majority in the province or territory where you live.
Methodology
BACK TO TOPHow to choose an American Express card
Selecting the right American Express card involves considering your personal spending habits and preferences. Here’s what to consider:
American Express cards offer multiple types of rewards:
Membership Rewards points: Redeemable for travel bookings, statement credits, gift cards, merchandise, and more.
Aeroplan points: Air Canada’s loyalty program allows you to redeem points for flights, cabin upgrades, hotel stays, car rentals, vacation packages, and merchandise through a global network of partners.
Marriott Bonvoy points: Ideal for frequent hotel guests, this program offers points redeemable for free hotel stays, room upgrades, and unique hotel experiences across the extensive Marriott hotel network.
Cash back: Earned as statement credits directly reducing your monthly bill.
Amex cards typically have two types of earn rates:
Base earn rate: The standard rate you earn for everyday spending — for example, 1 point per $1 spent. “Flat-rate rewards” cards only offer the base rate.
Accelerated earn rates: Increased rewards for spending in specific categories like restaurants, groceries, gas stations, or travel — for example, 5 points per $1 spent at eligible restaurants.
Annual fees for American Express cards in Canada range significantly, from $0 up to $799. Evaluate each card against this cost to see if the annual fee is worth it.
For example, if you frequently travel and a card charges a $200 annual fee but includes airport lounge access worth approximately $500 per year — and you’ll actually visit the lounges — the benefits outweigh the fee, making it a valuable choice.
Most American Express cards feature attractive welcome bonuses, often worth a few hundred dollars.
However, don’t expect to receive a welcome bonus just for signing up. New cardholders usually must meet certain spending thresholds within a specified period after opening the account to unlock the offer.
The majority of Amex credit cards charge an interest rate of around 21.99% on purchases. Some Amex products are charge cards, which require the balance to be paid in full each month to avoid significantly higher interest charges.
Consider extra perks that align with your lifestyle. Common Amex card benefits include:
Mobile device insurance.
Free checked bags.
Purchase protection.
What to know about American Express cards
Amex issues many of its cards directly to consumers. Scotiabank also offers Amex cards:
Scotiabank American Express® card.
Card types
Unlike Visa and Mastercard, American Express does not have formal card tiers. However, the issuer offers two types of cards: charge cards and credit cards.
Charge cards have no pre-set credit limit; instead, your limit adjusts based on your credit and payment history. With a charge card, you must pay your balance in full monthly or you'll incur a steep 30% interest rate.
Credit cards allow you to borrow funds to make purchases up to a fixed credit limit. If you don’t pay your balance in full, you can carry it over to the next month, but unless it’s a 0% interest card, you’ll pay interest on the balance.
Amex also offers the Centurion Card, an invitation-only “black card” aimed at its top customers. The credit card is packed with many benefits and carries a high annual fee.
Borrowing features
Beyond your card’s credit limit, American Express cardholders may have access to additional funds through American Express Personal Loans, credit limit increases, and other lending options.
The Plan It® Installment Program lets cardholders split purchases and portions of statement balances over $100 into 3, 6, or 12-month installments. It charges a monthly fee instead of interest, and reduces your available credit. Plan It® is not available in Quebec, Nova Scotia, Nunavut, and Prince Edward Island.
The American Express® Flexible Payment Option is available on some charge cards, which require you to pay your entire balance at once. This feature lets cardholders pay only a portion of their balance over time, making it easier to finance major purchases.
How to get an American Express card
Once you’ve found an American Express credit card you like, start the application process. Before you begin, review the card’s eligibility criteria to determine if you qualify.
Eligibility requirements
Unlike Visa and Mastercard, Amex doesn’t publicly specify income requirements for its cards.
Amex does list two formal requirements on its credit card pages:
You must be a Canadian resident.
You must be at least the age of majority in your province or territory.
Amex also doesn’t list minimum credit score requirements, but generally, the higher your credit score, the more likely you are to be approved.
Steps to Apply
American Express credit card applications are typically done online. If you’d prefer to apply in person, you’ll need to select one of American Express’ co-branded credit cards with Scotiabank.
To apply online:
Visit the American Express website and select the Apply Now button on the card you’re interested in.
Review the terms and conditions. Select Agree and Begin.
Enter your personal information, including your full name, email address, date of birth, and residential address.
Provide financial details such as your employment status and annual income.
Choose a four-digit PIN.
Review your information and submit the application.
Approval may take only 60 seconds, but could be longer if Amex requires additional information.
American Express Canada now lets you check your eligibility for a personal card before you apply. You’ll get an instant decision through a soft credit check, with no impact to your credit score — a smart, easy way to apply with confidence.
Getting the most from your American Express card
Learn to maximize your Membership Rewards
If your Amex card earns Membership Rewards points, it’s important to become familiar with the program.
You can redeem 1,000 Membership Rewards points for $10 in statement credits.
Simply put, this is a value of 1 cent per point. However, with Amex’s Fixed Points Travel program, you can get up to 1.74 cents per point on some flights.
You can also redeem points for gift cards and merchandise.
You must have enough Membership Rewards points to fully cover your booking (including all the travellers in your party) for the Fixed Points Travel option to appear.
Know your point transfer partners
One benefit of American Express Membership Rewards is that you can transfer your points to various hotel and airline loyalty programs.
Transferring points could help you get more value from these programs.
» MORE: Read our full review of the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card.
Familiarize yourself with popular American Express card benefits
Amex credit cards are popular in Canada because they come packed with benefits. Knowing your perks lets you use as many as possible.
One of the best perks for an Amex cardholder is the referral program. If friends or family apply through your referral link and get approved, you earn bonus points.
Amex Offers is a unique perk that’s available only to American Express cardholders. Throughout the year, you receive exclusive offers from various retailers.
To use Amex Offers, activate them online or through the app. If an Offer catches your eye, be sure to activate it properly — some are only available for a limited time.
With American Express Front of the Line access, cardholders can purchase tickets to entertainment events before the general public. Some Amex credit cards also grant entry to American Express Experiences, a collection of special dining, shopping, and wellness events.
If you miss the presale for an event, you may not be out of luck. Some shows offer exclusive seats to American Express cardholders until they sell out.
Purchase protection is included with most Amex cards. When you charge a purchase to your American Express card, it’s insured for 90 or 120 days (depending on the card) against theft, damage, or loss, up to $1,000 per occurrence.
A related protection program extends the manufacturer’s basic warranty on purchases by one or two years, depending on your card.
Existing Amex cardholders may be pre-approved for card upgrades. For example, you may be able to trade up from the American Express® Gold Rewards Card to The Platinum Card® from American Express.
If you’d like to upgrade but haven’t received a pre-approval offer, you can try to request one directly by contacting American Express.
Frequently asked questions
Does Square accept American Express?
Square, a payment processing platform used by small business owners, accepts American Express in Canada. If the merchant uses Square, you can use your American Express Card.
Where is American Express accepted in Canada?
Amex has a reputation for being less widely accepted than Visa and Mastercard, but it continues to add more merchants every year. If you’re unsure if American Express is accepted at a retailer, use the company’s online merchant map.
As of writing, popular online retailers that accept Amex include Amazon, Adidas, Best Buy, Dell, Eddie Bauer, Gap, Ikea, Lowes, Pottery Barn, Walmart, Wayfair, and more.
DIVE EVEN DEEPER
Shannon Terrell
Shannon Terrell