Best American Express credit cards in Canada 2024
Fact Checked: Cory Santos
Updated: August 21, 2024
American Express has one of the top credit card rewards programs in Canada and best of all, they've made their cards more and more accessible to a wider range of consumers with reduced minimum income requirements, lower annual fees and interest rates.
The higher interchange fees that Amex charges have historically resulted in Amex cards being declined by some merchants, but they are now more widely accepted in Canada than you might expect. Nonetheless we recommend that Canadians supplement one of the below cards with one of the best Visa credit cards or best Mastercards in Canada to ensure that all their bases are covered.
See the top Amex Canada cards to find the best one for your lifestyle.
Best American Express Credit Card by category
Best Amex credit cards | Fast facts | Get started |
---|---|---|
SimplyCash® Preferred Card from American Express |
◦ Best for: cash back
◦ Annual fee: $119.88 ($9.99 per month. Additional cards are free.) |
Apply now |
Scotiabank Gold American Express® card |
◦ Best for: travel rewards
◦ Annual fee: $120.00 |
Apply now |
Scotiabank American Express® Card |
◦ Best for: No annual fee rewards card
◦ Annual fee: $0.00 |
Apply now |
SimplyCash® Card from American Express |
◦ Best for: No annual fee cash back Amex
◦ Annual fee: $0.00 |
Apply now |
American Express Cobalt® Card |
◦ Best for: Lifestyle rewards
◦ Annual fee: $155.88 ($12.99/month) |
Apply now |
The Platinum Card® |
◦ Best for: Premium travel
◦ Annual fee: $799.00 |
Apply now |
American Express® Business EdgeTM Card |
◦ Best for: Business
◦ Annual fee: $99.00 |
Apply now |
¹ Conditions Apply.
Best American Express cash back credit card
SimplyCash® Preferred Card
![Apply now](http://media1.ribn.com/commercial-data/lFeIArcrkCh5rcYowGMUIvHPedviXNZKPtuarjwC.png)
4.0
up to $400
Welcome offerExcellent
Suggested credit scoreWelcome Bonus of up to $400 in Statement Credits
Pros
-
Earn up to $400 in statement credits in first 10 months
-
Competitive cash back rates: Up to 4% on gas and groceries, and more
-
Refer-a-friend bonus up to $750 annually
-
Extra benefits like rental car insurance and travel accident coverage
-
Manufacturer's warranty doubled on purchases
Cons
-
$9.99/month fee ($119.88 annually)
-
Cash back redeemed annually in September
-
Requires spending $750 monthly for maximum bonus
-
Not all benefits may be relevant to all users
-
Limited to American Express acceptance
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
4%
Earn 4% cash back on gas in Canada.
4%
Earn 4% cash back on grocery purchases in Canada, up to $1,200 cash back per year.
2%
Earn 2% cash back on everything else with no limit.
Earn 4% cash back on gas in Canada.
4%
Earn 4% cash back on grocery purchases in Canada, up to $1,200 cash back per year.
4%
Earn 2% cash back on everything else with no limit.
2%
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$119.88
Annual Fee $9.99 per month. Additional cards are free.
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$119.88
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
Pros
-
Earn up to $400 in statement credits in first 10 months
-
Competitive cash back rates: Up to 4% on gas and groceries, and more
-
Refer-a-friend bonus up to $750 annually
-
Extra benefits like rental car insurance and travel accident coverage
-
Manufacturer's warranty doubled on purchases
Cons
-
$9.99/month fee ($119.88 annually)
-
Cash back redeemed annually in September
-
Requires spending $750 monthly for maximum bonus
-
Not all benefits may be relevant to all users
-
Limited to American Express acceptance
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
4%
Earn 4% cash back on gas in Canada.
4%
Earn 4% cash back on grocery purchases in Canada, up to $1,200 cash back per year.
2%
Earn 2% cash back on everything else with no limit.
Earn 4% cash back on gas in Canada.
4%
Earn 4% cash back on grocery purchases in Canada, up to $1,200 cash back per year.
4%
Earn 2% cash back on everything else with no limit.
2%
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$119.88
Annual Fee $9.99 per month. Additional cards are free.
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$119.88
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
If you're looking for a great cash back credit card with a low annual fee, the SimplyCash® Preferred Card from American Express can fit your needs. New cardholders will appreciate the Welcome Offer. IEarn up to $400 in Statement Credits in your first 10 months.. This could add up to $400 in credits in the first 10 months. Conditions apply.
With this card, you can earn 4.00% cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada, 4.00% cash back on eligible grocery store purchases in Canada (up to $1,200 in cash back per year) and 2.00% cash back on all other purchases. The card’s annual fee is worthwhile looking at these earn rates. Moreover, it wouldn’t be an Amex without a suite of great travel protections like emergency medical and travel accident insurance, or the inclusion access to events and special offers curated for card members with American Express® Experiences.
Main features:
- Annual fee: $119.88 ($9.99 per month. Additional cards are free.)
- Earn rate: Earn 4% cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada; Earn 4% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada, up to $1,200 cash back annually; Earn 2% cash back on everything else.
Best American Express travel rewards card
Scotiabank Gold American Express®
![Apply now](http://media1.ribn.com/commercial-data/qGz031QPYTGGLj4Xk3IMTTdKtLCt5eatJ12KmcXX.png)
4.8
up to 45K pts
Welcome offerVery Good
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to $950* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points¹
Expires
Nov 1, 2024
Pros
-
Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses
-
Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets
-
Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad
-
Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel
Cons
-
Relatively low-value welcome bonus
-
$120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially
-
Scene points redeem poorly for travel
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
6x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
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
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
6x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
3x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee $29 for each supplementary card
0.00%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
0.00%
Pros
-
Lots of daily spend options to earn multiplied point bonuses
-
Swanky Amex perks like Front of the Line presale concert tickets
-
Save on foreign transaction fees when abroad
-
Fantastic insurance coverage, especially for travel
Cons
-
Relatively low-value welcome bonus
-
$120 annual fee that chews into your point value substantially
-
Scene points redeem poorly for travel
Eligibility
Very Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Very Good
6x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
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
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more
6x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery and other eligible grocery stores. Includes popular food delivery and food subscriptions.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend in Canada eligible entertainment purposes. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
5x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible gas and daily transit options. Includes rideshares, buses, subway, taxis and more
3x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
3x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
20.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$120
Annual Fee $29 for each supplementary card
0.00%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
20.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$120
Foreign Transaction Fee
0.00%
American Express is generally one of the best credit card processors for travellers, and the most globetrotter-friendly card they offer might be the Scotiabank Gold American Express® card. It helps cardholders earn points quickly on their most common expenses, and then enjoy them on future adventures. You’ll receive 6.00X Scene+ points for every $1 CAD spend at eligible grocers like Sobeys, Safeway, and more eligible grocers¹, 5.00X for every $1 CAD spent on other eligible groceries, dining and entertainment; 5.00X Scene+ points for every $1 CAD you spend at eligible gas stations, on daily transit, and on streaming services and a single point on everything else. The points can be spent with superior flexibility.
Earn up to $950* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points¹. There are few other Canadian credit cards that offer the same level of travel benefits for this price point—$120 per year—as the card includes access to airport lounges worldwide, and a solid travel insurance package. If you don’t want to bend to the stricter limitations on point redemption and travel choices that define other cards, you should give the Scotiabank Gold American Express® card a close look.
Main features:
- Annual fee: $120.00
- Sign-up bonus: Earn up to $950* in value in the first 12 months, including up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points¹
- Enhanced earn rates: Earn 6x Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshco, Foodland and more; 5x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on dining, food delivery, food subscriptions and other eligible grocery stores, 3x Scene+ points¹ for every $1 CAD you spend in Canada on eligible select streaming services
- Regular earn rate: [ ribn.prod.scotiabank-gold-american-express.earn_rate_5_description ]]
¹Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more. *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.
Best no annual fee American Express rewards card
Scotiabank American Express
![Apply now](http://media1.ribn.com/commercial-data/30T6y7p97qWgRDlFDLJOu4tZaKHdaOLFz1YmMNEu.png)
3.9
up to 5K pts
Welcome offerGood
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to 5,000 bonus Scene+ points within your first 3 months (that’s up to $50 towards travel).¹
Expires
Nov 1, 2024
Pros
-
Earn 5,000 welcome bonus rewards points.
-
Earn up to three Scene+ points on everyday spending.
-
Earn points across five different categories, including food, travel, entertainment and streaming.
-
No annual fee.
Cons
-
The welcome bonus is lower compared to other rewards cards.
-
American Express isn’t accepted everywhere.
-
Limited insurance coverage.
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Good
3x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshcoand more
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.
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshcoand more
3x
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.
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
2x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
19.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee Additional cards are $0
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
19.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
Pros
-
Earn 5,000 welcome bonus rewards points.
-
Earn up to three Scene+ points on everyday spending.
-
Earn points across five different categories, including food, travel, entertainment and streaming.
-
No annual fee.
Cons
-
The welcome bonus is lower compared to other rewards cards.
-
American Express isn’t accepted everywhere.
-
Limited insurance coverage.
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Good
3x
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshcoand more
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.
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
1x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, Freshcoand more
3x
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.
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible entertainment purchases. Includes movies, theatre and ticket agencies stores.
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes ride shares, buses, subway, taxis and more
2x
Scene+ points¹ for every $1 you spend on eligible select streaming services
2x
Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases
1x
19.99%
Purchase APR
22.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee Additional cards are $0
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee
Purchase APR
19.99%
Balance Transfer Rate
22.99%
Cash Advance APR
22.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
If you want to take advantage of Amex perks without paying an annual fee, check out the Scotiabank American Express® card.
Cardholders can accrue points via their natural spending inclinations and use them later to save on trips.
- Earn up to 5,000 bonus Scene+ points within your first 3 months (that’s up to $50 towards travel).¹
- Earn 3 Scene+ points¹ on every $1 you spend at Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo, Foodland and more.
- Earn 2 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 2 Scene+ points1 for every $1 you spend on eligible gas and daily transit. Includes rideshare, buses, taxis, subway, and more.
- Earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases.
Like other Amex travel cards, points are redeemable via retroactive statement credits—just make a purchase with the card and pay for it with points later. You can also spend them on merchandise and other special offers.
Main features:
- Annual fee: $0.00
- Sign-up bonus: Earn up to 5,000 bonus Scene+ points within your first 3 months (that’s up to $50 towards travel).¹
- Base earn rate: Earn 1 Scene+ point for every $1 spent on all other eligible everyday purchases.
- Special feature: New mobile device insurance
¹ Conditions apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank American Express® Card to learn more. *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.
Best no annual fee American Express cash back card
SimplyCash® Card from American Express
![Apply now](http://media1.ribn.com/commercial-data/A2SQRwUIz51fQQAhlfwBaL9oMBOdPbd43Opiu8Mj.png)
3.5
up to $100
Welcome offerGood
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to $100 in Statement Credits in your first 10 months as a new cardmember
Pros
-
No annual fee for primary or additional cardholders
-
Big welcome bonus
-
Solid regular cash back rate on all eligible purchases - up to 2% cash back on all eligible purchases
-
No limit to the amount of cash back you can earn at the base rate
Cons
-
Cash back is only applied as a statement credit once a year
-
Amex cards aren’t accepted by every merchant
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
2%
Earn 2% cash back on eligible gas purchases in Canada, 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually)
1.25%
Earn 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases—the only stuff that won’t get cash back are non-purchases, like cash advances, balance transfers, etc.
Earn 2% cash back on eligible gas purchases in Canada, 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually)
2%
Earn 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases—the only stuff that won’t get cash back are non-purchases, like cash advances, balance transfers, etc.
1.25%
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee No annual fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
Pros
-
No annual fee for primary or additional cardholders
-
Big welcome bonus
-
Solid regular cash back rate on all eligible purchases - up to 2% cash back on all eligible purchases
-
No limit to the amount of cash back you can earn at the base rate
Cons
-
Cash back is only applied as a statement credit once a year
-
Amex cards aren’t accepted by every merchant
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
Recommended Credit Score
Good
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
2%
Earn 2% cash back on eligible gas purchases in Canada, 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually)
1.25%
Earn 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases—the only stuff that won’t get cash back are non-purchases, like cash advances, balance transfers, etc.
Earn 2% cash back on eligible gas purchases in Canada, 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually)
2%
Earn 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases—the only stuff that won’t get cash back are non-purchases, like cash advances, balance transfers, etc.
1.25%
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$0
Annual Fee No annual fee
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$0
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
The SimplyCash Card from American Express helps you earn cash back without paying an annual fee. The card earns rates of: Earn 2.00% cash back on eligible gas purchases in Canada, 2.00% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 in cash back per year), and 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases. Referring a friend earns the cardholder $50 per approval, up to a maximum of $750 annually.
There is an impressive variety of additional perks that make the SimplyCash® Card from American Express more valuable, like the inclusion of automatic coverage for rental cars, travel accidents, new purchases and more. As a part of the American Express family, the card also includes access events and special offers curated for card members with American Express® Experiences. In other words, it lends a helping hand to those who are struggling financially, but will also grant them access to perks normally enjoyed by higher-tier cards—and all without an annual fee.
Main features:
- Annual fee: $0.00
- Welcome bonus: Earn up to $100 in Statement Credits in your first 10 months as a new cardmember.
- Earn rates: Earn 2% cash back on eligible gas station purchases in Canada; 2% back on groceries in Canada; 1.25% back on everything else
Best lifestyle American Express rewards credit card
American Express Cobalt® Card
![Apply now](http://media1.ribn.com/commercial-data/hZaXQOdJo6G3u4KNnu16rTo9j0tMY7BdelxM6ygt.png)
4.9
15,000 pts
Welcome offerFair
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to 15,000 Membership Rewards® points
Pros
-
High earn rates (up to 5% return on spending!)
-
Flexible month-by-month fee structure
-
Free supplementary cards
-
1:1 points transfer with selected hotels, airlines and frequent flyer programs
Cons
-
Accelerated earn rates only apply to purchases in Canada (not to purchases made abroad)
-
Amex has a more limited merchant acceptance rate than Visa and Mastercard
-
Slightly higher than average annual fee
Eligibility
Fair
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Fair
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
5x
Earn 5 times the points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.
3x
Earn 3 times the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada.
2x
Get 2 times the points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada.
1x
Earn 1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online
1x
Earn 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else
$100 USD
Get 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.
Earn 5 times the points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.
5x
Earn 3 times the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada.
3x
Get 2 times the points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada.
2x
Earn 1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online
1x
Earn 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else
1x
Get 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.
$100 USD
21.99%
Purchase APR on purchases
21.99% - 2.75%
Cash Advance APR each
$155.88
Annual Fee 12.99/month
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99% - 2.75%
Annual Fee
$155.88
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
Pros
-
High earn rates (up to 5% return on spending!)
-
Flexible month-by-month fee structure
-
Free supplementary cards
-
1:1 points transfer with selected hotels, airlines and frequent flyer programs
Cons
-
Accelerated earn rates only apply to purchases in Canada (not to purchases made abroad)
-
Amex has a more limited merchant acceptance rate than Visa and Mastercard
-
Slightly higher than average annual fee
Eligibility
Fair
Recommended Credit Score
$0
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
Recommended Credit Score
Fair
Required Annual Personal Income
$0
Required Annual Household Income
$0
5x
Earn 5 times the points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.
3x
Earn 3 times the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada.
2x
Get 2 times the points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada.
1x
Earn 1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online
1x
Earn 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else
$100 USD
Get 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.
Earn 5 times the points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.
5x
Earn 3 times the points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada.
3x
Get 2 times the points on eligible ride shares, transit & gas in Canada.
2x
Earn 1 additional point on eligible hotel and car rental bookings via American Express Travel Online
1x
Earn 1 point for every $1 in Card purchases everywhere else
1x
Get 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.
$100 USD
21.99%
Purchase APR on purchases
21.99% - 2.75%
Cash Advance APR each
$155.88
Annual Fee 12.99/month
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99% - 2.75%
Annual Fee
$155.88
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
The American Express Cobalt Credit Card is a great rewards credit card if you enjoy spending money on food and streaming subscriptions. Love eating out or ordering in? Maximize the value of each dollar spent with the Amex Cobalt® Card. The American Express Cobalt® Card accrues a massive 5.00 points per $1 spent on eligible food and drinks in Canada, including grocery stores and food delivery services (spend cap applies); 3.00 points per $1 spent on eligible streaming services; 2.00 points per $1 spent on ride shares, transit and gas in Canada; and 1.00 point per $1 on everything else. Each point is worth about $0.01, and they’re redeemable for travel, gift cards, Amazon, and for general statement credits.
Cardholders can also take advantage of a very lucrative introductory deal, which runs for the first year of card membership and pays out consecutive bonuses for reaching spending goals. Earn up to 15,000 Membership Rewards® points* That’s up to $150 towards a weekend getaway or concert tickets. Conditions apply.
The card costs a relatively low $155.88 ($12.99/month) annual fee, which can be more than covered in rewards points by those high-octane urbanites that dine out regularly.
Main features:
- Annual fee: $155.88 ($12.99/month)
- Welcome bonus: Earn up to 15,000 Membership Rewards® points
- Enhanced earn rates: Earn 5 MR points on eligible eats and drinks in Canada, including groceries and food delivery. Spend cap applies.; 3 MR points on eligible streaming subscriptions in Canada; 2 MR points on rideshares, transit and gas in Canada
- Regular earn rate: 1 MR point on all other purchases
- Special feature: 5,000 bonus points for referring friends to the card, up to a maximum annual referral bonus of 75,000 points
Best premium American Express card
The Platinum Card
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3.5
70,000 pts
Welcome offerExcellent
Suggested credit scoreEarn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points*
Pros
-
Earn 5X Rewards Points for flights and on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
-
Access to a wide range of luxury perks, including premium concierge service
-
Complimentary lounge membership providing access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide
-
Annual statement credits: $200 airline fee credit, $200 hotel credit, $240 digital entertainment credit
-
Special insurance coverages like trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, lost or stolen baggage and rental car theft & damage.
-
Provides extended warranty (2 years) and purchase protection (120 days).
Cons
-
High annual fee of $799, one of the heftiest among Canadian cards
-
The rewards system can be complicated, especially for users not familiar with maximizing credit card points
-
Requires good to excellent credit for eligibility
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
2x
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
1x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
2x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1x
21.99%
Purchase APR The Preferred rate of 21.99% applies to your Flexible Payment Option balance.
$799
Annual Fee Includes $200 annual travel credit and $200 annual dining credit
0.00%
Foreign Transaction Fee no foreign transaction fees
Purchase APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$799
Foreign Transaction Fee
0.00%
Pros
-
Earn 5X Rewards Points for flights and on prepaid hotels booked with American Express Travel
-
Access to a wide range of luxury perks, including premium concierge service
-
Complimentary lounge membership providing access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide
-
Annual statement credits: $200 airline fee credit, $200 hotel credit, $240 digital entertainment credit
-
Special insurance coverages like trip cancellation/interruption, flight delay, lost or stolen baggage and rental car theft & damage.
-
Provides extended warranty (2 years) and purchase protection (120 days).
Cons
-
High annual fee of $799, one of the heftiest among Canadian cards
-
The rewards system can be complicated, especially for users not familiar with maximizing credit card points
-
Requires good to excellent credit for eligibility
Eligibility
Excellent
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Excellent
2x
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
1x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada
2x
points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel
2x
point for every $1 in all other Card purchases
1x
21.99%
Purchase APR The Preferred rate of 21.99% applies to your Flexible Payment Option balance.
$799
Annual Fee Includes $200 annual travel credit and $200 annual dining credit
0.00%
Foreign Transaction Fee no foreign transaction fees
Purchase APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$799
Foreign Transaction Fee
0.00%
The Platinum Card® is geared towards those who travel quite often and spend enough to justify its $799.00 annual fee, which is obviously quite pricey, but worthwhile considering what the card gives back in return.
Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points* after spending $10,000 on your Card within your first 3 months as a new Platinum® Cardmember.*. Conditions apply.
Sign-up bonus aside, many other elite travel features and upper echelon benefits are included with The Platinum Card®. Cardholders will have access to a $200 annual travel credit and $200 annual dining credit, plus complimentary entry into hundreds of airport lounges around the world. Take full advantage of The American Express Global Lounge CollectionTM which unlocks access to over 1,300 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.
Amex’s standard earn rate for earning Membership Rewards points applies to all spending at 1.00 point per $1 spent, accelerated to 2.00 points per $1 spent on eligible travel, and 2.00 points per $1 spent on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada. Points are redeemable on travel, hotels, merchandise and statement credits.
Main features:
- Annual fee: $799.00
- Welcome bonus: Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points* after spending $10,000 on your Card within your first 3 months as a new Platinum® Cardmember.*. Conditions apply.
- Earn rates: Earn 2 MR points on dining & food delivery purchases in Canada and 1 MR point on everything else.
- Special feature: Access a $200 annual travel credit and $200 annual dining credit; Enjoy complimentary benefits that offer an average value of $600 USD at over 1,500 extraordinary properties worldwide when you book Fine Hotels + Resorts; You can earn statement credits for qualifying purchases with participating brands
Best American Express business card
American Express® Business Edge
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4.0
up to 67K pts
Welcome offerGood
Suggested credit scoreEarn up to 67,000 points*
Pros
-
Generous welcome offer: Up to 67,000 Membership Rewards points available
-
High earn rate: 3x points on select business expenses like office supplies and dining
-
Free additional cards: Supplementary cards provided at no extra cost
-
Valuable insurance coverage: Includes purchase protection and car rental damage insurance
-
Points flexibility: Transfer points to Aeroplan and Avios, enhancing travel options
-
Business tools: Access to management tools for financial oversight
-
Payment flexibility: Offers balance carrying option, unlike traditional charge cards
Cons
-
Annual fee: Costs $99 per year
-
Limited acceptance: American Express not as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard
-
Capped bonus categories: 3x points category limited to $25,000 in purchases yearly
-
Specific spend categories: High earn rates apply to certain business-related expenses only
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Good
3x
Earn 3x points for every $1 spent on eligible office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks (up to a maximum of 75,000 Membership Rewards points, 1x point thereafter)
1x
Earn 1 points for every $1 spent on everything else
10X
Welcome offer lets you earn 10X the points for every $1 spent on eligible office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks in your first 6 months up to 10,000 points
Earn 3x points for every $1 spent on eligible office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks (up to a maximum of 75,000 Membership Rewards points, 1x point thereafter)
3x
Earn 1 points for every $1 spent on everything else
1x
Welcome offer lets you earn 10X the points for every $1 spent on eligible office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks in your first 6 months up to 10,000 points
10X
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$99
Annual Fee $0 for supplemental cards
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$99
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
Pros
-
Generous welcome offer: Up to 67,000 Membership Rewards points available
-
High earn rate: 3x points on select business expenses like office supplies and dining
-
Free additional cards: Supplementary cards provided at no extra cost
-
Valuable insurance coverage: Includes purchase protection and car rental damage insurance
-
Points flexibility: Transfer points to Aeroplan and Avios, enhancing travel options
-
Business tools: Access to management tools for financial oversight
-
Payment flexibility: Offers balance carrying option, unlike traditional charge cards
Cons
-
Annual fee: Costs $99 per year
-
Limited acceptance: American Express not as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard
-
Capped bonus categories: 3x points category limited to $25,000 in purchases yearly
-
Specific spend categories: High earn rates apply to certain business-related expenses only
Eligibility
Good
Recommended Credit Score
Recommended Credit Score
Good
3x
Earn 3x points for every $1 spent on eligible office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks (up to a maximum of 75,000 Membership Rewards points, 1x point thereafter)
1x
Earn 1 points for every $1 spent on everything else
10X
Welcome offer lets you earn 10X the points for every $1 spent on eligible office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks in your first 6 months up to 10,000 points
Earn 3x points for every $1 spent on eligible office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks (up to a maximum of 75,000 Membership Rewards points, 1x point thereafter)
3x
Earn 1 points for every $1 spent on everything else
1x
Welcome offer lets you earn 10X the points for every $1 spent on eligible office supplies & electronics, rides & gas, eats & drinks in your first 6 months up to 10,000 points
10X
21.99%
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
$99
Annual Fee $0 for supplemental cards
2.50%
Foreign Transaction Fee 2.5% of the transaction in CDN
Purchase APR
21.99%
Cash Advance APR
21.99%
Annual Fee
$99
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
Business owners commonly rack up expenses in gas and transit, office supplies, and of course food and drink (for themselves and employees). The American Express® Business EdgeTM Card is a great way to earn back on these purchases, earning Membership Rewards® points at a steady 3.00X the points per $1 rate in the categories above after the Welcome Offer ends, and 1.00X point per $1 elsewhere. Caps and other conditions may apply. These accumulated points can then be converted into statement credits and to book flights, hotels and car rentals. You can redeem points for flight purchases on AirCanada.com and even transfer to frequent flier and hotel programs, including one-to-one to Aeroplan®* and Avios.
Main features:
- Annual fee: $99
- Welcome bonus: Earn up to 67,000 points*. Terms and conditions apply.
- Enhanced earn rate: Earn 3.00x the points for card purchases on eligible business essentials including office supplies and electronics, rides and gas, eats and drinks when your welcome offer ends. Caps and other conditions may apply.
- Regular earn rate: Earn 1.00x the points on all other purchases charged to the card.
- Special feature: Supplementary cards have no annual fee.
You can learn more about the card by reading our complete American Express® Business EdgeTM Card review.
American Express card levels: Comparison chart
Highlights | SimplyCash® Card from American Express (Entry Level) | American Express Cobalt® Card (Mid-Tier) | The Platinum Card® (Premium) |
---|---|---|---|
Annual fee | $0.00 | $155.88 ($12.99/month) | $799.00 |
Highest standard earn rate | Earn accelerated earn rates on eligible gas and grocery purchases | 5.00 pts / $1 | 2.00 pts / $1 |
Travel insurance | Minimal | Good | Excellent |
Additional benefits | Minimal | Amex Invites; transfer points to other programs | $200 annual travel credit and $200 annual dining credit; hotel status upgrades; unlimited lounge access; Amex Invites; transfer points to other programs |
What is the highest level American Express card?
American Express card levels explained
Unlike Visa and Mastercard, American Express doesn’t have a formal tiered system (with exceptions). However, if you are looking for ways to better categorize American Express cards, you can take our approach.
We’ve divided the cards into four different levels based on annual fees and requirements. As a general rule, normally the higher the level of card, the better the benefits and perks (as you will see in our comparison later).
Entry-Level American Express Cards
- Annual fee: $0
- Credit score requirement: Fair/Good 670-739
Mid-Tier American Express Cards
- Annual fee: $0 to $250
- Credit score requirement: Fair/Good 670-739
Premium American Express Cards
- Annual fee: $250 to $699
- Credit score requirement: Excellent 740-900
The American Express Centurion Card
The Amex Centurion (or Amex Black) is the highest level American Express card, but it has a very elite, invite-only membership and Amex does not officially publish its information.
The highest level American Express card is the Centurion card, which is also known as the ‘black card.’ However, it’s available only by invitation from American Express, meaning you can’t just apply for it as you would the other cards mentioned in this article.
So, how do you get invited? It seems many invitees are chosen from existing American Express cardholders, particularly Platinum cardholders. Cardholders generally need to charge a very high amount to their cards (perhaps above $100K) to be invited.
Those invited to become Centurion cardholders will need to pay a very significant annual fee (estimated at $2,500) in addition to a one-time initiation fee of around $7,500.
But reports of the card’s benefits indicate that those sky-high fees might be worth it. Centurion cardholders have access to a personal travel concierge; flight upgrades; companion tickets; free hotel nights; highest-level airport lounge access; and are exempt from foreign transaction fees, among numerous other rumoured benefits.
Bottom line on American Express Card levels
When choosing an American Express card, it is important to consider your individual needs and financial standing. Some important factors to consider include your annual income, any annual fees or other costs associated with the card, and your credit score health. There are a variety of cards available with varying levels of benefits and features, so it is important to carefully evaluate each option before deciding which card is right for you.
With some careful consideration and research, you can find the best Amex card that will help you achieve your financial goals while providing you with all the benefits and perks that come along with being an Amex customer.
Recommended read: American Express Cobalt® vs Scotiabank Gold American Express
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.
FAQs about American Express Canadian credit cards
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Hannah Logan is a Canadian freelancer writer and blogger who specializes in personal finance and travel. You can follow her adventures on her travel blog EatSleepBreatheTravel.com or find her on Instagram @hannahlogan21.
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Scott Birke is a finance editor at Money.ca.
Compare other American Express credit cards
Compare other American Express credit cards
More information to help you find the best Amex card
More information to help you find the best Amex card
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