Scotiabank
Earn up to $850 in first-year value and up to 45,000 Scene+ points. Annual fee starts at $120. Interest rates: 20.99% on purchases, 22.99% cash advances. No foreign transaction fee.
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card Overview
The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card stands out for Canadians seeking impressive welcome offers and premium rewards. New applicants can earn up to $850 in first-year value. This is combined with up to 45,000 bonus Scene+ points, offering strong value for everyday spenders. There is no annual fee in the first year, and the standard fee is $120 after that. Purchases have an interest rate of 20.99%, with cash advances at 22.99%. For frequent travellers, the card also eliminates the typical 2.5% foreign transaction fee.
How to Apply: Step by Step
Applying for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card is straightforward. Visit the official Scotiabank application page and fill out your personal and financial details. You’ll need to provide your contact information, employment status, and annual income. Once you review and accept the terms, submit your application online. Approval can be instant or may require a few days if additional documentation is needed. Have your SIN and ID ready to speed things up.
What Sets This Card Apart
One of the card’s major benefits is the high multipliers on everyday spending. Earn up to 6x Scene+ points on grocery purchases at select stores, plus 5x points on dining and entertainment. The absence of foreign transaction fees makes this card attractive for anyone who shops or travels abroad. In addition, the welcome bonus—up to 45,000 Scene+ points—can be used for travel, shopping, or entertainment. Flexible redemption options make points easy to use and enjoy.
Potential Downsides
The annual fee, after the first year, is $120, which may be a drawback if you don’t maximize earning potential. Interest rates are standard for premium cards: 20.99% for purchases, 22.99% for cash advances. To unlock the full welcome bonus, you must spend $2,000 in the first 3 months, plus $7,500 in the first year. If you prefer cash back or rarely spend in accelerated categories, other cards may be better suited.
Verdict – Is This the Right Card for You?
The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card works well for those who put significant spending on groceries, dining, and travel each month. It is especially valuable to frequent travellers, thanks to no foreign transaction fees. If you can unlock the welcome bonus and use accelerated categories, the benefits outweigh the annual fee. However, if you carry a balance or avoid annual fees, consider alternatives.
