From humble beginnings to a coalition giant

SCENE launched in 2007 as Cineplex’s loyalty program, offering solid value from day one with free movie redemptions, upgrades to premium screenings like 3D, and discounts on concessions.

When Scotiabank bought into the program, and SCENE merged with Scotia Rewards to form Scene+, the pairing initially felt odd. But things became much clearer once Empire Company Limited – owner of Sobeys, FreshCo, IGA, Foodland, and Safeway – joined as a co‑owner, signalling that Scene+ was evolving into a much larger loyalty coalition.

Since then, Scene+ has steadily expanded its partner network, adding places to earn and redeem points, including Home Hardware, The Rec Room, Harvey’s, Swiss Chalet, and more. While some of these brands don’t have a national presence, having more partners is never a bad thing.

Scene+ members can also earn points when booking hotels and car rentals through Scene+ Travel powered by Expedia, adding even more ways to rack up rewards. 

Scene+’s newest partner, Shell, joined the program in Alberta earlier this year, with a national rollout set for May 26. It’s a major win for Scene+, giving the program a true coast‑to‑coast gas partner. For drivers, it opens the door to stacking rewards and unlocking some of the best savings available at the pump.

Linking an eligible Tangerine or Scotiabank credit card to your Shell Go+ account gets you an instant 3 cents off per litre when paying with your card at Shell gas stations. If you’re filling up with Shell V-Power, you get an additional 4 cents off per litre. Plus, you’ll earn 3 cents per litre in Scene+ points on Shell V-Power purchases. That’s up to 10 cents per litre in value.

It’s also worth noting that if you have a CAA membership, you get an additional 3 cents off per litre, which means you could potentially get 13 cents in value when filling up at Shell, which is crazy.

Levelling up their credit card game

What’s interesting for many points collectors is that Scotiabank arguably offers some of the most underrated credit cards in Canada.

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card remains the only major‑bank credit card in Canada that doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees – a 2.5% surcharge typically added to any purchase made in a non‑Canadian currency.

When this card launched, I expected other major banks to follow with their own no‑FX products, but that never materialized. While points enthusiasts often overlook the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite because of its modest earn rate, it frequently comes with a first‑year annual fee waiver and a low minimum spend to unlock the welcome bonus.

The Scotiabank Gold American Express is another strong contender, offering 6 Scene+ points per dollar at Empire grocery stores, 5 points at other grocery stores, dining, and entertainment, 3 points on gas, transit, and streaming, and 1 point on everything else.

Some churners dismiss it as a weaker version of the Amex Cobalt, but it also has a much lower minimum spend to unlock the welcome bonus, and unlike Amex, there’s no once‑per‑lifetime rule holding you back. 

Room for improvement

Even though Scene+ has made strides in the loyalty space, it still has some room for improvement.

American Express Membership Rewards and RBC Avion consistently rank ahead of Scene+ because they offer a broad range of transfer partners. Depending on the program, you can move your points to Aeroplan, Flying Blue, Marriott Bonvoy, Hilton Honors, WestJet Rewards, or British Airways Avios, giving you far more flexibility and potential value. 

It’s unlikely that Scene+ will ever get dedicated airline or hotel transfer partners, but cardholders can redeem their points against any travel purchase charged to their credit card. That’s meaningful because booking direct still lets travellers earn loyalty points and keep any hotel or airline status perks, which are usually voided if using a third-party site such as Expedia.

Another challenge for Scene+ is that its points don’t offer standout value. Most redemptions land at about 1 cent per point. The old sweet spot – redeeming for premium movie screenings – has been replaced with a flat dollar value. It may seem minor, but loyalty programs need those pockets of extra value that make members feel like they’re getting ahead.

This is especially true given PC Optimum, arguably their top competitor, regularly offers up to 50% additional value during bonus redemption events at Shoppers Drug Mart.

Final Thoughts

Despite its limitations, Scene+ still delivers strong everyday value for many Canadians. It may not offer the “wow” redemptions you see in some travel or bank programs, but it could be argued that it has caught up to, and in some ways surpassed, PC Optimum in the retail loyalty space.

The other standard benefits included, such as travel insurance, mobile device insurance, and extended warranty, are also impressive and handy in the event you need to make a claim. Read my RBC Visa Infinite Avion review now and find out why this may be one of the best-kept secrets when it comes to credit cards.

RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card

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• $120 annual fee
• 35,000 Avion points on approval
• 20,000 Avion points when spending $5,000 in the first 6 months
• 15,000 Avion points when keeping your account open until month 16
• Earn 1.25 Avion points for every $1 spent on travel purchases
• Earn 1 Avion point per $1 on all other purchases
• Comprehensive travel insurance
• Mobile device insurance up to $1,500

Welcome bonus and earn rate

What’s fascinating about the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card is that you get 35,000 Avion Rewards points on approval. Unlike other cards, there’s no minimum spend required to get your points. Occasionally, there’s an enhanced welcome bonus where you can earn an additional 15,000 – 20,000 points when spending a set amount. The welcome offer will typically appear on your first statement, but it can take up to two statements to show up.

The earn rate of 1.25 Avion points for every dollar spent on travel and 1 point for every $1 spent on all other purchases. Admittedly, there are many credit cards out there, but Avion Rewards has a lot of value (more on that below).

Benefits and perks

Even though the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card doesn’t often make the list of the best travel credit cards in Canada, you shouldn’t sleep on it. It has a few interesting and unique benefits that will interest many people.

Petro-Canada discounts

When you link your RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card to your Petro-Points card, you’ll save 3 ¢/L on gas with every fill-up and get 20% more Petro-Points.

Earn Be Well points at Rexall

Linking your RBC Avion Visa Infinite to your Rexall Be Well account allows you to earn 50 Be Well points per $1 spent on eligible purchases at Rexall.

$0 delivery fees with DoorDash

As an RBC Avion Visa Infinite cardholder, you get a free DashPass subscription for 12 months. This entitles you free delivery on orders of $15 or more with DoorDash and additional discounts throughout the year.

Mobile device insurance

When you purchase a mobile device (cellphone or tablet) with your RBC Avion Visa Infinite card, you’re entitled to up to $1,500 in mobile device insurance. This applies to loss, theft, and damage. That said, a depreciation rate of 2% applies to each completed month from the time of purchase.

Travel insurance

• Travel medical – unlimited for 15 days / 3 days if you’re 65 or older
• Trip cancellation – up to $1,500 per person / $5,000 total
• Trip interruption – up to $5,000 per person / $25,000 total
• Flight/trip delay – up to $250 / 4 hours
• Delayed and lost baggage – up to $500 / 4 hours
• Auto rental collision/loss damage – 48 consecutive days / $65,000
• Hotel/motel burglary – $2,500
• Common carrier travel accident – $500,000

Interestingly enough, the RBC Avion Visa Infinite travel insurance is some of the best out there since you get unlimited medical protection. However, the card doesn’t get nearly as much attention as other cards since you’re only covered for 15 days if you’re under the age of 65.

Purchase protection

• Purchase security – 90 days
• Extended warranty – Up to one additional year

When you pay for your purchase in full with your RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card, you get purchase protection for 90 days. This covers your purchases from loss, theft, and damage. In addition, your manufacturer’s warranty is doubled up to one additional year.

How to redeem your points

Avion Rewards, formerly known as RBC Rewards, allows you to redeem 1,000 Avion points for $10 in travel booked through their travel portal. Like other bank travel portals, you’ll find almost every type of travel available, including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, and more. The downside is that you can’t book travel outside the portal and apply your points later. That means you can’t shop for the lowest prices or take advantage of status benefits.

On a positive note, you can double the value of your points by using the RBC fixed points program. For example, you can claim 15,000 Avion Rewards points for a round-trip flight within or to an adjacent province or U.S. state with a base ticket value of up to $350. If you maximized this option, your points would now be worth 2.33 cents each, more than double the regular rate.

Avion Rewards also allows you to convert your Avion points to British Airways Avios, Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, WestJet dollars and American Airlines AAdvantage miles. Because of the airline transfer partners, the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card is one of the best airline credit cards in Canada.

As you can imagine, RBC Rewards is one of the best bank travel loyalty programs in Canada.

RBC Avion Visa Infinite eligibility

The RBC Avion Visa Infinite eligibility is straightforward, as it outlines what’s required on the application page.

• You must be a resident of Canada
• You must be at least the age of majority in the province or territory in which you reside
• You must have a minimum personal income of $60,000 or a household income of $100,000.

Like other credit card providers, no formal credit score requirement is listed. That said, you likely want your credit score to be 660 or higher since that would put you in at least good standing.

How the RBC Avion Visa Infinite compares

Finding comparable cards to the RBC Avion Visa Infinite can be a bit tricky since other cards are popular for different reasons. Some people will focus on the earn rate, while others will look at the flexibility of the points.

RBC Avion Visa Infinite vs. American Express Cobalt

Using the American Express Cobalt Card as a comparable is necessary since it has the highest earning rate in Canada with 5 points per $1 spent on eats and drinks, 3 points per $1 spent on streaming services and recurring bills, 2 points per $1 spent on transit, and 1 point per dollar spent on everything else. Simply put, there’s no comparison. In addition, American Express Membership Rewards is more flexible than Avion Rewards.

RBC Avion Visa Infinite vs. TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite

The TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Card gives you 3 points per $1 spent (1.5% value) on all your purchases except those made via Expedia for TD, which gives you 9 points per $1 spent or a 4.5% return. Clearly, the TD card has a higher earn rate compared to the RBC Avion Visa Infinite. However, TD Rewards aren’t nearly as flexible.

Although I like the RBC Avion cards and Avion Rewards, there are many cards out there with a much higher earning rate.

Final thoughts

My RBC Avion Visa Infinite review is positive. Although the card doesn’t have the best earning rate, it’s a good card overall and is ideal for people in the following situations:

• You bank with RBC – This is RBC’s flagship credit card that earns you Avion Rewards.
• You want flexible points – You can book any travel found on the travel portal, through the fixed points program, or you can transfer your points to select partners.
• You shop at Rexall regularly – When you link your card, you can earn Be Well points at Rexall.

In the end, RBC is one of the most flexible travel loyalty programs in Canada. If you’re looking to build your credit and travel for less, then the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card is worth considering.

The one thing that holds this card back is the reward structure. Although you earn Avion points, Avion has three tiers, and points earned with ION cards are the least valuable. That said, your points still have flexibility, and there’s a way to upgrade your points to the higher tiers. Read my RBC Ion+ Visa review now.

Welcome bonus and earn rate

The RBC ION+ Visa credit card typically offers a bonus of up to 7,000 – 14,000 Avion points (a $50 – $100 gift card value).

The earning rate for the RBC ION+ Visa Vard is generous. You’ll get 3 Avion points per $1 spent on groceries, dining, food delivery, rideshares, daily transit, gas, EV charging, streaming, digital gaming and subscriptions. All other purchases earn you 1 Avion point per dollar spent.

The card does charge a monthly fee of $4 ($48 annually). While most student credit cards have a no or low annual fee, $4 a month is pretty reasonable. That said, if you have an RBC Signature No Limit Banking or RBC Advantage Banking for students account, the fee is waived.

Benefits and perks

As you read this RBC ION+ Visa review, you’ll quickly realize that most of the benefits included with the card are standard RBC benefits. That said, one perk stands out and will likely appeal to many people.

Mobile device insurance

When you purchase a mobile device (cellphone and tablet) and pay for it in full with your RBC ION+ Visa Card, you get mobile device insurance that covers up to $1,000 for two years. This insurance covers things such as damage, theft, and even loss. If you’re on a subsidized plan, you must pay your bill in full with your RBC ION+ Visa Card. Note that depreciation is factored into your payout if you ever need to make a claim.

Save at Petro-Canada

Anyone that fills up at Petro-Canada may be interested to learn that you’ll save 3¢ per litre on fuel and earn 20% more Petro points when paying with your linked RBC ION+ Visa Card. This may not seem like a big deal, but not only are you saving on gas, but you also get an increased earning rate on gas purchases, and you’re earning Petro points.

Earn Be Well points at Rexall

Although Be Well points isn’t the best loyalty program. If you regularly shop at Rexall, you can earn 50 Be Well points per dollar spent when you scan your Be Well card and pay with your linked RBC ION+ Card.

Save on delivery fees with DoorDash

RBC ION Visa Plus cardholders get a 3-month complimentary DashDash Pass subscription. With DashPass, you won’t pay any delivery fees if you spend at least $15 or more with DoorDash and pay with your RBC ION+ Visa Card. There is no limit to this $0 delivery fee benefit.

Purchase insurance

• Purchase security – 90 days
• Extended warranty – Up to one additional year

Purchase security is a benefit you hope never to use, but you’ll be glad you have it if you ever need it. Charging purchases to your RBC ION+ Visa card protects them from loss, theft, and damage for 90 days. As for the extended warranty, purchases charged to your card get the manufacturer’s warranty doubled, up to one additional year, to a maximum of five years.

How to redeem your points

As mentioned, Avion Rewards has three tiers. ION cardholders get the most basic version of Avion Rewards and get the following redemption options:

• Gift cards: 140 points = $1
• Travel: 172 points = $1
• Pay with Points: 172 points = $1

When you do the math, that works out to a value of .71 cents per point (CPP) for gift cards and .58 CPP for travel and statement credits. This is important since your earn rate of 3X on select categories is actually a real value of 2.13 cents per dollar spent when redeeming gift cards. If you’re redeeming for travel or a statement credit, it’s 1.74 cents.

Interestingly, you can transfer your Avion points to WestJet Rewards at the standard ratio of 100 Avion points for 1 WestJet dollar. This instantly increases the value of your points to 1CPP.

Alternatively, if you ever upgrade to a premium Avion card, such as the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card, your points are upgraded too. That gives you access to more airline transfer partners and the RBC Air Travel Redemption Schedule. The Redemption Schedule can be very valuable since you can redeem a set number of points for significant flight discounts.

RBC ION+ Visa requirements

• You’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• You’re at least the age of majority in your province or territory

What’s great about the RBC ION+ Visa Card is that it has no formal minimum income requirement. This makes it a great choice for students or new immigrants who want a credit card with a reasonable earning rate without worrying about a high personal income requirement. There’s also no formal minimum credit score to be approved, but I recommend having yours be at least 660 before applying. This puts you in good standing and can help increase your approval odds.

How the RBC ION+ Visa compares

To wrap up my RBC ION+ Visa review, I want to compare it to other cards to give you some perspective. Due to the unique reward structure and low annual fee, it’s hard to find exact comparisons. Instead, I’ll mention a few different cards that have similarities.

RBC ION+ Card vs. American Express Cobalt Card

While not entirely a fair comparison, many people will compare the RBC ION+ Visa card to the American Express Cobalt Card. Both cards have a monthly fee and a high earning rate. With the Amex Cobalt card, you’ll pay $12.99 monthly ($155.88 annually). As for the earn rate, you get 5 points per $1 spent on eats and drinks (includes groceries, restaurants, and food delivery), 3 points on streaming services, and 2 points on travel (includes rideshares and transit). All other purchases earn 1 American Express Membership Rewards point per $1 spent. Even with the higher annual fee, this card is worth considering since American Express Membership Rewards points are highly valuable.

RBC ION+ Card vs. RBC ION Card

Sticking to the RBC family, you could take a look at the e RBC ION Visa Card, which is the no fee version of the ION Card. With the basic version of the ION Card, you’ll earn 1.5 Avion points per dollar spent on groceries, rideshares, daily public transit, gas, EV charging, streaming, digital gaming and subscriptions. That’s basically half of what you get with the ION+ Card. All other purchases earn you 1 Avion point per dollar spent, and you get no mobile device insurance.

RBC ION+ Card vs. WestJet RBC Mastercard

Since you know that you can convert your Avion points earned with your RBC ION+ Card to WestJet dollars at a favourable rate, you may want to compare things to the WestJet RBC Mastercard. The WestJet card has an annual fee of $39 and earns you 1.5% back in WestJet dollars on WestJet flights or WestJet vacation packages. All other purchases earn you 1% back in WestJet dollars. You could easily make the argument that the RBC ION+ Card is better, but the WestJet RBC Mastercard comes with an annual companion voucher, which can be pretty valuable.

Final thoughts

My RBC ION+ Visa review is positive. The card is good for people in the following situations:

• You don’t have a high income – No minimum personal income requirement is needed for this card.
• You don’t want to spend a lot on annual fees – The monthly fee of $4 is reasonable for the earning rate and benefits you get.
• You may want to upgrade your card later – Although your points are flexible, they can be worth even more if you upgrade to a true Avion card later.

For a relatively low fee, you get a decent earning rate and mobile device insurance. While this card can’t compete with premium credit cards, it’s one of the best student credit cards in Canada and is ideal for someone looking for a low fee credit card.

*Refer to RBC page for up to date offer terms and conditions

What’s interesting is that this card still has an incredible earning rate, and some of the best travel and purchase insurance available, so it’s still a potential keeper. Read my Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite review now to find out why it’s one of the best Scotiabank credit cards in Canada.

Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card

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• $120 annual fee – first year free
• Earn 15% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $2,000 in purchases)
• Earn 4% cash back on groceries, recurring bills and subscription purchases
• Earn 2% cash back on gas, daily transit and food delivery purchases
• Earn 1% cash back on all other purchases with no cash back limit
• Travel and mobile device insurance included

Welcome bonus and earn rate

The Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card typically offers 10% cash back on all purchases for the first three months (up to $2,000 in spending), but it has been as high as 15% back. In addition, the annual fee of $120 is usually waived for the first year as part of the welcome bonus.

As for the earning rate, you’ll get 4% cash back on groceries, recurring bills, and subscription purchases, 2% on gas, transit and food delivery purchases, and 1% on all other purchases. Even though you get a high earn rate for multiple categories, there is an annual spending cap of. $25,000 Once you reach that amount, your earning rate drops to 1%. 

Benefits and perks

Like many cash back credit cards, the Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite doesn’t give you a ton of perks. That said, you do get some great insurance and Visa Infinite benefits.

Mobile device insurance

When you charge the full price of a mobile device (cellphone or tablet) to your Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card, you’re covered for up to $1,000 from loss, theft, or damage. Note that if you ever need to make a claim, depreciation applies.

Travel insurance

• Travel medical – $1,000,000 coverage up to 15 days
• Trip interruption – $2,000 per insured person (max $10,000 per trip)
• Trip cancellation – $1,500 per insured person (max $10,000 per trip)
• Flight delay – $500 per trip for eligible expenses for all insured travellers after a delay of 4 hours
• Delayed and lost baggage – $500 per trip for eligible expenses for all insured travellers after a delay of 4 hours
• Travel accident – $500,000 covering common carriers including airplanes, cruise ships, trains or buses
• Rental car collision / loss damage insurance – $65,000/48 days

For a cash back card, the included travel insurance is quite impressive. You only need to charge 75% of your trip costs to your card for the trip cancellation and trip interruption insurance to apply. However, for rental cars, you need to charge the full amount. There is no hotel/motel burglary insurance included.

Purchase insurance

• Purchase security – 90 days
• Extended warranty – Up to one additional year

When charging your purchases to your Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card, you’re covered for 90 days from loss, theft, and damage, thanks to the included purchase security. In addition, you get an extended warranty on purchases for up to one additional year.

Concierge service

As a Visa Infinite cardholder, you get access to a personal concierge. Available 24/7, these concierges are able to help you with dinner reservations, shopping, and more. Note that concierge can’t make miracles happen, so be realistic about your requests.

Save on car rentals

When renting a car at participating AVIS and Budget locations in Canada and the U.S., you’ll get up to 25% off the base rate when paying with your Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card.

Visa Infinite Hotel Collection

Visa has exclusive deals with hundreds of hotels where you can get a free room upgrade and Wi-Fi when you book directly with them.

Visa Infinite Dining and Wine Country program

Throughout the year, Scotiabank offers cardholders tickets to exclusive dining events where you can meet celebrity chefs and more.

When your Scotiabank cash back is paid out

Scotiabank now pays out the cash back anytime as long as you’ve earned at least $25 in rewards. Previously, you had to wait until November to get your cash back so this change makes things much more flexible.

Scotia Momentum VISA Infinite eligibility

• You’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• You’re at least the age of majority in your province or territory
• You have a minimum annual personal gross income of $60,000
• You haven’t declared bankruptcy in the past 7 years
• Your home address matches your credit report home address

Although the Scotia Momentum VISA Infinite Card doesn’t have a formal minimum credit score requirement, a score of at least 700 is recommended.

How the Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card compares

Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card vs. American Express Cobalt Card

A natural comparison is the American Express Cobalt Card since it has a similar earning rate. The Cobalt Card gives you 5 American Express Membership Rewards points per $1 spent on eats and drinks (including grocery stores), 3 points on popular streaming services, 2 points on travel and transit, and 1 point on all other purchases. Since you can redeem 1,000 points for a $10 statement credit, this is essentially a hybrid cash back/travel rewards card.

Admittedly, the Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card has better insurance, but American Express Membership Rewards is a better program than Scene+. That’s because you can transfer your Membership Rewards points to other loyalty programs such as Aeroplan and Marriott Bonvoy. Depending on the redemption, you could get an increased value for your points.

Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card vs. BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®*

The BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®* also has an impressive earning rate of 5% cash back on groceries, 4% on transportation, 3% on gas and electric vehicle charging, 2% on recurring bills, and 1% on all other purchases. The catch is, there are monthly caps of $500 on groceries, $300 on transit, $300 on gas and electric vehicle charging, and $500 on recurring bills. If you typically spend more than that, then the Scotiabank is a better choice since it has a yearly cap, not a monthly one.

Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card vs. Tangerine World Mastercard

Of the best cash back credit cards in Canada, one other card worth comparing is the Tangerine World Mastercard. With the Tangerine card, you can choose up to three categories that will earn you 2% cash back, while all other purchases earn you 0.5% cash back. This is clearly lower than what the Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card offers, but it has no annual fee, which will appeal to many people. 

Final thoughts

It should be pretty obvious that my Scotia Momentum VISA Infinite review is positive. It’s one of the best no-fee cash back card available and I’d argue it’s an excellent choice as a “travel rewards” card. Although the cash back is easy to redeem, it’s only paid out once a year in November as a statement credit or deposited directly into your personal chequing or savings account if you bank with Scotia.

While giving you more choice on how much cash back you can earn is definitely a huge advantage, that’s not something you should rely on alone when picking a credit card. Read my Tangerine money-back credit card review now to find out how much cash back you can earn, what other benefits are included, and how the card compares to others.

Tangerine Money-Back Card

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• No annual fee
• 10% cash back up to $1,000 in spending ($100 cash back) for the first 2 months
• 2% cash back on up to 3 categories
• 0.5% cash back on all other purchases

Welcome bonus and earn rate

The Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card often has a welcome bonus where you can earn 10% cash back in the first two months. This amount is usually capped between $100 and $200 in cash back.

As for the earn rate, you’ll earn 2% cash back on two categories of your choice. However, if you select to have your cash-back deposited right to your Tangerine savings account, you can choose a third bonus category that gives you 2% cash back. All other everyday purchases earn you 0.5% in cash-back.

Picking your categories is unique since every other cash back credit card out there has defined multipliers for each category. With this card, you get to choose the categories that will earn you the most cash back. One thing I don’t like is how travel doesn’t have its own category. Yes, there’s “hotel/motel,” but that’s just part of your travel expenses. Flights don’t fall under any cash-back categories, which means you can’t earn any bonus cash back with them. You’ll earn the base earn rate.

Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card categories

As mentioned, the Tangerine Money-Back Credit card allows you to choose up to three categories where you’ll earn 2% cash back. There are ten categories to choose from, which are as follows:

• Grocery
• Furniture
• Restaurants
• Hotel/motel
• Gas
• Recurring bill payments
• Drug store
• Home improvement
• Entertainment
• Public transportation and parking
• E-Games
• Fitness
• Foreign currency spend

The money-back rewards categories are diverse, so it shouldn’t be hard to find the three you spend the most on. That said, there are a few quirks. Walmart Superstores fall under the grocery category, so any purchase you make there could earn you 2% cash back. Unfortunately, regular Walmarts and Costco don’t count as grocery transactions.

Gas at Costco does count towards the gas category since you pay for that directly at the pump. Recurring bill payments need to be automatic bill payments that are charged directly to your credit card. That means purchases like new hardware at your mobile provider wouldn’t count for the extra cash back.

Entertainment purchases refer to sports venues, theatres, amusement parks, tourist attractions, zoos and more. Finally, there’s public transportation which includes things such as buses, trains, taxis and even road tolls.

You can change your categories whenever you want to, but they don’t come into effect until the start of your next billing cycle. This is to prevent abusing categories or trying to game the system. This unique feature is the main reason why the Tangerine Money-Back credit card is considered one of the best cash back credit cards in Canada.

Benefits and perks

Since the Tangerine Money-Back credit card is an entry-level card with no fee, it comes with limited benefits. You get the following as a cardholder:

Purchase insurance

The Tangerine Money-Back Card provides you with the following insurance:

• Purchase assurance – This covers your purchases from theft, loss and damage for 90 days from the date of purchase.
• Extended warranty – Purchases charged to your card get the manufacturer’s warranty doubled, up to one extra year.

Balance transfer

With this card, you can make a balance transfer request that gives you a 1.95% interest rate for six months. This is a decent rate if you have an existing credit card balance you want to pay down. A 1% balance transfer fee applies, and you must do it within 30 days of account approval. Even though the interest rate goes up to 19.95% after the promotional rate period ends, the card is still one of the best balance transfer credit cards in Canada. 

How to redeem your cash back

The cash back you earn with your Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card is paid monthly. It can be redeemed into your Tangerine Savings Account or applied directly to your credit card balance. There is no minimum balance requirement for your cash back redemptions.

Purchase protection covers your purchases in the event of loss, theft or damage for 90 days from the date of purchase. As for the extended warranty, any purchases charged to your Tangerine Money-Back Card see its manufacturer’s warranty doubled by up to one additional year. Both benefits are often overlooked and not usually offered with a no-fee credit card, so cardholders of the Tangerine Money-Back credit card should consider this a win.

Tangerine Money-Back Card eligibility

To qualify for the Tangerine Money-Back Card, you must meet the following conditions:

• The age of majority in the province or territory in which you reside
• Be a permanent resident of Canada
• Have a gross annual income of $12,000 or more
• Have not declared bankruptcy over the past seven years

Although there’s no mention of the credit score required, it’s safe to assume that you need to be at least in good standing, so about 670+.

How the Tangerine Money-Back Card compares

Tangerine Money-Back Card vs. American Express SimplyCash Card

As a cash-back card, the Tangerine Money-Back card is comparable to other market leaders to a certain extent. For example, the American Express SimplyCash Card also has no annual fee and gives you 1.25% cash-back on all purchases. The Tangerine card gives you a higher earn rate on up to three categories, so it depends on what categories you spend the most on. That said, since both credit cards offer no fees, you could use your Tangerine card on three categories and then use the American Express SimplyCash card on all other categories to maximize your return.

Tangerine Money-Back Card vs. Tangerine World Mastercard

Another card worth considering is the Tangerine World Mastercard, a higher-tier version of the Money-Back Card that comes with mobile device and rental car insurance. It also has no annual fee, but one of the eligibility requirements is to have a gross annual income of at least $60,000 or a household income of $100,000.

If you prefer something that allows you to earn travel rewards or gives you comprehensive travel insurance, then you should consider one of the best travel credit cards in Canada over the Tangerine card.

Final thoughts

Overall, my Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card review is positive. The card is ideal for people in the following situations:

• You want customization – You get to choose up to three categories where you earn 2% cash back. All other purchases earn you 0.5% cash back.
• You don’t have a high income – The income requirement for this card is just $12,000.
• You don’t want to pay an annual fee – This is one of the best no fee credit cards in Canada.

The Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card keeps things simple by offering straightforward cash back that is paid out monthly. Although it may not have many additional benefits, the card will still be very attractive to many people, including students.

Tangerine World Mastercard

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• No annual fee
• Get $100 in cash back when spending $1,500 in the first 3 months.
• 2% cash back on up to 3 categories
• 0.5% cash back on all other purchases
• Mobile device insurance
• Rental car insurance

Welcome bonus and earn rate

The Tangerine World Mastercard® typically has a welcome bonus in the $100 – $200 range. What’s great about this offer is that it applies to all purchases, not just specific categories.

As for the earn rate, the Tangerine World Mastercard® is one of the best cash back credit cards in Canada since you get to choose up to three categories where you’ll earn 2% cash back. All other purchases earn you 0.5% cash back. You get to choose two categories right away and the third one becomes available when you set your cash back to be applied directly to your Tangerine Savings account.

Tangerine cash back categories

• Groceries
• Restaurants
• Drug store
• Entertainment
• Furniture
• Gas
• Hotel-motel
• Home improvement
• Parking and public transportation
• Recurring bills
• E-Games
• Fitness
• Foreign currency spend

That’s a lot of choices, but, unfortunately, there’s no general travel category. You only have a hotel-motel category. That means flights, cruises, and vacation packages would only earn you the base rate of 0.5% cash back.

Benefits and perks

It’s important to go over the benefits in my Tangerine World Mastercard® review since some of the included perks may determine if you sign up for this card or not. For a no fee card, you get a surprising amount of perks.

Mobile device insurance

You get mobile device insurance up to $1,000. This applies to both cellular phones and tablets. For your insurance to be valid, you must charge the entire cost of your device to your Tangerine World Mastercard®. If you’re getting a phone that’s subsidized, you must charge your monthly bill to your card.

Rental car insurance

The only type of travel insurance you get is rental car collision/loss damage insurance. You’ll be covered for 31 days, but the vehicle can’t have an MSRP of more than $65,000. You must charge the entire amount of your rental card to your credit card and decline any damage insurance from your car rental agency for your insurance to apply.

Purchase insurance

• Purchase assurance
• Extended warranty

Purchase assurance and extended warranty are pretty standard benefits, but they can be incredibly handy if you ever need to make a claim. With purchase assurance, your purchases are protected from theft, loss, and damage for 90 days. As for the extended warranty, your manufacturer’s warranty is doubled for up to one additional year.

Balance transfer

One overlooked benefit is that new cardholders can perform a balance transfer with a promotional interest rate of 1.95% for six months. You must complete the balance transfer within 30 days of account approval, and a 1% fee applies. This balance transfer can help you reduce debt, as most credit cards charge an interest rate of 20%+.

Mastercard World benefits

What many people don’t realize is that all Mastercard World cardholders get the following benefits directly from Mastercard:

• Boingo Wi-Fi – With your Mastercard credentials, you can sign up for a free Boingo Wi-Fi account. This will give you access to more than one million hotspots worldwide. This includes many Wi-Fi hotspots found in airports and on planes.
• Travel Rewards – The Mastercard travel rewards site allows registered cardholders to earn additional cash back at select merchants and travel partners
• Travel Pass provided by DragonPass – When you download the Mastercard Travel Pass app and register, you’ll get access to 1,300+ airport lounges in more than 140 countries. DragonPass provides this service. Note that you still need to pay for individual visits.

Tangerine World Mastercard eligibility

To qualify for the Tangerine Money-Back Card, you must meet the following conditions:

• The age of majority in the province or territory where you live
• Be a permanent resident of Canada
• Have a gross annual personal income of $60,000, a household income of $100,000 or $250,000 invested or saved with Tangerine.
• Have not declared bankruptcy over the past seven years

Like all other banks, Tangerine doesn’t have a formal credit score requirement listed, but you likely want yours to be at least 670 before applying since that would put you in good standing.

How the Tangerine World Mastercard® compares

Cash back credit cards in Canada are very popular, so many similar rewards cards are available on the market. When comparing cards, consider the earning rate, ease of redeeming your cash back and any benefits you get by holding the card.

Tangerine World Mastercard vs. Tangerine Money-Back Credit card

The Tangerine World Mastercard® is an enhanced version of the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card. In other words, if you want a Tangerine credit card and meet the minimum income requirement, you should apply for the Tangerine World Mastercard® since it gives you additional benefits.

Tangerine World Mastercard vs. American Express SimplyCash Card

Another no fee credit card to look at is the American Express SimplyCash Card, which also has no annual fee. You don’t get any enhanced earn rates on specific categories, but you get 1.25% cash back on all purchases.

Tangerine World Mastercard vs. BMO CashBack World Elite Mastercard

If you’re willing to pay a fee, the BMO CashBack® World Elite®* Mastercard®* is worth considering. You get 5% cash back on grocery purchases, 3% cash back on gas and electric vehicle charging, 2% cash back on recurring bill payments, and 1% cash back on all other purchases. The annual fee is $120, but the first year is usually waived.

Final thoughts

My Tangerine World Mastercard® review is positive. Although it has a higher minimum income requirement, it will appeal to people in the following situations:

• You want to pick your cash back – You get to choose up to three categories where you’ll earn 2% cash back.
• You want free mobile device insurance – This is one of the few cards with no annual fee and offers mobile device insurance.
• You don’t want to pay an annual fee – There’s no yearly fee to worry about with this card.

The card is nearly identical to the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card, but it comes with more benefits that will appeal to many people. With no annual fee and the ability to choose your categories where you’ll earn more cash back, this card is a winner.

To redeem the voucher, you must purchase a fare on a WestJet-operated flight; the companion fare then applies to the second passenger on the same booking. Learn how to obtain the voucher and review any terms so you understand eligibility, route limitations and booking rules before you travel.

How to get a WestJet companion voucher

There’s really no secret to getting a WestJet companion voucher. You get one annually as a WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard holder. However, the rules recently changed.

The first World Elite companion voucher usually appears in your account a few weeks after you make your first purchase. To get your annual voucher after, you need to charge at least $5,000 annually to your WestJet Card. Your progress towards the next voucher is shown on your WestJet account.

Here’s a quick look at the current welcome bonus and earn rate that comes with the card.

WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard

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• $119 annual fee
• 25,000 WestJet points after your first purchase
• 20,000 WestJet points when you spend $5,000 in the first 3 months
• Earn 2 WestJet points per dollar spent on WestJet, WestJet Vacations, Sunwing Vacations, groceries, and gas
• Earn 1.5 points per $1 spent on all other purchases
• Receive a round-trip companion voucher
• Get free first checked bags for the primary cardholder and up to 8 guests on the same reservation

Besides the companion voucher, you also get your first checked bag free for up to eight people on the same itinerary. Remember, it costs $30 – $50 each way to check a bag with WestJet, so a family of four could save $240 – $400 on every flight. The included free Boingo Wi-Fi may not seem like a big deal, but remember, most airplanes offer paid Wi-Fi via Boingo. In other words, you can browse the internet for free whenever you fly with this card. Read my WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard review now for the full details.

The only other way to get a WestJet companion voucher is with the WestJet RBC Mastercard. Since this is a lower tier card, the voucher works a bit differently You only get access to an annual round-trip companion voucher within Canada, and it costs $199 plus taxes, fees, and charges. Although it’s not as generous as the companion voucher that comes with the World Elite Card, it’s still pretty good considering the credit card has an annual fee of just $39. Let’s take a quick look at the current welcome bonus and earn rate.

WestJet RBC Mastercard

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• $39 annual fee
• Earn 5,000 WestJet points after your first purchase
• Earn an additional 10,000 WestJet dollars when you spend $1,000 in the first 3 months
• Earn 1.5% back in WestJet dollars on WestJet flights or WestJet Vacations packages
• Earn 1% back in WestJet dollars on all other purchases
• Annual companion voucher

You’ll notice that this card doesn’t come with free checked bags. That should be expected since this is a lower-tier card compared to the World Elite version. That said, the WestJet RBC Mastercard doesn’t have a high personal or household income requirement to qualify for the card, so it’s still a good option for people who want a companion voucher but don’t have a high salary.

WestJet Companion Voucher Cost

The WestJet companion voucher is given to you free every year if you hold the WestJet RBC Mastercard or the WestJet RBC World Elite MasterCard but there are a few fees you need to pay on top of the fare for the first ticket purchased.

• $119 for round-trip travel in Canada and the continental U.S.
• $199 for round-trip travel within Canada (WestJet RBC Mastercard version)
• $399 for round-trip travel to/from the rest of the WestJet network
• Taxes, fees and charges

Companion Voucher Rules for WestJet Cardholders

Now that you understand the fees, there are a few other conditions and restrictions that come with the WestJet companion voucher that you should be aware of:

• Applies to one round-trip or one-way fare: You can use the voucher for a round-trip flight for yourself (the primary cardholder) plus a companion on the same itinerary. One-way bookings are permitted, but the full base fare applies to both passengers.
• New reservations only: The voucher works only on new bookings made before the expiry date shown on the voucher. Travel can occur after that date, but you cannot apply the voucher to existing reservations.
• Eligible fares: You may use the voucher on published Basic, Econo, EconoFlex, Premium and PremiumFlex fares that are fully marketed and operated by WestJet, including seat sale fares. You and the companion must be booked in the same fare category.
• Not eligible: The voucher cannot be used for WestJet Vacations packages, Business Class fares, or Member Exclusive fares. It also cannot be applied when booking through travel agents or third-party websites.
• Account rules and transferability: The voucher is non-transferable and only valid while your WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard account remains open. If your account closes, any unused vouchers are cancelled. An authorized user on the account cannot use the voucher independently of the primary cardholder.
• How to apply during booking: You can choose to apply the voucher at the start of your booking search; once you select flights, the voucher will be applied automatically during checkout.
• No cash value; occasional alternatives: The voucher has no cash redemption value. WestJet may occasionally offer a one-time exchange for lounge access instead of using the voucher for travel.
• Blackout dates and fees: There are no blackout dates for eligible flights, but standard taxes, fees and charges still apply and must be paid by you at booking.

To be clear, the companion voucher can only be used when the primary cardholder is travelling. Even if there’s an authorized user on the account, that person can’t use the voucher with another passenger.

One-way trips are allowed with the companion voucher, but the full base fare applies.

At the time of booking, you can select to use your voucher before you start searching for real-time pricing for flight availability. Once you find the flights you like, the voucher will automatically be applied, so there’s nothing else to do during the booking flow.

WestJet also allow you to exchange your voucher for two lounge passes. There is no cash exchange value with the voucher.

How Much You’ll Save With a WestJet Companion Voucher

The actual savings depend on the ticket’s base fare or Air Transportation Charges (ATC). You still pay taxes, fees and surcharges, so the companion benefit only reduces the ATC portion of the fare.

Consider a typical summer round trip to Florida, where the ATC is high. The primary cardholder pays the full ticket cost. The companion pays a reduced fee for the ATC, plus all taxes and mandatory charges, often resulting in several hundred dollars in savings compared with two full-price tickets. Larger ATC amounts increase the companion discount; low ATC fares reduce the voucher’s value.

Keep these points in mind when deciding whether to use the voucher:

• Use the voucher when the ATC is substantially above the companion-ticket fee to maximize savings.
• Compare the out-of-pocket cost for a companion-ticket booking with the cost of two standard tickets before redeeming.
• For long-haul or international flights where the companion fee can start higher, the voucher can be less useful unless you redeem it for premium cabins.

If you track points and vacation-credit opportunities, prioritize using the voucher on routes and dates with high ATC or premium-class inventory. The online booking tool often flags when a regular purchase is cheaper, so check the total out-of-pocket cost (companion fee plus taxes) before confirming.

When you fly in premium cabins, the voucher frequently delivers its greatest dollar impact because premium ATCs are much larger. For lower-fare economy seats or routes with modest ATC, holding the voucher for a future trip may save you more.

When Does Your Voucher Expire?

Your voucher formally expires one year after you receive it.
You can still book travel for up to an additional year beyond that formal expiry, including one-way flights.

Keep track of both the official expiry and the extended booking window to avoid losing your travel credit.

WestJet companion voucher pros and cons

Let’s be real for a second, the WestJet companion voucher is obviously good since it’s a free benefit. That said, if you don’t have a WestJet credit card yet, you probably want to know if there are any drawbacks. Here are the pros and cons of the WestJet companion voucher.

Pros

• Annual perk: You receive a companion voucher every year while you keep a qualifying WestJet credit card, including the year you enrol.
• Simple to get: Any WestJet Mastercard that qualifies awards the voucher, so you don’t need to meet extra spending thresholds after sign-up.
• No blackout restrictions: You can apply the voucher to any available seat on WestJet flights, regardless of travel date.
• Works across WestJet network: Redeem the voucher for travel to any destination WestJet serves, including Mexico.
• Predictable savings on a second fare: When you book, the voucher covers a companion’s base fare or a fixed discount depending on the card’s terms, making planning straightforward.

Cons

• High fee for some routes: Using the voucher for travel outside Canada and the continental United States can incur a substantial fee, which may reduce the net value of the perk.
• Limited to WestJet flights: The voucher doesn’t apply to codeshares or partner airlines, so you can’t use it when seeking broader routing or alliance benefits.
• Fewer routing choices: If you need connections or fly from locations with limited WestJet service, the voucher’s usefulness drops because WestJet’s network is smaller than some competitors’.
• Potential extra costs: Taxes, carrier charges and other fees still apply to the companion ticket, so the total outlay can be higher than the promotional language suggests.

How the WestJet companion voucher compares to others

When comparing companion offers, focus on carrier coverage, frequency, and usable routes. WestJet’s companion benefit applies only to WestJet flights, while competing passes are restricted to their issuing airlines, so your choice should match the carrier you fly most.

WestJet provides a voucher after your first purchase and sets a reasonable spending requirement to receive your vouchers each year. That annual perk means you don’t need to reapply for new credit cards to keep receiving the benefit. Competing offers usually require you to spend $ 10,000 or more.

Costs differ in structure. Some rival passes charge only taxes and fees for the companion’s seat, while WestJet’s starts at a modest base fee. That makes the rival pass potentially cheaper on paper, but total value depends on routings and base fare levels for your chosen flights.

Route eligibility affects real value. Certain competitors’ passes restrict travel to North America, Hawaii and the Caribbean, whereas WestJet’s companion option can sometimes be used on long-haul services, including Europe. If you travel transatlantic or to regions covered by WestJet, that broader route map increases the voucher’s utility.

Save even more with the WestJet credit card

hen you hold the RBC WestJet World Elite Mastercard, you cut several travel costs that add up quickly. You get free checked bags on WestJet flights within North America, which typically saves about $30 per bag each way, and that benefit repeats for every cardholder in your party.

The card also often includes a companion or similar voucher that reduces the fare for an additional traveller. If both parents carry the card, you multiply that voucher value and increase your household savings. Those fare reductions alone can amount to several hundred dollars on family trips.

Combine baggage savings, companion-voucher discounts and the card’s welcome bonus and the numbers look compelling. For example, multiple checked bags, two vouchers, and a sign up bonus can easily offset the card’s annual fee several times over. You keep more money in your pocket while still enjoying the same itinerary.

It’s easy to see why the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard is on my list of the best travel credit cards in Canada. The benefits you get are simply incredible which makes it a must-have card for anyone who flies WestJet on a regular basis.

Final Thoughts

You can use the companion voucher soon after your first statement, provided you’ve made at least one purchase. Check fares early so you know exactly how much the voucher reduces the ticket price.

Factor in the welcome bonus and free checked bags when deciding whether to apply. If you fly WestJet regularly or even once a year, the card’s perks often outweigh the cost.

You might well apply since you also get a welcome bonus and free checked bags. WestJet Rewards is one of the best travel loyalty programs, and if you fly WestJet on a regular basis or even once a year, applying for their credit card is worth it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is eligible to receive a WestJet companion voucher?

You usually need to hold a qualifying WestJet co‑branded credit card and meet either an annual spend requirement or anaccount renewal requirement. Check the cardholder agreement or promotional terms for the exact criteria.

What rules apply when you use a WestJet companion voucher?

The voucher usually covers the companion’s base fare, and taxes or fees may still apply; return and inbound taxes can be excluded depending on the offer. You must book both passengers on the same reservation and travel on the same flights. Other rules often include a limited booking window, class restrictions (economy only unless stated otherwise), and that the voucher cannot be combined with certain other discounts.

Can you use a WestJet companion voucher for travel outside Canada?

You can often use the voucher on international itineraries operated by WestJet, but availability and covered charges vary by route. Some cross‑border or transatlantic flights may qualify, while others may not. Verify eligible destinations in the voucher terms before planning.

How do you redeem a WestJet companion voucher?

Redeem by logging into your WestJet Rewards or credit card account and following the voucher redemption workflow, or call WestJet reservations and quote the voucher code when booking. Have passenger details and dates ready; redemption may require immediate ticketing and must meet any advance‑purchase rules.

Can you give your WestJet companion voucher to someone else?

Vouchers are non‑transferable and must be used by the named cardholder or a companion booked on the same itinerary.

A practical solution exists that allows you to bypass this issue without complications. You can extract the numbers from your postal code and add two zeros at the end to create a five-digit code that many U.S. payment systems will accept for Canadian credit cards.

What is a Canadian Postal Code?

A Canadian postal code is a six-character code that forms a critical component of your mailing address. It follows a specific pattern that alternates between letters and numbers: Letter, Number, Letter, Number, Letter, Number. An example would be K1A 0B1.

The postal code is divided into two distinct parts that serve different purposes. The first three characters are known as the Forward Sortation Area (FSA), which identifies your broader geographic region. This could represent a city like Ottawa or Calgary, or a specific area within a larger metropolitan region.

The second three characters form the Local Delivery Unit (LDU). This portion pinpoints a precise location within the Forward Sortation Area, such as a specific neighbourhood, street block, or even a single building in some cases.

Your postal code serves multiple functions beyond mail delivery. It’s frequently requested during online transactions as a verification method. Many retailers use it to confirm your identity and billing address.

When making purchases, the postal code you provide must match the address associated with your credit card. For most Canadians, this is their residential address, though business credit card holders may use their commercial address instead.

What is a Canadian ZIP Code?

Canada does not use ZIP codes. The country operates with a postal code system instead, which consists of six characters alternating between letters and numbers.

When you use your Canadian credit card at American merchants, you might encounter requests for a ZIP code. This happens because U.S. payment systems are designed to verify the ZIP code associated with American cards. Since your Canadian card has a postal code rather than a ZIP code, you’ll need to adapt your information.

A widely accepted method involves extracting the three digits from your postal code and appending two zeros. For instance, if your postal code is A1B 2C3, you would enter 12300 when the system asks for a ZIP code.

Major card networks like Visa, Mastercard, and American Express recognize this workaround. However, it doesn’t always work at every payment terminal. If this approach fails, you’ll need to complete your transaction with a cashier or reach out to customer service for assistance.

Zip Code for Canadian Credit Cards

When using a Canadian credit card in the United States, providing e a ZIP code is sometimes required, particularly at gas stations and online purchases. As mentioned above, you can create a ZIP code using your Canadian postal code. 

Entering a Canadian Postal Code at American Gas Stations

American fuel stations typically require you to input your credit card billing address details when paying at the pump. The system prompts you to enter a ZIP code as part of the address verification process.

When you use a Canadian credit card, you need to convert your postal code into a five-digit format. Extract the three numbers from your postal code and append two zeros to create the required ZIP code for credit card verification.

Example conversion:

• Your postal code: K2P 5G3
• Your ZIP code: 25300

This approach works at most automated fuel dispensers and allows your credit card transactions to process successfully.

Digital Commerce and Web-Based Transactions

Online retailers implement an address verification system to validate credit card transactions and reduce fraudulent activity. This security measure compares the information you provide at checkout with the credit card billing address on file with your financial institution.

Some American merchants don’t include Canada in their country selection menus. You’ll encounter forms that only accept five-digit postal code entries.

Apply the same conversion method for these situations:

1. Identify the three numerical digits in your postal code
2. Add two zeros after these digits
3. Enter this five-digit code in the ZIP code field

The address verification process authenticates your credit card information even when the merchant’s system is designed primarily for American addresses. This ensures your online purchases proceed without unnecessary complications or declined transactions.

Final thoughts

When you travel south of the border, you’ll encounter different payment systems at gas stations. Most U.S. pumps require you to insert your card and enter a postal code, rather than accepting contactless payments.

If the workaround doesn’t function or you can’t recall it, simply head inside to complete your transaction. The attendant can process your payment using tap or chip-and-PIN methods that work with your Canadian card.

This difference in payment technology is primarily a concern at fuel stations, where automated systems remain common in the United States.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do Canadian postal codes differ from the American ZIP code system?

No, Canada does not use 5-digit postal codes. The Canadian system is entirely different from the American ZIP code format. Canadian postal codes follow their own unique structure developed by Canada Post.

What format do Canadian postal codes follow for credit card billing?

A Canadian postal code consists of six characters that alternate between letters and numbers. The format follows the pattern A1A 1A1, where “A” represents a letter and “1” represents a digit. A space separates the third and fourth characters, though some systems accept the code without the space.

The first character identifies a specific province or territory. The second character narrows down the location to an urban or rural area. The third character further refines the geographic zone within that region.

Where do you locate the postal code linked to your credit card?

You can find your billing postal code on your credit card statement. Look for the address listed in the billing information section. This is the address your card issuer has on file for your account.

Your postal code is part of the address you provided when you opened your credit card account. If you have moved since opening the account, verify that you updated your address with your card issuer. You can also check your postal code through your online banking portal or mobile app.

How do you change the billing postal code on your credit card?

Contact your credit card issuer directly to update your billing postal code. You can typically do this through several methods:

• Call the customer service number on the back of your card
• Update your address through your online banking account
• Visit a branch location if your card is from a bank or credit union
• Use your financial institution’s mobile application

After submitting the change, allow up to five business days for the update to be processed. Keep using your old postal code for transactions until you receive confirmation that the change is complete.

What steps should you take when receiving postal code errors during payment?

First, verify that you are entering the exact postal code your card issuer has on file. Check your most recent statement to confirm the billing address. Ensure you format the code correctly, with or without the space, as required by the payment system.

If the error persists, try entering the postal code without the space. Some online forms do not accept spaces in postal code fields. Alternatively, try including the space if you omitted it previously.

Contact your card issuer if you continue to receive errors. They can confirm the postal code on file and verify whether there are any holds or security blocks on your card.

Can you use any Canadian postal code with your credit card?

No, you must use the specific postal code registered to your billing address. Your card issuer links your credit card to the exact postal code you provided when opening your account or when you last updated your address.

Using a different postal code, even if it is valid and Canadian, will cause transaction failures. The postal code serves as a verification tool that must match the issuer’s records.

What role does the postal code play in credit card security?

The postal code functions as part of the Address Verification System (AVS). This security measure compares the postal code you enter with the billing address your card issuer has on file. Merchants use this verification to reduce fraudulent transactions.

When you make an online or phone purchase, the payment processor checks your postal code against the issuer’s records. A mismatch may result in a declined transaction or additional verification requirements. This process helps protect your account from unauthorized use.

The postal code verification adds a layer of security beyond the card number and CVV. Someone who obtains your card number still needs your correct billing postal code to complete many transactions. added security against credit card fraud.

Choosing a credit card that eliminates foreign transaction fees can lead to substantial savings. If you spend several thousand dollars abroad or on foreign currency purchases, you could save over a hundred dollars in fees alone. These cards often come with additional travel perks, making them a practical choice for Canadians who travel internationally or shop across borders.

The best no foreign transaction fee credit cards in canada

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite* Card

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• $150 annual fee
• 40,000 Scene+ points when spending $2,000 in the first 3 months
• 10,000 points when spending $10,000 in the first six months
• Earn 3 Scene+ points per $1 spent at Empire owned supermarkets
• Earn 2 Scene+ points per $1 spent on eligible grocery stores, dining, entertainment, and daily transit purchases
• Earn 1 Scene+ point per $1 spent on all other eligible purchases
• Visa Airport Companion Program membership + 6 passes per year
• No foreign transaction fees

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card stands out as a comprehensive option for travellers who prefer carrying a single card. This card charges an annual fee of $150 but delivers substantial value through its rewards program and travel perks.

You earn 3 Scene+ points per dollar at Empire-owned supermarkets, 2 points at eligible grocery stores, restaurants, entertainment venues, and on daily transit, plus 1 point on everything else. The bonus earning categories apply even when making purchases abroad in foreign currencies.

Travel benefits form the core appeal of this card. You receive a complimentary membership to the Visa Airport Companion Program through DragonPass, which includes six free lounge visits annually. Standard airport lounge access typically costs around US$99 yearly plus US$32 per visit, making this benefit valuable for frequent travellers.

The travel insurance package covers trips up to 31 days and includes medical emergencies, trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost baggage, and flight delay coverage. Additional perks include concierge services available 24/7, access to the Visa Infinite Hotel Collection with room upgrades and complimentary breakfast, and membership in the Dining and Wine Country program.

You also get a free Avis Preferred Plus membership, which provides faster rental car service and the ability to choose your vehicle. Priority Pass membership is not included, but the DragonPass access serves a similar purpose.

Eligibility: A minimum personal income of $60,000 or a household income of $100,000 or at least $250,000 in assets under management. A credit score of 700 is also recommended.
Welcome bonus: You’ll typically get 35,000 to 50,000 Scene+ points as the welcome offer. In most cases, you’ll need to spend a minimum amount in the first three months and another in the first 12 months for the full bonus.

Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card

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• $120 annual fee
• 30,000 Scene+ points when you spend $2,000 in the first 3 months
• 20,000 Scene+ points when you spend $7,500 in the first year
• Earn 6 Scene+ points per $1 spent at Empire owned supermarkets
• Earn 5 Scene+ points per $1 spent on grocery, dining, and entertainment
• Earn 3 Scene+ points per $1 spent on gas, and daily transit purchases
• Earn 1 Scene+ point on all other purchases
• No foreign transaction fees

The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card delivers exceptional earn rates that rival top-tier rewards cards in Canada. The annual fee sits at $120, making it slightly more affordable than the Passport card while still offering premium benefits.

Earning potential is where this card excels. You collect 6 Scene+ points per dollar at Empire-owned grocery stores, 5 points at other grocery stores, plus dining and entertainment purchases, 3 points on gas, public transit, rideshares, and streaming services, and 1 point on all other spending.

One important distinction exists with foreign transactions. While you won’t pay foreign transaction fees, purchases made in currencies other than Canadian dollars only earn the base rate of 1 point per dollar. The bonus categories don’t apply to international spending.

The card provides a comprehensive travel insurance package covering trips up to 25 days, including emergency medical coverage, trip cancellation and interruption, baggage loss and delay, and rental car coverage. Mobile device insurance protects your phone or tablet against damage and theft when you purchase the device with your card.

You also receive airport lounge access, though unlike the Passport card, you don’t get complimentary passes. You’ll need to pay per visit or purchase a membership separately if you want to use this benefit.

Eligibility: There’s no minimum income requirement. A credit score of at least 700 is recommended.
Welcome bonus: Typically worth between 40,000 and 60,000 Scene+ points when. To get the full bonus, you usually need to meet multiple minimum spending requirements.

EQ Bank Card

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• $20 referral bonus (must fund account with $100 within 30 days)
• No monthly fees
• 0.5% cash back on all purchases
• Free withdrawals from any ATM in Canada
• No foreign transaction fees
• Earn 2.50% interest until you spend

The EQ Bank Card functions as a prepaid card with unique advantages for travellers. There’s no annual fee, and you earn 0.5% cash back on all purchases regardless of currency.

What makes this card particularly useful is that any balance loaded onto the card earns interest at a competitive rate. Your money grows even when you’re not spending it, which is uncommon for prepaid cards.

The standout feature is the ATM policy. You won’t pay foreign transaction fees when withdrawing cash from ATMs abroad. EQ Bank even reimburses ATM fees charged by other financial institutions in Canada. However, one-time fees charged by foreign ATM operators are not covered.

This approach gives you flexibility when travelling. Instead of exchanging currency before departure or upon arrival, you can withdraw local currency as needed. You can load additional funds to your card while abroad by sending yourself an e-transfer.

Since this is a prepaid card, you can only spend what you’ve loaded. This helps with budgeting and eliminates the risk of overspending. Prepaid cards don’t require a credit check or minimum income, making them accessible to nearly everyone.

Eligibility: Must have an EQ Bank account. No income or credit history is required.
Welcome bonus: You get a $20 cash bonus when signing up with a referral link and funding your account with $100 within 30 days of account opening.

Home Trust Preferred Visa Card

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• No annual fee
• No foreign transaction fees
• 1% cash back on Canadian purchases
• Purchase protection

The Home Trust Preferred Visa offers a straightforward approach with no annual fee and no foreign exchange fees. You earn 1% cash back on purchases made in Canadian dollars, but it doesn’t apply to foreign-currency transactions.

This card functions as a traditional credit card rather than a prepaid option. You don’t need to load funds in advance, and you receive a credit line based on your creditworthiness. This makes it more convenient than prepaid alternatives for those who qualify.

Benefits are minimal beyond the no forex fee feature. You get purchase security coverage for 90 days against theft, loss, or damage. No travel insurance, airport lounge access, or concierge services are included.

One quirk to note: customer service has historically blocked transactions made outside Canada for security reasons. Call before you travel to notify them of your plans and avoid having your card declined.

Eligibility: No minimum income is required. A credit score of at least 660 is recommended.
Welcome bonus: None.

Wealthsimple Cash Card

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• No annual fee
• Up to $3,000 welcome bouns
• 1% back in cash, stocks, or crypto on all purchases
• 4% interest on deposited funds
• No foreign transaction fees on purchases or ATM withdrawals
• CDIC insurance protection

Another prepaid credit card with no foreign transaction fees is the Wealthsimple Cash Card. All purchases earn you 1% back in cash, stock, or crypto. In addition, any funds you have loaded to your card earn interest. That means your money always grows even when you’re not spending it.

As a no fee, prepaid card, there aren’t any other benefits. The main draw here is the cash back earned and the no foreign transaction fees. You also won’t pay foreign transaction fees on ATM withdrawals. That said, most foreign ATM operators will charge you a one-time fee, and Wealthsimple limits your withdrawals to $500 CAD a transaction. There’s also a daily withdrawal limit of $1,000 CAD per day.

This card is very similar to the EQ Bank Card. Many people prefer the EQ Bank Card because you get $20 when signing up with a referral link. However, Wealthsimple does give you a higher cash back and savings interest rate.

Eligibility: Must have a Wealthsimple Cash account, but no income or credit history is required.
Welcome bonus: Up to $3,000 (it’s random)

Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard

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• No annual fee
• $50 Amazon gift card at sign up
• 5% back at Amazon.ca, grocery stores and restaurants for six months after your account is opened
• 2.5% back at Amazon.ca, Whole Foods Market in Canada and foreign currency transactions
• 1% back per dollar spent on all other purchases

The Amazon.ca Rewards Mastercard is one of the best no foreign transaction fee credit cards in Canada, but it flies under the radar. You’ll earn 2.5% back at Amazon.ca, Whole Foods and foreign transactions. All other purchases earn you 1% back. However, you must be an Amazon Prime member to get this rate. Non-Prime members earn 1.5% back at Amazon.ca and Whole Foods, and 1% on foreign transaction fees. 

The cash back works like this. Once you’ve earned 2,000 points, a $20 Amazon.ca gift card is deposited into your account. Other benefits with the card include discounts at Avis and Budget Rent a Car, purchase assurance, extended warranty, and zero liability insurance. 

This card is only worth considering if you’re an Amazon Prime member and you do a lot of shopping on Amazon. The good news is that there’s no annual fee.

Eligibility: Must be an Amazon Prime member for the increased earning rate. No minimum income or credit score is listed.
Welcome bonus: A $35 Amazon.ca gift card is given instantly upon approval.

What are foreign transaction fees?

When you make a purchase in any currency other than Canadian dollars, an additional charge gets applied to the exchange rate. This applies to all international transactions, including online shopping in US dollars.

Even if you’re buying from a Canadian business, paying in a foreign currency typically triggers these charges. The fee is embedded directly in the exchange rate, making it difficult to spot on your credit card statement.

Charges from your card provider

Your credit card provider typically adds a 2.5% foreign transaction fee to international purchases. Some providers charge up to 3.5%, depending on the card you hold.

Here’s what these forex fees mean for your spending:

• $1,000 in foreign purchases = $25 to $35 in fees
• $2,000 in foreign purchases = $50 to $70 in fees
• $5,000 in foreign purchases = $125 to $175 in fees

These currency conversion fees accumulate quickly, especially if you travel frequently or shop internationally online.

Charges from payment networks

Visa, Mastercard, and American Express apply their own small fees for currency conversion. These charges are much smaller than provider fees.

The payment networks use slightly different exchange rates than the official rate available to financial institutions. Here’s a comparison when converting 1 CAD to USD:

• Official exchange rate – 0.77118
• Visa exchange rate – 0.77333
• Mastercard exchange rate – 0.77255

Mastercard offers marginally better rates than Visa, though the difference is minimal in practice. American Express uses comparable rates but doesn’t publish them publicly.

You can check current conversion rates through xe.com, along with Visa and Mastercard’s websites. Understanding both types of fees helps you calculate the true cost of foreign currency transactions.

How Are Foreign Transaction Fees Calculated?

Your credit card company sets the foreign transaction fee, which typically appears in your cardholder agreement. The fee structure combines two main components: the currency conversion fee and the network’s exchange rate.

Visa and Mastercard each apply their own exchange rates when processing international purchases. These rates differ from the mid-market rate, which represents the true wholesale price between currencies. The gap between what you pay and the mid-market rate contributes to the total cost of your foreign purchase.

Exchange rates fluctuate based on currency market conditions. Economic events, political stability, and supply and demand for specific currencies all influence these rates daily. Your card issuer applies the rate that’s active when your transaction processes, not necessarily when you make the purchase.

Most Canadian credit cards add a 2.5% fee on top of the exchange rate used for currency conversion, though some cards charge between 1% and 3%.

Should I Pay in the Local Currency or CAD?

When making purchases abroad, merchants may offer you the choice between paying in the local currency or Canadian dollars through dynamic currency conversion. You should always select the local currency option. Your credit card issuer will convert the transaction using their exchange rate, which is typically more favourable than the payment processor’s.

Choosing to pay in CAD means accepting the merchant’s conversion rate, which includes a markup. This additional cost varies by processor but consistently exceeds the conversion rate your card provider uses. Even if your card doesn’t charge foreign transaction fees, paying in local currency remains the better option because you avoid the inflated merchant conversion rates.

Credit cards without foreign exchange fees make this choice even more advantageous. You receive competitive exchange rates without any percentage-based surcharges, maximizing your purchasing power overseas.

Do Foreign Transaction Fees Apply to ATMs?

Using a credit card at an ATM abroad triggers a cash advance, which means you’ll face immediate interest charges exceeding 22%. A foreign transaction fee also applies on top of this, and the ATM operator may charge their own service fee. This combination makes traditional credit cards a poor choice for withdrawing cash overseas.

Prepaid cards offer a better alternative. Cards like the Wealthsimple Cash Card and EQ Bank Card function like debit cards and don’t charge foreign transaction fees or interest on ATM withdrawals abroad. These cards provide access to cash without the costly charges associated with credit card advances.

Standard debit cards aren’t ideal either. Banks typically charge foreign transaction fees between 2.5% and 3.5% when you use your debit card at an international ATM. Both your bank and the ATM provider will likely apply one-time usage fees.

Is a No Foreign Transaction Fee Credit Card Worth It?

You should strongly consider getting a no foreign transaction fee credit card to avoid paying unnecessary charges on international purchases. Most cards charge 2.5% on foreign currency transactions, which accumulates quickly when you travel or shop online from international retailers.

Consider this scenario: if you spend $4,000 during a vacation abroad using a card that charges foreign exchange fees, you’ll pay an extra $100 in fees alone. That amount could cover a quality restaurant experience or another activity during your trip.

Numerous credit cards waive these fees entirely, so you can select one that aligns with your spending habits and preferences. Even if you only use the card occasionally throughout the year for international transactions, you’ll save money every time you avoid foreign transaction fees. There’s no compelling reason to pay extra when alternatives exist that eliminate these charges completely.

The savings become more significant if you travel frequently or regularly purchase from foreign websites. Choosing a card without foreign transaction fees makes financial sense for anyone who makes purchases in currencies other than Canadian dollars.

How to Select a Credit Card Without Foreign Transaction Fees

When comparing cards from your shortlist, several factors will help you identify the right option for your needs.

Consider whether you prefer a no-fee credit card or are comfortable paying an annual fee in exchange for premium perks. Cards with annual fees often offer added benefits such as airport lounge access, car rental discounts, and travel insurance coverage.

Key factors to evaluate:

• Card benefits – Review what extra features matter to you, such as travel insurance or rental vehicle protection
• ATM withdrawal costs – Some cards waive fees when you take out cash abroad
• Rewards structure – Certain cards offer cash back that can offset other costs, while others simply don’t charge foreign transaction fees
• Welcome bonuses – New cardholders may receive promotional offers worth considering
• Purchase APR – Check the interest rate if you plan to carry a balance

Your spending habits and travel frequency should guide your decision. A card with an annual fee might deliver better value if you travel regularly and use the included benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are foreign transaction fees refunded?

Foreign transaction fees are generally not refundable once charged to your account. These fees become part of your transaction total and are processed immediately with your purchase.

If you notice an incorrect fee on your statement, you can contact your card issuer to dispute it. Document the transaction details and explain why you believe the charge is wrong. Your issuer will investigate and may credit your account if they find an error.

The most effective approach is to avoid these fees altogether by using a card that doesn’t charge them. Prevention saves you the time and effort of seeking refunds that may not be granted.

What Makes US Dollar Cards Different from No-FX-Fee Cards?

US dollar credit cards and no foreign transaction fee cards serve different purposes. A US dollar card bills your purchases in American currency, which you then pay in USD from a US dollar account.

No foreign transaction fee cards bill in Canadian dollars but don’t charge the standard 2.5% conversion fee. You still pay in CAD, but the exchange rate is applied without an additional markup.

US Dollar Cards:

• Require a US dollar bank account for payments
• Best for frequent US travellers
• Avoid conversion fees on USD purchases only
• Still charge fees for other currencies

No Foreign Transaction Fee Cards:

• Bill in Canadian dollars
• Work for all foreign currencies
• No extra account needed
• Apply exchange rates without added fees

If you primarily travel to the United States and maintain USD accounts, a US dollar card may suit you. For worldwide travel or varied currency use, a no-fee card offers more flexibility.

What Other Options Exist Besides No-FX-Fee Cards?

Prepaid travel cards provide an alternative for managing foreign currency expenses. You load these cards with funds before travelling and use them like debit cards abroad. Many charge lower fees than traditional cards, though they may have loading and ATM withdrawal costs.

Digital payment services and mobile wallets sometimes offer competitive exchange rates. However, their acceptance varies by location and merchant, limiting their reliability as your sole payment method.

Alternative options include:

• Multi-currency prepaid cards
• Online payment platforms with international features
• Traveller’s cheques (largely outdated)
• Cash withdrawn from low-fee bank accounts

Each alternative has trade-offs in cost, security, and acceptance. No foreign transaction fee credit cards typically offer the best combination of convenience, protection, and value for most travellers. They work everywhere credit cards are accepted and require no advance planning or currency loading.