Enjoy going out for movies, dining, and entertainment? Looking for an affordable card that lets you earn Scene+ points while doing what you love?
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The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite stands out for travelers. It offers 6 lounge visits a year plus no fees on purchases abroad. This makes it a top pick for those wanting comfort and savings when traveling.
This card is perfect for those who fly often or just now and then. It gives access to airport lounges, saves you on foreign exchange fees, and comes with a rewards program that is easy to use. In this article, you’ll learn about its travel perks, how to save on foreign transaction fees, earning and using points, insurance benefits, cost analysis, how to apply in Canada, travel advice, and actual user reviews.
Our aim is to show Canadians how this card compares with other top travel credit cards. We call this card Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite. It comes with 6 lounge visits and no foreign transaction fees, perfect for travelers.
Passport Visa Infinite
Key Takeaways
- Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite offers 6 lounge visits annually to improve your airport experience.
- The card charges no foreign transaction fees on purchases in other currencies, lowering travel costs.
- It sits among the best travel cards Canada for those who want lounge access and FX savings.
- Expect a flexible rewards program, travel insurance benefits and Visa Infinite perks.
- This card is suited to both frequent flyers and occasional travellers who want to cut overseas fees.
Scotiabank Gold Amex vs Passport Visa Infinite vs Momentum Visa Infinite: Why the Passport Visa Infinite Is the Smartest Pick for Canadians
When it comes to finding the perfect credit card in Canada, Scotiabank provides a strong lineup of premium options. Among its most popular are the Scotiabank Gold American Express, Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite, and Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite. Each card caters to different lifestyles, but when compared side by side, the Passport Visa Infinite emerges as the most well-rounded and travel-friendly choice for Canadians seeking flexibility, convenience, and genuine savings.
Scotiabank Gold American Express
The Gold Amex is designed for those who love earning rewards fast. It offers an impressive 6× Scene+ points on groceries and 5× on dining and entertainment, making it ideal for people who spend heavily in these categories.
In addition to its strong earning power, the card has no foreign transaction fees, includes comprehensive travel insurance, and provides concierge assistance for added convenience.
However, the one drawback is limited merchant acceptance. American Express isn’t as widely accepted in smaller Canadian businesses or some international locations. For this reason, while the rewards structure is excellent, the Gold Amex works best for users who mainly shop within Canada and want to maximize point accumulation without relying on global acceptance.
Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite
The Momentum Visa Infinite caters to those who prefer cash back over rewards points. It offers:
- 4% cash back on groceries and recurring bill payments,
- 2% on gas and transit,
- 1% on all other purchases.
This structure makes it an ideal everyday card for families and practical spenders who appreciate simplicity and guaranteed savings.
However, it lacks travel-specific perks — such as airport lounge access — and still charges foreign transaction fees, which reduces its appeal for travelers or those who shop online in foreign currencies.
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite: The Best All-Rounder
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite brings together the best of both worlds — Scene+ rewards and top-tier travel benefits. It’s one of the few Canadian cards that waive foreign transaction fees, saving cardholders around 2.5% on every international purchase.
It also includes:
- Six complimentary airport lounge visits per year,
- Extensive travel insurance coverage,
- Visa Infinite premium perks, such as hotel upgrades, luxury travel deals, and 24/7 concierge access.
While its annual fee of CAD 150 is slightly higher than other cards, the value of its travel perks and fee savings far outweigh the cost. For frequent travelers, remote professionals, and global shoppers, the Passport Visa Infinite offers unmatched flexibility and protection.
Comparison Overview
| Card | Reward Type | Travel Benefits | FX Fee | Annual Fee | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gold Amex | Scene+ Points (up to 6×) | Travel insurance, concierge | None | CAD 120 | High spenders on dining & entertainment |
| Passport Visa Infinite | Scene+ Points | Lounge access, top-tier travel insurance | None | CAD 150 | Frequent travelers & international shoppers |
| Momentum Visa Infinite | Cash back (up to 4%) | Basic coverage | Applies | CAD 120 | Families & everyday savings |
Final Verdict
Each Scotiabank credit card offers strong rewards and valuable benefits. But when it comes to balance, versatility, and travel value, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite stands out from the rest.
It’s the only Scotiabank card that combines premium rewards, luxury travel perks, and zero foreign transaction fees — making it a top choice for Canadians who love to explore, shop internationally, or simply want a reliable card that delivers both comfort and savings.
For those seeking a card that works effortlessly anywhere in the world, the Passport Visa Infinite truly earns its title as the smartest choice in Canada.
Overview of the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite – 6 lounge visits, no foreign fees
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite offers travel perks and a clear way to earn rewards. It’s great for certain people and competes well with other Canadian cards.
Key features at a glance
You get six free airport lounge visits a year. There are no fees on foreign currency purchases. Earn points with Scotiabank’s Scene+ rewards. Benefits include a concierge service, travel insurance, and shopping protections.
This card has an annual fee. Check the current fee and offers before you apply.
Who this card is best suited for
It’s perfect for those who travel abroad often and will use the lounge access and save on foreign transaction fees. It’s also good for leisure travellers who like reliable travel protections and easy ways to use points.
Online shoppers buying in other currencies will dodge conversion costs. But, it’s not the best for those looking for the highest earn rates on everyday spending.
How it compares to other travel credit cards in Canada
Unlike other travel cards, this one has no ~2.5% fee on foreign purchases. It’s different from premium cards with unlimited lounge entries or ties to airline loyalty programs, such as Air Canada or American Express Aeroplan cards.
Choosing this card means getting six lounge visits and no foreign fees. That’s over a bigger lounge network or better earn rates on travel. For many, the foreign fee savings and lounge visits justify the yearly fee.
| Feature | Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite | Typical Premium Competitor | Non-travel-focused Card |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lounge access | 6 complimentary single-entry visits annually | Unlimited or Priority Pass membership (depending on card) | None or paid access only |
| No foreign transaction fees | Yes — no FX fee on purchases | Often yes on travel-focused cards; some charge fees | Usually charges ~2.5% cross-border fee |
| Rewards currency | Scene+ points (verify current branding and earn rates) | Varies: airline miles or bank points with travel partners | Cashback or points, lower travel redemption value |
| Visa Infinite benefits | Concierge, travel & purchase insurance, merchant perks | Similar or enhanced benefits depending on issuer | Limited or no Visa Infinite-level perks |
| Best use case | International leisure and business travellers saving on FX | Frequent flyers wanting broad lounge networks and partner perks | Everyday spenders who rarely travel |
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card
Travel benefits and lounge access details
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite card offers great airport comforts and travel perks. It focuses on making your time at busy terminals relaxing with lounge access Canada. Here’s how to use your complimentary lounge visits and other travel benefits.
How the 6 complimentary lounge visits work
You get six free lounge visits every 12 months, starting from your card anniversary. These visits don’t carry over to the next year if unused.
Only the main cardholder gets the free visits. If Scotiabank includes authorized users for lounge access, it will say so. Always check your benefits guide for details.
Lounge visits usually allow you in just once. At some lounges, you can bring guests for free, depending on their rules. Show your card and a boarding pass for the same day to use a visit.
Participating lounge networks and access rules
You can access lounges through the Visa Airport Companion Program and Plaza Premium Lounges. Other independent lounges that offer Visa Infinite benefits are also options. The lounges available can change depending on where you are.
Some lounges may be full or have specific hours. Those in smaller or very busy airports might not offer access. Always check the lounge directory before your trip to know the rules for where you’re heading.
Additional travel perks beyond lounge access
Other travel benefits include Visa Infinite’s concierge services and travel help. You might also get emergency card replacement and travel or purchase insurance. Check your benefits guide for the full insurance details.
Look out for deals on hotels, car rentals, or faster airport security at certain locations. These offers can change, so check Scotiabank’s updates and your agreement before you travel.
| Benefit | Typical Details | Cardholder Action |
|---|---|---|
| Complimentary lounge visits | Six visits per 12-month card anniversary; single-entry; guest rules vary | Present card and same-day boarding pass; confirm guest policy |
| Participating networks | Visa Airport Companion Program, Plaza Premium, select independent lounges | Check network directory for airport and hours |
| Concierge service | 24/7 assistance for bookings and travel support | Call the number on the back of your card |
| Travel and purchase insurance | Emergency medical, trip interruption, purchase protection may apply | Read the benefits guide to confirm coverage limits and exclusions |
| Partner offers | Hotel, car rental, and airport fast-track options vary by region | Review current offers in Scotiabank communications before booking |
No foreign transaction fees explained
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite cuts out the usual extra fee when you buy something in a different currency. Most Canadian cards add about 2.5% to your purchase. With no foreign transaction fees in Canada, you only pay the item’s price plus Visa’s exchange rate.
What this means for Canadian travellers
Foreign transaction fees are added when you spend in a currency other than Canadian dollars. Without these fees, you spend in local currency. Visa then changes it to Canadian dollars at its set rate. Even though Visa’s rate might add a bit more, skipping the 2.5% fee saves money on most buys.
Examples: saving on purchases abroad and online purchases in foreign currencies
Think about a US$200 meal. If your card adds a 2.5% foreign transaction fee, that’s about CAD 6 more. Skipping these fees means you save that CAD 6.
For things like online subscriptions, software, or bookings from outside Canada, these fees can add up. People who travel a lot or work remotely often save enough to offset annual card fees. They do this by skipping these extra charges and cutting costs on purchases made abroad.
Common limitations and merchant currency conversion practices
Be cautious about dynamic currency conversion. This is when stores offer to charge in Canadian dollars at the checkout. It might seem easier but usually involves a higher fee and added costs. Always choose to pay in local currency to dodge these extra charges.
Some services may require payment in a foreign currency. For these, using a card without foreign transaction fees can reduce extra costs. Keep in mind, refunds or chargebacks can have minor differences due to exchange-rate changes. It’s good to check how Scotiabank handles these situations in their cardholder agreement.
Rewards program and points earning
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite card uses Scene+ points. You can earn different rates in various categories. Dining, travel, and daily spending give you more points. Understanding how to earn points can help you make the most of travel rewards in Canada.
Points categories and earn rates
You get more Scene+ points for spending on dining and travel. Grocery purchases also give solid rewards. And you earn points on everything else. New members often get a bonus after spending a certain amount in the first few months. Be sure to check the latest details from Scotiabank before applying.
Redeeming points for travel, statement credits, and more
You can use Scotiabank points for flights and hotel stays. They’re also good for statement credits, gift cards, or entertainment. Using points for travel bookings can give you more value. If there are transfer options available, moving points to partner programs might give you even more.
Maximizing points: best practices and partner options
To get the most points, focus on spending in high-reward areas. Use the card for foreign transactions to avoid extra fees. Pair it with another card for better rewards on groceries or gas.
Look out for promotions that offer more value for transferring points to partners. Taking advantage of portal sales can help you maximize your points. Charging regular bills to your card can also increase your rewards over time.
Fees, annual cost, and value analysis
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite has an annual fee of CAD 150. This fee is charged yearly. For any additional cards, there’s a fee of CAD 50 each. Travel credits do not apply automatically, so it’s best to check current offers before applying. The main cardholder gets six free lounge visits annually. However, extra cardholders don’t get their own visits unless Scotiabank states otherwise.
Annual fee and statement credits
The Scotiabank Passport’s yearly fee is CAD 150, charged on the anniversary. Welcome credits may cover specific travel costs, like flights or hotels. Always verify the latest offers and eligible expenses with Scotiabank.
When considering extra cards, think about the overall cost versus benefits like lounge access. For families that travel together, getting supplementary cards might be more economical than several full-fee cards.
Evaluating the card’s value for frequent vs occasional travellers
Frequent travellers benefit from no foreign transaction fees. Being charged 2% to 2.5% extra on international spending can add up. Eliminating these fees can significantly increase the card’s return on investment for travelers.
If you travel less often, think about if you will use the six lounge visits. Unused visits might make the card seem less valuable. In such cases, considering cards with lower fees or pay-per-use lounge access could be better.
Benefits that aren’t about money, like travel insurance and priority services, also count. They provide comfort and security, enhancing the card’s overall value.
Break-even scenarios: when lounge visits and no FX fees offset the cost
Let’s do some math on lounge access. If one visit is worth CAD 35, six visits total CAD 210. Subtracting the annual fee of CAD 150 shows you come out ahead if you use all visits.
For foreign exchange savings, let’s say you spend CAD 5,000 abroad annualy. At a 2.5% fee, you save CAD 125 by not paying extra charges. Add a couple of lounge visits, and you’ve balanced out the annual fee.
Sample scenarios:
- Occasional traveller: 1–2 lounge visits and CAD 1,000 in foreign spending. It’s unlikely to break even.
- Moderate traveller: 3–4 visits and CAD 2,500 in foreign spending. You might nearly break even.
- Frequent traveller: All 6 visits and over CAD 5,000 spent abroad. You clearly gain value and see a good return on your investment.
Keep in mind, this depends on your specific travel habits and spending. Also, currency fluctuations and other card offers might affect your decision. Always crunch your own numbers to get an accurate value assessment.
Insurance coverage and travel protections
Scotiabank Passport cardholders enjoy a range of travel protections. These help lessen unexpected costs. Make sure to review the insurance certificate for coverage details, rules, and how to make a claim. Always have a copy of your insurance policy and contact info for Scotiabank claims with you.
Emergency medical travel insurance details
Emergency medical benefits cover eligible cardholders for sudden sickness or injury while traveling. These plans usually have a maximum amount they’ll pay for each person and trip. To get these benefits, your trip or itinerary must be paid with the card.
The insurance might not cover pre-existing conditions unless they qualify for a waiver. It’s key to check any medical screening you need beforehand. Always read the full policy to know what’s not covered. To help with claims, keep all receipts and detailed records of hospital visits.
Trip cancellation, interruption, and delay coverage
Trip cancellation insurance pays back non-refundable costs if you have to cancel for a valid reason. If something forces you to return home early, trip interruption insurance helps cover lost trip value and extra travel expenses.
For delays, you might get daily money for needs like food and a place to stay. Missed connections may also be covered. To claim, provide proof of payment with the card, your original plans, and evidence of the incident causing your loss. Remember, there are deadlines for claims and specific insurer notification requirements.
Baggage and rental car insurance highlights
If your bags are lost, stolen, or delayed, baggage insurance can help. You might even get money for essentials you need while waiting for your bags. Make sure to keep all related reports and receipts to streamline the claims process.
For rental cars, coverage includes damage or theft. Coverage might be primary or secondary, depending on the Scotiabank card. Check if your card’s coverage is primary or secondary. Also, learn what’s not covered, like certain cars or countries. To qualify, you must decline the rental company’s Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). Always have your insurance certificate and rental agreement when you pick up the car.
| Protection | Typical requirement | Key limits and notes |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency medical coverage | Trip paid with card; eligible traveller status | Maximum per person per trip; trip duration limits; pre-existing condition rules |
| Trip cancellation insurance | Non-refundable trip cost charged to card | Reimbursement up to policy maximum for covered reasons; document supplier penalties |
| Trip interruption & delay | Delay or interruption due to covered event | Per diem allowances for meals/accommodation; missed connection coverage; extra return travel costs |
| Baggage protection | Report loss/delay to carrier and keep receipts | Reimbursement for lost/stolen items; essentials allowance for delayed baggage |
| Rental car insurance Canada & abroad | Decline rental company CDW; present card and certificate | Collision/LDW coverage; primary vs secondary status, vehicle and country exclusions apply |
Application process and eligibility for Canadians
Are you thinking of getting the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite? Here’s what you need to know about qualifying, the documents required, and tips to make your application process smoother with Scotiabank.
Who is eligible: income and credit requirements
For a Visa Infinite in Canada, you need a certain income. Scotiabank looks for applicants to hit an income level suitable for premium cards and have a solid credit history. A good-to-excellent credit score is necessary, showing you’re consistent in paying back on time and don’t have recent missed payments.
You need to be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident with a Canadian address. And you have to be the legal age in your province or territory. If someone in your family doesn’t meet the main requirements, they might still get a card as a secondary or authorized user.
Required documents and how to apply online or in-branch
Start by getting your ID, recent pay slips, a T4 or Notice of Assessment, something that proves your address, and your banking info. If you’re self-employed, have your business finances or CRA documents ready to show your income.
To apply for the Scotiabank Passport, you can go online. This is quick and you might get pre-approved right away. You can also go into a branch to talk with someone and give them your documents in person. Or, you can call customer service for help applying. Sometimes you find out if you’re approved immediately online, but sometimes they need to check your documents first.
Tips to improve approval odds and what affects your application
Before applying, make sure your credit report is accurate. Lower your credit card debt and don’t use too much of your credit to boost your chances. Try not to apply for many credits in a short time; it can hurt your score.
Be honest about your job and income. Having a good history with Scotiabank can also help your application. If you’re not successful at first, wait to improve your finances before trying again.
Using the card abroad: tips and best practices
Make your travels easier and cheaper with the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite. A few simple steps can save you from extra fees, keep your travel money safe, and give you more value on every journey.
How to use the card to avoid dynamic currency conversion
Dynamic currency conversion (DCC) happens when stores offer to charge you in CAD with a bad exchange rate and extra fees. This can end up costing more than if you just paid with your card’s foreign rate.
Always say no if they want to charge in CAD. Instead, get billed in the local currency. Always double-check the currency on the payment terminal or online before paying.
For online buys, switch to the local currency at checkout if you can. This moves you away from DCC, making sure you get the benefits of using your Passport card abroad.
Security tips for travel: cards, alerts and contact info
Turn on alerts for each time your card is used, and set up SMS or email notifications. This will help you catch any suspicious card use faster, making your card more secure when you’re travelling.
Save Scotiabank’s international phone numbers in your phone and also write them down. Carrying a backup payment option and written down emergency details in your bags is smart too.
Use chip-and-PIN for payments and avoid using public Wi-Fi for buying stuff online. Use Scotiabank’s travel notices or, if they’re not available, set up your own alerts to watch your account on the go.
Combining with apps and travel strategies for extra savings
Adding your card to Apple Pay or Google Pay adds security and makes paying easier. Use them when you can to lessen the chance of your card info being stolen.
Install apps for keeping an eye on exchange rates and finding ATMs that show their fees. These apps help you save money when getting cash in another country.
Link your Passport card with loyalty schemes, flight deals, and hotel offers. Booking flights during sales and using points can really cut your travel costs. Smart payment choices and tracking rewards make a big difference abroad.
Customer experiences and expert reviews
Travelers and experts agree on the benefits of the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite. They like the no foreign transaction fees and the six free lounge visits. People enjoy easy reward redemptions, good travel insurance, and the card’s wide acceptance.
Frequent flyers and families find it very valuable. They appreciate quick digital banking, responsive customer service, and no FX fees abroad.
Real-world traveller feedback and common praises
People love saving fees on foreign spending and using lounge access on long trips. The included travel insurance is often praised for its coverage. The mobile app is a hit for easy account management and quick claims.
Customers talk about its reliability and useful benefits, not just luxury add-ons. Earning and using points easily is a big plus for many.
Typical complaints and how Scotiabank addresses them
Some complaints are about limited lounge access and varying guest rules. There are reports of disputes on lounge entry and visit counting confusion.
Scotiabank responds with guides and handles disputes carefully. They advise keeping receipts and calling for support. They also suggest contacting Visa benefits for more help if needed.
Expert takes: who should pick this card and why
Experts see it as a great choice for travelers avoiding FX fees and wanting some lounge access. It’s seen as a strong option without the high cost of top-tier cards.
For those seeking more lounge visits or airline perks, premium cards are recommended. It’s advised to consider fees, points, and insurance against your travel habits.
By comparing reviews, feedback, and expert advice, you can weigh the card’s benefits and drawbacks. This method gives a clear view based on actual use and expert opinions.
Conclusion
This summary of the Scotiabank Passport shows its best features. They include six free lounge visits, no fees on foreign purchases, great travel insurance, and a rewards program for Canadian travellers. If you like quiet time at airports, don’t want to pay extra on foreign buys, and prefer an easy rewards system, this card is appealing.
It’s easy to see who gains the most from this card. Frequent flyers and shoppers at U.S. or other foreign stores will benefit from no extra charges and access to lounges. If you don’t travel much, think about how much you’ll use the lounges and spend abroad before getting the Scotiabank Passport.
To decide, look at how much you spend overseas each year. Think about how often you’ll visit the lounges. Also, consider the insurance value. Compare the yearly fee and benefits with other cards. Check the latest rates, lounge partners, and insurance details on Scotiabank’s official site and the cardholder agreement before applying.
FAQ
What are the two headline benefits of the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite?
How do the six complimentary lounge visits work?
Which lounge networks accept the Passport lounge benefit?
What does “no foreign transaction fees” actually mean for me?
How can I avoid dynamic currency conversion (DCC) when travelling?
What rewards program does the card use and how do I earn points?
How can I redeem points and get the best value?
What travel insurances are included with the card?
What is the annual fee and does the card offer any statement credits?
How do I calculate if the card is worth it for me?
Who is eligible to apply for the Passport Visa Infinite in Canada?
What documentation do I need to apply and where can I apply?
How can I improve my approval odds for a Visa Infinite card?
Are lounge visits available to authorized users or only the primary cardholder?
What should I do if a lounge refuses access or a visit is declined?
How does the card’s FX conversion work for refunds and chargebacks?
Can I use mobile wallets with the Passport card when travelling?
Which travellers should consider this card and who might prefer alternatives?
Where can I verify the latest terms, fees and partner lists?
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