Looking for a card that lets you earn plenty of points on groceries, dining, and entertainment — all without paying foreign transaction fees?
You will remain on the same website.
The Scotiabank Gold American Express Card is perfect for Canadians. It offers great grocery rewards and is travel-friendly. You don’t have to pay extra fees on foreign transactions. That’s a big save compared to other cards.
You can earn 6× points on groceries with the Scene+ program. You also get more points on travel, dining, and other purchases. The Scene+ card in Canada makes it easy to use your points. You can choose flights, hotels, or even get money back on your statement.
This card is great for people who often shop at supermarkets and travel now and then. It helps you save on foreign exchange fees and still get lots of rewards. The card includes travel insurance and other benefits, making it a smart choice for Canadians.
Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card
Key Takeaways
- 6× points groceries through Scene+ for strong everyday rewards.
- No foreign transaction fees helps save on purchases abroad and online.
- Scene+ card Canada integration offers flexible redemption options.
- Scotiabank American Express rewards include enhanced travel and dining earns.
- Designed for grocery-focused Canadians who also value travel perks.
Scotiabank Gold Amex vs Passport Visa Infinite vs Momentum Visa Infinite: Which Credit Card Reigns Supreme in Canada?
Finding the best credit card in Canada ultimately depends on your spending habits and financial goals. Scotiabank offers some of the most competitive cards in the country — whether you’re after travel rewards, cashback savings, or everyday perks.
In this comparison, we’ll break down three of Scotiabank’s most popular premium cards: the Scotiabank Gold American Express, Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite, and Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite — to help you decide which one is the perfect fit for you.
Scotiabank Gold American Express
The Scotiabank Gold American Express is ideal for people who spend heavily on groceries, dining, entertainment, and streaming services. With one of the most rewarding programs in Canada, it offers up to 6× Scene+ points on select spending categories.
A standout feature of this card is that it charges no foreign transaction fees, helping travelers and online shoppers save around 2.5% on international purchases. It also includes comprehensive travel insurance, purchase protection, and concierge service, making it a great choice for frequent travelers and lifestyle spenders alike.
With an annual fee of CAD 120, the Gold Amex strikes an excellent balance between premium rewards and valuable travel perks — perfect for Canadians who appreciate experiences, convenience, and flexibility.
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite
The Passport Visa Infinite was created for travelers seeking convenience and global benefits. As one of the few Canadian credit cards that waives foreign transaction fees, it ensures you save money every time you shop abroad or make purchases in another currency.
This card also provides six complimentary airport lounge visits per year, comprehensive travel insurance, and access to exclusive Visa Infinite privileges, such as hotel upgrades, concierge assistance, and premium travel offers.
Though it comes with a CAD 150 annual fee, the extensive travel coverage and perks make it a top choice for those who travel frequently and value comfort, security, and peace of mind.
Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite
For those who prefer cash back over rewards points, the Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite is an excellent option. It delivers up to 4% cash back on groceries and recurring bill payments, 2% on gas and transit, and 1% on all other everyday purchases.
This structure makes it easy to save money automatically on the things you buy most often — without worrying about tracking or redeeming points.
With an annual fee of CAD 120, the Momentum Visa Infinite offers consistent, no-nonsense value, along with travel insurance, purchase protection, and Visa Infinite benefits. Accepted almost everywhere, it’s the perfect card for Canadians who want simplicity, flexibility, and steady rewards.
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 | Frequent spenders on food, entertainment, and travel |
| Passport Visa Infinite | Scene+ Points | Lounge access, full travel insurance | None | CAD 150 | Frequent travelers and global shoppers |
| Momentum Visa Infinite | Cash back (up to 4%) | Standard insurance, Visa perks | Applies | CAD 120 | Families and everyday savers |
Final Verdict
If your goal is to maximize rewards and save on travel, the Scotiabank Gold American Express is a top performer with unbeatable earning potential.
For those who prioritize luxury travel perks and international convenience, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite is the clear choice.
And if you prefer straightforward, guaranteed cashback with broad acceptance across Canada, the Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite delivers the best long-term value.
Whichever you choose, Scotiabank’s credit card lineup ensures that Canadians can earn more, save more, and enjoy more — every time they spend.
Passport Visa Infinite
Overview of the Scotiabank Gold Amex Card – No foreign fees, 6× points on groceries
The Scotiabank Gold American Express card is great for grocery rewards and travel. You get 6× Scene+ points at supermarkets and good rates for dining and entertainment. And there are no foreign transaction fees on purchases in other currencies. This card makes everyday spending worthwhile, letting you earn and use points flexibly.
This card has simple yet valuable features. When you travel or buy from overseas, no foreign transaction fees apply. You earn 6× points when you shop at major supermarkets. But, be aware, purchases at pharmacies, convenience stores, and big-box stores might not qualify unless they’re categorized as groceries.
Quick snapshot of key card features
- No foreign transaction fees on purchases in foreign currencies.
- 6× Scene+ points at eligible grocery merchants.
- Elevated points for dining and entertainment.
- Competitive welcome offer when available and standard Amex/Scotiabank perks.
- Integration with Scene+ for point accumulation and redemption.
Who this card is best suited for in Canada
If you spend a lot on groceries or travel frequently, this card is perfect. It helps avoid foreign transaction fees and earns rewards. People who like using points in different ways and enjoy travel insurance will find it beneficial too. The card offers a good mix of daily and travel features.
It may not be the best choice for those who don’t travel much or don’t spend a lot on groceries. If you’re after premium travel perks like lounge access, you might prefer more luxurious cards.
How it compares to other popular Canadian travel and rewards cards
This card stands out among mid-tier options because it offers big grocery rewards and no foreign fees. Other travel cards often charge about 2.5% on foreign transactions, even with great travel rewards.
The Scotiabank Gold Amex has lower fees compared to premium travel cards and lacks extensive lounge access. But it has strong grocery rewards, travel insurance, and no foreign fees, standing out from lower-fee, grocery-focused cards. The points system is flexible, with many redemption options and partner offers, although it differs from other programs like Aeroplan and Avion.
Consider this Scotiabank Gold Amex overview to see if it meets your grocery and travel needs. It could be the top choice for groceries in Canada as you also explore other travel rewards cards.
Rewards and Earning Structure
The Scotiabank Gold American Express card offers a way to earn more points on what you buy every day. It makes earning points easy on groceries, travel, dining, and everything else. Here, we’ll explore how you can collect more points in certain categories. We’ll also look at how these points translate into value and highlight some special offers to consider.
Breakdown of points earning: groceries, travel, dining, and everyday purchases
When you buy groceries at certain stores, you earn six times the regular points. This happens at places like Loblaws, Sobeys, Metro, and Longo’s if they’re coded as supermarkets. But remember, not all stores like big-box retailers or online shops will give you these extra points.
Dining out and having fun can also earn you more points, usually three times more. The same goes for when you travel. For all other shopping, you might get one or two times the points. The exact rate depends on the card’s current offers and the rules at the time.
Value of Scene+ points and how 6× on groceries compounds benefits
Scene+ points are more valuable when used for certain rewards. They’re worth between 0.6¢ and 1.0¢ each in Canada. But when you use them for travel or with partner programs, they’re worth even more. By earning six times the points on groceries, you can save up for trips or other rewards much faster.
If your family spends a lot on groceries, this can help you out a lot. If several people in your household use the card, you’ll get to exciting rewards quicker. This means you can reduce the wait for flights, hotel stays, or using points to pay off your bill.
Bonus categories, welcome offers, and promotional earn rates
Scotiabank and American Express often have special deals that give you extra points. These deals change, so it’s good to check what’s available before you sign up. Sometimes there are also short-term chances to earn more points with certain shops or during special times of the year.
Always read the details of these offers. They’ll tell you when the promotion runs, what you need to buy, and what’s not included. Understanding these rules helps you make the most of these opportunities. This way, you won’t miss out on extra points with Scotiabank rewards and Amex points in Canada.
No Foreign Transaction Fees and Travel Perks
The Scotiabank Gold Amex card is great for everyday spending and travel. It helps you save when you’re abroad or planning a trip. Here are ways this card can help save money and protect you while travelling.
How no foreign fees work and when you save
This card doesn’t charge the usual 2.5% foreign transaction fee on overseas buys or ATM withdrawals. When you buy something in a different currency, you avoid the extra bank fee. This is a big save during trips or when shopping across borders.
Save money on hotel stays, meals out, and shopping when you travel. Saving 2.5% is huge, especially on big purchases like tours or gadgets. Be cautious at checkout. If offered, always pay in the local currency to avoid losing this benefit.
Travel protections included with the card
The Scotiabank Gold Amex provides essential insurance for both short and longer trips. It includes emergency medical, trip cancellation, car rental insurance, and protection for flight and baggage delays. These covers help you handle surprises abroad without extra cost.
Insurance details like duration covered, age limits, and rules for pre-existing conditions differ. Most protections need you to pay for the trip with the card to be valid. Always check the insurance policy before you travel to know what’s covered and how to claim.
Airport lounge access, concierge and partner benefits
This card might give you limited airport lounge access. Check how many free visits you get and the rules for bringing guests. Look for complimentary or discounted Priority Pass options available through American Express.
Extras often include concierge services, Amex Offers, and Scene+ partner deals. These perks give you special experiences, merchant credits, and deals. Since offers and partner terms can change, always check the latest Scotiabank Gold Amex travel benefits on the Scotiabank and American Express sites.
For Canadians wanting a card without foreign transaction fees and clear travel insurance details, keep the Scotiabank Amex info close. Always recheck coverage limits before each trip.
Fees, Rates, and Eligibility Requirements
Before diving in, look closely at the costs, interest, and basic rules. Your gain from this card links to how you spend, pay off the dues, and use its travel and no foreign fee benefits.
Annual fee and what to expect in net value
The Scotiabank Gold’s yearly charge sits in the middle, not too high or low. To see if it’s worth it, first guess how much you spend on groceries each year. Then, figure out how many points you’d get and subtract the card’s yearly fee. Don’t forget to add value from avoiding foreign fees and insurance perks.
Let’s say you spend $6,000 on groceries yearly and each point is worth $0.01. You’d get 360 points, worth around $360, from groceries alone. Minus the card’s fee to see if it works for you. Small changes in how much you spend each month can sway the outcome, so use your real spending in calculations.
Interest rates, cash advances, and other applicable fees
Rewards cards usually come with higher interest rates for purchases. Taking cash advances means you start paying interest right away, plus an extra fee. If you keep a running balance, the high interest might cancel out any rewards.
You might not have to pay fees for buying things in other countries, but taking money out abroad can cost you. You’ll likely face fees for paying late, returned payments, and going over your limit. Scotiabank and American Express list these fees clearly, so check the latest agreement before you sign up.
Eligibility criteria for Canadian applicants and credit score guidance
To apply, you need to live in Canada, be old enough, and have a Social Insurance Number. Lenders will want to see you have a job and money coming in.
For top rewards cards, a good or excellent credit score helps. This means your score should be in the mid-to high 600s or above. Keep your credit use low, have a steady paycheck, and always pay bills on time to boost your chances.
Ready to apply? First, check your credit report, clear any small debts, and pick a time when you’re doing well financially. This approach helps make the case that the card’s fees are worth it for you.
How to Maximise Points on Groceries and Everyday Spending
To make the most of the Scotiabank Gold Amex, have a daily spending strategy. Aim to use the card for purchases that give you 6× points, like groceries. Pay attention to sales and choose rewards wisely. Shopping smartly and timing your purchases can boost your yearly savings.
Strategies to leverage the 6× points on groceries effectively
Use the card for all your grocery shopping. Don’t split bills between different payment methods. Combine all your food shopping into one bill and plan big purchases to get more points. Make sure to check the store’s return policy first.
If your family shops separately, add them as card users. This way, everyone can help earn points without messing up account management.
Be careful with how stores classify your purchases. Save your receipts and make sure big shops count as grocery buys. If there’s a mistake, reach out to Scotiabank or American Express to fix it.
Optimizing category bonuses and combining with partner offers
Always check for new Amex Offers and Scene+ deals. Sign up for special bonuses before you shop to multiply your points beyond the base 6× for groceries.
Choose Scene+ partners for fun, meals, and trips when you can. Spending with partners adds more value, boosting your grocery points game in Canada.
Plan your extra purchases around sales and bonus periods. Many shops and card programs offer special deals for a short time, enhancing your rewards.
Best practices for redeeming Scene+ points for value
Look at all your options before using points. Using them for travel or transfers to partners usually gives better value than cashback. Hold off on using points for small rewards.
Watch for bonus offers on transfers to airlines or hotels. Bonuses make your points worth more, helping you make the most of your Scene+ points.
Track your points and what you get for them. Recording your redemptions shows which choices give the best value over time.
Scotiabank Gold Amex tips like these can boost your rewards from everyday expenses. They keep things easy and rewarding.
Redemption Options and Point Value
The Scotiabank Gold Amex lets you earn Scene+ points for various uses. You can choose from fast travel bookings via Scotiabank’s travel portal or the Scene+ tool. For quick balance reductions, opt for statement or account credits. Points also get you gift cards, merch, or fun movie perks at Cineplex.
Each redemption option has different minimum thresholds and mixing cash with points varies. Booking through the portal is easy with set prices. Transferring points to airline or hotel partners might need award availability, offering more value. Just watch out for seasonal rules and limits on promo combos.
Estimating cents-per-point value
In Canada, Scene+ points usually value between 0.5¢ and 1.0¢ CAD each. Using them for statement credits is often less valuable. Travel bookings can be worth more, especially with the right flight or package deals.
To figure out what you get back, divide the cash value by points needed. This easy step lets you compare travel versus statement credit redemptions with Scene+ points.
Transfer partners and maximizing premium redemptions
Scene+ lets you transfer points to various airline and hotel loyalty programs. This can significantly increase your points’ value for luxury flights or stays. Look for transfer bonuses to boost your points’ worth when you can.
Choose what’s easier or has more value. Portal bookings are straightforward, while transfers might offer more per point but need award spots. Mixing strategies helps maximize the value of Canada’s points while transferring to Scene+ partners when it makes sense.
User Experience, Mobile App, and Customer Support
Cardholders use two platforms to manage their rewards and banking. Scotiabank takes care of account management and billing. American Express handles the perks, offers, and Scene+ points. This setup makes payments, rewards tracking, and dispute handling fit well into Canadians’ busy lives.
Cardholder experience with Scotiabank and American Express platforms
The Scotiabank app shows balances and pending transactions. It also shows monthly statements and lets users make quick payments. This app is great for paying bills and getting alerts on due dates or strange activity.
The American Express app in Canada shows member benefits and Amex Offers. It also displays Scene+ balances. With this app, you can track promotions, see redemption options, and check offer requirements.
Mobile app features: tracking, alerts, and redemption tools
Both apps send alerts for payments and suspicious charges. They let you control your card digitally. You can freeze or unfreeze your card easily. You can also add your card to a mobile wallet for tap-to-pay.
The Scene+ app links to redemption tools and travel bookings. It makes redeeming points for travel or partner deals easy. Point tracking is also simple in this app.
How to handle issues: disputes, lost/stolen cards, and support channels
If you lose your card or it gets stolen, call American Express Canada or Scotiabank immediately. They both have 24/7 phone support. They can block your card to stop further charges.
To dispute a charge, use the Scotiabank app or American Express app in Canada. They offer secure messaging. You might get provisional credits while they investigate.
For harder account issues, in-branch help is available. Social media can give quick answers for simple questions. Use secure messaging or a phone call for complicated problems.
| Task | Primary App | Secondary App | Typical Support Channel |
|---|---|---|---|
| View balance and transactions | Scotiabank mobile app | American Express app Canada | In-app secure messaging |
| Track Scene+ points and redeem | Scotiabank mobile app | Scene+ app | Phone support for complex redemptions |
| Access Amex Offers and merchant deals | — | American Express app Canada | App notifications and email |
| Report lost or stolen card | Scotiabank mobile app | American Express app Canada | 24/7 phone line |
| Submit travel or insurance claims | Scotiabank mobile app | American Express app Canada | Secure messaging and claim portals |
| Need personal assistance or complex fixes | In-branch Scotiabank | American Express app Canada for membership queries | Phone and in-branch |
Keep records of your calls, reference numbers, and receipts when reporting issues. This helps speed up investigations. It also supports claims for insurance or disputes. If you have account troubles related to billing or payments, reach out to Scotiabank’s customer support first. For rewards issues, use the American Express app in Canada or Scene+ app tools.
Real-world Scenarios and Case Studies
Everyday examples help show the card’s daily performance. They transform complex data into useful decisions. Here, we explain the value through real math and typical travel cases.
Grocery savings case study
Imagine spending $800 on groceries each month. This adds up to $9,600 yearly. Using the card gives you 6 Scene+ points for every $1 spent.
Annually, you get 57,600 Scene+ points. With each point worth 0.8¢, the total value you redeem is $460.80 CAD.
This savings more than covers the card’s yearly fee. It also helps save quicker for short trips or dining. Adding grocery deals or Scene+ partner specials makes the returns even better and the card pays for itself faster.
Travel savings no foreign fees Canada
Avoiding the usual 2.5% foreign transaction fee with the Scotiabank Gold Amex is a big win. On a $3,000 trip, not paying this fee saves you $75 CAD with the Gold Amex.
Spending the same abroad earns you 9,000 Scene+ points. This equals to $72 CAD. Together, fee savings and rewards give you $147 CAD. This is before extra costs like dynamic currency conversion or ATM fees, which can lower your savings.
Keep an eye on dynamic currency conversion and ATM charges. They can lessen the benefit of no foreign transaction fees if you’re not careful.
Who benefits most
- Big grocery shoppers seeking regular points and travel credits.
- People who travel abroad often and like saving on foreign fees while earning rewards on everyday buys.
- Shoppers who maximize Scene+ partner deals for greater return and specific rewards boosts.
- Not great for: those who tend to have high ongoing debts, as interest costs can negate rewards.
- Not great for: travelers wanting the best lounge access and top-end benefits; premium cards are more suitable.
Conclusion
The Scotiabank Gold Amex Card is great for two reasons: earning 6× Scene+ points on groceries and no fees on purchases made abroad. These benefits make it a top pick for families who often buy groceries and for those who travel outside of Canada to avoid the usual 2.5% foreign transaction fee.
Considering the Scotiabank Gold Amex Canada? Think about the annual fee compared to how much you spend on groceries and travel. Don’t forget to look at the welcome bonuses, interest rates, and insurance options on Scotiabank and American Express websites. If you spend a lot on groceries and travel overseas, this card could help you save money by earning points and cutting costs on fees.
If you’re looking for the best card for buying groceries and for travel, this card is worth considering. But, if you want special travel benefits or the cheapest fee, check out cards from TD, RBC, and CIBC that offer those. For many in Canada who shop a lot and travel frequently, the Scotiabank Gold Amex Card presents clear value. It’s an easy way to earn and use points.
FAQ
What are the headline benefits of the Scotiabank Gold Amex Card?
Which purchases qualify for the 6× points on groceries?
How much are Scene+ points worth when redeeming?
Does the card truly waive foreign transaction fees on purchases and ATM withdrawals?
What travel insurance and protections come with the card?
How does this card compare to premium travel cards and grocery-focused alternatives?
What is the annual fee and how can I decide if it’s worth it?
Are there welcome offers or promotional earn rates available?
What credit score and eligibility requirements are typical for approval?
How can I maximise 6× points on groceries and everyday spending?
What are the best redemption strategies for Scene+ points?
How does the mobile and customer support experience work for cardholders?
Can you give a simple example showing the value of 6× on groceries?
Who benefits most from the Scotiabank Gold Amex Card?
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