The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card is designed to elevate your spending and travel experiences. Earn valuable Scene+ points on everyday purchases, skip foreign transaction fees, and enjoy lifestyle-focused perks.
Whether dining out, shopping, or booking a trip, this card delivers convenience and rewards. With features like flexible payments, concierge services, and exclusive entertainment access, it’s an excellent choice for those who value flexibility and benefits. Discover why this card could be the perfect fit for you.
Key information about the credit card
How does the annual fee work?
The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card has an annual fee of $120. While this may seem like a commitment, it is worth noting that the value of rewards and benefits offered far outweighs the cost. This annual fee can also be paid in installments, helping cardholders manage their budget more effectively.
Additionally, you can obtain a waiver for the annual fee when you sign up for specific Scotiabank packages, such as the Preferred or Ultimate Packages. These packages provide added value by combining the benefits of the credit card with tailored banking solutions. For frequent travelers and high spenders, the annual fee is a small price to pay for the wealth of rewards and services available.
Supplementary cards for family members or friends are available for just $29 per year. This allows everyone in your household to enjoy the benefits of the card, making it a practical choice for families.
How is the credit limit determined?
The credit limit for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card starts at a minimum of $5,000. Scotiabank determines your limit based on several factors, including your income, credit score, and overall financial profile. This tailored approach ensures that the credit limit aligns with your spending capacity and repayment ability, offering both flexibility and responsibility.
For those with strong credit histories and higher incomes, the credit limit may exceed the minimum, providing more purchasing power. Scotiabank’s personalized assessment process aims to create a balance between offering sufficient credit and maintaining financial security for the cardholder.
Benefits of the credit card
The Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card comes packed with exceptional benefits designed to enhance your financial journey:
- High earning potential: Earn up to 6X Scene+ points on every $1 CAD spent on eligible purchases like groceries, dining, and entertainment. This high reward rate makes everyday spending more rewarding.
- No foreign transaction fees: Save 2.5% on all foreign currency purchases, including online shopping and travel. This is a standout feature that makes international spending hassle-free and cost-effective.
- Flexible payment options: Use Scotia SelectPay™ to break large purchases into smaller, manageable installments with low interest rates. This feature adds convenience and control over your finances.
- Insurance coverage: Enjoy comprehensive insurance benefits, including travel medical insurance, trip cancellation/interruption insurance, and purchase protection, providing peace of mind for frequent travelers.
- Exclusive entertainment access: Take advantage of Front Of The Line® by American Express, giving you presale tickets and reserved seating at some of the most sought-after events.
- Airport lounge access: Receive a discount on Priority Pass™ membership for access to over 1,200 VIP lounges worldwide, ensuring a comfortable travel experience.
- Convenience and security: Enjoy tap-to-pay, mobile wallet integration, and 24/7 concierge services, making your day-to-day financial transactions seamless and secure.
Standout benefit: Scene+ rewards program
The Scene+ rewards program makes this card truly unique. Members earn points on every purchase, which can be redeemed for travel, dining, shopping, and more. With partners like Sobeys, Safeway, FreshCo, and others, earning rewards is seamless and highly rewarding. Scene+ points can be redeemed for flights, hotel stays, and even gift cards, offering flexibility and value.
The program also includes special promotions and bonus points opportunities, helping you maximize your rewards. For frequent travelers and everyday spenders alike, Scene+ points provide unparalleled value and versatility, making this card a top choice for anyone who values rewards.
Disadvantages
While the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card offers numerous benefits, it’s essential to consider potential drawbacks:
- Annual fee: $120 per year may deter some users, especially those who don’t fully utilize the card’s benefits.
- Interest rates: 20.99% on purchases and 22.99% on cash advances are relatively high, making it less suitable for carrying a balance.
- Supplementary card fee: $29 annually per additional cardholder adds to the overall cost.
- Limited acceptance: American Express cards may not be as widely accepted as Visa or Mastercard in some locations, which could be inconvenient.
Main disadvantage: Annual fee
For those who do not fully utilize the card’s benefits, the annual fee could feel like a significant cost. However, maximizing rewards, taking advantage of promotions, and combining the card with a Scotiabank package can offset this expense. It’s important to evaluate your spending habits and financial goals to determine if the fee aligns with your expected benefits.
Who can apply for this card?
To apply for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card, you must meet the following criteria:
- Minimum age: 18 years (19 in some provinces).
- Income requirement: Minimum individual income of $12,000 annually, making it accessible to a wide range of applicants.
- Credit score: A good to excellent credit rating is typically required. This ensures that applicants are financially responsible and capable of managing credit effectively.
- Residency: Must be a Canadian resident with a valid SIN.
- Financial standing: Applicants with no recent bankruptcies or significant credit issues are preferred.
This card is not designed for individuals with poor credit or those seeking low-interest options. However, for those who meet the criteria, it offers a range of benefits and rewards that make it an excellent choice.
How to apply for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card
Applying for this card is a straightforward process. You can choose from the following methods:
Online application
- Visit the official Scotiabank website.
- Navigate to the credit cards section and select the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card.
- Click “Apply Now” and complete the online form with your personal and financial details.
- Upload any required documents, such as proof of income, if requested.
- Submit the application and wait for confirmation. Approval times may vary, but Scotiabank typically provides updates promptly.
Through the mobile app
- Download the Scotiabank app on your smartphone, available for both iOS and Android devices.
- Log in or create an account if you are a new customer.
- Navigate to the credit cards section and follow the prompts to apply for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card.
- Upload any required documents directly through the app.
- Track your application status conveniently within the app.
At a branch
- Locate the nearest Scotiabank branch using the website or app.
- Book an appointment with an advisor or visit during business hours.
- Bring necessary documents, such as proof of income, government-issued identification, and proof of residency.
- Discuss your application with an advisor, who can provide personalized advice and assistance.
- Submit your application and receive updates directly from the branch staff.