Scotiabank Gold American Express for Canadian Travellers, No Foreign Transaction Fees and Up to 5x Points

Rewards that make travel happen

The Scotiabank Gold American Express delivers a clear value proposition for Canadian travellers: earn up to 5x Scotia Rewards points on groceries, dining and entertainment, 3x on gas, transit and select streaming, and 1x on everything else. Those points add up fast and can be redeemed for flights, hotels or statement credits, giving you flexibility to turn everyday spending into trips.

With a welcome bonus often reaching up to 30,000 points and a rewards ecosystem that’s easy to navigate, the Scotiabank Gold American Express stands out among Canadian travel cards. Frequent shoppers and families will notice the accelerated points on common categories, so the card covers daily life and holiday plans alike.

No foreign transaction fees and practical savings

One of the biggest perks for anyone crossing the border or flying overseas is that the Scotiabank Gold American Express charges no foreign transaction fees, so you avoid the typical 2.5% currency conversion surcharge. That feature alone can save regular international travellers dozens or hundreds of dollars every year, depending on how often you spend abroad.

Combine the absence of foreign transaction fees with bonus points on travel-related purchases and you get a card that reduces travel costs while increasing reward accrual. For travellers who like to book last-minute deals or spend on dining while abroad, this makes the Scotiabank Gold American Express a practical daily driver.

Travel insurance and peace of mind

Travel safety is a top priority for Canadians heading overseas, and the Scotiabank Gold American Express includes solid travel emergency medical insurance, trip cancellation/interruption coverage, flight delay protection and lost baggage insurance. These protections can be crucial on longer trips or family vacations, helping avoid big out-of-pocket expenses in an emergency.

Insurance details and eligibility vary by province and by the length of your trip, so it’s smart to review the policy before you travel. Still, the included coverage adds meaningful value to the Scotiabank Gold American Express, making it more than just a rewards card—it’s a travel companion.

Fees, eligibility and real-world value

The card carries an annual fee of CAD 120, which many cardholders offset quickly through accelerated points and savings from no foreign transaction fees. The Scotiabank Gold American Express typically requires good to excellent credit and Canadian residency, and applying is straightforward through Scotiabank’s online portal or at a branch.

When comparing travel credit cards in Canada, weigh the Scotiabank Gold American Express’s combination of Scotia Rewards points, comprehensive travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees against other offers. For Canadians who travel several times a year or spend heavily on groceries and dining, the card often delivers strong net value.