Scotiabank Gold Passport Visa review for Canadians with top rewards, travel insurance and no foreign transaction fees

Rewards and earning potential

The Scotiabank Gold Passport Visa is built for Canadians who want top travel rewards on everyday spending. You earn accelerated points on dining, entertainment and groceries in CAD, plus solid earn rates on travel purchases, making it easy to rack up points whether you live in Toronto, Vancouver or smaller centres across the provinces.

Points are flexible and redeemable for flights, hotels or statement credits, and the card often features targeted promotions that boost point earnings. For Canadian travellers who prioritise value, the steady earn rate combined with occasional bonus offers makes this card a strong contender in the Scotiabank credit card lineup.

Travel insurance and protection

What sets the Scotiabank Gold Passport Visa apart is its comprehensive travel insurance suite tailored to Canadian travellers. Coverage typically includes emergency medical, trip cancellation and interruption, flight delay and lost baggage protection, which can save you thousands if you face an unexpected event while travelling outside Canada.

Insurance terms vary by cardholder profile and trip length, so check your policy details before travel and confirm coverage limits in CAD. Knowing the fine print helps you use the card confidently for international trips and domestic getaways alike.

Fees, foreign transactions and real cost

The card carries an annual fee (around CAD 120) that many frequent travellers find justified by rewards, insurance and perks. Interest rates on carried balances are standard for Canadian credit cards, so it pays to pay in full each month to maximise net value from points and avoid finance charges.

One of the biggest selling points is genuine no foreign transaction fees on purchases made abroad, saving you the typical 2.5% FX markup other cards charge. For Canadians who travel to the U.S., Europe or Asia regularly, that fee avoidance alone can offset the annual cost quickly.

Airport perks, redemption strategy and final take

The Scotiabank Gold Passport Visa includes airport lounge access and occasional hotel room upgrade offers that add a touch of comfort when you travel. Lounge access can turn long layovers into productive or restful time, and combining lounge perks with the rewards program increases the card’s practical travel value.

To maximise return, use the card for travel, dining and everyday categories that earn bonus points, redeem strategically for flights or high-value travel redemptions, and take advantage of promotional offers. For Canadians seeking a travel-first credit card with strong insurance and no foreign transaction fees, the Scotiabank Gold Passport Visa deserves serious consideration—check eligibility and compare it to your current cards to see if it fits your itinerary and wallet.