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Home » Card Reviews » Amex Card Reviews » Review: Is the Amex Platinum Card Worth It in Canada?

Review: Is the Amex Platinum Card Worth It in Canada?

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Britt Phoenix

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Apply for the Platinum Card

Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.

Platinum Card At a Glance

Best choice for: Premium Lounge Access

Welcome Bonus
Up to 170,000 points
Top Earn Rate
2x on food & drinks
Points Currency
Amex Membership Rewards points
Annual Fee
$799/year
Target Market
Consumer
Card Style
Metal
Card Type
Charge Card

Quick Verdict

The Platinum Card is best for frequent travellers who will actually use the lounge access, travel credits, hotel perks, and premium benefits. The annual fee is high, so this is not a casual rewards card. But if you travel often and like a smoother airport and hotel experience, the Platinum Card can be worth serious consideration.

Who It’s For

  • Frequent travellers wanting lounge access
  • Cardholders who use premium travel credits
  • Travellers booking hotels and flights often
  • Premium users who maximize card benefits

How to Get Approved for the Platinum Card

Approval Difficulty

750+ (Very Good)

recommended credit score

Canada Credit Card Approval - Stricter Approval, Recommended 750+ (Very Good) Credit Score

Stricter Approval

Based on typical approval patterns in Canada.
Approval is not guaranteed.

How to get approved for an Amex card in Canada.

Requirements

  • Age of majority: Canadian resident, age 18 or 19+ depending on your province/territory
  • Credit history: 6+ months minimum credit history of low utilization and on-time payments
  • Income requirement: None publicly specified
  • Approval speed: Often instant with Amex Apply With Confidence
Apply Now

Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.

Platinum Card Welcome Bonus Tracker

Track how today’s credit card welcome bonus compares against past offers, so you can apply with confidence.

PointsWise Welcome Bonus Tracker - Tracking Credit Card Welcome Bonuses in Canada

Current Welcome Bonus

170,000

Amex Membership Rewards points

Experience Amex’s best offer this year.

You can earn up to 170,000 Membership Rewards points:

90,000 points after spending $10,000 in the first 3 months.

Plus 40,000 points after you spend a total of $45,000 on your Card in your first 12 months of cardmembership.

You can also earn 40,000 points when you make a purchase between months 15 and 17 of cardmembership.

Offer ends July 28, 2026.

Estimated Value

$1,700

at 1¢ per point

Limited Time Offer

Offer scheduled to end

Jul 28, 2026

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Apply Now

Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.

Strong Offer

This is a stronger welcome bonus than usual.

The current Amex Platinum welcome bonus is one of the strongest offers we have tracked for this card.

At up to 170,000 Membership Rewards points, this is the best Platinum Card offer of 2026 so far and only slightly below the 180,000-point peak from June 2025. Compared to the previous 100,000-point offer, this is a major improvement and makes the card much easier to justify despite its high annual fee.

If you have been waiting for a better time to apply for The Platinum Card, this is the kind of offer worth acting on. The main catch is the spending requirement. You need to be confident you can meet the first $10,000 spend requirement in the first 3 months, and ideally have a realistic plan for the larger 12-month spending tier as well.

For travellers who can use the card’s airport lounge access, annual credits, hotel benefits, and premium travel perks, this is one of the best times to apply for the Platinum Card.

Current offer since Jun 2026
Historical high 180,000 points
Last change Up 70,000 points

Where The Platinum Card Welcome Bonus Sits Historically

This range compares the current public bonus against the lowest, typical, and highest offers PointsWise has tracked for the Platinum Card.

Historical Low 25,000 points
Typical Range 80,000 - 110,000 points
Historical High 180,000 points
170,000 points Current Offer

History available since 2019

Updated Jun 3, 2026

Platinum Card Welcome Bonus History

See how the Platinum Card welcome bonus has changed over time, including confirmed snapshots when the public offer stayed the same.

Welcome Bonus Events - Card Reviews v1

Offer snapshots indicate dates when the public welcome bonus was confirmed unchanged.

Why it matters

Credit card welcome bonuses change often. This tracker helps you compare today’s offer against past public offers before you apply.

Compare before you apply.

See whether today’s welcome bonus is low, typical, or unusually strong for this card.

Decide whether waiting to apply makes sense.

A past high offer is useful context, but it may not return soon.

Understand offer snapshots

Snapshot bars show when a public bonus was confirmed unchanged, not when a new offer launched.

Ready to Apply or Compare Offers?

Apply with confidence.

Platinum Card card image
Apply for the Platinum Card

Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.

Amex Welcome Bonus History Tracker in Canada Since 2019
Compare welcome bonuses

View and compare offers across all cards.

Amex Cobalt Card Earn Rates

2x
food & drinks

Earn 2 points per $1 on eligible purchases at restaurants, quick service restaurants, coffee shops, drinking establishments, and food delivery services in Canada whose primary business is food delivery (excluding groceries).

2x
travel

Earn 2 points per $1 on eligible purchases for travel services or travel bookings, including air, water, rail, and road transport, lodging, and tour operator sales (excluding local and commuter transportation).

1x
everything else

Earn 1 point per $1 on all other eligible purchases.

Amex Membership Rewards Points

The value of your points depends on how you use them. Here’s what you can realistically expect.

How to Redeem Amex Membership Rewards Points

Transfer to Aeroplan
Transfer Amex Membership Rewards to Aeroplan for flights. This is where you’ll get the most value.
Use Fixed Points Travel
Book through Amex Fixed Points Travel for predictable value, especially for economy flights or last-minute bookings.
Keep Points Flexible
Hold onto your points until you’re ready. MR points don’t expire as long as your account stays active.
Use Statement Credits
Redeem for statement credits strategically, but know their value will be capped at 1¢ per point.
View the Amex Membership Rewards Guide

Amex Membership Rewards Value

Typical Value (When Used Well)

1.5¢ - 2.5¢ per point

Best Use

Transfer Amex MR to Aeroplan to use for Air Canada and partner flights.

Example

60,000 MR > 60,000 Aeroplan points (1:1 transfer)> $1,200 flight (cash price)= 2¢ per point

High-Value Potential

3¢+ per point For premium cabin redemptions on long-haul international flights.

Quick Insight

Think of MR points as a flexible travel currency. Their value increases when flight prices are high and decreases when prices are low.

Platinum Card Benefits

A closer look at the benefits, travel rewards, and everyday extras that come with the Platinum Card.

35 total benefits

Featured Benefits

Airport Lounge Access

Enjoy complimentary access to 1,700+ airport lounges through American Express Centurion Lounges, Plaza Premium lounges, and Priority Pass lounges when travelling.

Annual Travel and Dining Credits

Offset eligible travel and dining purchases with the Platinum Card’s $200 Annual Travel Credit and $200 Annual Dining Credit.

Fine Hotels + Resorts Benefits

Enjoy Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits valued at an average of $550 USD, including late check-out, complimentary breakfast for two, a $100 USD property credit, and more at over 1,600 exceptional properties worldwide.

Hotel and Rental Car Status Benefits

Enroll for hotel and rental car status benefits, including Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status, Hilton Honors Gold Status, Avis Preferred Plus, Hertz President’s Circle, and National Emerald Club Executive status.

Transfer Your Points to Travel Partners

Transfer points to frequent flyer and hotel programs, including Aeroplan, Avios, Marriott and Hilton, offering flexibility and value for travel enthusiasts.

Explore All Benefits

Travel Benefits15 benefits

American Express Centurion Lounge Access

Relax in style with exclusive American Express Centurion Lounge access - enjoy premium amenities, gourmet dining with drinks, and a peaceful escape before your flight.

Complimentary Plaza Premium Lounge Access

Unlimited Plaza Premium Lounge access lets you travel in style - relax with complimentary refreshments, Wi-Fi, and a quiet retreat before you take off.

Complimentary Priority Pass Lounge Access

Enjoy unlimited complimentary Priority Pass Lounge Access for quiet spaces, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and more at over 1,700 airport lounges worldwide - the perfect escape before your flight.

Discounted Airfare

Get access to discounted base fares for you and your travel companions when you book through the International Airline Program.

Fine Hotels + Resorts Benefits

Enjoy Fine Hotels + Resorts benefits valued at an average of $550 USD, including late check-out, complimentary breakfast for two, a $100 USD property credit, and more at over 1,600 exceptional properties worldwide.

Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status

Enroll to receive Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite Status and enjoy room upgrades, late checkout, bonus points, and more at Marriott properties worldwide.

Hilton Honors Gold Status

Enroll to receive Hilton Honors Gold Status and savour complimentary breakfast, room upgrades, and bonus points on every stay at Hilton hotels worldwide.

Hotel Collection Benefits

Enjoy hotel perks such as room upgrades (when available), 12pm check-in, late check-out (when available), and up to $100 USD credit for amenities on stays of 2 or more nights through The Hotel Collection from American Express Travel.

Avis Preferred Plus

Enroll to receive Avis Preferred Plus status and drive in style - enjoy priority service, complimentary upgrades, and faster rewards on every rental.

Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President's Circle

Enroll to receive Hertz Gold Plus Rewards President's Circle status and enjoy guaranteed upgrades, priority service, and faster free rental days on every trip.

National Emerald Club Executive

Enroll to receive National Emerald Club Executive status and access exclusive vehicles, guaranteed upgrades, and faster free rental days with every rental.

Access to Pearson Priority Security Lane

Enjoy expedited security clearance at Toronto Pearson Airport.

Complimentary Valet Service at Toronto Pearson Airport

Enjoy complimentary valet service at the Express Park and Daily Park (Terminal 1) at Toronto Pearson Airport.

Parking Discount at Toronto Pearson Airport

Receive a 15% discount on parking at Express Park (Terminal 1) and Daily Park (Terminal 1 & 3)

Car Care Discount at Toronto Pearson Airport

Enjoy a 15% discount on car cleaning and detailing services at Toronto Pearson Airport (Terminal 1.)

Redemption Options9 benefits

Transfer Your Points to Travel Partners

Transfer points to frequent flyer and hotel programs, including Aeroplan, Avios, Marriott and Hilton, offering flexibility and value for travel enthusiasts.

Apply Points to Travel Purchases

With Flexible Points Travel, redeem points for virtually any travel expense, giving you endless choices for your next adventure. 1,000 points = $10 statement credit.

Amex Fixed Points Travel

Use your points to book flights through the Fixed Points Travel program and simplify your travel planning with Amex's straightforward, high-value options. Round-trip flights start at 15,000 points.

Redeem Points for Statement Credits

Convert your points into statement credits to cover eligible charges, giving you real-time rewards and financial flexibility. 1,000 points = $10 credit.

Membership Rewards Shopping

Use Membership Rewards points to shop for merchandise, electronics, home goods, and other eligible rewards through the Membership Rewards shopping catalogue.

Redeem Points for Gift Cards

With Membership Rewards points, enjoy gift cards to popular retailers or American Express Prepaid Gift Cards, turning points into flexible everyday value.

Shop with Points on Amazon

Use your Membership Rewards points to cover part or all of your purchases on Amazon, turning everyday shopping into rewarding experiences. 1,000 points = $7 credit.

Use Points at Checkout with PayPal

Use your points to cover purchases big or small wherever PayPal is accepted. 1,000 points = $7 credit.

Donate Your Points to Charity

Use points to contribute to a variety of charities, helping make the world a better place with the rewards you've earned. 1,000 points = $10 credit.

Credit Rewards3 benefits

Annual Travel Credit ($200)

Enjoy a $200 Annual Travel Credit each year of your Cardmembership.

Annual Dining Credit ($200)

Enjoy a $200 Annual Dining Credit that can be used at some of Canada's best restaurants.

NEXUS Credit ($100)

Receive up to $100 in statement credits every four years when NEXUS application or renewal fees are charged to your Card.

Amex Experiences4 benefits

Global Dining Collection Access

Indulge in exceptional dining with Global Dining Collection access - enjoy exclusive reservations, unique culinary experiences, and special perks at top restaurants worldwide.

Front of the Line Presale Access

Enjoy exclusive early access to presale tickets with Front of the Line access and get your seats to the hottest concerts, shows, and events before the general public.

Exclusive Access

Make every night out unforgettable and breeze through dedicated entrances at the Budweiser Stage, relax in premium lounges, and enjoy priority service at top venues like Massey Hall and Mirvish Theatres.

Amex Experiences

Cardmembers get access to a variety of special offers created just for American Express. From advance screenings of blockbuster movies, to weekend getaway packages and special online and in-store shopping deals, it's never been easier to have an experience you'll never forget.

Member Extras3 benefits

$200+ Additional Value

Unlock $200 or more in additional value with Member Extras, including statement credits for qualifying purchases with participating brands.

Dedicated Concierge Team

Enjoy access to specialty services and events, preferential treatment, and a dedicated Concierge team.

Amex Offers

Save on everyday purchases with Amex Offers and enjoy exclusive discounts and rewards at your favourite stores, restaurants, and online shops. New offers are always being added, so be sure to check your account regularly.

Card Design1 benefit

Metal Card Design

Stand out with the sophisticated look and feel of an American Express metal card - durable, elegant, and designed to impress.

Platinum Card Insurance Coverage

Here’s a closer look at the insurance coverage included with the Platinum Card, including travel, purchase, rental car, mobile device, and other protections where applicable.

Coverage amounts, eligibility, and exclusions vary by card. Always review the certificate of insurance before relying on a benefit.

Travel Insurance

9 coverages

Purchase & Warranty Coverage

2 coverages

Rental Car Coverage

1 coverage

Explore Insurance Coverage

Travel Insurance9 coverages

Emergency Medical Insurance

Stay protected with up to $5,000,000 in emergency medical coverage for eligible expenses when travelling outside your province or country. Coverage applies for the first 15 days of each trip (for insured persons under 65).

Up to $5,000,000

Trip Cancellation Insurance

Get up to $2,500 per person (maximum $5,000 per trip) reimbursed for non-refundable travel expenses if you need to cancel for a covered reason, as long as you charged the costs to your card before departure.

Up to $5,000 per trip

Trip Interruption Insurance

Receive up to $2,500 per person (up to $6,000 total per trip) for non-refundable, unused travel expenses if your trip is interrupted or delayed for a covered reason, as long as you booked with your card.

Up to $6,000 per trip

Flight Delay Insurance

If your flight is delayed by four hours or more, receive up to $1,000 in coverage for essential expenses like lodging, meals, and sundry items. Simply charge your airline ticket to your card to activate this benefit.

Up to $1,000

Baggage Delay Insurance

Get up to $1,000 in coverage for emergency purchases of essential items if your checked baggage is delayed by six or more hours on your outbound trip.

Up to $1,000

Lost or Stolen Baggage Insurance

Protect your belongings with coverage of up to $1,000 per trip for lost or damaged checked and carry-on baggage when you charge your airline tickets to your card.

Up to $1,000

Hotel Burglary Insurance

Get up to $1,000 coverage for personal items lost due to hotel room burglary when you fully book and pay for your stay with your card (excludes cash).

Up to $1,000

Travel Accident Insurance

Provides up to $500,000 in Accidental Death and Dismemberment insurance when you charge your fare on a common carrier to your card. Coverage extends to you, your spouse, dependent children under 23, and even supplementary cardholders and their families.

Up to $500,000

Travel Emergency Assistance

Get peace of mind with 24/7 access to emergency medical and legal referrals when you're out of town. Connect by phone anytime, day or night, for assistance wherever you are.

24/7 assistance
Purchase & Warranty Coverage2 coverages

Automatic Purchase Protection

Get 120 days of automatic protection, covering up to $1,000 per incident for eligible purchases with coverage for accidental damage or theft, even if other insurance doesn't apply.

Up to $1,000

Extended Warranty with Buyer's Assurance Protection Plan

Doubles the original manufacturer's warranty by up to two additional years on eligible purchases made with your card. Coverage is valid in Canada and the U.S., with protection up to $10,000 per item and $25,000 annually.

Up to $25,000 annually
Rental Car Coverage1 coverage

Car Rental Theft and Damage Insurance

Provides automatic coverage for car rental theft and damage when you charge your rental to your card and decline the rental company's insurance. With protection for vehicles valued up to $85,000.

Up to $85,000

Platinum Card Fees & Rates

A quick look at the Platinum Card's annual fee, interest rates, and other common charges.

Annual Fee

$799 /year

Foreign Transaction Fee

2.50%

Applies to purchases in non-Canadian currencies.

Penalty APR

21.99% - 30.00% Variable

May apply if the account is not kept in good standing.

Additional Card Fee

$250/year per additional Platinum card

Cost for an additional card with full card benefits.

Detailed Fee Breakdown

Annual Fee
$799/year
Foreign Transaction Fee
2.50%
Purchase Interest
N/A
Cash Advance Rate
N/A
Full Benefits Additional Card Fee
$250/year per additional Platinum card
Limited Benefits Additional Card Fee
First two Gold Cards free; $50/year for additional Gold Cards
Penalty APR
21.99% - 30.00% Variable
Balance Transfer Rate
N/A
Intro Balance Transfer Rate
N/A

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Apply for the Platinum Card

Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.

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Platinum Card
View the current offer for the Platinum Card Platinum Card offer
Earn up to 170,000 points.
Instant decision available with no impact to your credit score.
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