Three strategies, one wallet
There is no single best card because most people need more than one. Think in three strategies instead. You run one card for everyday life, add a second for travel, and reach for a third when a big goal is in play. They stack, and almost everyone uses at least two. Every category below is tagged with the strategy it serves.
Climber
The everyday card you live on
The card that handles groceries, gas, dining, and bills, earning into one program you can actually use. This is the base layer. If you carry one card, it is this one.
Roamer
The card you carry abroad
A card with no foreign transaction fee, so spending overseas stops quietly losing about 2.5% on every purchase. You add it on top of your everyday card and bring it out when you leave the country.
Earner
The accelerator
The move that builds points fast: a large welcome bonus, business spend, or a premium card that earns several times the rate. Optional, and worth it when you have a specific trip to reach.
Why are you picking a card?
The tables above rank cards inside a job. This one works the other way round: pick the reason the card would earn its place in your wallet, and see every card that answers it, with the fact that makes it true. Each card carries three reasons, so most appear under more than one.
You fly one carrier or alliance often enough that it drives the choice.
American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve CardAmerican Express
Best for a business that flies Air Canada
3x Aeroplan on Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations, the top co-brand rate, with a free checked bag and priority service on every booking.
American Express Aeroplan CardAmerican Express
Best mid-tier Air Canada earn rate
2x on Air Canada out-earns every TD and CIBC mid-tier Aeroplan card at 1.5x, for a $120 fee.
American Express Aeroplan Reserve CardAmerican Express
Best Aeroplan earn rate on Air Canada
3x Aeroplan on Air Canada, the highest rate of any Aeroplan co-brand in Canada.
Best for solo Porter flyers travelling light
Passport status moves you through check-in and security faster, and the bag waivers you give up would not apply anyway.
BMO VIPorter World Elite MastercardBMO
Best for flying Porter with family
Free bag, free carry-on, seat selection and priority service for up to 8 people on the same booking, not just the cardholder.
Cathay World Elite Mastercard, powered by NeoNeo Financial
Best for Oneworld premium cabin awards
4x on Cathay Pacific bookings, feeding a program built for Oneworld long-haul redemptions.
United MileagePlus Neo World Elite MastercardNeo Financial
Best for connecting through a US hub
Free first checked bag on United, Group 2 priority boarding, and a renewal bonus each year, for $89.
Best for checked bags on WestJet
Free first checked bag for the cardholder plus up to 8 companions on the same booking.
TD Aeroplan Visa Business CardTD
Best for checked bags across a team
Free first checked bag on Air Canada, plus priority check-in, for a team that currently pays for bags.
How these scores work
This page uses the fit score, which is not the same number as the card score. A fit score answers “how well does this card do this one job”, so the same card carries a different fit score in each category it appears in. It is computed from this site’s card data by a fixed, published formula: four weighted components (earn in the category, welcome bonus, annual fee, ease of qualifying) add up to 100, with points converted at the typical values from our reward values reference. Click any score to open its breakdown.
The card score column beside it answers a different question: how the card stands against every other card of its type, across earn, cost, insurance, welcome bonus, lounge access, foreign transaction fees and redemption flexibility, from the full rankings. Both are out of 100 and they will not agree, because one measures a job and the other measures the whole card. Every card we cover appears in the table for each job it qualifies for; nothing is hand-picked. How both scores are built.
Best for everyday spending
Maximize points on groceries, dining, gas, and recurring bills. These earn the most on the categories you spend on every week.
| # | Card | Fit score | Card score | Annual fee | Why it ranks here |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Scotiabank Gold American Express Apply →$12K income |
83mathEarn+45 / 45 6x partner grocery × 1¢ = 6% effectiveWelcome+8.3 / 20 50,000 pts ≈ $500Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+13.5 / 15 $12K personal incomeScore83 / 100 |
56.73rd of 24 mid-tier | $120 | 6x at Sobeys-family grocery, 5x dining and entertainment, no FX fee. Amex acceptance is patchier. |
| 2 | American Express Cobalt Card Apply →No income gate |
77mathEarn+45 / 45 5x partner grocery × 1.5¢ = 7.5% effectiveWelcome+3.8 / 20 15,000 pts ≈ $225Fee+13.6 / 20 $191.88 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore77 / 100 |
50.26th of 24 mid-tier | $191.88 | 5x on eats and drinks up to $2,500 a month, the highest grocery-and-dining rate on any Canadian card. |
| 3 | National Bank World Elite Mastercard Apply →$80K income |
69mathEarn+37.5 / 45 5x partner grocery × 1¢ = 5% effectiveWelcome+8.3 / 20 50,000 pts ≈ $500Fee+15 / 20 $150 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore69 / 100 |
64.11st of 24 mid-tier | $150 | A combined 5x rate up to $2,500 a month, among the strongest everyday earn structures in Canada. |
| 4 | MBNA Rewards World Elite Mastercard$80K income |
67mathEarn+37.5 / 45 5x grocery × 1¢ = 5% effectiveWelcome+5 / 20 30,000 pts ≈ $300Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore67 / 100 |
not scored | $120 | 5 points per dollar on restaurants, groceries, digital media, memberships and household utilities, up to $50,000 a year in each, at a fixed 1 cent per point on travel. |
| 5 | American Express Gold Rewards Card Apply →No income gate |
64mathEarn+22.5 / 45 2x partner grocery × 1.5¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+15 / 20 60,000 pts ≈ $900Fee+11.7 / 20 $250 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore64 / 100 |
56.04th of 24 mid-tier | $250 | 2x across all three everyday categories with no cap, which is where the card does most of its work. |
| 6 | BMO VIPorter World Elite Mastercard Apply →$80K income |
62mathEarn+22.5 / 45 2x partner grocery × 1.5¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+17.5 / 20 70,000 pts ≈ $1,050Fee+13.4 / 20 $199 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore62 / 100 |
44.011th of 24 mid-tier | $199 | Free bag, free carry-on, seat selection and priority service for up to 8 people on the same booking, not just the cardholder. |
| 7 | TD First Class Travel Visa Infinite Apply →$60K income |
61mathEarn+22.5 / 45 6x partner grocery × 0.5¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+12.2 / 20 146,000 pts ≈ $730Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore61 / 100 |
60.72nd of 24 mid-tier | $139 | 6x on groceries, dining, and transit, a $100 travel credit, and four lounge visits. |
| 8 | BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Apply →$60K income |
59mathEarn+25.1 / 45 5x partner grocery × 0.67¢ = 3.4% effectiveWelcome+7.8 / 20 70,000 pts ≈ $469Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore59 / 100 |
45.97th of 24 mid-tier | $120 | 5x on groceries, dining, gas, drugstore, and travel. A $50 credit cuts the effective fee to $70. |
| 9 | More Rewards RBC Visa Infinite$60K income |
58mathEarn+25.8 / 45 8x partner grocery × 0.43¢ = 3.4% effectiveWelcome+1.4 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $86Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore58 / 100 |
90.51st of 4 no-fee | $0 | 8x at Pattison banners and on gas and dining, against 5x and 3x on the base Visa. |
| 10 | American Express Aeroplan Card Apply →No income gate |
57mathEarn+15.7 / 45 1.5x dining × 1.4¢ = 2.1% effectiveWelcome+10.5 / 20 45,000 pts ≈ $630Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore57 / 100 |
34.121st of 24 mid-tier | $120 | 1.5x on restaurants and food delivery, a category the TD and CIBC mid-tier Aeroplan cards do not reward at all. |
| 11 | Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Apply →$60K income |
54mathEarn+22.5 / 45 3x partner grocery × 1¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+5.8 / 20 35,000 pts ≈ $350Fee+15 / 20 $150 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore54 / 100 |
53.25th of 24 mid-tier | $150 | No foreign transaction fees is the defining feature, on a card that also earns at the grocery store. |
| 12 | More Rewards RBC VisaNo income gate |
53mathEarn+16.1 / 45 5x partner grocery × 0.43¢ = 2.2% effectiveWelcome+1.4 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $86Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore53 / 100 |
76.62nd of 4 no-fee | $0 | 5x at Pattison banner stores, which are concentrated in BC and Alberta. |
| 13 | CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite$60K income |
53mathEarn+15.7 / 45 1.5x grocery × 1.4¢ = 2.1% effectiveWelcome+11.7 / 20 50,000 pts ≈ $700Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore53 / 100 |
44.69th of 24 mid-tier | $139 | For those who want airline points: 1.5x Aeroplan on gas, groceries, and Air Canada. |
| 14 | BMO VIPorter Mastercard Apply →No income gate |
53mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1x partner grocery × 1.5¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+10 / 20 40,000 pts ≈ $600Fee+17 / 20 $89 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore53 / 100 |
35.917th of 24 mid-tier | $89 | The only VIPorter card with no income test at all, where the World Elite asks $80,000 personal or $150,000 household. |
| 15 | TD Platinum Travel Visa Apply →No income gate |
53mathEarn+16.9 / 45 4.5x partner grocery × 0.5¢ = 2.3% effectiveWelcome+4.2 / 20 50,000 pts ≈ $250Fee+17 / 20 $89 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore53 / 100 |
30.824th of 24 mid-tier | $89 | 4.5x on groceries, dining and transit, which clears the $89 fee at moderate spend. |
| 16 | TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Apply →$60K income |
51mathEarn+15.7 / 45 1.5x partner grocery × 1.4¢ = 2.1% effectiveWelcome+9.3 / 20 40,000 pts ≈ $560Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore51 / 100 |
42.513th of 24 mid-tier | $139 | 1.5x on Air Canada, gas, EV charging and groceries, two of the highest-volume everyday buckets. |
| 17 | BMO eclipse rise Visa Apply →No income gate |
50mathEarn+12.6 / 45 2.5x partner grocery × 0.67¢ = 1.7% effectiveWelcome+2.2 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $134Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore50 / 100 |
69.43rd of 4 no-fee | $0 | 2.5x on all three up to the category caps, on a card that costs nothing to hold. |
| 18 | WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard Apply →$80K income |
50mathEarn+15 / 45 2x grocery × 1¢ = 2% effectiveWelcome+11.7 / 20 70,000 pts ≈ $700Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore50 / 100 |
43.612th of 24 mid-tier | $139 | Groceries and transportation earn 2x, the same rate as WestJet purchases themselves. |
| 19 | BMO Ascend World Elite Mastercard Apply →$80K income |
49mathEarn+15.1 / 45 3x dining × 0.67¢ = 2% effectiveWelcome+11.2 / 20 100,000 pts ≈ $670Fee+15 / 20 $150 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore49 / 100 |
44.010th of 24 mid-tier | $150 | 5x on travel specifically, with 3x on dining, entertainment and recurring bills stacked underneath. |
| 20 | TD Rewards Visa Apply →No income gate |
48mathEarn+11.3 / 45 3x partner grocery × 0.5¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+1.7 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $100Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore48 / 100 |
66.44th of 4 no-fee | $0 | 3x on groceries, dining and transit, competitive for a card that costs nothing. |
| 21 | CIBC Aventura Gold VisaNo income gate |
47mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5x grocery × 1¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+5.8 / 20 35,000 pts ≈ $350Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore47 / 100 |
39.615th of 24 mid-tier | $139 | 1.5x on gas, EV charging, groceries and drug stores, and 2x on travel through the CIBC Rewards Centre. |
| 22 | WestJet RBC Mastercard Apply →No income gate |
47mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5x dining × 1¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+2.5 / 20 15,000 pts ≈ $150Fee+18.7 / 20 $39 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore47 / 100 |
31.622nd of 24 mid-tier | $39 | An annual companion voucher at a $2,500 spend threshold, on a $39 card. The lowest bar of any WestJet card. |
| 23 | TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Apply →No income gate |
47mathEarn+10.5 / 45 1x partner grocery × 1.4¢ = 1.4% effectiveWelcome+4.7 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $280Fee+17 / 20 $89 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore47 / 100 |
31.223rd of 24 mid-tier | $89 | Earns Aeroplan for applicants who cannot meet the $60,000 personal income requirement. |
| 24 | CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite$60K income |
43mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5x grocery × 1¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+5.8 / 20 35,000 pts ≈ $350Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore43 / 100 |
41.914th of 24 mid-tier | $139 | 1.5x on gas, EV charging, groceries and drug stores, 2x on travel through the CIBC Rewards Centre, no separate airline account needed. |
| 25 | Tangerine Rewards World Elite Mastercard Apply →$80K income |
40mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5x grocery × 1¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+5 / 20 30,000 pts ≈ $300Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore40 / 100 |
37.316th of 24 mid-tier | $120 | Choose three accelerator categories at 1.5x and switch them every 90 days, where the Scotiabank Gold Amex fixes its categories. |
Not scored: United® MileagePlus® Neo World Elite® Mastercard®. Its currency has no published value we are willing to stand behind, so it is held out rather than given a number.
Best for premium travel and lounges
Unlimited or generous lounge access, the highest travel earn, and concierge-level perks. These earn their keep if you fly several times a year.
| # | Card | Fit score | Card score | Annual fee | Why it ranks here |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Scotiabank Platinum American Express Apply →$12K income |
74mathEarn+37.5 / 45 5x issuer travel portal × 1¢ = 5% effectiveWelcome+16.7 / 20 100,000 pts ≈ $1,000Fee+6.7 / 20 $399 annual feeAccess+13.5 / 15 $12K personal incomeScore74 / 100 |
82.41st of 9 premium | $399 | 2x Scene+ on all purchases, so spending spread across many categories is rewarded equally rather than falling to 1x. |
| 2 | American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card Apply →No income gate |
66mathEarn+31.5 / 45 3x the airline × 1.4¢ = 4.2% effectiveWelcome+19.8 / 20 85,000 pts ≈ $1,190Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore66 / 100 |
63.59th of 9 premium | $599 | Unlimited Maple Leaf Lounge access when flying AC, a Priority Pass, and 3x Aeroplan on Air Canada. |
| 3 | Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Privilege Apply →$150K income |
63mathEarn+45 / 45 6x issuer travel portal × 1¢ = 6% effectiveWelcome+13.3 / 20 80,000 pts ≈ $800Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore63 / 100 |
78.83rd of 9 premium | $599 | Ten lounge visits a year, alongside a $250 travel credit. |
| 4 | American Express Platinum Card Apply →No income gate |
58mathEarn+22.5 / 45 2x the airline × 1.5¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+20 / 20 100,000 pts ≈ $1,500Fee+0 / 20 $799 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore58 / 100 |
79.12nd of 9 premium | $799 | The Global Lounge Collection, including Centurion and Plaza Premium, is the card's centrepiece. |
| 5 | BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege Apply →$150K income |
50mathEarn+25.1 / 45 5x the airline × 0.67¢ = 3.4% effectiveWelcome+20 / 20 200,000 pts ≈ $1,340Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore50 / 100 |
76.64th of 9 premium | $599 | Six lounge passes and a $200 credit on top of the same 5x everyday earn as the base eclipse. |
| 6 | CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege$150K income |
46mathEarn+21 / 45 2x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.8% effectiveWelcome+20 / 20 100,000 pts ≈ $1,400Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore46 / 100 |
67.07th of 9 premium | $599 | Unlimited Maple Leaf Lounge access with a guest, otherwise reserved for status holders. |
| 7 | TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Apply →$150K income |
45mathEarn+21 / 45 2x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.8% effectiveWelcome+19.8 / 20 85,000 pts ≈ $1,190Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore45 / 100 |
66.28th of 9 premium | $599 | Unlimited Maple Leaf Lounge with a guest, an annual companion pass, a Nexus credit, 2x on AC. |
| 8 | CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege$150K income |
44mathEarn+22.5 / 45 3x issuer travel portal × 1¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+13.3 / 20 80,000 pts ≈ $800Fee+3.3 / 20 $499 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore44 / 100 |
72.65th of 9 premium | $499 | Six Visa Airport Companion visits a year, against four first-year visits on the Infinite and Gold. |
| 9 | RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege Apply →$200K income |
39mathEarn+10.7 / 45 1.25x everything else × 1.14¢ = 1.4% effectiveWelcome+19 / 20 100,000 pts ≈ $1,140Fee+6.7 / 20 $399 annual feeAccess+2.3 / 15 $200K personal incomeScore39 / 100 |
67.66th of 9 premium | $399 | Six DragonPass visits and a flat 1.25x, with transfers to Avios and Asia Miles. Lower fee, high income bar. |
Best for sticking with one airline
Co-branded cards that earn directly in an airline's program, with free bags, companion fares, or status. One pick per airline.
| # | Card | Fit score | Card score | Annual fee | Why it ranks here |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cathay World Elite® Mastercard® – powered by Neo$80K income |
74mathEarn+39 / 45 4x the airline × 1.3¢ = 5.2% effectiveWelcome+13 / 20 60,000 pts ≈ $780Fee+14 / 20 $180 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore74 / 100 |
35.318th of 24 mid-tier | $180 | The only Canadian card earning Asia Miles directly: 4x on Cathay, 2x on foreign currency. |
| 2 | BMO VIPorter World Elite Mastercard Apply →$80K income |
73mathEarn+33.8 / 45 3x the airline × 1.5¢ = 4.5% effectiveWelcome+17.5 / 20 70,000 pts ≈ $1,050Fee+13.4 / 20 $199 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore73 / 100 |
44.011th of 24 mid-tier | $199 | 3x VIPorter on Porter flights and Venture elite status day one. Best for Eastern flyers. |
| 3 | American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card Apply →No income gate |
66mathEarn+31.5 / 45 3x the airline × 1.4¢ = 4.2% effectiveWelcome+19.8 / 20 85,000 pts ≈ $1,190Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore66 / 100 |
63.59th of 9 premium | $599 | 3x Aeroplan on Air Canada, the highest rate of any Aeroplan co-brand in Canada. |
| 4 | BMO VIPorter Mastercard Apply →No income gate |
65mathEarn+22.5 / 45 2x the airline × 1.5¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+10 / 20 40,000 pts ≈ $600Fee+17 / 20 $89 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore65 / 100 |
35.917th of 24 mid-tier | $89 | Passport status moves you through check-in and security faster, and the bag waivers you give up would not apply anyway. |
| 5 | American Express Aeroplan Card Apply →No income gate |
62mathEarn+21 / 45 2x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.8% effectiveWelcome+10.5 / 20 45,000 pts ≈ $630Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore62 / 100 |
34.121st of 24 mid-tier | $120 | 2x on Air Canada out-earns every TD and CIBC mid-tier Aeroplan card at 1.5x, for a $120 fee. |
| 6 | CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite$60K income |
53mathEarn+15.7 / 45 1.5x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.1% effectiveWelcome+11.7 / 20 50,000 pts ≈ $700Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore53 / 100 |
44.69th of 24 mid-tier | $139 | A CIBC Smart Plus chequing account waives the $139 fee entirely, making it a free Aeroplan earner. |
| 7 | TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Apply →$60K income |
51mathEarn+15.7 / 45 1.5x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.1% effectiveWelcome+9.3 / 20 40,000 pts ≈ $560Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore51 / 100 |
42.513th of 24 mid-tier | $139 | The default Air Canada card: 1.5x on groceries, gas, and AC, a free checked bag, and a Nexus credit. |
| 8 | WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard Apply →$80K income |
50mathEarn+15 / 45 2x the airline × 1¢ = 2% effectiveWelcome+11.7 / 20 70,000 pts ≈ $700Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore50 / 100 |
43.612th of 24 mid-tier | $139 | 2% back in WestJet points on WestJet, an annual companion voucher, a free bag, and travel insurance. |
| 9 | WestJet RBC Mastercard Apply →No income gate |
47mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5x the airline × 1¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+2.5 / 20 15,000 pts ≈ $150Fee+18.7 / 20 $39 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore47 / 100 |
31.622nd of 24 mid-tier | $39 | Free first checked bag for the cardholder plus up to 8 companions on the same booking. |
| 10 | TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Apply →No income gate |
47mathEarn+10.5 / 45 1x the airline × 1.4¢ = 1.4% effectiveWelcome+4.7 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $280Fee+17 / 20 $89 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore47 / 100 |
31.223rd of 24 mid-tier | $89 | Earns Aeroplan for applicants who cannot meet the $60,000 personal income requirement. |
| 11 | CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege$150K income |
46mathEarn+21 / 45 2x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.8% effectiveWelcome+20 / 20 100,000 pts ≈ $1,400Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore46 / 100 |
67.07th of 9 premium | $599 | Scores 96 of 100, joint 4th of the 56 Canadian cards compared. |
| 12 | TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Apply →$150K income |
45mathEarn+21 / 45 2x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.8% effectiveWelcome+19.8 / 20 85,000 pts ≈ $1,190Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore45 / 100 |
66.28th of 9 premium | $599 | Scores 100 of 100, joint 1st of the 56 compared, with a $5,000,000 emergency medical limit. |
Not scored: United® MileagePlus® Neo World Elite® Mastercard®. Its currency has no published value we are willing to stand behind, so it is held out rather than given a number.
Best with no annual fee
Real rewards without a recurring fee. A couple carry an income or eligibility requirement, which is noted under the card name.
| # | Card | Fit score | Card score | Annual fee | Why it ranks here |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | More Rewards RBC Visa Infinite$60K income |
58mathEarn+25.8 / 45 8x partner grocery × 0.43¢ = 3.4% effectiveWelcome+1.4 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $86Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore58 / 100 |
90.51st of 4 no-fee | $0 | A $0 annual fee at the Visa Infinite tier, with travel insurance and lounge access included. |
| 2 | CIBC Costco Mastercard$15K income |
56mathEarn+22.5 / 45 3% on diningWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+13.5 / 15 $15K personal incomeScore56 / 100 |
43.96th of 9 cash back | $0 | No annual fee, no additional-card fee and a $15,000 income floor, paid once a year as a Costco gift certificate. |
| 3 | More Rewards RBC VisaNo income gate |
53mathEarn+16.1 / 45 5x partner grocery × 0.43¢ = 2.2% effectiveWelcome+1.4 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $86Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore53 / 100 |
76.62nd of 4 no-fee | $0 | 3x on gas and dining, 5x at Save-On-Foods and other Pattison banners. Strong in BC and Alberta. |
| 4 | Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card Apply →No income gate |
52mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on groceryWelcome+1.7 / 20 $100 welcomeFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore52 / 100 |
51.44th of 9 cash back | $0 | Paid out every month rather than once a year, so earnings are visible as they happen. |
| 5 | BMO eclipse rise Visa Apply →No income gate |
50mathEarn+12.6 / 45 2.5x partner grocery × 0.67¢ = 1.7% effectiveWelcome+2.2 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $134Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore50 / 100 |
69.43rd of 4 no-fee | $0 | A 2,500-point annual bonus for paying on time. The card is structured to build the habit rather than to out-earn. |
| 6 | TD Rewards Visa Apply →No income gate |
48mathEarn+11.3 / 45 3x partner grocery × 0.5¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+1.7 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $100Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore48 / 100 |
66.44th of 4 no-fee | $0 | 3x on groceries, dining, and transit and 4x on Expedia For TD. The easiest no-fee TD entry. |
| 7 | Tangerine Money-Back World Mastercard Apply →$50K income |
47mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on groceryWelcome+1.7 / 20 $100 welcomeFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $50K personal incomeScore47 / 100 |
52.92nd of 9 cash back | $0 | Identical 2%/0.5% earn to the standard card, with travel and purchase coverage added at no extra cost. |
| 8 | KOHO Essential Apply →No income gate |
43mathEarn+7.5 / 45 1% on groceryWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore43 / 100 |
29.79th of 9 cash back | $0 | No monthly fee, 1% cash back on groceries, dining and transportation, and interest paid on the balance. |
| 9 | Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard$80K income |
40mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5% on everything elseWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore40 / 100 |
51.05th of 9 cash back | $0 | 1.5% on everything, 3% on US dollars, and World Elite insurance, all at no annual fee. |
Best for cash back
Straightforward money back rather than travel points. Spend, earn a percentage, no award charts to learn.
| # | Card | Fit score | Card score | Annual fee | Why it ranks here |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite$60K income |
61mathEarn+30 / 45 4% on groceryWelcome+5 / 20 $300 welcomeFee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore61 / 100 |
not scored | $120 | 4% on groceries and recurring payments, up to $25,000 a year, and 2% on gas, EV charging, transit, rideshare and food delivery. |
| 2 | CIBC Costco Mastercard$15K income |
56mathEarn+22.5 / 45 3% on diningWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+13.5 / 15 $15K personal incomeScore56 / 100 |
43.96th of 9 cash back | $0 | 3% cash back at restaurants and Costco gas, 2% at other gas stations, EV charging and Costco.ca, 1% everywhere else including in the warehouse. |
| 3 | Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card Apply →No income gate |
52mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on groceryWelcome+1.7 / 20 $100 welcomeFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore52 / 100 |
51.44th of 9 cash back | $0 | 2% back in up to three categories you choose, 0.5% elsewhere, paid monthly. |
| 4 | Tangerine Money-Back World Mastercard Apply →$50K income |
47mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on groceryWelcome+1.7 / 20 $100 welcomeFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $50K personal incomeScore47 / 100 |
52.92nd of 9 cash back | $0 | Identical 2%/0.5% earn to the standard card, with travel and purchase coverage added at no extra cost. |
| 5 | KOHO Everything Apply →No income gate |
44mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on groceryWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+14.1 / 20 $177 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore44 / 100 |
33.57th of 9 cash back | $177 | 2% on groceries, dining, and transport, no FX fee, instant freeze. No travel insurance. |
| 6 | KOHO Essential Apply →No income gate |
43mathEarn+7.5 / 45 1% on groceryWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore43 / 100 |
29.79th of 9 cash back | $0 | A reloadable prepaid Mastercard with no credit check and no income requirement, for anyone a credit card will not accept. |
| 7 | KOHO Extra Apply →No income gate |
41mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5% on groceryWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+15.2 / 20 $144 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore41 / 100 |
30.98th of 9 cash back | $144 | The lowest-cost plan that waives foreign transaction fees, at $12 a month. |
| 8 | Rogers Red World Elite Mastercard$80K income |
40mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5% on everything elseWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore40 / 100 |
51.05th of 9 cash back | $0 | A flat 1.5% on all spending and 3% on US dollars. The best all-round no-fee cash-back card. |
| 9 | Wealthsimple Visa Infinite Apply →$80K income |
35mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on everything elseWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+12 / 20 $240 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore35 / 100 |
51.53rd of 9 cash back | $240 | Deposited to a Wealthsimple account where it can be invested or spent, with no redemption portal. |
| 10 | Wealthsimple Visa Infinite Privilege Apply →$150K income |
31mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on everything elseWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+12 / 20 $240 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore31 / 100 |
66.51st of 9 cash back | $240 | Flat 1% to 1.5% deposited to your Wealthsimple account, no FX fee. Best if you already invest there. |
Best for business owners
Business cards with high welcome bonuses, broad bonus categories, and expense tools. None carry a personal income requirement.
| # | Card | Fit score | Card score | Annual fee | Why it ranks here |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | TD Business Travel Visa CardNo income gate |
80mathEarn+33.8 / 45 9x issuer travel portal × 0.5¢ = 4.5% effectiveWelcome+16.7 / 20 200,000 pts ≈ $1,000Fee+15 / 20 $149 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore80 / 100 |
64.45th of 11 business travel | $149 | Up to a 200,000-point welcome, 9x on Expedia For TD, and a 2x floor on all spending. Biggest opening value. |
| 2 | CIBC Aeroplan Visa Business PlusNo income gate |
69mathEarn+21 / 45 2x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.8% effectiveWelcome+17.5 / 20 75,000 pts ≈ $1,050Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore69 / 100 |
58.88th of 11 business travel | $139 | No cap on the bonus categories, which is what separates it from the TD equivalent above roughly $13,000 a month. |
| 3 | American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card Apply →No income gate |
67mathEarn+31.5 / 45 3x the airline × 1.4¢ = 4.2% effectiveWelcome+20 / 20 90,000 pts ≈ $1,260Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore67 / 100 |
70.52nd of 11 business travel | $599 | 3x Aeroplan on Air Canada, Maple Leaf Lounge access, a Priority Pass, and a companion pass. |
| 4 | TD Aeroplan Visa Business CardNo income gate |
65mathEarn+21 / 45 2x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.8% effectiveWelcome+14 / 20 60,000 pts ≈ $840Fee+15 / 20 $149 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore65 / 100 |
67.23rd of 11 business travel | $149 | 2x Aeroplan on AC and 1.5x on travel, dining, and business categories. A lower-fee Aeroplan option. |
| 5 | WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard for BusinessNo income gate |
57mathEarn+22.5 / 45 3x the airline × 1¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+5.8 / 20 35,000 pts ≈ $350Fee+14.2 / 20 $175 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore57 / 100 |
61.17th of 11 business travel | $175 | 3% back in WestJet points on WestJet and business categories, Silver status day one, and Status Lift. |
| 6 | American Express Business Gold Rewards Card Apply →No income gate |
57mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1x everything else × 1.5¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+17.5 / 20 70,000 pts ≈ $1,050Fee+13.4 / 20 $199 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore57 / 100 |
52.110th of 11 business travel | $199 | A charge card with no preset spending limit, so purchasing power flexes with the month instead of stopping at a fixed credit line. |
| 7 | American Express Business Edge CardNo income gate |
55mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1x everything else × 1.5¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+11.3 / 20 45,000 pts ≈ $675Fee+17 / 20 $89 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore55 / 100 |
61.96th of 11 business travel | $89 | 3x on all three categories combined, on every dollar to a $25,000 annual cap. |
| 8 | BMO Rewards Business MastercardNo income gate |
55mathEarn+15.1 / 45 3x the airline × 0.67¢ = 2% effectiveWelcome+10 / 20 Variable or unpublished offer, scored neutralFee+15 / 20 $150 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore55 / 100 |
not scored | $150 | Points redeem against any travel booking with no blackout dates and no carrier to commit to. |
| 9 | Scotia Momentum for Business Visa Apply →No income gate |
55mathEarn+22.5 / 45 3% on office suppliesWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+17.4 / 20 $79 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore55 / 100 |
not scored | $79 | 3% on gas, client meals, office supplies and recurring bills, the categories most small businesses actually spend in. |
| 10 | Marriott Bonvoy Business American Express Card Apply →No income gate |
53mathEarn+10.5 / 45 2x everything else × 0.7¢ = 1.4% effectiveWelcome+12.8 / 20 110,000 pts ≈ $770Fee+15 / 20 $150 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore53 / 100 |
53.19th of 11 business travel | $150 | The annual Free Night Award and Silver status apply to business travel that is already happening. |
| 11 | American Express Business Platinum Card Apply →No income gate |
49mathEarn+14.1 / 45 1.25x everything else × 1.5¢ = 1.9% effectiveWelcome+20 / 20 120,000 pts ≈ $1,800Fee+0 / 20 $799 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore49 / 100 |
66.74th of 11 business travel | $799 | Flat 1.25x on all eligible purchases with no preset spending limit, so large uncategorised spend still earns at the top rate. |
| 12 | Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Business Card Apply →No income gate |
46mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5x everything else × 1¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+6.7 / 20 40,000 pts ≈ $400Fee+13.4 / 20 $199 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore46 / 100 |
73.41st of 11 business travel | $199 | US suppliers, SaaS subscriptions and international bookings all avoid the 2.5% conversion charge. That is the whole reason to carry it. |
| 13 | RBC Avion Visa Business CardNo income gate |
46mathEarn+8.5 / 45 1x everything else × 1.14¢ = 1.1% effectiveWelcome+6.7 / 20 35,000 pts ≈ $399Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore46 / 100 |
49.811th of 11 business travel | $120 | The 1.25x rate applies to every business expense, not just travel bookings, which is what separates it from the personal Avion cards. |
Best for getting started
Low or no fee, no income requirement, and easy to qualify for. The right place to begin building rewards.
| # | Card | Fit score | Card score | Annual fee | Why it ranks here |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | BMO VIPorter Mastercard Apply →No income gate |
65mathEarn+22.5 / 45 2x the airline × 1.5¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+10 / 20 40,000 pts ≈ $600Fee+17 / 20 $89 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore65 / 100 |
35.917th of 24 mid-tier | $89 | The only VIPorter card with no income test at all, where the World Elite asks $80,000 personal or $150,000 household. |
| 2 | American Express Aeroplan Card Apply →No income gate |
62mathEarn+21 / 45 2x the airline × 1.4¢ = 2.8% effectiveWelcome+10.5 / 20 45,000 pts ≈ $630Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore62 / 100 |
34.121st of 24 mid-tier | $120 | Earn Aeroplan without the Visa Infinite income bar: 2x on AC, 1.5x dining, free checked bag. |
| 3 | Marriott Bonvoy American Express Card Apply →No income gate |
54mathEarn+10.5 / 45 2x everything else × 0.7¢ = 1.4% effectiveWelcome+12.8 / 20 110,000 pts ≈ $770Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore54 / 100 |
34.820th of 24 mid-tier | $120 | The Free Night Award is the entire reason to hold the card. Redeemed near its 35,000-point ceiling it clears the $120 fee on its own. |
| 4 | More Rewards RBC VisaNo income gate |
53mathEarn+16.1 / 45 5x dining × 0.43¢ = 2.2% effectiveWelcome+1.4 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $86Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore53 / 100 |
76.62nd of 4 no-fee | $0 | No annual fee and no income requirement, so every applicant is eligible. |
| 5 | RBC Avion Visa Platinum Apply →No income gate |
53mathEarn+8.5 / 45 1x everything else × 1.14¢ = 1.1% effectiveWelcome+13.3 / 20 70,000 pts ≈ $798Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore53 / 100 |
35.019th of 24 mid-tier | $120 | Avion transfer-network access and up to a 70,000-point welcome, with no income test. |
| 6 | TD Platinum Travel Visa Apply →No income gate |
53mathEarn+16.9 / 45 4.5x grocery × 0.5¢ = 2.3% effectiveWelcome+4.2 / 20 50,000 pts ≈ $250Fee+17 / 20 $89 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore53 / 100 |
30.824th of 24 mid-tier | $89 | Earns at mid-tier rates for applicants who cannot meet the First Class Travel income bar. |
| 7 | Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card Apply →No income gate |
52mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on groceryWelcome+1.7 / 20 $100 welcomeFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore52 / 100 |
51.44th of 9 cash back | $0 | Pick your 2% categories, cash back paid monthly, no fee, no income test. Low-commitment first card. |
| 8 | BMO eclipse rise Visa Apply →No income gate |
50mathEarn+12.6 / 45 2.5x grocery × 0.67¢ = 1.7% effectiveWelcome+2.2 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $134Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore50 / 100 |
69.43rd of 4 no-fee | $0 | No annual fee and no income requirement, so there is nothing to clear before applying. |
| 9 | TD Rewards Visa Apply →No income gate |
48mathEarn+11.3 / 45 3x grocery × 0.5¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+1.7 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $100Fee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore48 / 100 |
66.44th of 4 no-fee | $0 | No fee, no income test, and 3x on groceries, dining, and transit from day one. The simplest first card. |
| 10 | CIBC Aventura Gold VisaNo income gate |
47mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5x grocery × 1¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+5.8 / 20 35,000 pts ≈ $350Fee+15.4 / 20 $139 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore47 / 100 |
39.615th of 24 mid-tier | $139 | A $15,000 household income floor, against $60,000 personal for the Visa Infinite, with the same 2x / 1.5x / 1x earn. |
| 11 | WestJet RBC Mastercard Apply →No income gate |
47mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5x dining × 1¢ = 1.5% effectiveWelcome+2.5 / 20 15,000 pts ≈ $150Fee+18.7 / 20 $39 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore47 / 100 |
31.622nd of 24 mid-tier | $39 | No income requirement, where the World Elite asks $80,000 personal or $150,000 household. |
| 12 | TD Aeroplan Visa Platinum Apply →No income gate |
47mathEarn+10.5 / 45 1x grocery × 1.4¢ = 1.4% effectiveWelcome+4.7 / 20 20,000 pts ≈ $280Fee+17 / 20 $89 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore47 / 100 |
31.223rd of 24 mid-tier | $89 | Earns Aeroplan for applicants who cannot meet the $60,000 personal income requirement. |
| 13 | KOHO Essential Apply →No income gate |
43mathEarn+7.5 / 45 1% on groceryWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+20 / 20 $0 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore43 / 100 |
29.79th of 9 cash back | $0 | A reloadable prepaid Mastercard with no credit check and no income requirement, for anyone a credit card will not accept. |
| 14 | KOHO Extra Apply →No income gate |
41mathEarn+11.3 / 45 1.5% on groceryWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+15.2 / 20 $144 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore41 / 100 |
30.98th of 9 cash back | $144 | No credit check, and the FX waiver that Essential lacks. |
Best for spending abroad
Spending overseas is its own category, where the foreign transaction fee matters more than earn rate. Every personal card that waives the fee is scored below; the dedicated guide covers the prepaid-safety play and the US-dollar card.
| # | Card | Fit score | Card score | Annual fee | Why it ranks here |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Scotiabank Platinum American Express Apply →$12K income |
52mathEarn+15 / 45 2x everything else × 1¢ = 2% effectiveWelcome+16.7 / 20 100,000 pts ≈ $1,000Fee+6.7 / 20 $399 annual feeAccess+13.5 / 15 $12K personal incomeScore52 / 100 |
82.41st of 9 premium | $399 | No foreign transaction fees, so the flat 2x applies abroad without a 2.5% drag. |
| 2 | Scotiabank Gold American Express Apply →$12K income |
45mathEarn+7.5 / 45 1x everything else × 1¢ = 1% effectiveWelcome+8.3 / 20 50,000 pts ≈ $500Fee+16 / 20 $120 annual feeAccess+13.5 / 15 $12K personal incomeScore45 / 100 |
56.73rd of 24 mid-tier | $120 | No foreign transaction fees while still earning a meaningful rate on every foreign purchase. |
| 3 | Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Privilege Apply →$150K income |
40mathEarn+22.5 / 45 3x travel × 1¢ = 3% effectiveWelcome+13.3 / 20 80,000 pts ≈ $800Fee+0 / 20 $599 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore40 / 100 |
78.83rd of 9 premium | $599 | Keeps the no-foreign-transaction-fee benefit while adding premium travel protection. |
| 4 | Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Apply →$60K income |
39mathEarn+7.5 / 45 1x everything else × 1¢ = 1% effectiveWelcome+5.8 / 20 35,000 pts ≈ $350Fee+15 / 20 $150 annual feeAccess+10.5 / 15 $60K personal incomeScore39 / 100 |
53.25th of 24 mid-tier | $150 | No foreign transaction fees is the defining feature, on a card that also earns at the grocery store. |
| 5 | Wealthsimple Visa Infinite Apply →$80K income |
35mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on everything elseWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+12 / 20 $240 annual feeAccess+8.3 / 15 $80K personal incomeScore35 / 100 |
51.53rd of 9 cash back | $240 | 2% on every purchase with no limits, and no FX charge, which is hard to beat when the fee is waived. |
| 6 | KOHO Everything Apply →No income gate |
33mathEarn+3.8 / 45 0.5% on everything elseWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+14.1 / 20 $177 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore33 / 100 |
33.57th of 9 cash back | $177 | Foreign transaction fees waived, for travellers who do not qualify for or do not want a traditional credit card. |
| 7 | KOHO Extra Apply →No income gate |
32mathEarn+1.9 / 45 0.25% on everything elseWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+15.2 / 20 $144 annual feeAccess+15 / 15 No income requirementScore32 / 100 |
30.98th of 9 cash back | $144 | The lowest-cost plan that waives foreign transaction fees, at $12 a month. |
| 8 | Wealthsimple Visa Infinite Privilege Apply →$150K income |
31mathEarn+15 / 45 2% on everything elseWelcome+0 / 20 No welcome bonusFee+12 / 20 $240 annual feeAccess+4.5 / 15 $150K personal incomeScore31 / 100 |
66.51st of 9 cash back | $240 | No foreign transaction fees plus Visa Infinite Privilege travel insurance for international spending. |
Best cards to use abroad
No-FX cards, prepaid safety, and the US-dollar card that comes out ahead, with net cost compared side by side.
Common questions
What are the Climber, Roamer, and Earner card strategies?
They are three ways to use a credit card, and they stack rather than compete. Climber is your everyday card, the one you spend on weekly and earn into a single program. Roamer is a card with no foreign transaction fee that you bring abroad, so overseas spending stops losing about 2.5%. Earner is the accelerator: a large welcome bonus, business spend, or a high-rate premium card used to reach a goal faster. Most people run a Climber full time, add a Roamer for trips, and use an Earner move when a specific trip is in view.
Do I need more than one credit card?
Often yes, but not many. One everyday card covers most spending. A second card with no foreign transaction fee pays for itself the first time you travel. Beyond that, a third card only makes sense when you are chasing a welcome bonus or a specific redemption. Two cards handle almost everyone.
What is the best everyday credit card in Canada?
On our everyday ranking the Scotiabank Gold American Express scores highest: 6x Scene+ at Sobeys-family grocery, 5x on dining and entertainment, no foreign transaction fee, and no income requirement. The BMO eclipse Visa Infinite is close behind with 5x across groceries, dining, gas, drugstore, and travel. Both earn well above a flat-rate card on weekly spending.
What is the best no annual fee credit card in Canada?
The Rogers Red World Elite earns a flat 1.5% on everything and 3% on US dollars with no annual fee, though it requires $80,000 personal income. For no income requirement, the TD Rewards Visa and the More Rewards RBC Visa both charge no fee and earn well on everyday categories. The Wealthsimple Card has no fee and no FX fee but requires $100,000 invested with Wealthsimple.
How are the fit scores calculated?
Each fit score is computed from this site’s card data by a fixed formula: four weighted components add to 100 (the card’s earn rate in the category being ranked, its welcome bonus value, its annual fee, and how easy it is to qualify for), with points converted at the typical redemption values on our reward values page. Every table also shows the card’s class-relative card score, which measures the whole card rather than one job. Both methods are on the methodology page.
Which credit card is best for airport lounge access?
The American Express Aeroplan Reserve includes unlimited Maple Leaf Lounge access when flying Air Canada plus a Priority Pass, for $599, and tops our premium-travel ranking. The BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege and the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege also include lounge access at the same fee. The RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege includes six DragonPass visits a year for $399.