Best credit cards for excellent credit in Canada

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Updated: April 01, 2024

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In a world where champagne wishes and caviar dreams become reality, the financial elite have ascended the echelons of credit scores, reaching the pinnacle of purchasing power. These titans of trade and wizards of Wall Street, having mastered the art of wealth, now hold in their hands the keys to the most exclusive credit cards Canada has to offer. 

With these cards, they unlock a realm of limitless luxury, from opulent airport lounges to boundless spending, enjoying a cornucopia of privileges that only the truly affluent can fathom.

Excellent credit score credit cards Fast facts Apply now
American Express The Platinum Card® Annual fee: $799
Minimum income: N/A
Card with no pre-set spending limit
Apply now
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card Annual fee: $499
Minimum income: Minimum $150,000 (individual) or $200,000 (household)
Apply now
CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card Annual fee: $599
Minimum income: $150,000 individual, or $200,000 household minimum annual income
Apply now
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card Annual fee: $399
Minimum income: N/A
Apply now
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege Annual fee: $399
Minimum income: personal income of $200,000 or a minimum household income of $200,000
Apply now
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Credit Card Annual fee: $599
Minimum income: $150,000 annual personal income or $200,000 annual household income.
Apply now

Best excellent credit score credit card in Canada

Amex The Platinum

2x Earn 2 points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible dining and food delivery in Canada

2x points for every $1 in Card purchases on eligible travel

1x point for every $1 in all other Card purchases

$799 Annual Fee Includes $200 annual travel credit and $200 annual dining credit

20.99% Purchase APR The Preferred rate of 20.99% applies to your Flexible Payment Option balance.

2.50% Foreign Transaction Fee

Excellent Recommended Credit Score

Welcome Offer

Earn 70,000 Membership Rewards® points1*

Learn more
  • Why we picked The Platinum

    +

    In the grand theater of opulence, the American Express The Platinum Card® takes center stage, dazzling the discerning few who seek nothing but the epitome of luxury in their financial instruments. This card is not just a piece of plastic; it's a golden key to a kingdom where extravagance knows no bounds and exclusive privileges are the norm.

    The Pinnacle of Points Accumulation: With the American Express The Platinum Card®, the affluent cardholder embarks on a journey where every expense transforms into a treasure trove of Membership Rewards® points. Imagine earning 70,000 points after charging $10,000 in the first three months, followed by an additional 30,000 points for continued use between 14 and 16 months of Cardmembership.

    A Cornucopia of Credits: Revel in the $200 Annual Travel Credit through American Express Travel Online or Platinum® Card Travel Service, a sumptuous treat to elevate your travel experiences. Add to that a $200 Annual Dining Credit, inviting you to explore the culinary wonders at some of Canada’s top restaurants. These credits aren't just monetary savings; they're invitations to indulge in experiences that ordinary cards can only dream of offering.

    Lounge in Luxury: The American Express Global Lounge Collection™ opens the doors to over 1,300 airport lounges across 140 countries. This isn't just about waiting for your flight; it's about experiencing a prelude to your journey in the lap of luxury, where comfort and class are served as the standard fare.

    Financial Flexibility and Coverage: This card offers a financial flexibility that's as boundless as your ambitions, allowing you to manage your finances with ease and sophistication. Moreover, the travel and shopping coverages ensure that your high-end purchases and globe-trotting escapades are always protected, adding a layer of security to your luxury lifestyle.

    World-Class Service and Exclusive Offers: As a holder of The Platinum Card®, you're not just a customer; you're a revered member of an elite club. The card comes with a promise of world-class service, ensuring assistance is always at hand, no matter where your adventures take you. Additionally, you'll have access to exclusive offers in shopping, dining, and travel - each tailored to cater to the most refined tastes.

    In conclusion, the American Express The Platinum Card® is not just one of the best premium credit cards in Canada; it's a symbol of your achievements and a testament to your exquisite taste. It's more than a credit card; it's an accessory for those who live life lavishly, without limits.

The most prestigious credit card in Canada

BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege Card

5 Cardholders earn an impressive 5 BMO Rewards points per $1 spent in essential categories like travel, dining, gas, groceries, and pharmacy*. This bonus applies up to an annual threshold of $50,000.

1 You’ll earn 1 BMO Rewards point per $1 spent in these categories after that threshold as been met. Other purchases will earn 1 BMO Rewards point per $1 spent*.

$499 Annual Fee

20.99% Purchase APR

23.99% Cash Advance APR 21.99 for Quebec residents

23.99% Balance Transfer Rate

Excellent Recommended Credit Score

$150,000 Required Annual Personal Income

$200,000 Required Annual Household Income

Welcome Offer Ends May 31, 2024

Get up to 120,000 Points*

Learn more
  • Why We Picked This Card for Opulent Opportunities

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    In the realm of reward-rich credit cards, the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege Card emerges as a beacon of bounty for those accustomed to the finer things in life. Tailored for the echelons who not only demand excellence in credit but also desire to reap lavish rewards on their every expenditure, this card is a testament to the adage that luxury should always be rewarding.

    Unprecedented Earning Power: The BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card is a powerhouse of points accumulation. For the connoisseur of good life, it offers an astounding 5x points on essentials and luxuries alike - be it groceries, dining in and out, drugstore purchases, gas, or travel. This isn’t just earning rewards; it’s multiplying your indulgences fivefold, turning every transaction into an opportunity for opulence.

    Enhanced Earnings with Additional Users: Elevate your earning experience by 25% when you add an authorized user to your account. This isn't merely a benefit; it's an opportunity to extend your lifestyle of luxury to those close to you, making every shared moment more rewarding.

    A $200 Annual Lifestyle Credit: The card bestows upon you a $200 annual lifestyle credit, a sum that can be splurged on any extravagance of your choosing. Whether it's a spontaneous treat or a planned indulgence, this credit is your carte blanche to luxury.

    Visa Infinite Privilege Benefits: This card opens the doors to a suite of Visa Infinite Privilege benefits. Envision yourself unwinding in over 1,300 airport lounges globally, enjoying Priority Security Lane access at select airports, and reveling in the Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection. The card is not just a payment method; it’s your passport to a world where every journey and stay is enveloped in exclusivity.

    Golf, Dining, and Wine Experiences: Dive into a world of gourmet dining and wine events, and access premium golf benefits. Each of these experiences is designed not just to satisfy but to astonish, offering you a taste of the extraordinary.

    Robust Insurance Coverage: Travel with peace of mind, knowing you’re covered by a comprehensive suite of insurance options. From Emergency Medical Insurance to Trip Cancellation and Car Rental Collision/Loss Damage Insurance, your adventures are safeguarded, letting you explore the world with confidence.

    Pay with Points Flexibility: The BMO Rewards system allows you to convert points into memorable experiences or tangible treats. Whether it’s a dinner for two at a fine restaurant or a spa treatment to rejuvenate your senses, your points are as versatile as your desires.

    In essence, the BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card isn’t just one of the best premium credit cards in Canada; it's a celebration of life’s finer moments. With its unparalleled rewards and benefits, this card doesn’t just meet the standards of the financially elite; it surpasses them, ensuring that every swipe adds a touch of luxury to your already splendid lifestyle.

The most exclusive credit card in Canada

CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege

1.5 points for every $1 you spend on eligible gas, electric vehicle charging, groceries, travel and dining.

2 points for every $1 you spend with Air Canada directly, including through Air Canada Vacations®

1.25 points for every $1 you spend on all other purchases.

2x Earn points twice at over 150 Aeroplan partner brands and over 170 online retailers through the Aeroplan eStore.

$599 Annual Fee $149 each for up to 9 additional cards

20.99% Purchase APR non-Quebec residents†

22.99% Cash Advance APR non-Quebec residents†

Excellent Recommended Credit Score

$150,000 Required Annual Personal Income

$200,000 Required Annual Household Income

Welcome Offer

Get up to 70,000 Aeroplan® points (up to $1,400 in travel value,) free checked bags, complimentary lounge access, and more.

Learn more
  • Why We Picked the CIBC Aeroplan VIP for High-Flying Luxury

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    For the jet-setting elite, the CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card is more than a credit card - it's a first-class ticket to a world of travel luxuries. Catering to those who have soared to the highest credit scores and seek to mirror this success in their travel experiences, this card offers an unmatched blend of luxury travel benefits and rewards accumulation.

    Generous Aeroplan Points Accumulation: This card is a veritable trove of Aeroplan® points. Imagine being greeted with 20,000 points on your first purchase, followed by an additional 50,000 points as you meet spending milestones in your first year. These points are more than mere rewards; they're your gateway to global travel adventures, offering up to $1,400 in travel value.

    Unmatched Travel Perks: The CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card elevates your airport experience with complimentary Maple Leaf Lounge™ access and six visits through the Visa Airport Companion Program, valued at over $800. These lounges aren't just waiting areas; they're oases of comfort, providing a serene start to your journeys.

    Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Travel with peace of mind, knowing you're covered by an extensive suite of insurance benefits. From Emergency Travel Medical Insurance to Trip Cancellation and Flight Delay and Baggage Insurance, your travels are not just luxurious but also secure.

    Accelerated Earning on Everyday Purchases: Earn 1.5 points for every $1 spent on daily essentials like groceries, gas, electric vehicle charging, and dining. Plus, earn 2 points for every $1 spent on Air Canada purchases, and 1.25 points on all other purchases. This isn’t just spending; it's strategically accumulating points towards your next dream destination.

    Exclusive Aeroplan Elite™ Status Benefits: Achieve and maintain Aeroplan Elite™ Status with ease. Earn 1,000 Status Qualifying Miles and 1 Status Qualifying Segment for every $5,000 spent, enhancing your travel experience with each purchase.

    Annual Worldwide Companion Pass: Embark on your travels with someone special using the Annual Worldwide Companion Pass, turning every trip into a shared luxury experience.

    Luxury Car Rental Privileges: Enjoy an automatic upgrade to Avis® President’s Club, unlocking premium car rental benefits. This isn't just a car rental; it's an elevation of your entire travel experience.

    In essence, the CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card isn't just one of the best credit cards for excellent credit; it's a passport to a world where travel is not just a journey but an experience in its own right. It's designed for those who demand not only the best in credit card features but also seek to immerse themselves in the full spectrum of travel luxury.

One of the best premium credit cards in Canada

Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card

2x Scene+ points for every $1 spent on all other eligible purchases

0% No foreign transaction fees

10 Complimentary airport lounge passes per year

$399 Annual Fee

9.99% Purchase APR

9.99% Cash Advance APR

22.99% Balance Transfer Rate

0.00% Foreign Transaction Fee

Good Recommended Credit Score

Welcome Offer Ends Oct 31, 2024

Earn up to $2,100* in value in the first 14 months, including up to 60,000 bonus Scene+ points

Learn more
  • Why We Picked the Scotia Platinum Amex for Unparalleled Opulence

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    For the elite with an eye for exceptional rewards and travel privileges, the Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card is a beacon of luxury. This card is tailored for those who have reached the zenith of their financial journey and desire a credit card that reflects their high-flying lifestyle, offering a treasure trove of rewards and benefits that cater to their exquisite tastes.

    Lavish Points Accumulation: The Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card turns every expense into an opportunity for luxury, offering 2X Scene+™ points for every dollar spent on all eligible purchases. These aren't just points; they're keys to unlocking a world of experiences, from travel to fine dining.

    No Foreign Transaction Fees: Venture across the globe or shop internationally online without the usual foreign transaction fees. This card eliminates the 2.5% fee on foreign currency transactions, ensuring your global adventures and purchases are as boundless as your aspirations.

    Mobile Device Insurance: This card not only saves you on foreign transaction fees but also provides protection for your mobile devices. It's not just a financial tool; it's a guardian for your gadgets.

    Exclusive Airport Lounge Access: Embrace the tranquility of travel with 10 complimentary airport lounge passes per year. These lounges are not just spaces but sanctuaries of comfort, offering a serene reprieve from the bustle of travel.

    Premium Travel Privileges: The card comes laden with luxury travel privileges, including complimentary concierge services, offering assistance for everything from travel bookings to lifestyle requests. This service isn't just about convenience; it's about curating experiences that align with your sophisticated lifestyle.

    Comprehensive Travel Insurance Coverage: Travel with peace of mind, knowing you're protected by an extensive array of travel insurance options. This coverage ensures that your journeys are as secure as they are luxurious.

    Scene+™ Rewards Program: With the Scene+ program, indulge in rewards that go beyond travel. From shopping sprees to dining experiences, the rewards are tailored to suit the lavish lifestyle you lead.

    Hertz #1 Club Gold Member Status: Elevate your car rental experiences with Hertz #1 Club Gold Member status, ensuring every journey is as smooth and luxurious as your destinations.

    In essence, the Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card is not just one of the best credit cards for excellent credit; it's a symbol of your success and a partner in your pursuit of luxury. It's designed for those who seek not only the best in financial tools but also desire a lifestyle where every detail is crafted to reflect their elite status.

One of the most exclusive credit cards in Canada

RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege

1.25 Avion points for every $1 you spend

3¢/L savings at Petro-Canada and always earn 20% more Avion points

50 Be Well points for every $1 spent on eligible products at Rexall

20% savings at Hertz and earn 3x the Avion points

$0 delivery fees for 12 months from DoorDash

$399 Annual Fee

20.99% Purchase APR

22.99% Cash Advance APR 21.99% if you reside in Quebec

2.50% Foreign Transaction Fee

Very Good Recommended Credit Score

  • Why we picked the Avion VIP for supreme air travel

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    For the elite who yearn for the pinnacle of air travel experiences, the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege card stands as a testament to what a credit card can offer. Designed for those with a taste for the exceptional, this card is a passport to a world of luxury travel benefits, exclusive privileges, and a reward system that elevates every journey.

    Generous Avion Points Accumulation: With the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege card, every dollar spent is an opportunity to soar higher, offering 1.25 Avion points per dollar. This robust accumulation rate transforms your regular expenditures into a reservoir of points, quickly translating into air travel or other lavish rewards.

    Luxury Travel Benefits and Privileges: Experience the zenith of travel luxury with global airport lounge access, airport security fast track lanes, and dedicated airport parking at select Canadian airports. These features aren't just conveniences; they redefine your travel experience, offering unparalleled comfort and efficiency.

    Extensive Welcome Bonus: The card welcomes you into its world with open arms, offering 35,000 Welcome Points upon approval and an additional 20,000 bonus points after meeting spending criteria. This welcome bonus is your first step into a realm of travel possibilities.

    Flexible Travel Booking: With the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege card, there are no limitations on how you travel. Book flights on any airline, any flight, at any time, without restrictions. This flexibility isn't just about booking flights; it’s about crafting your perfect travel itinerary.

    Ski Pass Benefits: For those who delight in skiing or snowboarding, the card offers the Friday Friend Pass, granting one free lift pass with the purchase of a Friday lift pass at participating resorts. This feature adds an exhilarating dimension to your winter escapades.

    Comprehensive Insurance Coverage: Travel with confidence, knowing that you're covered with an array of insurance options including trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical, and mobile device insurance. This coverage ensures that your travels are as secure as they are enjoyable.

    Instant Fuel Savings and Bonus Points at Petro-Canada: Link your card to instantly save on fuel and earn more Petro-Points and Avion points. These savings and extra points are not just perks; they're a testament to the card's commitment to enhancing every aspect of your lifestyle.

    In summary, the RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege card is more than just one of the best credit cards for excellent credit; it's a gateway to a world where every journey is an occasion, and every destination becomes a memory to cherish. It's crafted for those who not only seek luxury in their travels but also demand excellence in their financial tools.

Best credit card for comprehensive air travel rewards

TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card

2 points for every $1 spent on eligible gas, grocery and direct through Air Canada® purchases (including Air Canada Vacations®)†

1.5 points for every $1 you charge to your Card on eligible gas, groceries, travel and dining purchases.†

1.25 points for every $1 you charge to your Card on all other purchases.†

6 lounge visits included for each Cardholder per membership year at over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide with DragonPass†

2x Earn points twice when you provide your Aeroplan number to Aeroplan partner brands and on the Aeroplan eStore†

50% more Aeroplan points at Starbucks when you link your TD card with your Starbucks® Rewards account.†

$100 Get a NEXUS application fee rebate every 48 months.†

1st checked bag free for you and up to eight companions when your travel originates on an Air Canada flight.†

10% savings at Avis and Budget in North America, 5% off internationally†

$599 Annual Fee

20.99% Purchase APR APR for purchases 20.99%†

22.99% Cash Advance APR APR for cash advances 22.99%†

3.00% Balance Transfer Fee

2.50% Foreign Transaction Fee

Excellent Recommended Credit Score

$150,000 Required Annual Personal Income

$200,000 Required Annual Household Income

Welcome Offer Ends Jun 3, 2024

Earn up to $2,900 in value† including up to 85,000 Aeroplan points†. Conditions Apply. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024.

Learn more
  • Why we picked this card for aerial splendor

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    In the elite world of air travel rewards, the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card reigns supreme, a true masterpiece for those with a penchant for the skies. This card, crafted with metal, not only signifies financial prowess but also opens the doors to an elevated realm of travel experiences and Aeroplan points accumulation.

    Robust Aeroplan Points System: Embark on a journey of generous point accrual with this card. Earn up to $1,200 in value†, including up to 50,000 Aeroplan points† (enough for a round trip to New York City and additional travel benefits. Account must be approved by June 3, 2024.

    Exclusive Air Travel Perks: The card enhances your travel experience with benefits like unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges, a complimentary annual round-trip companion pass from $99, and Priority Airport Services, including boarding and baggage handling. These privileges transform your travel into a seamless and indulgent journey, offering solace from the ordinary.

    Additional Luxurious Benefits: Revel in the card's opulent features, such as NEXUS application fee rebates every 48 months and the opportunity to earn 50% more Aeroplan points and Stars at participating Starbucks® locations. These benefits are not mere conveniences; they are reflections of a lifestyle adorned with exclusivity and elegance.

    Family Sharing of Points: With the ability to share points among up to 8 family members, the card extends its benefits beyond the primary cardholder, turning every family trip into an extraordinary adventure.

    Versatile Points Earning: Earn 2 points for every $1 spent on eligible purchases made directly with Air Canada®, 1.5 points on eligible gas, groceries, travel, and dining, and 1.25 points on all other purchases. This varied point system ensures that whether you're fueling up your car or dining at a gourmet restaurant, every action brings you closer to your next dream destination.

    In essence, the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card is not just one of the best credit cards for excellent credit; it is a symbol of aerial opulence and luxury. It's meticulously crafted for those who not only seek the best in travel rewards but also desire an experience that mirrors the grandeur of their achievements.

Summary of the best credit cards for excellent credit in Canada

Credit card Key features and earn rate Apply now
American Express The Platinum Card® Unlimited Lounge Access, $200 Travel & Dining Credit

Earn rate: 2X on dining & travel, 1X elsewhere
Apply now
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* $200 Lifestyle Credit, Lounge Access

Earn rate: 5X on groceries, dining, gas, travel
Apply now
CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Maple Leaf Lounge Access, Companion Pass

Earn rate: 1.5X on gas, groceries, dining, 2X on Air Canada
Apply now
RBC Avion Visa Infinite Privilege Lounge Access, Ski Pass Benefits

Earn rate: 1.25X on all purchases
Apply now
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® No Foreign Transaction Fees, Lounge Access

Earn rate: 2X on all eligible purchases
Apply now
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Credit Card NEXUS Fee Rebate, Maple Leaf Lounge Access

Earn rate: 2X on Air Canada, 1.5X on gas, groceries, dining
Apply now

How to determine the "best" credit card for someone with excellent credit

Determining the "best" credit card for someone with excellent credit, particularly in terms of privileges relative to its annual fee, depends largely on individual preferences and lifestyle. However, based on the balance between the annual fee and the range of benefits offered, the Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card stands out as a compelling option.

Here's why:

Annual Fee vs. Benefits: With an annual fee of $399, it's in the mid-range compared to the others. However, it offers a broad spectrum of benefits like no foreign transaction fees and comprehensive travel insurance coverage, which can be highly valuable for frequent travelers.

Universal Reward Points: The card offers 2X Scene+ points on all eligible purchases, which is a straightforward and generous reward system. This can be particularly appealing for those who prefer simplicity in their rewards program.

Travel Benefits: The inclusion of lounge access and no foreign transaction fees makes this card particularly attractive for international travellers, offering comfort and savings on foreign purchases.

Flexibility and Accessibility: The Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card provides a good balance of luxury travel benefits and practical features like mobile device insurance, which adds to its everyday usability and appeal.

While this card offers a great combination of features relative to its cost, the best choice will still depend on individual spending habits, travel frequency, and specific preferences in rewards and benefits. Each card has its unique strengths, so the ideal card for one person might not be the best fit for another.

A fond farewell

In the splendid tapestry of financial grandeur, we've journeyed through a realm where credit cards are not mere tools, but golden tickets to a world of unparalleled luxury. These magnificent pieces of plastic, crafted for the financial elite, bestow upon their bearers a cornucopia of rewards and experiences, each card a unique key unlocking the doors to opulent lounges, sumptuous travel perks, and a bounty of points to be spent on whims and fancies.

As we close the curtains on this showcase of extravagant credit, remember, the choice of card is not just a financial decision, but a reflection of one's lifestyle and aspirations. Whether you're drawn to the skies with every swipe or yearn for the indulgence of exclusive lounges and luxury travel, there's a card that echoes your heartbeat. Choose wisely, for in this world of champagne wishes and caviar dreams, your credit card is your most loyal companion on the journey to the zenith of luxury living. Until next time, may your life be filled with wealth, opulence, and endless rewards.

American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information, click the Apply Now link. If you apply and get approved for an American Express Card, (I/we) may receive compensation from American Express, which can be in the form of monetary payment

Tyler Wade Content strategist & writer

Tyler Wade has worked in personal finance for over 5 years writing for brands like Ratehub, Forbes, KOHO, and now Money.ca.

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