Catch up on your bills ✅
Whether you’re new to Canada or simply looking to upgrade your financial tools, Scotiabank credit cards offer flexible options designed to meet a wide range of needs.
In this article, you’ll find a breakdown of the main card types, their features, and how they can support your financial goals in Canada.
Main types of cards
Rewards Cards
Scotiabank offers several credit cards focused on helping you earn Scene+ points through your everyday purchases. Points can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, gift cards, and statement credits. Popular options include:
- Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card – Earn up to 6 Scene+ points per dollar at participating grocery partners in Canada and up to 45,000 bonus points in the first year.
- Scotiabank® Scene+™ Visa Card* – A no-annual-fee option that still offers 2x Scene+ points on eligible grocery and hardware purchases.
💡 These cards are ideal for users who want to get more value from their everyday spending.
Travel-Focused Cards
If you’re a frequent traveller, Scotiabank credit cards with travel perks may offer added value:
- Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Card* – No foreign transaction fees, up to 60,000 Scene+ bonus points, and travel insurance coverage.
- Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card – Lower interest rate (9.99%) and up to 80,000 Scene+ points in the first 14 months.
💡 Benefits often include airport lounge access, emergency medical travel insurance, trip cancellation/interruption coverage, and rental car protection.
No Annual Fee Cards
For cost-conscious users, Scotiabank provides credit cards that offer rewards or basic features with no yearly fee:
- Scotia Momentum® No-Fee Visa Card* – Earn up to 5% cash back for the first 3 months and 1% after that.
- Scotiabank American Express® Card – Earn up to 3 Scene+ points per dollar with no annual fee.
💡 These cards offer a solid entry point into credit without the financial commitment of an annual fee.
Cards for Newcomers to Canada
Newcomers and international students can access credit even without a Canadian credit history. Through the StartRight™ Program, Scotiabank offers cards that accept international credit profiles via Nova Credit:
- Scotiabank® Scene+™ Visa for Students*
- Scotiabank Value® Visa for Students*
- Scotia Momentum® No-Fee Visa for Students*
💡 These cards help build a Canadian credit score while offering practical features like low fees, promotional rates, and access to rewards.
📢 You can compare all Scotiabank credit cards here.
Fees, interest, and managing your credit
Understanding the cost of using credit is key. Here are a few important points:
- Foreign transaction fee: 2.5% (waived for some travel cards)
- Purchase interest rate: Typically 19.99%–20.99%; as low as 9.99% for select cards
- Cash advance rate: Usually 22.99%
- Balance transfer offers: Introductory rates as low as 0.99% for 6–9 months (with applicable fees)
📢 Other fees may apply, such as over-limit charges ($29) and cash advances at ABMs ($5–$7.50).
You can manage payments through the Scotiabank mobile app — available for iOS and Android — or through online banking. Setting up Autopay is highly recommended to ensure on-time payments and maintain a strong credit score.
Timely payments and staying within your credit limit are key steps in building or improving your Canadian credit history.
Travel and rewards benefits
Many Scotiabank credit cards offer competitive rewards on daily categories such as groceries, gas, restaurants, and travel. Travel cards come with extra features, including:
- Emergency medical insurance
- Trip cancellation and interruption insurance
- Car rental protection
Rewards points can be redeemed flexibly for flights, hotels, gift cards, or statement credits. You can estimate your rewards using Scotiabank’s Scene+ Rewards Calculator.
Who these cards are for
Scotiabank credit cards are built to serve a wide audience:
- Travellers who want savings, insurance, and comfort
- Newcomers looking to establish credit in Canada
- Students and families who want low fees and daily rewards
- Digital-first users who manage finances via mobile or online
- Anyone focused on saving through cashback or balance transfer promos
With flexible products and competitive features, these cards make it easier to match your financial strategy with the right credit solution.
