Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Review (2023)

Highlights

  • Earn Scene+ points for shopping at participating grocery stores
  • Cardholders are not charged foreign currency conversion fees (although they do still need to pay exchange rates)
  • Complimentary Visa Airport Companion Program access, along with six free lounge visits every year at airports around the world
  • Book vacations through Scene+ Travel, or redeem Scene+ points to cover the cost of a trip through a travel agency or online
  • Discounts of 5% to 25% on the lowest available discountable car rental rates in Canada and the United States

Introduction

The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card seems like the perfect card for everyone to have in their wallet—but when you put its earning potential under a microscope, it’s clearly not a good fit for some. Sure, it gives healthy reward earnings for purchases like groceries, movies and transportation, but a combination of stingy spending category caps and a high annual fee may make it an impractical card for most average spenders.

Once you factor in the high annual fee, its yearly net earnings are quite low with average spending. Plus, it’s not that accessible for most Canadians: It requires a credit score in the good to very good range, as well as a minimum personal income of $60,000 a year—slightly higher than the median Canadian worker’s income.

That said, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card does shine in one specific area—international travel. Cardholders are automatically members of the Visa Airport Companion Program, which gives lounge access to travelers at hundreds of airports around the world. Plus, unusually for a Canadian credit card, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card waives all markups on foreign currency purchases (except for the exchange rate, of course).

Bottom line: If you’re a frequent traveller or tend to spend big annually, consider this card. If you’re a low to average spender who doesn’t travel often, there are other rewards credit cards that may better benefit you.

(Video) The BEST Scotiabank Card For 2023 | Gold Amex Vs Passport Visa Infinite

Quick Facts

  • 3 Scene+ points for every dollar spent on eligible grocery purchases and 2 Scene+ points on every dollar spent on dining, live entertainment, or transit options (including rideshare and taxis).
  • $150 annual fee
  • Regular APR of 20.99% and a cash advance APR of 22.99%

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card Rewards

Earning rewards

All rewards for this card are through the Scene+ rewards program. Earn 3 Scene+ points for every dollar spent at participating grocery stores, and 2 Scene+ points for every dollar spent on eating out, movie and theatre tickets and other live entertainment. Cardholders can also earn 2 Scene+ points for every dollar spent on rideshare and taxi options, buses, subways, and other public transit modes. Each Scene+ point is worth around $0.01 on average, though their value varies depending on how you redeem them.

On top of standard rewards, cardholders can earn 25,000 bonus Scene+ points by spending at least $1,000 on eligible purchases in the first three months of holding a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card. And if a cardholder manages to spend at least $40,000 in everyday net eligible purchases every year, they earn an extra 10,000 Scene+ points.

Redeeming Rewards

Spending Scene+ points can be done through Scene+ grocery, entertainment, and travel partners, as well as through Scotiabank itself. You can redeem 1,000 Scene+ points for $10 at partner grocery stores and pharmacies. You can also redeem them at Cineplex, The Rec Room, Playdium and over 700 restaurants. In addition, you can redeem for travel at Scene+ Travel, Powered by Expedia or for merchandise, gift cards and account credits.

Rewards Potential

While the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card’s grocery and travel rewards rates seem respectable, the total capped earnings possible for cardholders are lacklustre. Estimated annual net earnings across all spending categories, minus the card’s annual fee, comes out to just $128.51.

For a card with no annual fee waiver and a significant annual fee, the rewards program alone doesn’t justify the cost unless you’re an extremely above average spender.

(Video) Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Review

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card Benefits

  • Multitude of Payment Options: Pay through Visa payWave, My Mobile Wallet, Apple Pay or Click to Pay.
  • Visa Infinite Concierge Service: A program that offers 24 hour assistance with trip or ticket planning for events.
  • Visa Infinite Hotel Collection: Anytime you book a hotel room, you automatically get an upgraded room if it is available, along with free Wi-Fi.
  • Visa Infinite Dining and Wine Country program: Enjoy private tours, free tastings, and more experiences at over 60 wineries across B.C. and Ontario.

Fine Print

Interest Rates

  • Regular APR Min: 20.99%
  • Regular APR Max: 25.99%

Fees

  • Cash Advance: 22.99%
  • Foreign Transaction Fee: 0%
  • Annual Fee: $150.00
  • Any other fees: $50 for every additional card per account

How the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Stacks Up

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite vs. TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite

On the surface, neither Scotiabank nor TD’s Visa Infinite cards seem all that different. Both cards share a similar annual fee ($139 for TD, compared to $150 for Scotia), identical income requirements ($60,000 a year minimum personal income), and ‘Visa Infinite’ in their names.

That said, the TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Card’s rewards plan vastly outstrips its Scotiabank counterpart. Even after adding in the annual fee, its annual net earnings come out to $635.70. Plus, it uses Aeroplan points, a program with a much longer history than Scene+.

(Video) NEW Scotiabank Credit Card Offers + The Power of Scotia Rewards!

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite vs. BMO eclipse Visa Infinite

BMO’s version of the Visa Infinite comes to the table with an annual fee waiver ($120), a whopping 5 BMO Rewards Points for every dollar spent on essentials like groceries and gas, and $5 million worth of emergency medical coverage.

While Scene+ points are individually worth a little more than BMO Rewards Points, the rewards package is far more generous. As with TD, the BMO Eclipse Visa Infinite also blows its Scotiabank counterpart out of the water on annual net earnings, coming out to $432.99 a year, even after factoring in the cost of the annual fee.

Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite vs. CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite

Unsurprisingly, the CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite’s rewards program outearns Scotiabank’s rewards points. Plus, it carries a cheaper $139 annual fee and comes with an annual fee waiver for the first year, too. It also brings a serious Welcome Bonus of $800 in travel value during a cardholder’s first year, including 15,000 Aventura Points simply for making a first purchase.

When it comes to consumer protection, Scotiabank also falls short compared to CIBC. The latter’s emergency medical coverage is also $5 million—more than double what Scotiabank offers. And its consumer protection and travel perks packages largely mirror Scotiabank’s, with the notable exception of the Visa Airport Companion Program.

Methodology

When determining a rating for individual credit cards, the Forbes Advisor Canada editorial team factors in an exhaustive list of data points. With rewards cards, the scoring model used takes into account factors such as, but not limited to, rewards rates and categories, fees, welcome bonuses and other benefits and features. Keep in mind, what may be best for some people might not be right for you. Conduct informed research before deciding which cards will best help you achieve your financial goals.

Is the Scotiabank Visa Infinite Card Right for You?

Scotiabank itself suggests cardholders shouldn’t apply for a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card if they plan on carrying an outstanding balance for a long period of time. It also suggests cardholders leery of annual fees, or who rarely travel, may not find it terribly useful.

(Video) Non-Affiliated | Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Credit Card Unboxing & Review |

That said, frequent fliers who find themselves paying through the nose on foreign transaction fees and interest may find the Scotiabank Visa Infinite Card to be a worthwhile addition to their wallets. Its lounge access program is a great perk for weary travelers waiting for their next flight.

Related: Best Travel Credit Cards

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How secure is the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card?

With its purchase protection program, most items bought with this card are insured against theft, loss, or damage for three months after you check out. The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card also doubles a manufacturer’s warranty for up to a year.

What is the minimum credit limit for a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card?

According to Scotiabank’s website, the minimum limit is $5,000.

(Video) Comparing the Big 5 Banks' Credit Cards

How many supplementary cards can I get as a Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card?

You get your first additional card for free, but every additional card costs $50 per year.

FAQs

Is the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite worth it? ›

My Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card review is positive. This is a very flexible card that comes with a lot of benefits and is appropriate for people in the following situations: You want a card with no FX fees – You'll save the standard 2.5% fee that most credit cards charge on foreign currency transactions.

Is it hard to get a visa infinite? ›

Why it's one of the hardest credit cards to get: The U.S. Bank Altitude Reserve Visa Infinite® Card is hard to get because it requires excellent credit for approval and charges an annual fee of $400. You get a lot in return, though.

What is the income requirement for a visa infinite credit card? ›

Then, a Visa Infinite credit card will require a personal income of $60,000 or a family income of $100,000, regardless of the institution that issues it. These include: RBC Avion Visa Infinite Card. BMO eclipse Visa Infinite* Card.

How do you qualify for visa infinite privilege? ›

For a Visa Infinite credit card, in order to qualify, you need an income of at least $60,000 personal or $100,000 household. For Visa Infinite Privilege, the income requirements are $200,000 for either personal or household, at least double the Visa Infinite requirements.

Which is better Visa Platinum or Visa Infinite? ›

The Visa Platinum is the second tier of the four Visa credit card types. It's better than a Visa Classic but less luxurious than a Visa Signature or Visa Infinite. Most Visa Platinum cards require a credit score in the 600s. You might be able to qualify for some with a score in the very high 500s.

How many times can you go to the lounge with visa infinite? ›

By presenting your card, you can visit any of the more than 1000 business lounges around the world twice a year with Visa Platinum, 4 times per year with Visa Signature and 6 times per year with Visa Infinite.

Is visa infinite for rich people? ›

Only a handful of Visa Infinite cards exist. Because Infinite cards feature luxury benefits, they all feature high annual fees and are geared towards high net-worth individuals who travel often.

Can you get a US visa if you are rich? ›

So, this visa is suitable for very wealthy internationals who have their eye on a Green Card or American citizenship. EB-5 Visa in a nutshell: To receive this visa, you must invest at least $800,000 in a US enterprise and create at least 10 American jobs.

What is the most easiest visa to get? ›

Easiest Countries to Get a Work Visa
  • Estonia.
  • Lithuania.
  • Iceland.
  • Latvia.
  • Slovakia.
  • Luxembourg.
  • Czechia.
  • Germany.

Do millionaires need credit cards? ›

Key points. The vast majority (70%) of millionaires have two or more credit cards, but a full 9% have no credit cards at all. In comparison, 24% of people with a net worth below $1 million are completely cardless. Modern society borderline requires having at least one credit card.

What is the credit card with the highest limit? ›

On our list, the card with the highest reported limit is the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card, which some say offers a $100,000 limit. We've also seen an advertised maximum credit limit of $100,000 on the First Tech Odyssey Rewards™ World Elite Mastercard®, a credit union rewards card.

What is the minimum limit for visa infinite card? ›

The minimum credit limit should be around $10,000 since it's a Visa Infinite. Sign-up bonus: Earn 75,000 bonus miles when you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first three months from account opening.

Does Visa Infinite get lounge access? ›

As a CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Cardholder, your premium benefits include the Visa Airport Companion Program, providing you with access to more than 1,200 airport lounges worldwide (including across Canada) .

What are the perks of Visa Infinite? ›

Summary of Visa Infinite benefits
  • Purchase protection (coverage for theft or damage).
  • Return protection.
  • Trip cancellation and interruption coverage.
  • Trip delay reimbursement.
  • Travel accident insurance.
  • Lost luggage reimbursement.
Aug 26, 2022

Which bank is Visa Infinite? ›

Your Card comes with great benefits. As a Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card member, you'll enjoy rewards and travel benefits.

What's higher than Visa Infinite? ›

Visa Signature is the next level up and typically comes with all of the benefits included above plus these additional perks: Visa Signature Hotel Collection: Enjoy special guest status at 900+ Visa Signature Luxury Hotel properties worldwide.

What is Visa infinite equivalent in Mastercard? ›

Mastercard World Elite

Is Chase Sapphire Preferred a Visa Infinite card? ›

In particular, you'll enjoy Visa Signature benefits with Chase Sapphire Preferred, while Chase Sapphire Reserve comes with Visa Infinite benefits. Visa Infinite provides some additional perks, including extended travel insurance and a special concierge.

Can 2 people use same card for lounge access? ›

No, the primary cardholder can only use the airport credit card. Even the lounge will scrutinise the cardholder's name for ensuring safety and security. However, there are certain credit cards which allow family members to get the privilege of the lounge. How can I check if complimentary visits are available?

Can I stay longer at airport lounge? ›

Key points. You can stay overnight and sleep at 24-hour airport lounges, as long as they don't have any rules on how long you stay. Many airport lounges close at night or limit access to just a few hours before your flight.

What is the 8th benefit of visa infinite privilege? ›

As a Visa Infinite Privilege cardholder you'll also receive an 8th benefit at over 200 participating hotels, ranging from dining to spa and golf credits, and can enjoy limited-time offers such as free nights and discounts.

What card do billionaires use? ›

What Credit Card Do the Super Rich Use? The super rich use a variety of different credit cards, many of which have strict requirements to obtain, such as invitation only or a high minimum net worth. Such cards include the American Express Centurion (Black Card) and the JP Morgan Chase Reserve.

What is the rarest credit card in the world? ›

The rarest credit card in the world is likely the Centurion® Card from American Express, also known as the “Black Card.” This card is available by invitation only, and you will reportedly need to spend at least $250,000 per year on other Amex credit cards and have an income of $1 million+ to get it.

What is the highest credit card color? ›

Some providers may choose to use a hierarchy of colours with credit cards, such as (in descending order based on benefits and, potentially, cost): titanium, diamond, black. platinum. gold or silver.

What salary is considered rich in USA? ›

According to the most recent data available for fiscal year 2019, an income of $540,009 per year puts you in the top 1% category. Based on that figure, an annual income of $500,000 or more would make you rich.

Does buying a house in USA gives you residency? ›

Does buying a property in the USA give you residency? Purchasing American homes doesn't automatically put you on your path to citizenship. But there are other ways to earn permanent residency in the United States if you are a foreign national or an immigrant.

Which US visa is most powerful? ›

O-1 Visa: Individuals of Extraordinary Ability or Achievement.

Which passport visa is most powerful? ›

No. 1 most powerful passport in the world: Japan

As of 2023, Japanese passport holders can visit 193 of 227 destinations visa-free, which is 85% of the world, according to data from the International Air Transport Association compiled by Henley & Partners.

Which visa passports are the best? ›

The Top 10 Most Powerful Passports in the World

The top 10 most powerful passports in 2023 are those issued by Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Germany, Spain, Italy, Finland, Luxembourg, Austria, and Denmark.

Which country has toughest visa? ›

What are the Hardest Countries to Get a Visa to Visit?
  • Iran.
  • Turkmenistan.
  • Chad.
  • Bhutan.
  • Saudi Arabia.
  • Western Sahara.
  • Somalia.
  • North Korea.

Does a black credit card mean you're rich? ›

Most of the time when people refer to a black card, what they mean is the luxe American Express Centurion card. Due to the card's exclusivity, it's become a symbol of wealth and the ability to buy just about anything your affluent heart desires.

Does American Express mean you're rich? ›

No,. American Express is not specifically for rich people, even though it does have a high level of status in many people's minds. Applicants need good or excellent credit scores of 700+ to qualify for Amex credit cards, and you don't need to be rich to have a good credit score.

Is $25,000 a high credit card limit? ›

Yes, a $25,000 credit limit is good, as it is above the national average. The average credit card limit overall is around $13,000, and people who have higher limits than that typically have good to excellent credit, a high income and little to no existing debt.

What is the credit limit for 50000 salary? ›

What will be my credit limit for a salary of ₹50,000? Typically, your credit limit is 2 or 3 times of your current salary. So, if your salary is ₹50,000, you can expect your credit limit to be anywhere between ₹1 lakh and ₹1.5 lakh.

What is a respectable credit limit? ›

A good credit limit is above $30,000, as that is the average credit card limit, according to Experian. To get a credit limit this high, you typically need an excellent credit score, a high income and little to no existing debt.

How much does an infinite card cost? ›

United Club℠ Infinite Card: Basics. Card type: Airline. Annual fee: $525. Sign-up bonus: Earn 80,000 bonus miles +1,000 Premier qualifying points after you spend $5,000 on purchases in the first 3 months your account is open.

How much is the passport visa infinite fee? ›

Normally, the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card charges a reasonable annual fee of $150. However, if you apply before April 30, 2023, the annual fee is waived for the first year.

WHO issues black cards? ›

The American Express Centurion Card, colloquially known as the Black Card, is a charge card issued by American Express. It is reserved for the company's wealthiest clients who meet certain net worth, credit quality, and spending requirements on its gateway card, the Platinum Card.

Is visa infinite privilege hard to get? ›

Premium rewards cards are typically harder to qualify for, and the TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* is no exception. To be eligible for this card, you need to have an annual personal income of at least $150,000, or an annual household income of at least $200,000.

Does Scotiabank still have Priority Pass? ›

As a Scotiabank Premium Banking client, your exclusive privileges include an annual Priority Pass membership which gives you access to more than 600 Priority Pass airport lounges worldwide. It's your ticket to a more refined way to travel.

What is the household income for visa infinite? ›

This card is made from 90% recycled plastic.

Must apply online by September 5, 2023. $50 for first Additional Cardholder; $0 for subsequent Additional Cardholders. Eligibility Requirements: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household annual income.

How much income do you need for visa infinite privilege? ›

Welcome offer. You deserve to be rewarded! Get up to 90,000 points. Minimum $150,000 (individual) or $200,000 (household) annual income required.

How do you qualify for a visa infinite card? ›

For a Visa Infinite credit card, in order to qualify, you need an income of at least $60,000 personal or $100,000 household. For Visa Infinite Privilege, the income requirements are $200,000 for either personal or household, at least double the Visa Infinite requirements.

Who is infinite banking good for? ›

Infinite banking can be a useful financial strategy for people looking to build wealth and reduce the amount of money spent on third-party fees and taxes.

Is Scotiabank Momentum Visa Infinite worth it? ›

The Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card will be most beneficial if you take advantage of its high cash-back earn rates by using it to make your grocery, gas, transit and recurring bill payments, including subscriptions.

What are the benefits of Visa Infinite card? ›

Summary of Visa Infinite benefits
  • Purchase protection (coverage for theft or damage).
  • Return protection.
  • Trip cancellation and interruption coverage.
  • Trip delay reimbursement.
  • Travel accident insurance.
  • Lost luggage reimbursement.
Aug 26, 2022

Do I get lounge access with Visa Infinite? ›

For being a Visa Infinite cardholder, you are entitled to unlimited free airport lounge access at more than 800 LoungeKey lounges globally as well as one free guest per visit.

Can I use my Scotiabank visa in the US? ›

ScotiaCards with VISA Debit

Shop with your ScotiaCard with VISA Debit anywhere VISA is accepted in the US and worldwide. There is no transaction fee when shopping with your ScotiaCard with VISA Debit.

Should I have 3 credit cards? ›

It's generally recommended that you have two to three credit card accounts at a time, in addition to other types of credit. Remember that your total available credit and your debt to credit ratio can impact your credit scores. If you have more than three credit cards, it may be hard to keep track of monthly payments.

Can I withdraw money from my Scotiabank visa? ›

You can get a cash advance when you use your credit card account (including using your card) to access money from your credit card account through an ABM, at a Scotiabank branch, by telephone, online or through a mobile device, or by using a Scotia credit card cheque.

Is Visa Infinite the highest tier? ›

Visa Infinite is the highest level of Visa-branded credit cards, above Visa Signature and Visa Traditional. There are only a few Visa Infinite cards in the U.S., as they're typically only the most high-end credit cards offering the best benefits of any card on the Visa network.

What is the minimum income for Scotia Momentum visa infinite? ›

Want an interest free grace period on purchases. Value the rewards and benefits that can be earned with this Card and willing to pay an annual fee. Meet a minimum annual income of $60,000 or a minimum household income of $100,000 or minimum assets under management of $250,000.

How do I claim my Scotiabank Visa Infinite? ›

Start your claim

1-855-753-4272.

How do I know if my card is eligible for airport lounge? ›

How can I find out if my issuer provides me with complimentary lounge visits? If your issuer provides complimentary lounge visits, there will be a “Complimentary Visit” section under My Information on the app and under My Account on the web. If you do not have any complimentary visits, this section will not display.

Which card is best for airport lounge access? ›

Best Airport Lounge Access Credit Cards In India 2023
  • Featured Partners.
  • Best Credit Cards for Airport Lounge Access in India.
  • Infinia Credit Card.
  • Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card.
  • Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card.
  • Pioneer Heritage Metal Credit Card.
  • The American Express® Platinum Card.
  • Forbes Advisor Ratings.

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