Scotiabank Gold American Express review, Canada’s travel card with no foreign transaction fees and huge grocery rewards

Why Scotiabank Gold American Express stands out in Canada

The Scotiabank Gold American Express is one of Canada’s best travel cards for people who want high rewards on daily spending and real savings abroad. Scotiabank Gold American Express combines strong grocery rewards, no foreign transaction fees and solid travel protection in a single package that appeals to frequent travellers and families alike.

As a Canadian-written review, we focus on how the card performs in everyday Canadian life: grocery bills, dining out in Toronto or Vancouver, and trips to the United States or Europe. The Scotiabank Gold Amex is built for those who want points fast and fewer fees when using the card internationally.

Rewards structure: up to 5x groceries, dining and more

One of the big draws is the earning rate: up to 5x the points on eligible groceries, dining, and entertainment, 3x on gas, transit and select streaming services, and 1x on other purchases. That makes this card one of the best for grocery rewards in Canada — your everyday spending turns into meaningful travel value.

Points are flexible and can be redeemed for travel, statement credits or merchandise through Scotiabank Rewards. With a welcome bonus often around 30,000 points, new cardholders get a head start on trips or statement reductions. For Canadians trying to maximize value, the Scotiabank Gold American Express is a top pick.

No foreign transaction fees and travel insurance benefits

One of the most practical benefits for Canadian travellers is that the Scotiabank Gold Amex charges no foreign transaction fees, which typically save about 2.5 percent per purchase when travelling. That alone makes the card competitive with the best no foreign transaction fees cards available in Canada and ideal for frequent international travel.

On top of savings abroad, the card includes robust travel insurance: emergency medical, trip cancellation and interruption, flight delay and baggage coverage. These protections give peace of mind on longer trips to the U.S. or overseas, reducing out-of-pocket risk for medical emergencies — an important factor for Canadian travellers.

Fees, eligibility and final verdict for Canadian travellers

The annual fee is CAD 120, which many users recover quickly through grocery rewards, welcome bonuses and the savings from no foreign transaction fees. Eligibility typically requires Canadian residency, the age of majority in your province and good credit; applications are simple and completed online through Scotiabank.

Overall, the Scotiabank Gold American Express is a strong travel card for Canadians who spend on groceries, dining and travel. If you travel abroad enough to benefit from no foreign transaction fees and want generous grocery rewards, this card delivers great value. Compare offers, check the current welcome bonus and consider applying if the perks match your spending habits.