The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card is a premium travel credit card designed for Canadians who frequently travel abroad. It distinguishes itself by eliminating the standard 2.5% foreign transaction fee on purchases made in foreign currencies, a feature not commonly found among Canadian credit cards. The card provides practical travel benefits including six complimentary airport lounge visits annually and a suite of travel insurance coverages. Its rewards program earns Scene+ points, which can be redeemed for travel and other purchases, though its point-earning structure is most accelerated when booking through specific partner platforms.
Card Features and Primary Benefits
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card is positioned as a travel-focused credit card within Scotiabank's portfolio. Its central feature is the absence of a foreign transaction fee, which saves cardholders the typical 2.5% charge applied by most Canadian issuers on purchases made in a foreign currency. The card provides six complimentary visits per year to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide through the Visa Airport Companion Program. Cardholders also receive a complimentary 10GB global mobile data plan for 15 consecutive days each year through GigSky, plus unlimited access to Travel Essentials by GigSky for select travel apps. Additional lifestyle perks include a complimentary Avis Preferred Plus membership for car rental benefits, access to over 900 luxury properties via the Visa Infinite Luxury Hotel Collection, and invitations to the Visa Infinite Dining Series. The card also offers concierge service available 24 hours a day, seven days a week for assistance with travel, dining, or events.
Other notable benefits include a partnership with Shell Canada, where cardholders can get up to 10 cents per litre in value at the pump when using the linked card. The Visa Infinite program also provides wine country benefits at over 60 participating wineries in British Columbia and Ontario, offering complimentary tastings, tours, and discounts on wine purchases. The card includes a flexible payment feature called Scotia Flexipay, which allows cardholders to pay off eligible purchases of $100 or more with a low interest rate on the installment plan and no installment plan fee. The cash advance rate, which applies to cash advances, balance transfers, and cash-like transactions, is distinct from the purchase interest rate and is typically higher.
Earning and Redeeming Scene+ Points
The card earns rewards in the form of Scene+ points, a program partnered with retailers like Sobeys, Safeway, Cineplex, and Home Hardware. The base earn rate is 1 Scene+ point per dollar spent on all eligible purchases. An accelerated rate of 3 Scene+ points per dollar is applied to eligible travel purchases, but this higher rate specifically requires booking through the Scene+ Travel platform, which is powered by Expedia. When booking hotels and car rentals through Scene+ Travel, cardholders earn an extra 3 points per dollar, for a total of 6 points per dollar spent on those categories. Points can be redeemed flexibly for travel purchases, including through the Scene+ Travel portal, or for other rewards. One hundred Scene+ points are equivalent to one dollar in value when redeemed for travel. The card includes an annual bonus structure where spending $40,000 in eligible purchases in a year triggers a 10,000 bonus Scene+ point deposit. For every additional $10,000 spent after reaching the $40,000 threshold within the same annual period, cardholders earn an extra 2,000 bonus points.
The Scene+ rewards program is a key differentiator for Scotiabank, and points can be earned across a network of partners. The program's flexibility allows points to be used for various redemptions beyond just travel. The card's point-earning structure is designed to incentivize spending through specific channels, particularly for travel bookings. It is important to note that eligible purchases for point earning do not include cash advances, balance transfers, interest charges, fees, or refunds and returns. The annual bonus points are credited to the account after the spending threshold is met and the annual period concludes. The annual period starts from the account open date and resets every 12 months thereafter.
- Base earn rate: 1 Scene+ point per $1 on all eligible purchases.
- Accelerated travel earn: 3 Scene+ points per $1 on eligible travel purchases via Scene+ Travel.
- Hotel and car rental bonus: An extra 3 points per $1 (total 6x) when booked through Scene+ Travel.
- Annual spend bonus: 10,000 bonus points for spending $40,000 in a year.
- Additional tier bonus: 2,000 bonus points for every extra $10,000 spent after $40,000.
- Point value: 100 Scene+ points = $1 in travel redemption value.
- Exclusions: Points are not earned on cash advances, balance transfers, fees, or refunds.
Welcome Offer and Eligibility Conditions
A welcome offer is available for new accounts opened within a specific promotional period. For accounts opened between August 4, 2026, and November 1, 2026, new cardholders can earn up to 35,000 bonus Scene+ points. To qualify for the 25,000-point portion of this bonus, a cardholder must make at least $2,000 in eligible purchases posted to the new account within the first three months of the account open date. The remaining 10,000-point bonus is the standard annual bonus earned upon spending $40,000 in a year. Individuals who are currently or were previously primary or secondary cardholders of any Scotiabank personal credit card in the two years prior to application are not eligible for the 25,000 bonus points offer. This restriction includes those who switch from an existing Scotiabank personal credit card. Employees of Scotiabank are also ineligible for this welcome bonus. All cardholders, regardless of eligibility for the welcome offer, remain able to earn the annual Scene+ point bonus based on their spending.
The welcome offer terms contain specific conditions regarding account status and timing. The offer may be changed, cancelled, or extended at any time without notice and cannot be combined with any other offers. For joint accounts, the bonus points are credited to the Scene+ account linked to the borrower who completed the last transaction to meet the qualifying spend threshold. If a cardholder switches from another Scene+ eligible Scotiabank credit card to the Passport Visa Infinite + Card, the original account open date carries over for the purpose of calculating the annual bonus period. This means the annual period for the 10,000 point benefit will begin on the next anniversary of the original account open date, not the date of the product switch.
- Offer period: Accounts must be opened between August 4, 2026, and November 1, 2026.
- Spend requirement: $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first 3 months.
- Bonus amount: 25,000 bonus Scene+ points upon meeting the spend requirement.
- Ineligible individuals: Current or former Scotiabank personal credit cardholders in the past 2 years.
- Ineligible individuals: Those who switch from an existing Scotiabank card.
- Ineligible individuals: Employees of Scotiabank.
- Annual bonus: All cardholders remain eligible for the 10,000-point annual spend bonus.
Travel and Purchase Insurance Coverage
The card includes a comprehensive package of insurance benefits, primarily focused on travel protection. Emergency medical insurance provides coverage of up to $2 million CAD for the cardholder, their spouse, and eligible dependent children. Trip cancellation and interruption insurance is available when at least 75 percent of the trip costs are charged to the card. For trip cancellation, coverage is up to $1,500 per insured person for travel expenses, with a maximum of $10,000 per trip. For trip interruption, coverage is up to $2,500 per insured person, also with a maximum of $10,000 per trip. Flight delay insurance provides reimbursement of up to $500 per insured person for necessary expenses if a flight is delayed by a specified period, provided at least 75 percent of the ticket cost was charged to the card. Other common insurance features like rental car collision and loss damage waiver are also included, subject to the specific terms and conditions of the policy.
The insurance coverage is a significant component of the card's value proposition for travellers. All insurance benefits are subject to the detailed terms, conditions, limitations, and exclusions outlined in the certificate of insurance. It is the cardholder's responsibility to understand the specific requirements to activate coverage, such as the minimum purchase thresholds for trip-related insurance. The emergency medical coverage is particularly substantial, offering a high limit that can provide peace of mind for international travel. The trip cancellation and interruption insurance covers unforeseen events that force a traveller to cancel or cut short a trip, reimbursing pre-paid, non-refundable travel expenses. The flight delay insurance helps mitigate the inconvenience and extra costs associated with travel disruptions.
Fees, Requirements, and Account Management
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card carries a standard annual fee of $150. This fee can be reduced or waived under certain conditions linked to Scotiabank chequing accounts. Cardholders with an Ultimate Package chequing account can receive a full rebate of the annual fee. Those with a Preferred Package chequing account can receive a $40 rebate on the yearly fee. To be approved for the card, applicants generally need a minimum personal annual income of $60,000 to $80,000 or more. Alternatively, a minimum household income of $100,000 to $150,000 or more is accepted. Another pathway to eligibility is having a minimum of $250,000 to $300,000 or more in assets under management with Scotiabank. The card offers a flexible payment plan called Scotia Flexipay, which allows cardholders to pay off eligible purchases of $100 or more with a low interest rate on the installment plan and no plan setup fee. The cash advance rate, which applies to cash advances, balance transfers, and cash-like transactions, is typically higher than the purchase interest rate.
Managing the account involves understanding the various fees and credit terms. The annual fee is charged on the account anniversary date. Supplementary cards are available for an additional fee, though a waiver for the first supplementary card's annual fee is sometimes included as part of promotional offers for new clients. The interest rates for purchases, cash advances, and balance transfers are disclosed in the cardholder agreement and can vary. The Scotia Flexipay feature provides an alternative to carrying a revolving balance, allowing specific purchases to be converted into a fixed-term installment loan. For cardholders who travel, the lack of a foreign transaction fee simplifies spending abroad, as the amount charged to the card in Canadian dollars will reflect only the Visa exchange rate without any additional markup.
- Standard annual fee: $150.
- Ultimate Package rebate: Full annual fee rebate.
- Preferred Package rebate: $40 annual fee rebate.
- Personal income minimum: $60,000 - $80,000+ per year.
- Household income minimum: $100,000 - $150,000+ per year.
- Assets under management minimum: $250,000 - $300,000+.
- Scotia Flexipay: Available for purchases of $100+, with low interest and no plan fee.
- Supplementary card fee: May be waived for the first card for new clients.
Comparison to Other Scotiabank Credit Cards
Scotiabank offers a range of credit cards catering to different spending habits and reward preferences. The Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite + Card is the bank's premier cash back card, offering accelerated rates on categories like groceries, recurring bills, gas, and food delivery, making it distinct from the travel-focused Passport card. The Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card is a no-annual-fee option that earns Scene+ points, primarily at select grocery and home improvement stores, serving as an entry-level card for the rewards program. The Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card is positioned as a premium card within the portfolio, though it uses the American Express network which has different merchant acceptance than Visa. The Scotiabank Value Visa Card is designed for those seeking lower interest rates and balance transfer options, with minimal rewards. The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card fits specifically within the travel segment, offering a combination of no foreign transaction fees, lounge access, and travel insurance that is not replicated by the cash back or no-fee Scene+ cards.
The choice between Scotiabank cards depends largely on a cardholder's primary spending categories and desired reward type. The Passport card is most directly compared to other travel cards, both within and outside of Scotiabank, based on its no foreign transaction fee feature and lounge access. The Momentum card is for those who prefer straightforward cash back on everyday spending, particularly in its bonus categories. The no-fee Scene+ Visa card is suitable for those new to credit or who want to earn points without an annual fee, though its earn rates are lower. The American Express cards in Scotiabank's lineup may offer higher point-earning rates in certain categories but come with the acceptance limitations of the American Express network. The trade-off within Scotiabank's portfolio is that a single card is not optimal for all types of spenders. The best card varies based on whether one prioritizes travel perks, cash back, low fees, or broad acceptance.
Potential Value and Cost Considerations
An analysis of potential first-year value for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card, as of May 2026, estimates up to $1,250 in value from welcome offers, rewards, and savings. This calculation includes the welcome bonus value, first-year point earnings, foreign transaction fee savings, and the value of lounge access. The value of the six complimentary lounge passes is estimated at approximately $358 based on a preferential membership. Foreign transaction fee savings are estimated at $132 based on average annual foreign spend. The card's point-earning potential on everyday purchases is estimated to generate $364 in value based on average spending patterns. It is important to note that these figures are estimates and actual value depends entirely on individual card usage and spending habits. The card's annual fee of $150 is a direct cost, though it may be offset by the chequing account rebates or the value derived from the card's benefits. The rewards return on spending has been noted in some analyses as being approximately 1.3 percent based on a typical monthly spend, which may be lower than some other premium travel cards.
Evaluating the card's value requires a realistic assessment of how its features align with personal spending and travel habits. The no foreign transaction fee is highly valuable for those who frequently travel or make online purchases in foreign currencies, effectively saving 2.5% on those transactions. The lounge passes provide tangible savings if a cardholder would otherwise pay for airport lounge access. The travel insurance can provide significant financial protection, though it is a benefit one hopes not to use. The welcome bonus and annual spend bonus can substantially boost the effective return in the first year. However, the card's ongoing value is tied to consistently high spending to trigger the annual bonus and maximizing the accelerated earn categories through the Scene+ Travel portal. For moderate spenders who do not travel often, the annual fee may outweigh the benefits received.
| Value Component | Estimated Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Welcome Bonus (25,000 pts) | $250 |
| Annual Spend Bonus (10,000 pts) | $100 |
| Supplementary Card Fee Waiver | $50 |
| Foreign Transaction Fee Savings | $132 |
| Point Earn on Everyday Spend | $364 |
| Airport Lounge Pass Value | $358 |
| Total Potential First-Year Value | Up to $1,254 |
Frequently asked questions
What is the foreign transaction fee for the Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card?
The Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card charges a 0% foreign transaction fee. This means cardholders do not pay the standard 2.5% fee typically charged by other Canadian card issuers on purchases made in a foreign currency. Only the actual exchange rate applies to these transactions. This feature is a primary benefit for Canadians who travel or shop internationally.
How many airport lounge visits does the card include?
The card includes six complimentary airport lounge visits per year. These visits provide access to over 1,200 airport lounges worldwide through the Visa Airport Companion Program. The passes are renewed annually. This benefit is designed to enhance the travel experience for cardholders waiting at airports.
How can I get the annual fee waived?
The $150 annual fee can be waived or reduced if you hold a qualifying Scotiabank chequing account. Cardholders with an Ultimate Package chequing account receive a full rebate of the annual fee. Those with a Preferred Package chequing account receive a $40 rebate on the yearly fee. Specific conditions for these account packages apply.
What travel insurance does the card provide?
The card provides several travel insurance coverages. This includes emergency medical insurance for up to $2 million CAD. Trip cancellation insurance covers up to $1,500 per person, and trip interruption insurance covers up to $2,500 per person. Flight delay insurance provides up to $500 per person. Coverage typically requires charging a portion of the travel costs to the card.
What is the income requirement for this card?
Applicants generally need a minimum personal annual income of $60,000 to $80,000 or more for approval. Alternatively, Scotiabank accepts a minimum household income of $100,000 to $150,000 or more. A third eligibility path requires a minimum of $250,000 to $300,000 or more in assets under management with the bank. These criteria are used to help identify the most suitable card for each applicant based on their financial profile.
How do I earn the maximum welcome bonus?
To earn the maximum welcome bonus of 35,000 Scene+ points, you must open a new Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + account between August 4, 2026 and November 1, 2026. You then need to spend $2,000 in eligible purchases within the first three months to qualify for 25,000 bonus points. The remaining 10,000 points are the annual Scene+ point bonus, earned by spending at least $40,000 on eligible purchases in your first account year. Note that existing or recent Scotiabank cardholders are not eligible for the 25,000 point portion of this offer.
Sources and further reading
- Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite + Card scotiabank.com
- Guide to Scotiabank Credit Cards in Canada nerdwallet.com
- Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite +* Card, overview ratehub.ca
This article explains how things work and is not financial, tax or legal advice. Rules, limits and rates change, so check the current figures with the Canada Revenue Agency, your province or your financial institution before you act.