The WestJet RBC Mastercard credit cards are co-branded travel cards designed to help Canadians earn WestJet points on everyday spending. These cards offer benefits like annual companion vouchers, travel insurance, and accelerated points earning on categories like flights, groceries, and gas. They are structured to provide value for frequent travellers and those who spend regularly with WestJet and its partners. Understanding the specific features, fees, and eligibility requirements is key for Canadians considering these financial products.
Card Features and Earning Structure
The WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard provides a multi-tiered points earning structure on purchases. Cardholders earn two WestJet points for every dollar spent directly on WestJet flights, WestJet Vacations, and, as of November 5, 2025, Sunwing Vacations packages. The same accelerated rate of two points per dollar applies to purchases at grocery stores and on transportation, which includes gas, electric vehicle charging, public transit, and rideshare services. For all other everyday purchases not falling into these specific categories, the card earns a baseline rate of 1.5 WestJet points per dollar spent. It is important to note that warehouse retailers like Costco and Walmart are not classified under the grocery store merchant code, so purchases there earn the standard 1.5 points per dollar. WestJet points do not expire, providing long term flexibility for cardholders.
The points can be redeemed in several ways, starting with as few as 2,500 points. The primary redemption is for flights, where points can cover the full or partial cost including taxes, fees, and surcharges. Points can also be used for seat selection, checked bags, or cabin upgrades. Cardholders have access to Member Exclusive fares available only to WestJet Rewards members. For non travel redemptions, points can be used at the WestJet Rewards eStore for gift cards, tech, and home essentials from various brands. This flexibility allows cardholders to use their rewards in a manner that best suits their current needs, whether for travel or other purchases.
Welcome Bonus and Annual Spending Requirements
A significant welcome bonus is available for new primary cardholders whose applications are received and approved between June 16 and November 3, 2026. The first 30,000 welcome points are awarded upon making the first purchase with the new card. An additional 30,000 points are awarded if a total of $5,000 in qualifying net purchases is posted to the account within a specified period after account opening. Qualifying transactions exclude cash advances, balance transfers, interest charges, fees, and credits for returns. Finally, an extra 10,000 anniversary points are awarded up to sixteen weeks after the credit card account has been open for one full year. All points are deposited into the cardholder's WestJet Rewards account, provided the account is open and in good standing, meaning it is not past due for more than two consecutive statement periods.
The card also has ongoing annual requirements tied to its companion voucher benefit. To receive the annual companion voucher after the first year, a cardholder must spend a minimum of $5,000 annually on net purchases. For existing cardholders prior to November 5, 2025, this tracking begins following the issuance of the annual voucher on or after that date. For new cardholders, the tracking begins after the issuance of their welcome companion voucher on or after November 5, 2025. This spending also contributes to WestJet Rewards tier status, as every $5,000 in card spend generates $200 in tier qualifying spend, which can lead to benefits like airport lounge access and priority services.
Several specific rules govern the welcome bonus and spending calculations. The welcome offer is only for new primary cardholders whose applications are received and approved between June 16 and November 3, 2026. The additional 30,000 WestJet points require $5,000 in qualifying net purchases to be posted to the account within a specific period. Qualifying transactions exclude cash advances, interest charges, fees, and credits for returns. The transaction posting date, not the transaction date, determines if a purchase counts toward the spending requirement.
- The transaction posting date, not the transaction date, determines if a purchase counts towards the $5,000 welcome bonus threshold.
- Qualifying Transactions exclude cash advances, balance transfers, cash like transactions, non pre authorized bill payments, interest charges, and fees.
- Credits for returns and adjustments posted to the account will reduce the total amount of Qualifying Transactions.
- The Additional WestJet Points for the welcome bonus are awarded approximately six weeks after reaching the $5,000 Qualifying Transaction Amount.
- If the account is closed or changed to another RBC card before points are awarded, the cardholder may not receive them.
- The welcome offer may not be combined or used in conjunction with any other offer.
- Royal Bank and WestJet reserve the right to modify, cancel, or withdraw the offer at any time without notice.
Key Travel Benefits and Insurance
The WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard includes several travel focused perks. The primary benefit is an annual round trip companion voucher, which has a base fare starting from $119 CAD, plus taxes, fees, and charges. The welcome companion voucher is issued after the first purchase on the card. Cardholders also receive a free first checked bag for themselves and up to eight guests on the same reservation when the flight is paid for with this card. For lounge access, the card provides a Mastercard Travel Pass through DragonPass, granting entry to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide along with dining and spa offers. The card comes with a full suite of travel insurance coverages, though the specific details of each policy are governed by the insurance certificates provided upon account opening.
Beyond the companion voucher, the cardholder has the option to exchange it for an alternative benefit each year. The annual companion voucher can be exchanged for one of several other rewards, though the specific alternatives are detailed in the program terms. The card also provides access to world class sporting events and unique travel experiences that are exclusive to Mastercard cardholders. For trip planning, the card's points can be redeemed for WestJet Vacations packages, offering another way to use accumulated rewards. The comprehensive travel insurance is a key component of the card's value proposition, designed to provide peace of mind whenever the cardholder flies.
Fees, Rates, and Eligibility
This premium credit card carries an annual fee of $139. The purchase interest rate is 20.99%, and the cash advance interest rate is 22.99%. Additional fees include a cash advance fee of $5.00, a balance transfer promotional rate fee of up to 3% of the transaction amount, and an overlimit fee of $29.00, though the overlimit fee does not apply to residents of Quebec or if the credit limit is under $2,000 for the entire statement period. Eligibility for the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard requires a minimum personal annual income of $80,000 or a minimum household annual income of $150,000. Only the primary cardholder is eligible for the welcome bonus offer. Additional cardholders, co applicants, authorized users, and existing RBC cardholders transferring to this product are not eligible.
The card's fee structure includes several other charges that cardholders should be aware of. There is a fee of $5 for an additional copy of a monthly statement and a fee of $1.50 for statement updates at an ATM. The card's premium status means it can impose higher acceptance costs on merchants, which is a standard characteristic of World Elite Mastercard products. The application process can be completed online in five simple steps with a decision typically provided in under a minute. This streamlined process is designed for convenience, but applicants should ensure they meet the income and credit requirements before applying to increase their chances of approval.
Partner Offers and Additional Cardholder Information
Cardholders can access several partner rewards programs. These include saving 3 cents per litre on gas at Petro Canada and earning 20% more Petro Points when the RBC card is linked to a Petro Points account. Shopping at Rexall with a linked card earns 50 Be Well points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases. A complimentary DashPass subscription from DoorDash for up to 12 months provides unlimited deliveries with no delivery fees on orders over $15. For additional cardholders on the account, the annual fee is $59. RBC shares certain application information with WestJet, including the applicant's age range within a five year span and occupation, which is used for marketing and program analysis purposes.
The partner benefits are designed to provide savings on everyday expenses. Cardholders can save three cents per litre on gas at Petro Canada and earn twenty percent more Petro Points when their card is linked. Shopping at Rexall with a linked card earns fifty Be Well points for every dollar spent on eligible purchases. A complimentary DashPass subscription from DoorDash for up to twelve months provides unlimited deliveries with no fees on orders over fifteen dollars. Cardholders also get access to exclusive Mastercard events and experiences.
- Save 3¢/L on fuel at Petro Canada and earn 20% more Petro Points with a linked account.
- Earn 50 Be Well points per $1 spent on eligible purchases at Rexall with a linked card.
- Receive a complimentary DashPass subscription from DoorDash for up to 12 months ($0 delivery fees on orders of $15+).
- Access exclusive Mastercard experiences, including world class sporting events and unique travel.
- Use the award winning RBC mobile app to manage bills, set up mobile pay, and view transactions.
These partner programs operate independently, and cardholders must actively link their accounts or enroll where required to activate the benefits. The protection against fraudulent or unauthorized use of the card applies both in store and online. An optional coverage called BalanceProtector Max is also available to help protect the credit card balance, which can be cancelled at any time. Cardholders are also covered for fraudulent transactions, a standard feature on RBC credit cards that provides security for both physical and digital purchases.
Important Limitations and Program Administration
Several important limitations govern the use and benefits of this card. The welcome bonus offer may not be combined with any other offer, and Royal Bank and WestJet reserve the right to modify, cancel, or withdraw the offer at any time without notice. If a cardholder closes the account or changes to another RBC credit card before any of the welcome, additional, or anniversary points are awarded, they may not receive those points. WestJet, not Royal Bank of Canada, is solely responsible for the WestJet Rewards Program, including the terms for earning, redeeming, and administering WestJet points and any program changes. Cardholders are advised to ensure their email address is up to date on their WestJet Rewards account to receive all communications regarding their points and any program updates.
The separation of responsibilities between the bank and the airline is a critical aspect of this co branded product. RBC is responsible for the credit card account, including billing, payments, and the credit facility itself. WestJet manages all aspects of the loyalty currency, including point valuations, redemption options, and program rules. This means that any disputes or questions regarding point balances or redemptions must be directed to WestJet Rewards. Cardholders are recommended to review their communication consent and opt ins within their WestJet Rewards account to ensure they receive all relevant program updates and offers. It is also recommended that cardholders regularly monitor both their RBC credit card statement and their WestJet Rewards account for point postings and bonus awards.
Comparison of Key Financial Terms
The financial terms of the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard include specific rates and fees that are important for cost management. The interest rates for purchases and cash advances are fixed at the time of the offer, though they are subject to change based on the cardholder agreement. The various fees associated with the card are applied under specific conditions, such as when a cardholder exceeds their credit limit or requests additional account documents. The following table outlines the key financial terms associated with this credit card, providing a clear summary for easy reference and budgeting purposes.
| Fee or Rate Type | Amount or Percentage | Applicable Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Fee | $139 | Charged yearly to the primary account |
| Additional Cardholder Fee | $59 | Per additional card per year |
| Purchase Interest Rate | 20.99% | Applied to unpaid balances |
| Cash Advance Interest Rate | 22.99% | Applied from transaction date |
| Cash Advance Fee | $5.00 | Per cash advance transaction |
| Balance Transfer Fee | Up to 3% | Of the transaction amount |
| Overlimit Fee | $29.00 | Does not apply in Quebec or if limit under $2,000 |
| Statement Copy Fee | $5.00 | For additional monthly statements |
Understanding these costs is essential for using the card effectively. The overlimit fee exemption for Quebec residents and those with lower credit limits is due to provincial consumer protection regulations. The cash advance fee is charged in addition to the higher interest rate that begins accruing immediately on those transactions. The balance transfer fee can vary up to the stated maximum, and the specific rate would be disclosed at the time of the transfer offer. These fees and rates are standard components of the card's pricing structure and are detailed in the cardholder agreement provided upon approval.
Frequently asked questions
What is the annual fee for the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard?
The WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard has an annual fee of $139. The fee for an additional cardholder on the same account is $59, which remains unchanged. This annual fee provides access to the card's premium travel perks and insurance coverage. The card is positioned as a premium travel credit card within the WestJet RBC suite. It is important to consider this cost alongside the card's benefits and your personal spending habits.
How do I earn the welcome bonus points?
You receive 30,000 points after your first purchase. An additional 30,000 points are awarded after $5,000 in qualifying net purchases posts to your account. A final 10,000 anniversary points are awarded up to sixteen weeks after your account's first year. All points are awarded provided your account is open and in good standing. This offer is not available to existing cardholders transferring to this card during the offer period.
Do purchases at Costco or Walmart earn bonus points?
No, purchases at Costco or Walmart do not earn the accelerated grocery rate. These retailers are categorized as warehouses, not grocery stores, under the merchant category code system. Therefore, they do not qualify for the bonus points offered for grocery store purchases. Spending at Costco and Walmart will earn the standard rate of 1.5 WestJet points per dollar spent. This is a key detail for cardholders who frequently shop at these warehouse retailers.
What are the income requirements for this card?
To be eligible for the WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard, you must meet specific income requirements. The minimum personal annual income required is $80,000. Alternatively, a minimum household annual income of $150,000 also qualifies. These requirements are in place because this is a premium card that offers enhanced benefits. This card can also impose higher acceptance costs on merchants, which is typical for premium credit card products.
What is the companion voucher and how do I get it annually?
The companion voucher is an annual round trip travel credit with a base fare starting from $119 CAD plus taxes and fees. You receive a welcome voucher after your first purchase on the card. To receive the voucher in subsequent years, you must spend a minimum of $5,000 annually on net purchases. This minimum spend qualification is tracked following the issuance of your previous voucher. The voucher also offers flexible exchange options, providing added value for cardholders.
Who is responsible for the WestJet Rewards program?
WestJet, not Royal Bank of Canada, is solely responsible for the WestJet Rewards Program. This means WestJet manages all terms related to earning and redeeming WestJet points. They are also responsible for the administration of the points and any program changes. Cardholders are advised to keep their WestJet Rewards account email updated and review communication preferences. This separation clarifies that RBC issues the credit card while WestJet operates the loyalty program.
Sources and further reading
- WestJet RBC ® Mastercard ‡ credit cards westjet.com
- WestJet RBC World Elite Mastercard Travel Credit Card rbcroyalbank.com
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.