Few things make travel feel more luxurious than escaping the crowds and relaxing in an airport lounge. Whether it’s complimentary snacks, an open bar, or just a quiet seat away from screaming toddlers, lounge access can take the edge off travel days.
If you’re a Canadian looking to score free airport lounge access, you don’t need elite airline status or a first class ticket—you just need the right credit card.
In this guide, we break down all the Canadian credit cards that offer complimentary lounge access, along with the type of access, lounge networks, and how many passes you get per year.
All Canadian Credit Cards with Lounge Access — In a Nutshell
Understanding the Types of Airport Lounge Access
There are four different types of lounge networks that come with Canadian credit cards.
Depending on your credit card, you might get access to a global lounge network like Priority Pass, or be limited to airline-branded lounges. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main types:
Priority Pass
One of the largest independent airport lounge programs in the world, with access to over 1,300 lounges across 600+ cities. It includes a mix of contract lounges globally and is especially useful when flying economy or with non-alliance airlines.
Visa Airport Companion Program (Powered by DragonPass)
Offered through Visa Infinite and Visa Infinite Privilege cards, this program uses the DragonPass lounge network, which includes many Plaza Premium locations in Canada and lounges around the world. Some cards include complimentary visits, while others require you to pay a discounted entry fee.
Mastercard Travel Pass (by DragonPass)
Similar to the Visa version but tied to World Elite Mastercard products. Requires enrolment through Mastercard’s Travel Pass portal.
Airline-Branded Lounges
These are operated directly by airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, Air France, and KLM. Access is typically tied to flying with that specific airline, often on the same day, and may come with guest privileges depending on your card.
Access is typically limited to flights operated by the issuing airline (and sometimes only when flying in a premium cabin or on a same-day ticket).
Premium Personal Cards with Lounge Access
The American Express Platinum Card
Widely considered the most comprehensive travel card in Canada, the American Express Platinum Card offers unlimited access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide.
This includes Priority Pass (lounges only, no restaurants), Plaza Premium, Centurion Lounges, and Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta.
Beyond lounge access, it comes with a $200 annual travel credit, a $200 dining credit, Marriott Bonvoy Gold and Hilton Honors Gold status, and top-tier travel insurance.
The $799 annual fee isn’t cheap—but for frequent flyers who can take full advantage, it’s easily justifiable.
American Express Platinum Card
- Earn 70,000 MR points upon spending $10,000 in the first three months
- Plus, earn 30,000 MR points upon making a purchase in months 14–17 as a cardholder
- Earn 2x MR points on all dining and travel purchases
- Receive an annual $200 travel credit
- Receive an annual $200 dining credit
- Transfer MR points to Aeroplan and other frequent flyer programs for premium flights
- Unlimited airport lounge access for you and one guest at Priority Pass, Plaza Premium, Centurion, and other lounges
- Credits and rebates for daily expenses throughout the year with Amex Offers
- Bonus MR points for referring family and friends
- Annual fee: $799
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
The Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card includes a Priority Pass membership with 10 complimentary lounge visits per year for the primary cardholder, and four for a supplementary cardholder. That’s a generous lounge benefit for a card at this price point—especially if you value the widespread availability of Priority Pass lounges.
You’ll earn 4 Scene+ points per dollar spent† on hotels, car rentals, and experiences booked through Scene+ Travel, and a flat 2 Scene+ points per dollar spent on all other purchases†. While it doesn’t offer the same high category bonuses as the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card, its consistent 2x earn rate still outpaces the base earn rates on many other premium cards.
Additional perks include no foreign transaction fees, which is a major win for international travellers, and access to Amex Offers, which provide regular statement credits or bonus points at popular retailers. With a $399 annual fee, this card delivers excellent value through a mix of lounge access, flexible rewards, and travel-friendly benefits.
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card
- Earn 60,000 Scene+ points upon spending $3,000 in the first three months
- Earn an additional 20,000 Scene+ points upon spending $10,000 in the first 14 months
- Plus, earn 2x Scene+ points on all purchases
- Priority Pass membership with 10 free lounge visits per year
- Enjoy the exclusive benefits of being an American Express cardholder
- Annual fee: $399
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
The Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card offers 10 complimentary lounge visits annually via the Visa Airport Companion Program, along with no foreign transaction fees—making it especially attractive for international travellers.
You’ll earn 3 Scene+ points per dollar spent on travel†—including flights, hotels, and transit—and an extra 3 points per dollar when you book through Scene+ Travel.†
While the earn rates outside of travel categories are modest, the combination of FX savings, lounge access, and strong insurance makes this a very well-rounded premium option.
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
- Earn 30,000 Scene+ points upon spending $3,000 in the first three months
- Plus, earn an additional 30,000 Scene+ points upon spending $20,000 in the first six months
- And, earn an additional 20,000 Scene+ points when you make at least one eligible purchase during the 14th month of account opening
- Earn 3x Scene+ points on eligible travel purchases
- Earn 2x Scene+ points on dining and entertainment purchases
- Visa Airport Companion membership with 10 free lounge visits per year
- $250 annual travel credit
- Redeem points for a statement credit against any travel expense
- Minimum income: $150,000 personal or $200,000 household
- Annual fee: $599
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
This premium CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card includes six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program. While not unlimited, it covers most casual or moderate travel needs.
You’ll also enjoy strong travel insurance, airport perks, and flexible Aventura Points.
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card
- Earn 15,000 CIBC Aventura Points after making your first purchase†
- Earn 30,000 CIBC Aventura Points after spending $3,000 in the first four monthly statement periods†
- Earn 2x CIBC Aventura Points on all purchases through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
- Earn 1.5x CIBC Aventura Points on eligible gas, groceries, EV charging, and drugstore purchases†
- 12-month Skip+ free trial and other exclusive benefits when you link your CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card with Skip†
- Four complimentary lounge visits per year with the Visa Airport Companion Program†
- Partial NEXUS application fee credit†
- Minimum income: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household†
- Annual fee: $139 (rebated for the first year)†
RBC Avion® Visa Infinite Privilege†
You’ll get 6 complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program with the RBC Avion® Visa Infinite Privilege†, making this a solid premium card for occasional lounge use.
What sets this card apart is its affiliation with the RBC Avion program—the only Canadian bank rewards program other than Amex that allows you to transfer points to airline partners.
You can move Avion points to programs like American Airlines AAdvantage, British Airways Executive Club, and Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, making it an excellent choice if you’re into booking premium cabins with points.
With strong insurance, Visa Infinite Privilege perks, and decent travel earn rates, it’s a reliable travel companion—especially if you’re already banking with RBC.
RBC® Avion Visa Infinite Privilege†
- Earn up to 35,000 Avion points upon approval†
- Then, earn 15,000 Avion points upon spending $5,000 in the first six months†
- Then, earn 20,000 Avion points as a one-time anniversary bonus upon renewal†
- Plus, earn 1.25x RBC Avion points† on all qualifying purchases
- Use your rewards for any business class flight with no restrictions on dates, seats, or airlines†
- Transfer points to one of four airline partners†
- DragonPass membership with six free lounge visits per year†
- Minimum income: $200,000 personal or household†
- Annual fee: $399†
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
The BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card includes six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program powered by DragonPass.
While it doesn’t offer unlimited access, it’s on par with other Visa Infinite Privilege cards and includes the option to bring guests.
Where this card really stands out is its 5x earn rate on dining, groceries, gas, travel—and drugstore purchases, making it the highest-earning Canadian card for Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall spenders.
It also comes with a very flexible $200 annual lifestyle credit† to help offset the $499 annual fee.†
If you value lounge access and are looking to maximize rewards on everyday purchases, this is an excellent all-rounder in the premium space.
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
- Earn 50,000 BMO Rewards points upon spending $6,000 in the first three months
- Plus, earn 30,000 BMO Rewards points upon spending $30,000 in the first six months
- Plus, earn another 40,000 BMO Rewards points upon spending $75,000 in the first year
- And, earn 5x BMO Rewards points on groceries, dining, gas, drugstores, and travel purchases
- Plus, receive a $200 lifestyle credit when you reach your first year anniversary
- Dragon Pass membership with six free lounge visits per year
- Minimum income: $150,000 personal or $200,000 household
- Annual fee: $599
Mid-Tier Cards with Lounge Access
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card
The Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card has long been one of the best mid-tier travel cards in Canada, offering six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program.
It also stands out for having no foreign transaction fees, which can save you 2.5% on every purchase made in a foreign currency.
You’ll earn Scene+ points, with a 2x earning rate on groceries, dining, entertainment, and transit globally,† and 1x on everything else.†
The card’s $150 annual fee is often waived in the first year, making it a great starting point for travellers looking to dip their toes into lounge access without jumping to premium cards.
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card
- Earn 30,000 Scene+ points upon spending $2,000 in the first three months
- Earn an additional 10,000 Scene+ points upon spending $40,000 in the first year
- Earn 2x Scene+ points on groceries, dining, entertainment, and transit
- Plus, earn 3x Scene+ points on grocery purchases at Sobeys, IGA, Safeway, and FreshCo
- Visa Airport Companion membership with six free lounge visits per year
- Redeem points for statement credit for any travel expense
- Minimum income: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household
- Annual fee: $150
National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard®
The National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard® offers unlimited access to the National Bank Lounge at Montréal-Trudeau (YUL) for yourself, plus two guest passes per year. While it doesn’t include DragonPass visits, it’s ideal for Quebec-based travellers who frequent Montreal’s airport.
One standout feature is its flexible travel insurance, which includes award travel, since you only need to charge a portion of your trip (such as taxes and fees) to the card for coverage to kick in. That’s rare, even among premium cards, and adds extra peace of mind when redeeming points for flights.
National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard®
- Earn 5x À la carte Rewards points on grocery and restaurant spend†
- Get travel insurance on award travel, as well as medical coverage on longer trips for ages up to 75†
- Receive $150 in annual credits for airport parking, baggage fees, seat selection fees, lounge access, and airline ticket upgrades†
- Minimum income: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
- Annual fee: $150
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card
The CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card includes four complimentary visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program, powered by DragonPass.
You’ll earn Aventura Points on your daily spending, which can be redeemed through CIBC’s travel portal or for statement credits, flights, and vacation packages.
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card
- Earn 15,000 CIBC Aventura Points after making your first purchase†
- Earn 30,000 CIBC Aventura Points after spending $3,000 in the first four monthly statement periods†
- Earn 2x CIBC Aventura Points on all purchases through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
- Earn 1.5x CIBC Aventura Points on eligible gas, groceries, EV charging, and drugstore purchases†
- 12-month Skip+ free trial and other exclusive benefits when you link your CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card with Skip†
- Four complimentary lounge visits per year with the Visa Airport Companion Program†
- Partial NEXUS application fee credit†
- Minimum income: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household†
- Annual fee: $139 (rebated for the first year)†
CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
The CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card offers four complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program, powered by DragonPass—just like its Visa Infinite sibling.
It earns Aventura Points that can be redeemed through CIBC’s travel portal or for statement credits, flights, and more.
What makes this card stand out is its low income requirement: you only need a minimum household income of $15,000, making it the most accessible Visa card in Canada that offers lounge access.
It’s a great entry point for newcomers to travel rewards or those who don’t meet the higher income thresholds of Infinite cards.
CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card
- Earn 15,000 CIBC Aventura Points after making your first purchase†
- Earn 30,000 CIBC Aventura Points after spending $3,000 in the first four monthly statement periods†
- Earn 2x CIBC Aventura Points on all eligible purchases through the CIBC Rewards Centre†
- Earn 1.5x CIBC Aventura Points on eligible gas, groceries, and drugstore purchases†
- Four complimentary lounge visits per year with the Visa Airport Companion Program†
- Partial NEXUS application fee credit†
- 12-month Skip+ free trial and other exclusive benefits when you link your CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card with Skip†
- Minimum income: $15,000 household†
- Annual fee: $139 (rebated for the first year)†
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card
The TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card will begin offering four complimentary lounge visits through the Visa Airport Companion Program starting April 30, 2025.
Until then, it’s not a lounge card—but it earns TD Rewards points and offers flexible redemptions through Expedia for TD or as a statement credit.
If you already hold this card or are looking to get one now, it’s worth knowing that lounge access is on the horizon—making it a stronger contender in the near future.
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card
- Earn 20,000 TD Rewards Points upon making your first purchase†
- Earn 115,000 TD Rewards Points upon spending $5,000 within 180 days of account opening†
- Plus, earn up to 10,000 TD Rewards Points back on your birthday†
- Plus, earn 8x TD Rewards Points† on eligible travel purchases when you book through Expedia® for TD†
- Get an annual TD Travel Credit† of $100 when you book through Expedia® for TD†
- Use your rewards for any travel bookings available on Expedia® for TD†
- Minimum income: $60,000 personal or $100,000 household
- Annual fee: $139, rebated for the first year†
- Application must be approved on or after January 7, 2025 to receive this offer
BMO Ascend World Elite®* Mastercard®*
The BMO Ascend World Elite®* Mastercard®* offers four complimentary visits per year through Mastercard Travel Pass by DragonPass, which is enough for a few round-trips with lounge access. Guest access is allowed but uses up your visit allotment.
You’ll earn BMO Rewards points and get comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency medical coverage, flight delay, and lost baggage protection.
For those who want a Mastercard option with strong insurance and some lounge perks, this card delivers.
BMO Ascend World Elite®* Mastercard®*
- Earn 45,000 BMO Rewards points upon spending $4,500 in the first three months
- Then, earn 3,750 BMO Rewards points upon spending $2,500 in each of months 4–15
- Plus, get a DragonPass membership with four lounge passes per year
- Annual fee waived in your first anniversary for primary cardholders and authorized users.
Airline Co-Branded Cards with Lounge Access
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
With the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card card, you’ll get unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafés when flying on Air Canada, but with the added flavour of Amex-exclusive perks.
This premium Aeroplan card gives you unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Café when flying on a same-day Air Canada ticket, and it includes complimentary entry for one guest as well.
You’ll also enjoy premium airport perks like priority check-in, boarding, and a free first checked bag.
It offers an industry-leading earning rate of 3 Aeroplan points per dollar spent on Air Canada purchases, making it the highest-earning Aeroplan co-branded card when booking directly with the airline.
You’ll also get preferred pricing on Aeroplan flight rewards, which helps stretch your points even further.
If you’re loyal to Air Canada and want strong earn rates, elite-style perks, and consistent lounge access for you and a travel companion, this card is a top contender.
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
- Earn 60,000 Aeroplan points upon spending $7,500 in the first three months
- Plus, earn 25,000 Aeroplan points upon spending $2,500 in month 13
- Always earn 3x Aeroplan points on Air Canada purchases
- Aeroplan preferred pricing, free checked bag, priority check-in and boarding on Air Canada flights
- Unlimited Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge access in North America
- Bonus Aeroplan points for referring family and friends
- No minimum income requirement
- Annual fee: $599
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
The premium TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card gives you unlimited access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Café locations within North America when flying on a same-day Air Canada ticket.†
It also includes complimentary access for one guest,† making it ideal for couples or companions who travel together.
You’ll also get six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program,† which can be handy when flying with non-Star Alliance airlines.
On top of lounge access, you’ll enjoy priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling on Air Canada flights, plus a free first checked bag for you and up to eight companions on the same booking.†
If you’re loyal to Air Canada and want an elite-like experience built into your credit card, this one delivers.
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
- Earn 20,000 Aeroplan points† upon first purchase
- Plus, earn an additional 35,000 Aeroplan points† upon spending $12,000 in the first 180 days
- Plus, earn a one-time anniversary bonus of 30,000 Aeroplan points† upon spending $24,000 within 12 months of account opening†
- Earn 2x Aeroplan points† on eligible Air Canada® purchases, including Air Canada Vacations®†
- Earn 1.5x Aeroplan points† on eligible gas, groceries, dining, food delivery, and other travel purchases†
- Aeroplan preferred pricing, free checked bag, priority check-in and boarding on Air Canada flights†
- Unlimited Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge† access
- Visa Airport Companion Program membership with six free lounge visits per year
- Minimum income: $150,000 personal or $200,000 household
- Annual fee: $599
- Offer available for applications approved on or after January 7, 2025.
CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
Functionally identical to the TD version, the CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card provides unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafés, including complimentary entry for one guest, as long as you’re flying with Air Canada that day
You’ll also get six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program.
With all the same travel perks as the TD card—priority services, free checked bags, strong insurance—this one comes down to personal preference.
If you bank with CIBC or prefer their platform, this is your go-to Aeroplan premium card.
CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card
- Earn 20,000 Aeroplan points upon first purchase†
- Earn 30,000 Aeroplan points upon spending $15,000 in the first six months†
- Plus, earn an anniversary bonus of 35,000 Aeroplan points upon renewing the card for a second year, after having spent at least $25,000 in the first year†
- Earn 2x Aeroplan points on Air Canada purchases†
- Earn 1.5x Aeroplan points on gas, groceries, dining, food delivery, electric vehicle charging, and other travel purchases†
- Aeroplan preferred pricing, free checked bag, priority check-in and boarding on Air Canada flights†
- Unlimited Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge access†
- Visa Airport Companion Program membership with six free lounge visits per year†
- NEXUS application credit†
- Minimum income: $150,000 personal or $200,000 household
- Annual fee: $599
WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡
While the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ doesn’t offer lounge access by default, this card gives you the option to convert your annual WestJet companion voucher into four lounge passes.
These can be used at WestJet’s Elevation Lounge in Calgary or at select partner lounges around the world.
The card also offers free checked bags on WestJet flights, travel insurance, and earns WestJet dollars (soon to be points) that can be applied directly to base fares. If you’re loyal to WestJet and fly through Calgary (YYC) often, this card is a natural fit.
WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercardǂ
- Earn 250 WestJet dollars upon making your first purchase†
- Earn 200 WestJet dollars upon spending $5,000 in the first three months†
- Plus, receive an annual companion voucher for discounted travel on WestJet flights, with a co-pay starting at $119 plus taxes and fees†
- Minimum income: $80,000 personal or $150,000 household
- Annual fee: $119
Business Credit Cards with Lounge Access
Business Platinum Card from American Express
The Business Platinum Card from American Express offers the same unlimited global lounge access as the personal Platinum Card, making it equally valuable for travel—but with added benefits tailored to business owners.
You’ll earn elevated points on business-related categories and enjoy the flexibility of Amex Membership Rewards.
Whether you’re flying for work or combining business with leisure, this card delivers strong travel value—plus, you might be able to expense the fee.
Business Platinum Card from American Express
- Earn 90,000 MR points upon spending $15,000 in the first three months
- Plus, earn 40,000 MR points upon making a purchase in months 14–17 as a cardholder
- And, earn 1.25x MR points on all purchases
- Also, receive a $200 annual travel credit
- Transfer MR points to Aeroplan and other frequent flyer programs for premium flights
- Unlimited airport lounge access for you and one guest at Priority Pass, Plaza Premium, Centurion, and other lounges
- Credits and rebates for business expenses throughout the year with Amex Offers
- Bonus MR points for referring family and friends
- Qualify for the card as a sole proprietor
- Annual fee: $799
American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card
The American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card offers unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafés when flying on a same-day Air Canada ticket—plus one complimentary guest.
It also earns 3 Aeroplan points per dollar spent on Air Canada purchases and includes preferred pricing on Aeroplan flight rewards.
Business owners will appreciate added perks like employee card controls and enhanced reporting.
If you own a business and frequently fly with Air Canada, this card offers a strong combination of lounge access, high earn potential, and travel perks under one roof.
American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card
- Earn 65,000 Aeroplan points upon spending $10,500 in the first three months
- Plus, earn 25,000 Aeroplan points upon spending $3,500 in month 13
- Also, earn 3x Aeroplan points on Air Canada purchases
- Aeroplan preferred pricing, free checked bag, priority check-in and boarding on Air Canada flights
- Unlimited Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounge access
- Bonus Aeroplan points for referring family and friends
- Qualify for the card as a sole proprietor
- Annual fee: $599
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Business* Card
The Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Business* Card offers six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program.
It also carries the same no foreign transaction fees benefit, making it ideal for entrepreneurs who travel internationally and want to save on FX charges.
The card earns Scene+ points and includes strong travel insurance, purchase protection, and access to Visa Infinite Business perks.
At a $199 annual fee, it’s a compelling mid-range option for business owners looking to enjoy a few premium perks.
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Business* Card
- Earn 30,000 Scene+ points upon spending $5,000 in the first three months
- Earn 10,000 Scene+ points upon spending $60,000 in the first 12 months
- Plus, earn 1.5x Scene+ points on all purchases
- Visa Airport Companion Program membership with six free lounge visits per year
- No foreign transaction fees
- Qualify on the basis of your business financials
- $199 annual fee
BMO® Ascend World Elite®* Business Mastercard®*
With two lounge visits per year via Mastercard Travel Pass, the BMO® Ascend World Elite®* Business Mastercard®* adds a layer of comfort to your business travel—without a premium price tag.
You’ll also earn BMO Rewards points, which can be redeemed for travel or used to pay down your balance.
The $149 annual fee is relatively low for a business travel card, and it comes with decent insurance coverage, including flight delay, trip cancellation, and rental car protection.
A practical pick for small business owners or freelancers who want occasional lounge access on the go.
BMO® Ascend World Elite®* Business Mastercard®*
- 20,000 BMO Rewards points when you make your first purchase
- Earn up to 8,000 BMO Reward Points per month when you spend at least $3,000 per month within months 3 – 12
- Earn
1.54 points per dollar spent on gas, office supplies, and telecommunications bills - Get up to 7 cents off per litre on all Shell®± fuel*
- Get five free virtual healthcare visits per year with Maple
- DragonPass membership with two free visits per year
- Qualify for the card with a registered business and minimum personal or business income
- Annual fee: $0 for the first year, then $149
Honourable Mentions
American Express Gold Rewards Card
While it’s not a premium card, the Amex Gold Rewards Card quietly offers four complimentary Plaza Premium lounge visits per year. That’s a rare perk and with no dependency on DragonPass or Priority Pass networks, access is more straightforward at major Canadian airports.
You’ll earn 2x Membership Rewards points on travel, gas, groceries, and restaurants, and the points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners. If you’re looking for a mid-range card that earns well and comes with a taste of lounge luxury, this is one of the best-kept secrets in Amex Canada’s lineup.
American Express Gold Rewards Card
- Earn 10,000 MR points upon spending $4,000 in the first three months
- Plus, earn an additional 5,000 MR points upon spending $1,000 in each of the first 12 months, up to 60,000 MR points
- Also, receive an annual $100 travel credit and a $50 NEXUS credit
- Transfer MR points to Aeroplan and other frequent flyer programs for premium flights
- Plaza Premium membership with four annual lounge passes
- Credits and rebates for daily expenses throughout the year with Amex Offers
- Bonus MR points for referring family and friends
- Annual fee: $250
Conclusion
Lounge access is one of the most tangible ways to improve your travel experience—and the right credit card can unlock it without the need for elite status or expensive premium tickets.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer who wants unlimited access, or an occasional traveller who just wants a quiet place to relax before a flight, there’s a Canadian credit card that fits your needs and budget.
From ultra-premium cards with unlimited visits to mid-tier options offering a few complimentary passes, this guide has you covered with the most up-to-date lineup of every card on the market.
Choose based on how often you travel, which airports you frequent, and which rewards program fits your lifestyle. And the next time you’re stuck with a delay or early check-in, at least you’ll have somewhere better to wait than a plastic seat by the gate.
† Terms and conditions apply. Please refer to the card issuer’s website for up-to-date information. Reasonable efforts are made to ensure content accuracy.