Top Metal Credit Cards in Canada for 2026

Historically, acquiring a metal credit card in Canada posed quite a challenge; American Express held the monopoly by offering it exclusively to its Platinum cardholders. Recently, however, a variety of metal credit cards has emerged in the market.

Despite the growing availability, obtaining a metal credit card remains a sign of prestige, albeit one that’s now more accessible. This shift reflects credit card issuers’ acknowledgment that they should provide superior service to their best clients.

It’s important to note that the features and benefits of each metal card can vary widely. Below is a roundup of the top metal credit cards currently available in Canada.

Top Metal Credit Cards in Canada

Credit Card	Annual Fee
American Express Platinum Card	$799
American Express Business Platinum Card	$799
American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card	$599
TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card	$599
American Express Gold Rewards Card	$250
CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege Card	$599

The American Express Platinum Card was the pioneer of metal credit cards in Canada. Without its introduction, the current selection of metal credit cards might not exist as we know it today. The advantages linked to the Platinum Card clearly justify its popularity.

As of September 26, cardholders earn 2 Membership Rewards points per dollar on dining and travel purchases, with all other transactions netting 1 point per dollar.

Although the earn rate may not stand out, this card compensates with impressive perks. You receive a $200 dining credit each calendar year, and a similar $200 travel credit, in addition to unlimited lounge access for two individuals, extensive travel insurance, hotel upgrades, and more. These credits effectively lower the true cost of maintaining the card to $399 annually. Given the total benefits, it’s clear why this card ranks among Canada’s premier travel credit options.

Eligibility: No income threshold. A credit score of 740 or higher is advised.
Welcome bonus: Commonly ranges from 75,000 to 100,000 Membership Rewards points, typically requiring a $7,500 spend in three months.

The American Express Business Platinum Card operates similarly to its consumer-focused counterpart but is tailored for business owners. Instead of promotional rates across select categories, it offers a standardized earn rate of 1.25 Membership Rewards points per dollar spent, which can benefit those whose purchases largely fall into non-category specific areas.

Among its benefits are the same unlimited lounge access, an annual $200 travel credit, Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status, travel insurance, extended warranty coverage, and a $120 credit for wireless services. These advantages effectively mitigate the annual fee of $799.

Eligibility: No specific income requirement, though a credit score of 740+ is advisable. A business setup is a prerequisite.
Welcome bonus: Generally falls between 90,000 to 100,000 Membership Rewards points, with a minimum requirement of $10,000 spent in three months.

For a metal credit card focused on accumulating Aeroplan points, the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card is a strong contender. The earn rate consists of 3 Aeroplan points for each dollar spent on Air Canada purchases, 2 points for dining and food delivery (including platforms like Uber Eats), and 1.25 points on all other expenditures.

The card’s additional perks include free checked baggage, priority check-in, and unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges across North America. Cardholders are also entitled to comprehensive travel insurance, purchase protection, and buyer’s assistance. Given Air Canada’s strong reputation, this metal card becomes particularly valuable, especially during Aeroplan promotions and offers for bonus points or statement credits.

Eligibility: No income threshold; a credit score of 740+ is preferred.
Welcome bonus: Offers typically hover around 90,000 Aeroplan points with varying spending requirements.

The TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Credit Card represents TD’s premier Aeroplan option. You can earn 2 Aeroplan points for Air Canada purchases and 1.5 points for every dollar spent on gas and groceries, while all other eligible purchases yield 1 point per dollar.

This card is a perfect fit for avid travellers, providing benefits such as complimentary checked bags, priority boarding, and endless access to Maple Leaf Lounges in North America for both you and a guest. It stands out favorably among Canada’s elite Aeroplan credit offerings.

Eligibility: Requires an annual personal income of $150,000 or a household income of $200,000. A credit score of 740+ is recommended.
Welcome bonus: Typically around 70,000 – 100,000 Aeroplan points, with a requirement to spend $12,000 within the first year for the complete offer.

The American Express Gold Rewards Card is highly regarded as one of Canada’s more versatile metal credit cards. The card provides an earning rate of 2 Membership Rewards points for every dollar spent on groceries, gas, pharmacies, and travel, while all other expenditures yield 1 point per dollar.

Even with an annual fee of $250, the card’s benefits quickly offset this cost, especially considering the annual $100 travel credit, Priority Pass membership, and four complimentary Plaza Premium lounge passes. This card is indeed a valuable asset.

Eligibility: No income requirement; however, a credit score of 740+ is recommended.
Welcome bonus: Usually estimated to be between 50,000 – 65,000 Membership Rewards points, with varying spending conditions.

CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege Card

Yes, CIBC does offer a metal credit card in the form of the CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege Card, which serves as their premium rewards option. Earning potential includes 3 Aventura points per dollar spent on CIBC travel and 2 points for dining, entertainment, transportation, gas, and grocery expenses. All other purchases will earn you 1.25 points per dollar.

The perks include a $200 annual travel credit and Priority Pass Membership with six complimentary visits per year, along with two rebate opportunities for NEXUS application fees.

Eligibility: Requires an annual personal income of $150,000 or a household income of $200,000, with a 740+ credit score recommended.
Welcome bonus: Always between 60,000 – 80,000 CIBC Aventura points, with flexible spending requirements.

What is a metal credit card?

Unlike ordinary credit cards that are predominantly made from plastic, metal credit cards are crafted from steel, giving them a luxury feel. While they share the same functionality as their plastic counterparts, including interest rates, they possess greater durability and a sense of prestige. The perception of holding a metal credit card imparts an image of exclusivity and affiliation with top-tier financial products.

It is essential to note that there are currently no metal credit cards that come without foreign transaction fees in Canada, nor any that offer annual cash bonuses, statement credits, or complimentary nights.

What credit score do I need to obtain a metal credit card?

Although the specific credit score required can vary by issuer, a general rule of thumb is that a score of at least 700 is typically necessary for approval. Some credit card providers may have more lenient requirements, but it’s common for metal credit cards to also have minimum income criteria.

Which metal credit card in Canada offers the best rewards?

Most metal credit cards in Canada offer rewards structured around travel benefits, with the American Express Platinum Card often cited as the top choice due to its extensive travel perks. Nonetheless, rewards can also be redeemed for products and gift cards. If you’re interested, you can refer to the American Express Membership Rewards Guide for further details.

With the American Express Platinum Card, accumulating rewards is straightforward, as you earn points on every purchase, sometimes at accelerated rates. However, keep in mind that acceptance of American Express can be limited when compared to Visa and Mastercard.

How to apply for a metal credit card

Applying for a metal credit card in Canada is a straightforward process if meeting the eligibility requirements. American Express cards typically lack a minimum income limit, making them easier to obtain than others like BMO, TD, or CIBC, which often require a personal income of $150,000 or a household income of $200,000. You must be a Canadian resident and of legal age to apply. If approved for one of the top metal credit cards, it will be shipped directly to you.

Follow these simple steps to apply for a metal credit card:

1. Review the cards mentioned above
2. Click to apply
3. Ensure you fulfill the eligibility criteria
4. Complete the application online or visit a local branch for in-person assistance
5. Await approval notification
6. Once received, activate your new card

It’s worth mentioning that metal debit cards are unavailable in Canada; only metal credit cards can be issued. While it is feasible to order a custom metal credit card through third-party organizations, it’s advisable to avoid such services due to security concerns.

What is the cost associated with a metal credit card?

The expenses linked to a metal credit card are determined by the card’s annual fee. For instance, the American Express Platinum Card charges an annual fee of $699. Conversely, the most affordable metal card is the American Express Gold Rewards Card, which has a $250 fee. Factoring in the $100 annual travel credit effectively brings down the annual cost to merely $150.

Are metal credit cards worth considering?

The value of metal credit cards ultimately depends on personal preference. From a practical standpoint, they function similarly to standard credit cards. However, as a holder of a metal card, I can personally attest to the appeal of their heft and look. More importantly, they often come with premium features. When weighing the included benefits, such as generous welcome bonuses, enhanced point accumulation for travel, and access to exclusive perks through issuers like American Express, it becomes evident that a metal card can indeed be worth the investment.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the premier metal credit card?

Determining the best metal credit card will depend on your objectives. However, among the choices listed here, the American Express Platinum Card generally stands out due to its extensive travel advantages including lounge access and NEXUS rebates. Achieving NEXUS status also provides global entry and TSA pre-check privileges, ensuring significant savings during travel. Not only does this card have numerous transfer partners for points conversion to airfare, but it also frequently offers the biggest welcome bonuses, thus often earning it the title of best metal credit card.

Which institutions issue metal credit cards?

Currently, a select number of banks in Canada provide metal credit card options, including:

• American Express
• Bank of Montreal (BMO)
• Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce (CIBC)
• HSBC
• TD Bank

It’s important to mention that KOHO was once a provider of metal credit cards, but this is no longer available.

Metal American Express Card Options in Canada

• American Express Platinum Card
• American Express Business Platinum Card
• American Express Gold Rewards Card
• American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card
• American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card

Metal Mastercard Options in Canada

• HSBC Jade World Elite Mastercard

Metal Visa Options in Canada

• BMO Eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege Card
• CIBC Aventura Visa Infinite Privilege Card
• CIBC Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card
• TD Aeroplan Visa Infinite Privilege Card
• KOHO Prepaid Visa

What is the appropriate method for disposing of a metal credit card?

Disposing of a metal credit card poses unique challenges, as they cannot be cut with scissors like plastic cards. The recommended procedure is to contact your credit card issuer for guidance and return the card to them, allowing them to handle the destruction. If there is a local branch, you can opt to drop it off in person. Alternatively, if you prefer, you can utilize tin snips at home to destroy it safely.

Are metal credit cards inherently superior to plastic ones?

There’s no definitive answer, as the preference for either depends on individual needs. Metal cards are often associated with premium status and enhanced benefits like airport lounge access and higher cashback offers, alongside higher annual fees. While they offer aesthetic appeal, their superiority boils down to personal preference. The ideal card is one that aligns best with your financial goals and maximizes the benefits offered through its rewards program.