Apply for a Scotiabank Credit Card, reviewed by our experts. On 22.01.2025, you have access to credit cards. Increase your chances of approval by filling out a multi-application with a free credit rating check.
Author of articles
Daria K
Update date 23.08.2024
Scotiabank offers a diverse range of credit cards, making it a top choice for Canadians seeking various financial solutions. With 16 cards in its portfolio, Scotiabank caters to different needs and preferences, including premium travel rewards, cash-back options, and even student-specific cards. Many of these cards come with enticing benefits like no annual fees and the opportunity to earn Scene+ points, which can be redeemed for free movies, entertainment, and travel perks. Whether you're a frequent traveler, a cash-back enthusiast, or a student looking to build credit, Scotiabank likely has a credit card tailored to your needs.
Key Features
No Annual Fees. Several Scotiabank credit cards come with no annual fees, making them attractive options for those looking to minimize costs while still enjoying the benefits of having a credit card.
Rewards Programs. Many Scotiabank credit cards offer rewards programs, allowing cardholders to earn points or cash-back rewards on their purchases. These rewards can often be redeemed for a variety of perks, including travel, merchandise, or statement credits.
Visa, Amex, and Mastercard Options. Scotiabank provides credit cards that are affiliated with major payment networks such as Visa, American Express, and Mastercard. This ensures wide acceptance and convenience for cardholders, whether they're shopping online or in-store.
Credit Cards for Students. Scotiabank offers credit cards specifically tailored to the needs of students. These cards often come with features like low credit limits, no annual fees, and rewards programs geared toward young adults.
Credit Cards Offered by Scotiabank
Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite Card. Offers up to $1,300+ in value in the first year, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points. Provides 3 Scene+ points on every $1 spent at select retailers. Annual fee: $150. Interest rates: 20.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotia Momentum Visa Infinite Card. Provides 10% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months (up to $2,000). No annual fee in the first year. Annual fee: $120. Interest rates: 20.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotiabank Gold American Express Card. Offers up to $650 in value in the first year, including up to 40,000 bonus Scene+ points. Earns 6 Scene+ points on every $1 spent in Canada at select retailers. Annual fee: $120. Interest rates: 20.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card. Earns up to 7,500 bonus Scene+ points within the first 3 months. Provides 2 Scene+ points on every $1 spent at select retailers. No annual fee. Interest rates: 20.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotia Momentum Visa Card. Offers a 2.99% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for the first 6 months. Annual fee: $39. Interest rates: 19.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotia Momentum No-Fee Visa Card. Earns 5% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months. No annual fee. Interest rates: 19.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotiabank American Express Card. Provides up to 7,500 bonus Scene+ points within the first 3 months. Earns 3 Scene+ points on every $1 spent at select retailers. No annual fee. Interest rates: 19.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotiabank Platinum American Express Card. Offers up to $2,100 in value in the first 14 months, including up to 60,000 bonus Scene+ points. Earns 2X the Scene+ points for every $1 spent. Annual fee: $399. Interest rates: 9.99% purchases / 9.99% cash advances.
Scotia Momentum Mastercard Credit Card. Earns 1% cash back on eligible purchases. Provides a 7.99% introductory interest rate on purchases for the first 6 months. No annual fee. Interest rates: 20.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotiabank U.S. Dollar Visa Card. Enables worry-free U.S. dollar purchases with no currency conversion fees. Annual fee: $35. Interest rates: 19.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotiabank Value Visa Card. Offers a 0% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for the first 10 months. Annual fee: $29. Interest rates: 12.99% purchases / 12.99% cash advances.
Scotiabank Scene+ Visa Card (for students). Earns up to 7,500 bonus Scene+ points within the first 3 months. No annual fee. Interest rates: 20.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotiabank Value Visa Card (for students). Offers a 0% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for the first 10 months. Annual fee: $29. Interest rates: 12.99% purchases / 12.99% cash advances.
Scotia Momentum Visa Card (for students). Provides a 2.99% introductory interest rate on balance transfers for the first 6 months. Annual fee: $39. Interest rates: 19.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotia Momentum No-Fee Visa Card (for students). Earns 5% cash back on all purchases for the first 3 months. No annual fee. Interest rates: 19.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Scotiabank American Express Card (for students). Provides up to 7,500 bonus Scene+ points within the first 3 months. No annual fee. Interest rates: 19.99% purchases / 22.99% cash advances.
Pros and Cons
Pros
Rewards. Many Scotiabank credit cards offer rewards programs, allowing cardholders to earn points or cash-back rewards on their purchases.
Welcome Bonus. Some Scotiabank credit cards offer enticing welcome bonuses, which can include bonus points, cash-back, or annual fee waivers.
Annual Fee Waiver. Certain Scotiabank credit cards come with no annual fees, especially in the first year.
Cons
Annual Fee. While some Scotiabank credit cards offer no annual fees, others may have annual fees ranging up to $120 or more.
High APR. The annual percentage rate (APR) for some Scotiabank credit cards may be relatively high, especially for purchases and cash advances.
No Rewards. Not all Scotiabank credit cards offer rewards programs.
How to Choose a Scotiabank Credit Card
Identify Your Needs. Determine your primary reason for getting a credit card. Are you looking for travel rewards, cash-back, or a card with no annual fee? Understanding your needs will help narrow down your options.
Compare Features. Review the features of different Scotiabank credit cards, including rewards programs, welcome bonuses, annual fees, and interest rates. Consider which features align best with your needs and preferences.
Evaluate Spending Habits. Analyze your spending habits to determine which categories you spend the most on. Choose a credit card that offers rewards or benefits for your most frequent purchases, such as groceries, dining, or travel.
Consider Additional Benefits. Look beyond rewards and fees to consider additional benefits offered by Scotiabank credit cards, such as travel insurance, purchase protection, and concierge services. Choose a card that provides valuable perks that complement your lifestyle.
Review Terms and Conditions. Before making a final decision, carefully review the terms and conditions of the Scotiabank credit card you're interested in. Pay attention to details such as APR, fees for late payments or balance transfers, and any restrictions or limitations on rewards redemption.
How to Apply for a Scotiabank Credit Card
Go to the Website. Visit the official website of Scotiabank by typing "Scotiabank" into your web browser's address bar and pressing Enter.
Choose Credit Cards Section. Navigate to the "Credit Cards" section of the Scotiabank website. This section typically provides an overview of the different credit card options available.
Choose Your Card and Click "View More Card Details". Browse through the various credit card options offered by Scotiabank and select the one that best suits your needs. Click on the card to view more detailed information about its features, benefits, and terms.
Click "Book an Appointment". Once you've decided on a specific credit card, look for the option to "Book an Appointment" to initiate the application process. This may involve scheduling a meeting with a Scotiabank representative to complete the application in person or filling out an online application form.
Eligibility Requirements
Residency. You must be a resident of Canada.
Age Requirement. You must be of the age of majority in your province or territory.
Credit Score. It is recommended to have a credit score above 660 to apply successfully.
Reasons You May Be Denied a Scotiabank Credit Card
If you have a history of late payments, defaults, or bankruptcy, Scotiabank may deny your application.
Scotiabank typically requires applicants to have a minimum income level to qualify for certain credit cards. If your income doesn't meet the requirements, your application may be denied.
If you already have significant debt relative to your income, Scotiabank may view you as a higher risk borrower and deny your application.
If you have a limited credit history or no credit history at all, Scotiabank may be unable to assess your creditworthiness and may deny your application as a result.
Any inaccuracies or discrepancies on your credit card application, such as incorrect personal information or income details, could lead to your application being denied.
How to Pay Off My Scotiabank Credit Card Debt
On the Web
Access Your Account. Log in to your Scotiabank online banking account.
Select Credit Card Account. From your Accounts page, choose your credit card account.
Make a Payment. Click on "Make a payment" to proceed.
Choose Payment Source. Select the account you want to make the payment from and enter the payment amount and date.
Confirm Payment. Review your transfer details and select "Continue" to confirm the payment.
In the App
Open the App. Launch the Scotiabank mobile banking app on your device.
Navigate to Credit Card Account. From the home screen of the app, locate and select your credit card account.
Initiate Payment. Tap on the "Pay" option to start the payment process.
Select Payment Source. Choose the account you wish to make the payment from.
Enter Payment Amount. Input the amount you want to pay towards your credit card balance.
Complete Payment. Slide to transfer the specified amount to your credit card account.
Editorial Opinion
Scotiabank credit cards offer a range of options that cater to various financial needs and lifestyles, from travel rewards to cash back incentives. While the selection is diverse, it’s important for potential cardholders to carefully assess the associated fees, interest rates, and rewards structures to determine which card best aligns with their financial habits and goals. For those with a solid credit score, Scotiabank's offerings can provide valuable benefits, but it’s essential to weigh these against any potential costs to ensure the card truly enhances their financial strategy.
Do credit cards from Scotiabank have fraud prevention capabilities?
Yes, Scotiabank credit cards typically come with fraud prevention capabilities, including monitoring for unusual spending patterns and alerts for suspicious transactions.
How do I pay off my credit card balance?
You can pay off your credit card balance through various methods, including online banking, mobile banking app, automatic payments, by phone, or in-person at a Scotiabank branch.
Can I have 2 Scotiabank credit cards?
Yes, you can have up to three Scotiabank credit cards. However, approval for multiple cards depends on factors such as credit history, income, and overall creditworthiness.
Is it hard to get a Scotiabank credit card?
It's not necessarily hard to get a Scotiabank credit card, but approval depends on various factors such as credit score, income, and credit history. Meeting Scotiabank's eligibility criteria and having a good credit profile increase your chances of approval.
