Daniela Hanna
The American Express® Green Card (Canada) is a simple, no-fee entry point into the Membership Rewards program. Earn 1 point for every $1 you spend, enjoy exclusive Amex perks, and build your credit history with a trusted card brand.
Quick highlights
- 💸 No annual fee.
- 💳 Earn 1 Membership Rewards point per $1 spent.
- 🛍️ Redeem points for travel, gift cards, or statement credits.
- 🎟️ Enjoy Front Of The Line® presales and Amex Offers.
Why we like the American Express® Green Card (Canada)
The Amex Green Card is Canada’s easiest gateway into the Membership Rewards ecosystem. It’s simple, has no annual fee, and earns flexible points that can be redeemed for travel, merchandise, or statement credits. Perfect for Canadians who want to build credit or start earning rewards without committing to a premium annual-fee card.
Stand-out features
- ✅ No annual fee for primary or supplementary cards.
- ✅ Earn 1 point for every $1 in purchases — no caps or categories.
- ✅ Access Amex Offers for shopping and dining rebates.
- ✅ Enjoy Front Of The Line® presales and Reserved Tickets.
Good to know
- ⚠️ You must pay your balance in full each month (charge card).
- ⚠️ No travel insurance or lounge access benefits.
- ⚠️ Acceptance can be limited at smaller Canadian merchants.
Pros
- No annual fee for all cardholders.
- Flexible Membership Rewards points never expire.
- Purchase protection and extended warranty included.
- Amex Offers add real savings on dining, travel, and retail.
Cons
- No bonus categories — 1X earn rate on all purchases.
- No travel insurance or medical protection.
- Some smaller stores may not accept Amex.
Rewards program
| Category | Earn Rate |
|---|---|
| All purchases | 1 Membership Rewards point per $1 spent |
How to maximize rewards
- 💳 Use your Green Card for all purchases where Amex is accepted to earn steady 1X points.
- 🛍️ Activate and use Amex Offers — these often give instant cash-back credits or bonus points.
- 🎟️ Take advantage of Front Of The Line® presales for concerts and shows.
- ✈️ Link your Membership Rewards account to Aeroplan or Avios to transfer points for flights.
- 💰 Combine this card with another Amex (like Cobalt or Gold) to pool points and boost earn rates on specific categories.
Insurance & benefits
Included
- 🛍️ Purchase Protection — covers eligible purchases against theft or damage for up to 90 days.
- 🕒 Extended Warranty — doubles the manufacturer’s warranty up to one additional year.
- 🎟️ Front Of The Line® — access exclusive presales and reserved ticket blocks for concerts and events.
- 💳 Amex Offers — earn statement credits or bonus points from partner merchants.
- 🔐 Fraud Protection Guarantee — zero liability for unauthorized charges.
Not included
- ❌ No travel insurance or trip interruption coverage.
- ❌ No rental car damage or collision insurance.
- ❌ No mobile device or extended health coverage.
Rates & fees
| Annual fee | $0 |
|---|---|
| Supplementary cards | $0 |
| Purchase rate | N/A (charge card — must be paid in full each month) |
| Cash advance APR | 21.99% |
| Foreign transaction fee | 2.5% |
| Grace period | 21 days on new purchases |
Best for
- 🧭 Canadians who want to start earning Amex Membership Rewards points with no annual fee.
- 🎓 Students and newcomers looking to build credit with a reputable issuer.
- 💼 Everyday spenders who value reliability, Amex Offers, and event access.
- 🎟️ Concert and event-goers who use Front Of The Line® often.
Where it falls short
- No travel medical or trip protection benefits.
- Flat 1X earn rate is modest compared to premium Amex cards.
- Foreign transaction fee applies (2.5%).
- Not accepted everywhere, especially smaller retailers.
Customer reviews
Positive feedback
“Perfect first Amex card — no fee, easy approval, and I’m earning real points.”
“Front Of The Line access and Amex Offers make it surprisingly rewarding for a free card.”
Critiques
“I wish it earned bonus points on dining or groceries.”
“Not accepted at some smaller local stores.”
Community insights
Within Canadian credit card circles, the Green Card is often called the “Amex starter.” It’s ideal for beginners who want to access Membership Rewards and Amex’s perks with zero annual commitment. Reddit’s r/PersonalFinanceCanada users often pair it with the Amex Cobalt to combine strong earning potential with this card’s fee-free reliability.
AI review (straight talk)
This card is all about accessibility and flexibility. No annual fee, simple 1X earn rate, and access to Amex’s powerful rewards system. It’s not flashy or high-earning, but it’s a great foundation — like training wheels for the Amex ecosystem. Once you’re comfortable, upgrade to Cobalt or Gold for more perks and faster rewards.
FAQ
Is there an annual fee?
No — the American Express Green Card (Canada) has no annual fee, including supplementary cards.
What are the rewards?
Earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every $1 you spend, with no categories or limits.
Does it include travel insurance?
No, this card does not include travel or medical insurance coverage.
Can points transfer to Aeroplan?
Yes — you can transfer your Membership Rewards points 1:1 to Aeroplan, Avios, and other partners.
Final verdict & ratings
Our take The Amex Green Card (Canada) is a straightforward, no-fee way to join the Membership Rewards world. It’s best for those who value simplicity, Amex perks, and flexibility over high earn rates. Use it to build history and upgrade later — it’s a smart first step into the Amex family.
| Overall | ★★★★☆ 4.0 / 5 |
|---|---|
| Rewards value | 3.8 / 5 — flexible but flat rate |
| Benefits & protections | 3.9 / 5 — solid base coverage |
| Fees & costs | 5.0 / 5 — truly no-fee |
| Ease of approval | 4.5 / 5 — accessible to most Canadians |
