Best Canadian Credit Card Welcome Bonuses Right Now (2025)

If you only apply for one or two cards a year, picking the right welcome bonus makes a massive difference. A well-timed application can net you $1,000–$2,500+ in value — without changing how you spend.

Here's a look at the strongest offers available to Canadians right now.

1. American Express Platinum Card — ~$2,200 first-year value

The Amex Platinum consistently sits at the top of the pile. The welcome bonus alone is worth over $1,000 when redeemed through Amex's transfer partners (Aeroplan, Avios, Flying Blue), and the card comes loaded with annual credits that chip away at the $799 fee.

Key perks on top of the bonus:

• $200 travel credit
• $200 dining credit
• Unlimited Priority Pass lounge access
• Fine Hotels & Resorts program

The MSR is $3,000 in the first 3 months — aggressive, but achievable if you time it around a big purchase.

Best portal: Apply via GCR for an extra $150 cash back on top of the welcome bonus.

2. American Express Cobalt Card — ~$1,200 first-year value

The Cobalt is the best everyday card in Canada, and the elevated welcome bonus makes it even more compelling as a first apply. You earn 5x Membership Rewards on food and drinks, which adds up fast if you eat out regularly.

The annual fee is only $155.88 ($12.99/month), and the monthly welcome bonus structure means you collect points in chunks over 12 months rather than all at once.

Best portal: GCR is currently offering the highest cash back for this card.

3. Scotiabank Passport Visa Infinite — ~$1,100 first-year value

The Passport VI is the best no-foreign-transaction-fee travel card in Canada. If you travel internationally at all, the 2.5% FX fee waiver alone can save you hundreds annually.

The welcome bonus is solid, and the card comes with 6 free Priority Pass lounge visits per year — a huge perk for occasional travellers who don't want to pay Amex Platinum fees.

Best portal: Check Frugal Flyer for current cash back rates.

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How to maximize your welcome bonus

A few things to keep in mind when applying:

Time your application before a big purchase. If you know you have a large expense coming (rent, insurance, flight, contractor), apply right before so you can hit the MSR without changing your spending habits.

Use the best rebate portal. Portals like GCR, Frugal Flyer, and Credit Card Genius pay you extra cash just for applying through their link. Always compare before clicking "Apply."

Track your MSR deadline. Most cards give you 3 months. Add the card to your PointsBinder dashboard immediately after applying so you never lose track.

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Offers change frequently. Always verify current terms before applying.