Pointshogger reader JPT asks: “There seems to be platinum, world elite, infinite, world travel, etc. What are the ‘levels’ in Canadian credit cards, and how useful are they?”

Good question JPT. Each credit card company (American Express, MasterCard and Visa) names their higher level credit cards a little differently. There appears to be so little information documented on this topic, so I thought I would give it a try.

Types of Credit Card Levels

Below is a list of the different levels of each credit card company in Canada.

It is worth noting that as you move higher, in the levels of credit cards, expect to have all the perks and benefits of the credit cards below, and then some. In my description below, as I explain one type of credit card to the next, I am primarily focusing on the additional benefits that you should expect to see.

American Express

For the Gold card, expect to see a fair amount of insurance protection (especially for travel) and extended warranties.

For Platinum cards, expect to receive some luxury access, like lounge access to hotels and airports. There is also more extensive insurance coverages.

For the Reserve card, you should expecting to see concierge service. Concierge service is what really sets apart the top tier credit cards from the rest. Also expect to see more luxury perks.

The Black card is the most secret card that is by invitation only. No doubt they have the most benefits and perks. It doesn’t appear that MasterCard and Visa has any equivalent.

MasterCard

With World cards, you should expect to find some decent travel insurance and warranty protection.

With World Elite cards, you should be expecting to find personally tailored recommendations, expert staff and concierge service. This is where you will also receive luxury perks like lounge access, free upgrades and special access to exclusive things.

Visa

For Gold cards, you can expect to see some auto rental insurance, emergency cash, travel protection and emergency services.

For Platinum cards, you will essentially mostly the same benefits as gold cards, expect from probably some better insurance and extended warranty protection.

For the Infinite cards, you will additionally see higher credit limits and no pre-set spending limit. Also expect to find lounge access, free checked bags for travel cards, essentially a taste of luxury perks.

UPDATE- Thanks to Gurpreet in the comment section below! Note that Infinite cards now have concierge service as well. 

It isn’t until the Infinite Privilege card where you will find concierge service and other luxury perks like free upgrades.

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