The Complete Guide to Credit Cards with Airport Lounge Access

Few things make travel feel more luxurious than escaping the crowds and relaxing in an airport lounge. Whether it’s complimentary snacks, an open bar, or just a quiet seat away from screaming toddlers, lounge access can take the edge off travel days.

If you’re a Canadian looking to score free airport lounge access, you don’t need elite airline status or a first class ticket—you just need the right credit card.

In this guide, we break down all the Canadian credit cards that offer complimentary lounge access, along with the type of access, lounge networks, and how many passes you get per year.

All Canadian Credit Cards with Lounge Access — In a Nutshell

Credit Card	Lounge Access	Network	Annual Fee (CAD)
The Platinum Card from American Express	Unlimited (Global Lounge Collection incl. Priority Pass™, Plaza Premium, Centurion, Delta Sky Club)	Amex Global Lounge Collection	$799
Business Platinum Card from American Express	Unlimited (Same as personal Platinum)	Amex Global Lounge Collection	$799
American Express Gold Rewards Card	4 Plaza Premium Lounge visits	Plaza Premium	$250
American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card	Unlimited Maple Leaf Lounge + 1 guest	Maple Leaf Lounge (Air Canada)	$599
American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card*	Unlimited Maple Leaf Lounge + 1 guest	Maple Leaf Lounge (Air Canada)	$599
BMO Ascend World Elite®* Mastercard®*	4 Mastercard Travel Pass visits	Mastercard Travel Pass	$150
BMO® Ascend World Elite®* Business Mastercard®*	2 Mastercard Travel Pass visits	Mastercard Travel Pass	$149
BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card	6 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Visa Airport Companion Program	$499
CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card	Unlimited Maple Leaf Lounge + 1 guest + 6 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Maple Leaf Lounge + Visa Airport Companion Program	$599
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card	6 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Visa Airport Companion Program	$499
CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card	4 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Visa Airport Companion Program	$139
CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card	4 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Visa Airport Companion Program	$139
National Bank World Elite® Mastercard®	Unlimited National Bank Lounge (YUL) + 2 guest passes	National Bank Lounge (YUL)	$150
RBC Avion® Visa Infinite Privilege†	6 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Visa Airport Companion Program	$399
WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡	4 lounge passes (converted from companion voucher)	WestJet/Partner Lounges	$119
Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card	10 Priority Pass™ visits	Priority Pass™	$399
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card	10 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Visa Airport Companion Program	$599
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card	6 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Visa Airport Companion Program	$150
Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Business* Card	6 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Visa Airport Companion Program	$199
TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card	Unlimited Maple Leaf Lounge + 1 guest + 6 Visa Airport Companion Program visits	Maple Leaf Lounge + Visa Airport Companion Program	$599
TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card	4 Visa Airport Companion Program visits (starting April 30, 2025)	Visa Airport Companion Program	$139

Understanding the Types of Airport Lounge Access

There are four different types of lounge networks that come with Canadian credit cards.

Depending on your credit card, you might get access to a global lounge network like Priority Pass, or be limited to airline-branded lounges. Here’s a quick breakdown of the main types:

Priority Pass

One of the largest independent airport lounge programs in the world, with access to over 1,300 lounges across 600+ cities. It includes a mix of contract lounges globally and is especially useful when flying economy or with non-alliance airlines.

Visa Airport Companion Program (Powered by DragonPass)

Offered through Visa Infinite and Visa Infinite Privilege cards, this program uses the DragonPass lounge network, which includes many Plaza Premium locations in Canada and lounges around the world. Some cards include complimentary visits, while others require you to pay a discounted entry fee.

Mastercard Travel Pass (by DragonPass)

Similar to the Visa version but tied to World Elite Mastercard products. Requires enrolment through Mastercard’s Travel Pass portal.

Airline-Branded Lounges

These are operated directly by airlines such as Air Canada, WestJet, Air France, and KLM. Access is typically tied to flying with that specific airline, often on the same day, and may come with guest privileges depending on your card.

Access is typically limited to flights operated by the issuing airline (and sometimes only when flying in a premium cabin or on a same-day ticket).

Premium Personal Cards with Lounge Access

The American Express Platinum Card

Widely considered the most comprehensive travel card in Canada, the American Express Platinum Card offers unlimited access to over 1,300 lounges worldwide.

This includes Priority Pass (lounges only, no restaurants), Plaza Premium, Centurion Lounges, and Delta Sky Clubs when flying Delta.

Note: Starting January 1, 2027, Amex will cap complimentary Plaza Premium and Priority Pass visits at six each per calendar year for primary Platinum cardholders (two for supplementary Platinum cards), unless you put $20,000+ in annual spend on the account to unlock unlimited access again.

Beyond lounge access, it comes with a $200 annual travel credit, a $200 dining credit, Marriott Bonvoy Gold and Hilton Honors Gold status, and top-tier travel insurance.

The $799 annual fee isn’t cheap—but for frequent flyers who can take full advantage, it’s easily justifiable.

Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card

The Scotiabank Platinum American Express® Card includes a Priority Pass membership with 10 complimentary lounge visits per year for the primary cardholder, and four for a supplementary cardholder. That’s a generous lounge benefit for a card at this price point—especially if you value the widespread availability of Priority Pass lounges.

You’ll earn 4 Scene+ points per dollar spent^† on hotels, car rentals, and experiences booked through Scene+ Travel, and a flat 2 Scene+ points per dollar spent on all other purchases^†. While it doesn’t offer the same high category bonuses as the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card, its consistent 2x earn rate still outpaces the base earn rates on many other premium cards.

Additional perks include no foreign transaction fees, which is a major win for international travellers, and access to Amex Offers, which provide regular statement credits or bonus points at popular retailers. With a $399 annual fee, this card delivers excellent value through a mix of lounge access, flexible rewards, and travel-friendly benefits.

Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

The Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card offers 10 complimentary lounge visits annually via the Visa Airport Companion Program, along with no foreign transaction fees—making it especially attractive for international travellers.

You’ll earn 3 Scene+ points per dollar spent on travel^†—including flights, hotels, and transit—and an extra 3 points per dollar when you book through Scene+ Travel.^†

While the earn rates outside of travel categories are modest, the combination of FX savings, lounge access, and strong insurance makes this a very well-rounded premium option.

CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

This premium CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card includes six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program. While not unlimited, it covers most casual or moderate travel needs.

You’ll also enjoy strong travel insurance, airport perks, and flexible Aventura Points. 

RBC Avion® Visa Infinite Privilege^†

You’ll get 6 complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program with the RBC Avion® Visa Infinite Privilege^†, making this a solid premium card for occasional lounge use.

What sets this card apart is its affiliation with the RBC Avion program—the only Canadian bank rewards program other than Amex that allows you to transfer points to airline partners.

You can move Avion points to programs like American Airlines AAdvantage, British Airways Executive Club, and Cathay Pacific Asia Miles, making it an excellent choice if you’re into booking premium cabins with points.

With strong insurance, Visa Infinite Privilege perks, and decent travel earn rates, it’s a reliable travel companion—especially if you’re already banking with RBC.

BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

The BMO eclipse Visa Infinite Privilege* Card includes six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program powered by DragonPass.

While it doesn’t offer unlimited access, it’s on par with other Visa Infinite Privilege cards and includes the option to bring guests.

Where this card really stands out is its 5x earn rate on dining, groceries, gas, travel—and drugstore purchases, making it the highest-earning Canadian card for Shoppers Drug Mart and Rexall spenders.

It also comes with a very flexible $200 annual lifestyle credit^† to help offset the $499 annual fee.^†

If you value lounge access and are looking to maximize rewards on everyday purchases, this is an excellent all-rounder in the premium space.

Mid-Tier Cards with Lounge Access

Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card

The Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite* Card has long been one of the best mid-tier travel cards in Canada, offering six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program.

It also stands out for having no foreign transaction fees, which can save you 2.5% on every purchase made in a foreign currency.

You’ll earn Scene+ points, with a 2x earning rate on groceries, dining, entertainment, and transit globally,^† and 1x on everything else.^†

The card’s $150 annual fee is often waived in the first year, making it a great starting point for travellers looking to dip their toes into lounge access without jumping to premium cards.

National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard®

The National Bank® World Elite® Mastercard® offers unlimited access to the National Bank Lounge at Montréal-Trudeau (YUL) for yourself, plus two guest passes per year. While it doesn’t include DragonPass visits, it’s ideal for Quebec-based travellers who frequent Montreal’s airport.

One standout feature is its flexible travel insurance, which includes award travel, since you only need to charge a portion of your trip (such as taxes and fees) to the card for coverage to kick in. That’s rare, even among premium cards, and adds extra peace of mind when redeeming points for flights.

CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card

The CIBC Aventura® Visa Infinite* Card includes four complimentary visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program, powered by DragonPass.

You’ll earn Aventura Points on your daily spending, which can be redeemed through CIBC’s travel portal or for statement credits, flights, and vacation packages.

CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card

The CIBC Aventura® Gold Visa* Card offers four complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program, powered by DragonPass—just like its Visa Infinite sibling.

It earns Aventura Points that can be redeemed through CIBC’s travel portal or for statement credits, flights, and more.

What makes this card stand out is its low income requirement: you only need a minimum household income of $15,000, making it the most accessible Visa card in Canada that offers lounge access.

It’s a great entry point for newcomers to travel rewards or those who don’t meet the higher income thresholds of Infinite cards.

TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card

The TD First Class Travel® Visa Infinite* Card will begin offering four complimentary lounge visits through the Visa Airport Companion Program starting April 30, 2025.

Until then, it’s not a lounge card—but it earns TD Rewards points and offers flexible redemptions through Expedia for TD or as a statement credit.

If you already hold this card or are looking to get one now, it’s worth knowing that lounge access is on the horizon—making it a stronger contender in the near future.

BMO Ascend World Elite®* Mastercard®*

The BMO Ascend World Elite®* Mastercard®* offers four complimentary visits per year through Mastercard Travel Pass by DragonPass, which is enough for a few round-trips with lounge access. Guest access is allowed but uses up your visit allotment.

You’ll earn BMO Rewards points and get comprehensive travel insurance, including emergency medical coverage, flight delay, and lost baggage protection.

For those who want a Mastercard option with strong insurance and some lounge perks, this card delivers.

Airline Co-Branded Cards with Lounge Access

American Express® Aeroplan®* Reserve Card

With the American Express Aeroplan Reserve Card card, you’ll get unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafés when flying on Air Canada, but with the added flavour of Amex-exclusive perks.

This premium Aeroplan card gives you unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Café when flying on a same-day Air Canada ticket, and it includes complimentary entry for one guest as well.

You’ll also enjoy premium airport perks like priority check-in, boarding, and a free first checked bag.

It offers an industry-leading earning rate of 3 Aeroplan points per dollar spent on Air Canada purchases, making it the highest-earning Aeroplan co-branded card when booking directly with the airline.

You’ll also get preferred pricing on Aeroplan flight rewards, which helps stretch your points even further.

If you’re loyal to Air Canada and want strong earn rates, elite-style perks, and consistent lounge access for you and a travel companion, this card is a top contender.

TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

The premium TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card  gives you unlimited access to Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Café locations within North America when flying on a same-day Air Canada ticket.^†

It also includes complimentary access for one guest,^† making it ideal for couples or companions who travel together.

You’ll also get six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program,^† which can be handy when flying with non-Star Alliance airlines.

On top of lounge access, you’ll enjoy priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling on Air Canada flights, plus a free first checked bag for you and up to eight companions on the same booking.^†

If you’re loyal to Air Canada and want an elite-like experience built into your credit card, this one delivers.

CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

Functionally identical to the TD version, the CIBC Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card provides unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafés, including complimentary entry for one guest, as long as you’re flying with Air Canada that day

You’ll also get six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program.

With all the same travel perks as the TD card—priority services, free checked bags, strong insurance—this one comes down to personal preference.

If you bank with CIBC or prefer their platform, this is your go-to Aeroplan premium card.

WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡

While the WestJet RBC® World Elite Mastercard‡ doesn’t offer lounge access by default, this card gives you the option to convert your annual WestJet companion voucher into four lounge passes.

These can be used at WestJet’s Elevation Lounge in Calgary or at select partner lounges around the world.

The card also offers free checked bags on WestJet flights, travel insurance, and earns WestJet dollars (soon to be points) that can be applied directly to base fares. If you’re loyal to WestJet and fly through Calgary (YYC) often, this card is a natural fit.

Business Credit Cards with Lounge Access

Business Platinum Card from American Express

The Business Platinum Card from American Express offers the same unlimited global lounge access as the personal Platinum Card, making it equally valuable for travel—but with added benefits tailored to business owners.

You’ll earn elevated points on business-related categories and enjoy the flexibility of Amex Membership Rewards.

Whether you’re flying for work or combining business with leisure, this card delivers strong travel value—plus, you might be able to expense the fee.

American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card

The American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card offers unlimited access to Maple Leaf Lounges and Air Canada Cafés when flying on a same-day Air Canada ticket—plus one complimentary guest.

It also earns 3 Aeroplan points per dollar spent on Air Canada purchases and includes preferred pricing on Aeroplan flight rewards.

Business owners will appreciate added perks like employee card controls and enhanced reporting.

If you own a business and frequently fly with Air Canada, this card offers a strong combination of lounge access, high earn potential, and travel perks under one roof.

Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Business* Card

The Scotiabank Passport® Visa Infinite Business* Card offers six complimentary lounge visits per year through the Visa Airport Companion Program.

It also carries the same no foreign transaction fees benefit, making it ideal for entrepreneurs who travel internationally and want to save on FX charges.

The card earns Scene+ points and includes strong travel insurance, purchase protection, and access to Visa Infinite Business perks.

At a $199 annual fee, it’s a compelling mid-range option for business owners looking to enjoy a few premium perks.

BMO® Ascend World Elite®* Business Mastercard®*

With two lounge visits per year via Mastercard Travel Pass, the BMO® Ascend World Elite®* Business Mastercard®* adds a layer of comfort to your business travel—without a premium price tag.

You’ll also earn BMO Rewards points, which can be redeemed for travel or used to pay down your balance.

The $149 annual fee is relatively low for a business travel card, and it comes with decent insurance coverage, including flight delay, trip cancellation, and rental car protection.

A practical pick for small business owners or freelancers who want occasional lounge access on the go.

Honourable Mentions

American Express Gold Rewards Card

While it’s not a premium card, the Amex Gold Rewards Card quietly offers four complimentary Plaza Premium lounge visits per year. That’s a rare perk and with no dependency on DragonPass or Priority Pass networks, access is more straightforward at major Canadian airports.

You’ll earn 2x Membership Rewards points on travel, gas, groceries, and restaurants, and the points can be transferred to airline and hotel partners. If you’re looking for a mid-range card that earns well and comes with a taste of lounge luxury, this is one of the best-kept secrets in Amex Canada’s lineup.

Crypto.com Visa Card

Aside from traditional bank-issued credit cards, there’s also one “alternative” card in Canada that can unlock lounge access: the Crypto.com Visa, when paired with the Level Up program and an eligible CRO lockup or subscription.

Lounge access is tied to your Level Up tier:

Level Up Pro (formerly Jade/Indigo)

• You can either pay a subscription (in Canada, around CA$39.99/month or CA$399.90/year) or qualify via a CRO lockup in the app.
• Includes 4 complimentary Priority Pass lounge visits or “travel experiences” per calendar year for the primary user.
• Any extra visits, and all guests, are charged US$35 per visit.

Level Up Private (formerly Icy/Rose/Obsidian)

• Typically requires a 12-month CRO lockup starting at roughly CA$65,000 worth of CRO (exact thresholds can vary and are shown in-app).
• Includes unlimited Priority Pass lounge visits and travel experiences for you and one guest, with additional guests at US$35 per visit.

In both cases, access is delivered via a digital Priority Pass membership using an invitation code in the Crypto.com app – you present the Priority Pass app, not the Crypto.com card itself, at the lounge.

Because this setup relies on crypto pricing, CRO lockups, and a paid subscription model that Crypto.com can change, it carries more complexity and risk than a standard credit card.

We wouldn’t suggest signing up for Level Up or locking up a large amount of CRO purely for lounge access. Instead, think of this as a niche, secondary perk for travellers who are already very comfortable with Crypto.com and the broader risks that come with crypto.

Conclusion

Lounge access is one of the most tangible ways to improve your travel experience—and the right credit card can unlock it without the need for elite status or expensive premium tickets.

Whether you’re a frequent flyer who wants unlimited access, or an occasional traveller who just wants a quiet place to relax before a flight, there’s a Canadian credit card that fits your needs and budget.

From ultra-premium cards with unlimited visits to mid-tier options offering a few complimentary passes, this guide has you covered with the most up-to-date lineup of every card on the market.

Choose based on how often you travel, which airports you frequent, and which rewards program fits your lifestyle. And the next time you’re stuck with a delay or early check-in, at least you’ll have somewhere better to wait than a plastic seat by the gate.

^† Terms and conditions apply. Please refer to the card issuer’s website for up-to-date information. Reasonable efforts are made to ensure content accuracy.