What minimum income do I need for the Platinum or the World Elite?

The National Bank Platinum Mastercard requires no minimum income. The National Bank World Elite Mastercard requires a personal income of $80,000 or a combined household income of $150,000.

What are the annual fees for these two cards?

The Platinum card costs $70 a year for the primary cardholder. The World Elite card costs $150 a year. Both fees are currently rebated in the first year thanks to the exclusive Milesopedia offer running until November 4, 2026.

Which card earns points faster?

The World Elite earns faster, with up to 5 points per dollar on groceries and restaurants, compared to 2 points per dollar for the Platinum. Both cards use the same National Bank À la carte Rewards program.

Does the World Elite give access to an airport lounge?

Yes. The World Elite card gives free and unlimited access to the National Bank Lounge at Montreal-Trudeau airport, for the cardholder, one guest, and two children aged 12 or under, on international flights. The Platinum card does not offer any lounge access.

What travel insurance comes with each card?

Both cards include $5,000,000 in emergency medical insurance. However, the Platinum covers trips of up to 10 days, while the World Elite covers up to 60 days depending on the cardholder's age. Trip cancellation and interruption amounts are also higher with the World Elite.

Are these cards accepted at Costco?

Yes, both cards are Mastercards, so they are accepted at Costco Canada, unlike Visa and American Express cards.

What is the current welcome offer for each card?

Until November 4, 2026, the Platinum offers up to 40,000 reward points plus a first-year fee rebate. The World Elite offers a rebate of the $150 annual fee in the first year, with no points component for now.

Can I upgrade from the Platinum to the World Elite later?

Yes. Nothing stops you from starting with the Platinum, then applying for the World Elite once your income, or your household's income, meets the required thresholds. National Bank evaluates each application based on your credit file at the time you apply.

Jean-Maximilien Voisine

Jean-Maximilien Voisine is the President and Founder of Milesopedia and a leading expert in rewards programs, credit cards, and travel across Canada, France, and the U.S.A. Now 40 years old and a father of two, he has explored more than 100 countries—many of them alongside his wife Audrey and their children. Specializing in loyalty programs such as Aeroplan, Flying Blue, American Express Membership Rewards, and Marriott Bonvoy, Jean-Maximilien helps travellers unlock the full potential of their points and benefits. His mission: empower others to travel better and smarter across North America and Europe.

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