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There are several types of American Express Canada cards, each designed for a specific clientele: individuals, sole proprietorships (self-employed and SMEs), and large corporations. So, you don’t need to be incorporated to apply for an Amex business credit card. In this guide, we explain the benefits and conditions for obtaining this type of card. Then, the steps to apply for a business/SME card.
First, there are three types of credit cards issued by American Express Canada:
As a result, business cards have a much broader audience than corporate cards (which are limited to large corporations).
Whether you are self-employed or a small business owner, you can apply for an Amex business card as soon as you generate business income and expenses. You do not need to be incorporated to be approved for this type of card, which is very convenient for sole proprietorship owners.
When you apply, consider if you need an additional credit card for a family member or an employee. From time to time, American Express runs promotions where you can add additional cards to your account and earn bonus points.
To apply for an American Express business credit card, you simply need to meet the following requirements:
The online application process to apply for an Amex business card is simple. It is completed in 3 steps:
Here’s more information on each of these steps.
In the first step of your online application, you must enter your personal information, including the information that will appear on your card.
In the second step of your online application, you must enter your contact information:
This information is required so that American Express can contact you and send you your Amex business card. If you are self-employed or a small business owner, then this will be personal information.
If you work from home, indicate that your work address is the same as your home address by checking the appropriate box.
In the third and final step of your online application, you must enter details about your personal income and professional activity. This is the most important step of the application process. You have the choice to indicate your Social Insurance Number and whether you are already an American Express cardholder.
If you operate a sole proprietorship (self-employed or SME), you can enter your name in the “legal business name” field. If your business sector is not listed, choose the one that most closely matches your professional activity.
Be as honest as possible in your application. American Express may call you in the following hours or days to ensure all information is correct. This is a simple formality, and you will not be asked to provide proof or supporting documents.
If you are self-employed or a small business owner, you can apply for an Amex business card.
Yes, you can have multiple American Express business cards. However, space out applications by at least 6 months and maintain activity on each of your cards. Why would American Express give you a new business card if there are no recent transactions on your current card?
No minimum income is required to apply for an Amex business card. In fact, this is the case for all American Express Canada Cards.
Now that you know how to apply for an Amex business card, find out which cards are best for you.
American Express offers business cards in 3 loyalty programs:
American Express Membership Rewards cards are the best-known American Express business cards:
Each of these American Express business cards has its own advantages.
What both cards above have in common is that they are both charge cards. There is therefore no pre-set limit, which can be convenient for a business with high expenses. It is also possible to optimize your business cash flow management thanks to a period of up to 55 interest-free days.
Earn up to 120,000 points with this welcome offer for the American Express Business Platinum Card:
You can use your Membership Rewards points in many ways:
120,000 points have a minimum value of $1,200 for a Statement credit, and much more if you transfer your points to a partner.
For example, with this welcome offer, if you decide to transfer your Membership Rewards points to a partner loyalty program, you would have the choice of earning up to :
With this Card, you earn 1.25 Membership Rewards points per dollar on all purchases. What’s more, you’ll enjoy a host of travel and business benefits:
With this Card you can maximize your cash flow with up to 55 interest free days. It is a card that is particularly appreciated by contractors when making large purchases in home improvement stores, for example.
Last but not least, Business Platinum Card® from American Express offers a wide range of insurance coverage: rental car theft and damage, $500,000 travel accident, emergency medical expenses (out-of-province or out-of-country), lost or stolen baggage, flight delays and misdirected baggage, hotel or motel burglary, Purchase Protection, Purchase Security.
Like all American Express Canada Cards, there is no minimum income requirement.
Earn up to 40,000 Membership Rewards points* with the American Expressᴹᴰ Gold Rewards Card:
With this Card, you earn 1 Membership Rewards point per dollar on your purchases.
You can then use your points in many ways:
For example, with this welcome offer, if you decide to transfer your Membership Rewards points to a partner loyalty program, you would have the choice of earning up to:
Alternatively, 80,000 Membership Rewards points can be redeemed for $800 worth of travel or any other Card purchase.
Also, as a cardmember, you get many advantages such as up to 55 interest-free days to maximize your cash flow.
Finally, you are covered with reliable insurance for your travels and purchases.
The Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express®* Card is the only business credit card in Canada to offer benefits and points for stays at hotels.
This card is recommended for entrepreneurs and self-employed individuals who are members of the Marriott Bonvoy program and already have the Marriott Bonvoy® American Express®* Card for their personal needs. Thanks to these two American Express credit cards, you can, for example, get two free night certificates each year!
The Marriott Bonvoy® Business American Express®* Card is the best credit card for the self-employed, professionals and small business owners who travel.
With this welcome offer, earn up to 60,000 Marriott Bonvoy points:
It’s a card we recommend you keep, because each year at renewal, you’ll get an Annual Free Night Award for up to 35,000 points, plus 15 Elite nights per year, counting towards your Marriott Bonvoy Elite status.
With this Card, you earn 5 points per dollar for all your spending at Marriott Bonvoy establishments, and you can earn 3 points per dollar for :
And 2 points per dollar on all other purchases.
The American Express® Aeroplan®* Business Reserve Card is the best business credit card in Canada to offer benefits for your flights with Air Canada.
This card is recommended for entrepreneurs who are members of the Aeroplan program and wish, for example, to access Air Canada Maple Leaf Lounges unlimitedly and earn 3 points per dollar on their purchases with Air Canada or Air Canada Vacations.
With this welcome offer for the American Express Aeroplan Business Reserve Card, you can earn up to 90,000 Aeroplan points:
With this Card, you earn 3X the points on purchases made directly with Air Canada and Air Canada Vacations. And 2X the points on hotels and car rentals. Everywhere else, you will earn 1.25X the points.
With this Card, you benefit from many Air Canada travel benefits such as access to Maple Leaf lounges in North America for you and one guest, priority check-in, priority boarding and priority baggage handling.
Enjoy your first checked bag free (up to 23kg/50lb) for up to 9 people travelling on the same reservation on Air Canada®* flights.
In summary, you do not need to be at the head of a large corporation to get an American Express business card. Indeed, you can apply for an Amex business card as soon as you generate business income and expenses, whether you are self-employed or a small business owner.
American Express business cards stand out for their exclusive benefits, which go far beyond being just a payment method: privileged access to airport lounges, priority services, generous points programs, annual credits, and excellent insurance.
These cards represent a strategic investment that optimizes both business expenses and business travel opportunities.
No documents to provide! Make sure to provide all information in your application.
If you are a frequent traveller, the American Express Business Platinum Card would be the best. You will be a VIP wherever you go.
Alternatively, the American Express Business Gold Rewards Card is excellent for its payment flexibility and purchasing power.
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