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Are you thinking of applying for the American Express credit card Australia, but still have doubts if this is the right card?
Our goal today is to give you all the information you need to decide whether or not to apply for the American Express credit card Australia.
We will unveil all American Express Australia cards. We will present the main options available in the consumer market, detailing the advantages and fees of each card. Keep reading and learn all about AMEX credit cards.
Main American Express credit card Australia Cards
American Express targets its consumer CARDS at specific customer profiles, which can be divided into 04: luxury traveler, flexible rewards accumulator, and Qantas loyalist. Let’s look at the options now.
1. American Express® Platinum Card
The Platinum Card is an elite option and a Charge Card. Therefore, full payment of the balance is mandatory monthly.
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The brand is recognized for delivering luxury, personalized services, and exceptional travel experiences.
The cost to access this level of service has an Annual Fee of $1,450 p.a.
The card, however, is exempt from Currency Conversion Fee (FTF), a crucial feature for frequent travelers. It saves the standard 3% fee on international transactions.
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The benefits of the Platinum Card are to justify the Annual Fee.
Furthermore, new customers receive a high-value Welcome Bonus, such as 200,000 Membership Rewards Points after meeting an initial spend.
The cardholder enjoys an annual Global Dining Credit, redeemable at top restaurants in Australia and abroad. In addition to the exemption from Foreign Transaction Fees.
You will also have Premium and Unlimited Lounge Access, including Centurion Lounges and Priority Pass partnerships, and guarantees access to Curated Events and Experiences, such as privileged tickets in art and gastronomy.
2. American Express Explorer® Credit Card
The Explorer Card is a Credit Card focused on flexible rewards and an annual travel credit that offsets its Annual Fee of $395 p.a.
Furthermore, the Interest Rate (APR) on purchases is 23.99% p.a., with an Interest-Free Period of up to 55 days on purchases, offering cash flow flexibility. On the other hand, the Currency Conversion Fee (FTF) is 3% of the converted amount, and the cash advance fee is $2.50 or 2% of the amount, whichever is greater.
The $400 AUD Annual Travel Credit stands out as a key benefit, allowing members to use it on eligible flights, hotels, or car rentals through American Express Travel.
The card has a Standard Reward Score, accumulating 2 Membership Rewards points for every $1 spent on most purchases. Cardholders benefit from a reduced rate when making payments to government agencies.
Furthermore, you receive two free entries per year to The Centurion Lounge at Sydney (SYD) or Melbourne (MEL) International Airports. In addition to Complementary Domestic and International Travel Insurance, which includes COVID-19 coverage.
3. Qantas American Express Ultimate Card
This is a co-branded Credit Card aimed at customers seeking Qantas Points accumulation and benefits with Qantas. Its main fees are:
- Annual Fee is $450 p.a;
- Interest Rate (APR) on purchases is 23.99% p.a.;
- Interest-Free Period is up to 44 days.
- Currency Conversion Fee (FTF) is 3% of the value;
- Cash advance fee is $2.50 or 2% of the amount, whichever is greater.
Active users can fully offset the Annual Fee with the $450 Annual Qantas Travel Credit, which applies to eligible Qantas trips.
The card offers substantial Welcome Bonus Points, such as a 70,000 Qantas Points bonus after meeting the initial spend.
Point earning is diversified, working as follows:
- 2.25 Qantas Points per $1 spent directly with the airline;
- 1.25 Qantas Points per $1 on everyday spending.
The cardholder gets two free annual entries to Qantas Club Lounges or Qantas International Business Lounges, not to mention international travel insurance and Qantas Wine Premium Membership.
If this card caught your attention the most, you need to know that it is not the only one with the Qantas program. It is worth comparing it with other credit card with Qantas points.
Comparative Table of American Express Australia Credit Card Fees
There are many fees, so we have gathered all the information in a single table to compare the options.
| Card | Card Type | Annual Fee (p.a.) | Interest Rate (APR) on Purchases | Interest-Free Period | Currency Conversion Fee (FTF) | Cash Advance Fee |
| Platinum Card | Charge Card | $1,450 | N/A (Full Payment) | N/A | Exempt | $1.25 per withdrawal |
| Explorer Card | Credit Card | $395 | 23.99% p.a. | Up to 55 days | 3% of converted amount | $2.50 or 2% of withdrawal (whichever is greater) |
| Qantas Ultimate Card | Credit Card | $450 | 23.99% p.a. | Up to 44 days | 3% of converted amount | $2.50 or 2% of withdrawal (whichever is greater) |
Requirements to apply for American Express Australia credit cards
Before starting the application, candidates must meet eligibility criteria for premium cards.
The candidate must be 18 years or older and be an Australian citizen, permanent resident, or long-term visa holder (12 months or more). The policy expressly excludes student visa holders.
A good credit history plays a crucial role in financial approval and benefits.
Furthermore, for self-employed individuals, there must be at least 12 months of proven trading.
Although minimum income requirements vary by card. In particular, premium cards imply the need for a substantial annual income for approval, with market references indicating values such as $100,000 p.a.
To expedite the process, the candidate must have up-to-date financial and identification details, including an Australian driver’s license, full current address. In addition to detailed financial information:
- Total annual household income;
- Monthly living expenses
03 Steps to apply for an AMEX credit card
The online application process consists of three steps. Let’s see:
- Card selection: You must select the desired card and review the Terms and Conditions, starting the application by clicking the ‘Apply now’ button.
- Form completion: You must provide all personal, contact, and financial data, including employment status and income and expense details. This form is filled out on the official American Express website.
- Review and Submission: After the final review, the application is submitted. American Express then proceeds with credit evaluation and, if necessary, requests supporting documents.
Conclusion
American Express credit card Australia cards are tailored for the high-spending consumer who values travel and lifestyle benefits above all else.
Initially, the Explorer and Qantas Ultimate cards are structured with travel credits that effectively negate the Annual Fee. Minimizing the cost of accessing reward benefits for users who plan their trips and use them in full.
Now that you know the eligibility criteria, benefits, and application process for an American Express credit card Australia, you are ready to make a decision.