When it comes to travel credit cards, finding the perfect mix of rewards, benefits, and affordability can be a challenge. Enter the Meridian Visa Infinite Travel Rewards Card, a credit card that understands the needs of frequent travelers and smart spenders.
Whether you’re dining at a five-star restaurant, booking a luxurious hotel, or making purchases abroad, this card ensures that every transaction adds value to your financial journey. With an easy-to-use mobile banking app, real-time transaction alerts, and access to Visa Infinite perks, this card is tailored for those who seek both luxury and practicality in their spending habits.
Main features of the Meridian Visa Infinite Travel Rewards Card
The Meridian Visa Infinite Travel Rewards Card is issued by Meridian Credit Union, one of Canada’s largest credit unions, known for its customer-centric approach and competitive financial products. Designed for individuals who enjoy earning travel rewards on everyday spending, this card caters to professionals, frequent travelers, and those who value premium perks without excessive fees.
While the rewards structure is generous, Meridian ensures that cardholders also enjoy top-tier security features and seamless mobile banking integration. Unlike many competitors, Meridian does not require an existing banking relationship to apply for this card, making it an attractive option for Canadians looking to maximize their spending without restrictive conditions.
Understanding the annual fee
While many premium travel cards come with high annual fees, Meridian takes a refreshing approach. For the first year, cardholders pay no annual fee, making it a risk-free way to experience its benefits. After the first year, the fee is $99 annually, a modest price for the array of perks it provides.
Additional cards for family members or authorized users come at $30 per year, allowing you to extend benefits to loved ones while consolidating reward points. Given that some comparable travel cards charge upwards of $150 to $200 in annual fees, Meridian’s pricing remains highly competitive.
To justify the fee, consider the rewards: the welcome bonus alone is worth $70 in points after your first purchase, making the card’s cost virtually zero for the first two years. Plus, the accelerated earning rate on foreign currency purchases can easily offset the yearly fee if used strategically.
Deciphering credit limits
Your credit limit on the Meridian Visa Infinite Travel Rewards Card is determined by multiple financial factors. As a premium travel card, Meridian requires applicants to meet a minimum income threshold of $60,000 for individuals or $100,000 for households, ensuring that cardholders have sufficient financial stability to manage higher credit limits.
Factors such as credit history, existing debt obligations, and income level play a crucial role in determining your approved limit. Applicants with strong credit scores and low existing debt can expect a higher limit, giving them more spending flexibility.
Advantages of the Meridian Visa Infinite Travel Rewards Card
- Generous Travel Rewards – Earn 6 points per $2 spent on foreign currency transactions and 3 points per $2 on all other purchases.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees – Unlike many travel cards, Meridian eliminates these charges, saving you money on every international purchase.
- Exclusive Visa Infinite Perks – Enjoy luxury hotel upgrades, premium dining experiences, and concierge services.
- Travel and Purchase Protection – Benefit from trip cancellation, baggage insurance, and extended purchase warranties.
- Mobile Banking & Alerts – Manage transactions effortlessly via real-time alerts and an intuitive mobile app.
Standout advantage
One of the most impressive features of this card is the 6 points per $2 spent on foreign transactions—a rate rarely seen in travel credit cards. Many competitors either cap their foreign rewards or charge foreign transaction fees, which eat into potential savings.
Addressing potential drawbacks
- Annual Fee After the First Year – While waived initially, the $99 fee applies after the first year.
- High Credit Score Requirement – This card is not ideal for those with low credit scores, as it requires a good to excellent rating.
- Income Eligibility Restrictions – A minimum income of $60,000 (individual) or $100,000 (household) is required, making it less accessible for lower-income applicants.
Standout disadvantage
The biggest downside? The income eligibility requirement. While many credit cards cater to a broad audience, this one sets a high financial bar, limiting access to those who earn below the required threshold. Even if a potential applicant has an excellent credit score, they may still be ineligible simply due to their income level.
Eligibility criteria
To apply for the Meridian Visa Infinite Travel Rewards Card, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, starting with a minimum personal income of $60,000 or a household income of at least $100,000, ensuring financial stability for responsible credit use. Additionally, a good to excellent credit score (typically 700 or higher) is required, reflecting strong creditworthiness.
Only Canadian residents who have reached the age of majority in their province can apply, and becoming a Meridian Credit Union member is mandatory, although no other Meridian products are required. Meeting these qualifications grants access to premium travel benefits, exclusive rewards, and top-tier security features, making this card an excellent choice for those who fit the profile.
How to apply for the Meridian Visa Infinite Travel Rewards Card
Applying for this card is a straightforward process, whether you prefer doing it online, via the Meridian app, or through in-branch services. The approval process is typically quick, but applicants should be prepared to submit income verification and credit history details. If you’re looking for a seamless way to access premium travel rewards, it’s time to explore how to apply.
Via website
The easiest way to apply is through the Meridian Credit Union website. Simply click “Apply Now,” fill out the required details, and submit your application. The processing time is usually a few days, and once approved, your new card will be mailed to you. Ensure you have proof of income and ID ready to speed up verification.
Through the mobile application
For a more mobile-friendly experience, you can apply through the Meridian mobile app. This option allows you to track your application status in real time while managing your finances from one platform. The app is available on iOS and Android, making it a convenient choice for those who prefer banking on the go.
Through the store/branch
If you prefer a face-to-face interaction, visiting a Meridian branch is an option. A financial representative can guide you through the process, answer any questions, and ensure you understand the terms and benefits before signing up. However, due to Meridian’s limited physical branch presence, this method may not be as accessible to all applicants.
