American Express Credit Card Comparison| Up to HK$5,000 Cash Back
Updated: 23 Apr 2026
American Express credit card limited-time Welcome Offer of up to HK$5,000
Apply for a designated American Express credit card through MoneyHero and enjoy a free gift! Choose from HK$5,000 Apple Gift Voucher - Apply while gift supplies last!
AMEX The Platinum Card® - Welcome Offer (New Cardmembers)
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Card | Hot Reward Pick | MoneyHero Reward | Minimum Annual Income | Card Benefit | Annual Fee | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | The Platinum Card® | HK$9,100 | No Requirement | $4.5 - 7.5 per mile | HK$9,500 | ||
 | American Express Explorer® Credit Card | - | HK$300,000 | $1 per mile | HK$2,200 | ||
 | American Express® Platinum Credit Card | - | HK$1,800 | HK$300,000 | $2.5 - 5 per mile | HK$2,200 | |
 | Blue Cash® Credit Card from American Express | - | HK$600 | No Requirement | 1.2 % | $980 | |
 | American Express® Gold Business Card | - | - | HK$200,000 | $6 per mile | HK$980 |
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- Travel insurance
- Dining discount
- Airport lounge
- Travel agency offer
Travel Offer
- American Express Travel Online Benefit
Enroll with your Basic Platinum Card and make pre-paid bookings on a wide selection of American Express hotel & car rental partners via American Express Travel Online platform to enjoy up to HK$1,100 Statement Credit- For details, please refer to American Express Travel Online Benefit | American Express Hong Kong
- Complimentary Access to The Centurion Lounges
Enjoy over 1,550 lounges access over the world, and complimentary access to The Centurion Lounge including Hong Kong International Airport, Tokyo Haneda Airport, George Bush InterContinental, Las Vegas McCarran, Dallas/Fort Worth, San Francisco International, Miami International, Seattle-Tacoma and New York’s LaGuardia Airport. - Fine Hotels & Resorts
Complimentary benefits with an average total value of HK$4,680 with Fine Hotels & Resorts through Platinum Travel Service. With over 1,300 world-class properties to explore: complimentary room upgrade upon arrival, complimentary daily breakfast for two people, and Guaranteed 4 pm late checkout etc. when available, including Park Hyatt Niseko Hanazono, InterContinental Osaka, Grand Hyatt Seoul, Conrad Seoul and Capella Bangkok - Elite partner programs
Complimentary Membership to the world’s leading hotel and car rental companies’ loyalty programs, including Hilton Honors – Gold status, Radisson Rewards™ - Premium status, and Marriott Bonvoy™ - Gold Elite Status - The Hotel Collection
Get a US$100 hotel credit and a room upgrade if available when you stay at least 2 nights – choose among more than 600 hotels worldwide, like Hyatt and Hilton Hotels. - Comprehensive Travel Insurance*
Travel Accidents coverage of up to HK$3,000,000, Medical Assistance and expense up to HK$1,000,000, Canceling and cutting short your trip, Lost, stolen and damaged baggage, and Delayed flights and missed departures.
*With effect from July 30, 2026, new or revised terms will be added to the Terms and Conditions of American Express Group Travel Insurance Plan for The Platinum Cardmembers (Policy Number: NAC0000012). All claim events, or incidents occurring on or after the Effective Date, insured trips must be paid with an American Express® Card. For details and other changes, please click here.
New offer launched in August！The Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen Admission Privilege Basic Cardmembers of The Platinum Card can enjoy complimentary access to The Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen for 2 times per calendar month upon successful registration through designated link. Promotion details please refer to The Country Club at Hong Lok Yuen Admission Privilege | American Express HK.
New! “Up to 9X” Membership Rewards® points Accelerator Program to earn as low as HK$2 = 1 mile
From now to December 31, 2027, enroll your Platinum Card at designated link to enjoy an exclusive offer of earning as low as HK$2 = 1 Mile for spending in Foreign Currencies, airlines, and at designated travel & everyday spend merchants.
Designated travel merchants include Agoda, Trip.com, Expedia, Booking.com etc. Designated everyday spend merchants include Wellcome, ParknShop, Mannings, Watsons, YATA etc.
Promotion details please refer to “Up to 9X” Membership Rewards points Accelerator Program | American Express HK
Dining Offer
Basic and Supplementary Cardmember can enjoy
- Global Dining Credit
Year-round benefit of up to HK$2,000 Global Dining Credit, including HK$1,000 Statement Credit for local dining at over 30 local restaurants and in 20 locations around the world and HK$1,000 Statement Credit for overseas dining at over 1,400 abroad restaurants and in 20 locations around the world.- Promotion details please refer to Global Dining Credit | American Express Hong Kong
- NEW! Enjoy up to 30% savings at selected restaurants of Elite Concepts.
- 30% savings on the original price of the designated menu at participating restaurants, including Ye shanghai (K11 Musea), Nam Hoi No.2, Deng G, Lotus and Spice (NEW)
- 20% savings on the original price for access and dining at Penthouse.
- Promotion details please refer to Elite Concepts l American Express HK
- NEW! Enjoy up to 30 % savings on the a la carte menus at selected restaurants of JIA Group, Including 22 Ships (NEW), Duddell’s, Chachawan, Leela, La Terrace by Louise
- Promotion details please refer to JIA Group l American Express HK
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NEW! Enjoy 30% savings on the original price of the designated dinner menu at participating restaurants of Wooloomooloo Group
- Designated restaurants include: MOOO! – Tsim Sha Tsui, OMAROO Grill – Central, Wooloomooloo Steakhouse - Tsim Sha Tsui East, Wooloomooloo Steakhouse - Wan Chai and Wooloomooloo Prime – Tsim Sha Tsui
- Promotion details please refer to Wooloomooloo Group | American Express HK
- Enjoy special savings at designated restaurants of Maxim’s Chinese Cuisine, Western Restaurants and m.a.x. concepts on the à la carte dinner menus.
- Promotion details please refer to Maxim's Dining | American Express HK
- Enjoy up to 40% savings on the à la carte dinner menus and 25% savings on the à la carte food menus for takeaway orders at designated restaurants of Cafe Deco Group.
- Designated restaurants of Cafe Deco Group includes: ANJU, Dim Sum Bar, Cafe Deco Pizzeria, Duan Chun Zhen, Takeroku Ramen, WATERMARK.
- The list of designated restaurants is subject to change from time to time without prior notice. Please check with the restaurants for details.
- Promotion details please refer to Cafe Deco | American Express HK
- Enjoy 30% saving on a la carte food and beverages menu for all day dine-in at participating restaurants of S&S Hospitality.
Earn Rewards points when you spend with the Card
- Membership Rewards Turbo Program - First HK$160,000 local spending for each program year - HK$1 spending = 2 Membership Rewards points
- Take American Express Pay with Points Redemption Rate 300 Membership Rewardspoints = HK$1 as an example. The cashback rate is 0.67%.
- Booking through American Express Travel Online, you can enjoy a preferential redemption rate of 260 Membership Reward points Points = HK$1 Redemption Points
- Membership Rewards Turbo Program - Local spending from HK$160,001 and onwards for each program year - HK$1 spending = 1 Membership Rewards points
- Take American Express Pay with Points Redemption Rate 300 Membership Rewardspoints = HK$1 as an example. The cashback rate is 0.33%.
- Booking through American Express Travel Online, you can enjoy a preferential redemption rate of 260 Membership Reward points Points = HK$1 Redemption Points
- Foreign Currency Spending - HK$1 spending = 3 Membership Rewards points
- Take American Express Pay with Points Redemption Rate 300 Membership Rewardspoints = HK$1 as an example. The cashback rate is 1%.
- Booking through American Express Travel Online, you can enjoy a preferential redemption rate of 260 Membership Reward points Points = HK$1 Redemption Points
Lifestyle Offer
- Buy-1-Get-1-Free tickets offer will be applicable to Friday shows, while 20% savings on regular priced movie tickets will be available on other days in Broadway Circuit.
- Enjoy 3% savings on selected regular-priced items at the stores of city'super, LOG-ON and cookedDeli in Hong Kong.
Shopping Protection
- Online Fraud Protection GuaranteeShop online with the Card and you won't be held responsible for any fraudulent charge.
- Return GuaranteeRefund if you are unhappy with the purchase made with the Card.
- Extended WarrantyWhen purchase with the Card, the warranty will be extended by up to 1 year once the original manufacturer's warranty expires. The maximum coverage is HK$40,000 per item, and HK$150,000 per Card account per year.
- Price ProtectionRefund the difference when you see an identical item offered at a cheaper price in Hong Kong within 14 days of your purchase
- 45 Days CoverAlmost anything you buy with your Card is insured against theft or accidental damage for up to 45 days after the date of purchase.
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Terms and Conditions apply.
Reminder
- The Platinum Card® Year-Round Offers Terms and Conditions apply.
- Annual fee is HK$9,500 with the entitlement of 2 Supplementary Platinum Cards (annual fee cannot be waived)
- Existing Basic Platinum Cardmember / American Express Peninsula Platinum Card Basic Cardmember and applicants who held the Basic Card of The Platinum Card® / American Express® Peninsula Platinum Card at any time within the past 12 months from the date of this application are not eligible for Welcome Offers.
- The Platinum Card® welcome offer will be ONLY eligible to those who paid the annual fee and account stays active
- Cardmembers who paid the annual fee and holding valid Platinum Card accounts with good standing and not overdue will be eligible for the above Online Bonus and Welcome Bonuses. American Express reserves the right not to offer any bonus of Welcome Rewards to Cardmembers who fail to fulfil the above conditions without prior notice.
- Enjoy up to 12 complimentary airport lounge visits (also applicable to supplementary cardmembers).^
- A travel essential! Includes travel insurance.
- Earn miles fast! Points never expire and can be redeemed for miles with no handling fees.
- Shopping protection includes return guarantee, 45-day purchase protection, extended warranty, and price protection.
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Earn Membership Rewards points when you spend with the Card. Enjoy as low as HK$3.6 = 1 mile on selected online everyday spend merchants.
Local Currency Spend Click Here and Register:
Basic Points Reward:HK$1 = 3 points (HK$6/mile or 1% cash rebate)
Welcome Offer Points Reward:HK$1 = 6 points (HK$3/mile or 2% cash rebate)[Extra] HK$1 = 3 points, HK$15,000 / Quarter
Foreign Currency Spend HK$1 = up to 10.75 Membership Rewards points (HK$1.68 = 1 mile）
[Extra] HK$4 = 31 points, HK$10,000 / Quarter
- Conversion rate is based on 30,000 points to redeem HK$100 cash vouchers/Pay with Points and 18 points to redeem 1 mile.
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No expiry dates for Membership Rewards points. You can transfer your points to redeem diversified rewards.
- You can transfer your points into 7 air miles partners with no administration fee. Partners include Asia Miles, Avios, ANA, KrisFlyer and more.
- You can also redeem cash voucher, Pay with Points, Travel with Points, hotel points (Hilton Honors、Marriot Bonvoy), lifestyle gifts and more.
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Travel Privileges - take care of your travel needs
- * With effect from January 1, 2026, new changes will be made to the American Express Explorer Credit Card Benefits Terms and Conditions on the Plaza Premium Lounge Access or a complimentary meal set at designated dining outlets Offer Terms and Conditions. Click here for details.
- Complimentary Travel Insurance: Pay for your entire fare for an overseas trip with the Card to enjoy complimentary travel insurance. Coverages include travel accident insurance with coverage up to HK$3.5 million and travel inconvenience protection with coverage up to HK$10,000 per year.
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Explorer Overseas & Travel Spend Offer
- From now until December 31, 2026, earn as low as HK$3=1 Mile for HKD spending; earn as low as HK$1.68= Mile for foreign currency spending. There is no minimum spending requirement. Register now!
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Refer a friend after card approval^ and earn an extra 4,000 miles when their application is successfully approved!
^ Referral rewards are subject to a cap. Effective from 1 September 2026, the annual referral limit of 10 successful referrals per referrer will be revised to a maximum of 5 successful referrals during the period from 1 September to 31 December 2026. Referred applicants must not currently hold, or have cancelled within the 12 months preceding the application date, any principal Credit Card or Charge Card issued by American Express Hong Kong. Subject to the American Express Explorer Credit Card Member Referral Program Terms and Conditions.
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Shopping Protection
Spend with the Card to enjoy the following protection:- Online Fraud Protection Guarantee
Shop online with the Card and you won't be held responsible for any fraudulent charge. - Return Guarantee
Refund if you are unhappy with the purchase made with the Card. - Extended Warranty
When purchase with the Card, the warranty will be extended by up to 1 year once the original manufacturer's warranty expires. The maximum coverage is HK$40,000 per item, and HK$150,000 per Card account per year. - Price Protection
Refund the difference when you see an identical item offered at a cheaper price in Hong Kong within 14 days of your purchase - 45 Days Cover
Almost anything you buy with your Card is insured against theft or accidental damage for up to 45 days after the date of purchase. - Terms and Conditions apply.
- Online Fraud Protection Guarantee
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Entertainment and Shopping Privileges
- 10% savings on 4DX, 3D, 2D and IMAX regular priced movie tickets at Broadway Circuit in Hong Kong.
- First year annual fee waiver upon successful card application
- Spend HK$150,000 annually with the principal and any supplementary card(s) and your HK$2,200 annual card fee will be waived for the following year.
- Travel Spend Offer
- Enroll to earn as low as HK$1.68 = 1 mile on Travel Spend Offer, equivalent to up to 10.75 Membership Rewards points for every HK$1 equivalent spent in foreign currencies transactions
Things to know
- Welcome Offer Terms and conditions apply.
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Cardmembers who are currently holding or applicants who have held or cancelled any approved Basic Credit Card or Charge Card issued by American Express Hong Kong within the past 12 months from the date of this application, are NOT eligible for the Welcome Offer and First Year Annual Fee Waiver. American Express reserves the right to debit the original price of the Welcome Offer and First Year Annual Fee from such Cardmember’s account without prior notice.
- Gift eligibility is based on the application date of the approved application, but not approval date
- First Transaction Bonus is applicable to Basic Cardmembers who submit their Card application online and all required valid documents within 7 working days from the date of application submission.
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^Based on a maximum of two annual-fee-free supplementary credit cards per American Express Explorer Card account. In each calendar year, upon reaching the specified amount of cumulative eligible spending on the Card Member account, each account may enjoy up to a total of 12 complimentary benefits.
- Dining discount
- Cinema ticketing
- Travel insurance
- Hotel bookings offer
Earn rewards when you spend with the Card
- First HK$120,000 spending within first 3 months - HK$1 = 5 Membership Rewards points
- Take American Express Pay with Points Redemption Rate 300 Membership Rewards points = HK$1 as an example. The cashback rate is 1.67%.
- Take 18 Membership Reward points = 1 Asia Mile as an example. The air miles conversion rate is HK$3.6 = 1 mile.
- First HK$120,000 charged and billed during each Program Period - HK$1 = 3 Membership Rewards points
- Take American Express Pay with Points Redemption Rate 300 Membership Rewards points = HK$1 as an example. The cashback rate is 1%.
- Take 18 Membership Reward points = 1 Asia Mile as an example. The air miles conversion rate is HK$6 = 1 mile.
- The spending from HK$120,001 and onwards during each Program Period - HK$1 = 1 Membership Rewards points
- Take American Express Pay with Points Redemption Rate 300 Membership Rewards points = HK$1 as an example. The cashback rate is 0.33%.
- Take 18 Membership Reward points = 1 Asia Mile as an example. The air miles conversion rate is HK$18 = 1 mile.
- All spending requirement above applicable to local retails, dining and online shopping; foreign currency shopping
- Shop online or in a store at selected merchants, you’ll earn double Membership Rewards points. First HK$120,000 spending
during each Program Period - HK$1 = 6 Membership Rewards points- Take American Express Pay with Points Redemption Rate 300 Membership Rewards points = HK$1 as an example. The cashback rate is 2%.
- Take 18 Membership Reward points = 1 Asia Mile as an example. The air miles conversion rate is HK$3 = 1 mile.
- Including but not limited to Circle K Convenience Stores, city’super, DON DON DONKI, Mannings, PARKnSHOP, SOGO supermarket, Watsons, Wellcome, YATA supermarkets, Esso stations (earn up to an extra 30,000 Membership Rewards points in total per calendar month)
- Learn more Merchant list
Shopping Protection
Spend with the Card to enjoy the following protection:
- Online Fraud Protection Guarantee
Shop online with the Card and you won't be held responsible for any fraudulent charge. - Return Guarantee
Refund if you are unhappy with the purchase made with the Card. - Extended Warranty
When purchase with the Card, the warranty will be extended by up to 1 year once the original manufacturer's warranty expires. The maximum coverage is HK$40,000 per item, and HK$150,000 per Card account per year. - Price Protection
Refund the difference when you see an identical item offered at a cheaper price in Hong Kong within 14 days of your purchase - 45 Days Cover
Almost anything you buy with your Card is insured against theft or accidental damage for up to 45 days after the date of purchase. - Terms and Conditions apply.
Dining Offer
Basic and Supplementary Cardmember can enjoy
- Enjoy up to 40% savings at designated restaurants of Maxim’s Chinese Cuisine, Western Restaurants and m.a.x. concepts on the à la carte dinner menus.
- Promotion details please refer to Maxim's Dining | American Express HK
- Enjoy up to 40% savings on the à la carte dinner menus and 25% savings on the à la carte food menus for takeaway orders at designated restaurants of Cafe Deco Group.
- Designated restaurants of Cafe Deco Group includes: ANJU, Dim Sum Bar, Cafe Deco Pizzeria, Duan Chun Zhen, Takeroku Ramen, WATERMARK.
- The list of designated restaurants is subject to change from time to time without prior notice. Please check with the restaurants for details.
- Promotion details please refer to Cafe Deco | American Express HK
- Double Membership Rewards points, dining offers and shopping offers are extended until 31 December 2026, with the following changes:
- agnes b. CAFÉ: 30% savings on the à la carte menu for all day consumption.
- S&S Group: 30% savings offer is extended to Platinum G Cardmembers.
Lifestyle Offer
- Buy-1-Get-1-Free tickets offer will only be applicable to Friday shows, while 20% savings on regular priced movie tickets will be available on other days in Broadway Circuit.
- Enjoy 3% savings on selected regular-priced items at the stores of city'super, city'super EKI, LOG-ON and cook
edDeli in Hong Kong.
Travel Offer
- Enjoy 3X Membership Rewards points on the first HK$120,000 spending (as low as HK$5 = 1 mile)
- Enjoy 8% savings on selected hotel booking all year round at Expedia
Card Benefits Terms and conditions apply. Annual fee is HK$2,200 with the entitlement of 2 Supplementary Platinum Credit Cards (annual fee cannot be waived) Existing Cardmembers or applicants who have held the Card at any time within the past 12 months are not eligible for MoneyHero Exclusive Offer and Welcome Offers.
- Existing American Express® Platinum Credit Card Basic Cardmembers and applicants who held American Express® Platinum Credit Card (Basic card) at any time within the past 12 months from the date of this application are not eligible for MoneyHero Exclusive Offer and Welcome Offers.
American Express® Platinum Credit Card welcome offer will be ONLY eligible to those who paid the annual fee and account stays active
- No rebate cap
- Online shopping rebate
- Purchase protection
- Cinema ticketing
- Enjoy 1.2% cash back on online, local and foreign currencies purchases all year round
- Cash back will be automatically credited to qualifying Account every month
- Interest-free instalment program
- Enjoy greater flexibility when making big purchases at selected merchants with interest-free instalment program
- Year-Round Benefits
- 20% savings on all 3D, 2D and IMAX regular priced movie tickets at Broadway Circuit
- Free upgrade on handcrafted beverage at Pacific Coffee
- American Express Blue Cash Credit Card has no minimum annual income requirement. It is also applicable to university students
- Protection
- Online Fraud Protection Guarantee: Shop online with your Card and you won't be held responsible for any fraudulent charge
- 45 Days Cover: Protect purchases against accident damage or theft for up to 45 days after the date of purchase
- Global Assist: Free legal and medical referrals 24 hours a day, 365 days a year
- First-year annual fee waiver for all applicants
- Annual card fee is HK$980. Spend HK$25,000 annually and your annual card fee will be waived for the following year.
- Existing Blue Cash Credit Card from American Express Cardmembers and applicants who have held Blue Cash Credit Card from American Express (Basic card) at any time within the past 12 months from the date of this application are not eligible for the Welcome Offer and the First Year Annual Fee Waiver.
- Gift eligibility is based on the application date of the approved application, but not approval date. If applicants who apply for both Explorer Credit Card and Blue Cash Credit Card at same date, are preferred to activate cards after both two cards are successfully approved. Please note normally The 2nd card application will be taken around 7 days for approval upon the 1st card application is approved.
- Card features and year-round offers Terms and Conditions apply.
- Travel insurance
- Local spending rebate
- Travel agency offer
- Airport lounge
- Earn rewards when you spend with the Card
- Local Spending - HK$1 = up to 2 Membership Rewards points*
- Take American Express Pay with Points Redemption Rate 300 Membership Rewards points = HK$1 as an example, it’s equivalent to 0.66% savings.
- Take 18 Membership Reward points = 1 Asia Mile as an example.
- Foreign Currency Spending - HK$1 = up to 3 Membership Rewards points*
- Take American Express Pay with Points Redemption Rate 300 Membership Rewards points = HK$1 as an example, it’s equivalent to 1% savings.
- Take 15 Membership Reward points = 1 Asia Mile as an example.
- *Only applicable to the first HK$300,000 equivalent of eligible spending with the Business Gold Card within each program period. For HK$300,001 and onwards, you will earn 1 Membership Rewards point for every HK$1 spent locally and 2 points for every HK$1 spent in foreign currencies.
- Membership Rewards points can be used for redeeming cash rebate, air miles, dining offers, cash vouchers, hotel stays, Card fee waivers, charities donation and other merchandises.
- Local Spending - HK$1 = up to 2 Membership Rewards points*
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Better Control with the Business
- No pre-set spending limit
- Up to 51 credit-free days when paying suppliers
- Actual credit-free period will vary based on the date of charges and the billing cycle cut-off date. While no pre-set spending limit does not mean unlimited spending and charges are approved based on your payment history, credit records, spending pattern with us.
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Business Insurance
- Enjoy up to HK$1,000,000 accident insurance for your business.
- Up to HK$2,000,000 Business Travel Accident Insurance
- Up to HK$4,000 for accommodation and essential clothing due to a delayed or cancelled flight and missed connection
- Up to HK$8,000 luggage delay
- Up to HK$10,000 for lost luggage
- The plan is underwritten by Chubb Insurance Hong Kong Limited, American Express International, Inc. (American Express) does not act as an agent or fiduciary for you, and American Express may act on behalf of the insurance provider, as permitted by law. Exclusions and limitations apply.
- Enjoy up to HK$1,000,000 accident insurance for your business.
- Lifestyle Benefits
- Access to airport lounges (Basic and supplementary Cardmembers are eligible to a total of two visits per year)
- Eligible American Express® Gold Business Card Cardmembers can enjoy Complimentary access to Plaza Premium Lounge (2 per calendar year)
- Access to airport lounges (Basic and supplementary Cardmembers are eligible to a total of two visits per year)
- First-year Annual Fee Waiver of HK$980 including 3 Complimentary Supplementary Cards
- From now till December 31, 2025, enjoy up to 10% savings on the original price of SHOPLINE’s unified commerce solution. Terms & Conditions apply.
- From now till December 31, 2025, new customers of iStock enjoy 20% savings on original price upon purchases of new subscriptions. Terms & Conditions apply.
- From now till December 31, 2025, enjoy 20% savings on the original price of the first 3 months of your purchase of an IWG Membership or Virtual office plan for any IWG brands and centers around the world (for new customers signing up for a 12-month contract or longer). Terms & Conditions apply.
- Eligibility Requirements
Applicants need to be- over 18 years of age;
- Gross personal income is over HK$200,000 p.a.;
- HK or Macau Residents or Citizens; and
- the owner, partner, shareholder, CEO, managing director or executive of the company.
- Existing Business Card or Gold Business Cardmember and applicants who held The Business Card or Gold Business Card at any time within the past 12 months from the date of this application are not eligible for these Welcome Offers.
Premium Perks for Everyday Living
American Express cards stand out in Hong Kong's competitive credit card market by offering unparalleled benefits that elevate daily experiences. From unlimited airport lounge access to exclusive dining privileges at top restaurants, AMEX credit cards transform routine transactions into rewarding moments. Cardholders enjoy enhanced purchase protection, extended warranty coverage, and complimentary travel insurance—benefits that provide peace of mind alongside financial flexibility. With accelerated points earning on travel, dining, and everyday purchases, your American Express card becomes a powerful tool for accumulating rewards faster while enjoying premium lifestyle privileges unavailable with standard credit cards.
About American Express
American Express, founded in 1850 in New York, is a globally recognised financial services corporation specialising in payment cards, travel services and business solutions. Operating in Hong Kong for decades, American Express has become synonymous with premium credit card services, catering to discerning consumers who value exceptional customer service, comprehensive rewards programmes, and exclusive membership privileges.
In Hong Kong, American Express issues both charge cards that require full payment monthly and credit cards that allow revolving credit, each designed to meet different financial needs. The company's Membership Rewards programme enables cardholders to earn points on every purchase, which can be converted into air miles with major airlines, hotel points, cashback, or redeemed for premium merchandise and experiences—all without point expiry or conversion fees for most card types.
Best American Express Credit Cards in Hong Kong
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Card Name |
Description |
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Premium charge card offering unlimited Centurion Lounge access worldwide, annual dining credits, hotel elite status, comprehensive travel insurance coverage, and earn as low as HK$2 per mile on foreign currency and travel spending. Includes complimentary supplementary cards. |
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Travel-focused credit card with complimentary airport lounge visits annually, enhanced earning of up to 10.75X points on foreign currency and travel merchant spending (as low as HK$1.68 per mile), no point expiry, and zero conversion fees when transferring to airline partners. Annual fee waiver available with qualifying spend. |
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Mid-tier credit card offering accelerated points on annual spending, enhanced earning at designated supermarkets and gas stations, dining discounts at premium restaurants, and comprehensive purchase protection. Includes complimentary supplementary cards. |
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Entry-level card perfect for newcomers, providing flat 1.2% cashback on all spending (local, online, and overseas), automatic monthly credit of cashback rewards, 45-day purchase protection, and no minimum income requirement. First-year annual fee waived. |
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Business card earning enhanced points on foreign currency spending and local business expenses, complimentary business insurance, free airport lounge visits annually, and extended payment terms. First-year annual fee waived with complimentary supplementary cards. |
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American Express I.T Cashback Card |
Co-branded card with I.T retail group offering enhanced cashback at I.T stores, basic cashback on general spending, and exclusive fashion retail privileges. Ideal for fashion enthusiasts. |
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American Express Cathay Pacific Elite Corporate Card |
Corporate card designed for business travellers, earning Cathay Pacific Asia Miles on company spending, complimentary Priority Pass membership, travel insurance coverage, and streamlined expense management for corporate accounts. |
How Does the AE Reward Programme Work?
The American Express Membership Rewards programme is one of Hong Kong's most flexible and valuable credit card rewards systems. Unlike restrictive airline-specific programmes, Membership Rewards points offer ultimate flexibility in how you redeem your earnings.
Membership Privileges
How Does the AE Reward Programme Work?
The American Express Membership Rewards programme is one of Hong Kong's most flexible and valuable credit card rewards systems. Unlike restrictive airline-specific programmes, Membership Rewards points offer ultimate flexibility in how you redeem your earnings.
Membership Privileges
American Express offers several Membership Rewards programme tiers to suit different cardholders:
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Membership Rewards Basic Program: Enjoy free enrollment, where every HK$1 spent earns 1 point. Your points never expire as long as your account remains active. Points accumulate across all your American Express cards linked to your account, allowing you to build substantial balances faster. Redeem points for dining offers, cash vouchers, hotel stays, card fee waivers, charitable donations, and merchandise.
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Membership Rewards Turbo Program: Available for select card types, including The Platinum Card®, Gold Cards, and Credit Cards. Earn 2 points for every HK$1 spent on the first HK$160,000 during each 12-month programme period. From HK$160,001 onwards, every HK$1 spent earns 1 point. Transfer points to airline frequent flyer programmes and hotel loyalty programmes. The annual programme fee is HK$240 (waived for The Platinum Card®).
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American Express Platinum Credit Card Program: Exclusive to Platinum Credit Card holders. Earn 3 points for every HK$1 spent on the first HK$120,000 during each calendar year (January 1 to December 31). From HK$120,001 onwards, every HK$1 spent earns 1 point. Transfer points to frequent traveler programmes and redeem regular rewards.
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American Express Explorer® Credit Card Program: Exclusive programme for Explorer® cardholders with specialized earning rates and benefits tailored for travel enthusiasts.
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American Express Essential® Credit Card Programme: Earn 2.5 points for every HK$1 spent locally, and 3 points for every HK$1 on foreign currency spending.
Miles Earning Structure
American Express offers industry-leading conversion flexibility for airline miles transfers:
Airline Partners: Transfer points to 7 participating airline frequent flyer programmes. Partners include:
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Cathay (Asia Miles): 18,000 points = 1,000 Asia Miles, estimated transfer time 48 hours
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British Airways Executive Club (Avios) — 18,000 points = 1,000 Avios, estimated transfer time up to 10 days
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Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer: 18,000 points = 1,000 KrisFlyer miles, estimated transfer time up to 15 days
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Malaysia Airlines Enrich: 18,000 points = 1,000 Enrich miles, estimated transfer time up to 10 days
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Virgin Atlantic Flying Club: 18,000 points = 1,000 Virgin Points, estimated transfer time 48 hours
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Qantas Frequent Flyer: 18,000 points = 1,000 Qantas Points, estimated transfer time 48 hours (HK$300 administration fee applies)
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EVA Air Infinity MileageLands — 18,000 points = 1,000 Miles, estimated transfer time up to 10 days
Conversion Requirements: Minimum points transfer is 18,000 points per transaction, with additional transfers in multiples of 9,000 points. Allow 3-5 days for processing. A maximum of 9,999,000 points can be transferred per transaction.
Conversion Fees: An administration fee of HK$400 applies for each air mile conversion. Fee waived for:
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Centurion® Card
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American Express Explorer® Credit Card
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American Express® Gold Corporate Card
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American Express® Corporate Card
Note: Qantas transfers have a reduced administration fee of HK$300 (not applicable to Centurion members and Corporate Cardmembers).
Hotel Partners: Transfer points to hotel loyalty programmes with no conversion fees:
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Marriott Bonvoy
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Hilton Honors
Points converted to hotel programmes typically offer different conversion ratios and may include bonus points during promotional periods. Ideal for luxury hotel redemptions and accessing hotel elite status benefits.
Exclusive Discounts & Benefits
Beyond points, AMEX cardholders in Hong Kong access exclusive merchant partnerships providing year-round discounts. Enjoy up to 40% off at participating restaurants, including prestigious groups like Maxim's, CafeDeco Group, and m.a.x. concepts. Cinema enthusiasts receive buy-one-get-one-free movie tickets at Broadway Cinemas and AMC Pacific Place Cinema every Friday, plus discounts on other days. Premium cardholders unlock additional privileges, including up to HK$1,100 annual statement credit for prepaid hotel and car rental bookings via Amex Travel Online, plus HK$2,000 Global Dining Credit (HK$1,000 local, HK$1,000 overseas).
Which AE Card Tier Suits You: Entry, Premium, or Luxury?
Choosing the right American Express card depends on your spending patterns, travel frequency, and desired benefits. Here's how three popular AE cards compare across different lifestyle tiers:
AE Cathay Pacific Card (Entry Tier)
The American Express Cathay Pacific Card serves as an accessible entry point for Asia Miles collectors. This credit card offers HK$8 = 1 Asia Mile on local purchases and HK$8 = 1.5 Asia Miles on foreign currency spending (with no cap), making it ideal for frequent travellers within the Asia-Pacific region. Cardholders earn 2 Asia Miles for every HK$8 spent on Cathay Pacific online flight bookings and enjoy complimentary Green Tier membership of The Marco Polo Club, unlimited Plaza Premium Lounge access year-round, and up to 3-day priority redemption for selected discount flight awards bookings. The annual fee of HK$1,800 can be waived by spending HK$100,000 annually.
Minimum Requirements: Hong Kong or Macau resident aged 18+, Asia Miles membership account, and meeting the minimum annual income requirement
Best suited for: Budget-conscious travellers focusing primarily on Asia Miles redemptions who value airport lounge access.
AE Cathay Pacific Elite Card (Premium Tier)
The American Express Cathay Pacific Elite Credit Card elevates the Cathay partnership with enhanced earning rates and premium travel benefits. This card delivers HK$6 = 1 Asia Mile on local purchases and HK$6 = 1.5 Asia Miles on foreign currency spending (with no cap)—a significantly higher rate than the standard Cathay card. Cardholders earn 2 Asia Miles for every HK$6 spent on Cathay Pacific online flight bookings, enjoy complimentary Priority Pass membership with 4 free lounge visits plus unlimited Plaza Premium Lounge access, and benefit from up to 3-day priority redemption for selected discount flight awards. The card includes a complimentary Green Tier membership of The Marco Polo Club and comprehensive travel insurance. The annual fee of HK$1,800 can be waived by spending HK$100,000 annually.
Minimum Requirements: Annual income of HK$300,000, Hong Kong or Macau resident aged 18+, Asia Miles membership account
Best suited for: Frequent Asia-Pacific travellers earning HK$300,000+ annually who maximise Asia Miles earning and value-enhanced airport lounge access networks.
AE Platinum Card® (Luxury Tier)
The Platinum Card® represents American Express' flagship offering in Hong Kong, delivering unmatched luxury and convenience. With unlimited worldwide lounge access (including exclusive Centurion Lounge at Hong Kong International Airport where cardholders can bring up to two guests), annual dining credits totaling HK$2,000 at selected restaurants worldwide (through Local Dining Credit and Abroad Dining Credit offers valid until December 31, 2026), automatic Marriott Bonvoy Gold Elite status enrollment, and comprehensive insurance coverage, this card transforms travel into seamless luxury. Benefits include 24/7 concierge service, Fine Hotels + Resorts privileges (room upgrades, late checkout, complimentary breakfast), and earning rates as low as HK$2 per mile for spending in foreign currencies, airlines, and designated travel & everyday spend merchants. Annual fee is HK$9,500.
Minimum Requirements: An annual income of approximately HK$1,000,000 is expected to be needed for approval. Applicants must be Hong Kong or Macau residents aged 18+ with a strong credit score and solid financial standing.
Best suited for: High-net-worth individuals who frequently fly business/first class and stay at luxury hotels, where the card's premium benefits substantially exceed the annual fee through actual usage.
How to Apply for an AMEX Credit Card in Hong Kong
Applying for an American Express credit card is straightforward and can be completed entirely online, typically receiving approval decisions within minutes for most applicants.
Who Qualifies? Eligibility Requirements
Basic eligibility for American Express cards requires:
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Hong Kong or Macau permanent resident or employment visa holder
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Minimum age 18 years
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Minimum annual income varies by card. Blue Cash® has lower requirements; Explorer® and Platinum Credit Card require moderate income; The Platinum Card® is typically approved for high earners; Business cards generally require established income plus business documentation
What Documents You'll Need
Prepare the following for your AMEX credit card application:
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Hong Kong Identity Card (both sides)
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Proof of income
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Proof of address (utility bill, bank statement, or government correspondence dated within the last 3 months)
Application Steps
Follow these steps to apply for your American Express card:
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Step 1: Visit the American Express Hong Kong website or apply through authorised partners like MoneyHero for exclusive welcome offers
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Step 2: Select your desired card and click "Apply Now"—online applications typically take 5-10 minutes
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Step 3: Complete the application form with personal details, employment information, and financial data
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Step 4: Upload required documents or submit them via the American Express mobile app
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Step 5: Submit application and receive instant preliminary decision for most applicants—physical card arrives within 7-10 business days upon approval
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Step 6: Activate your card immediately upon receipt through the AMEX app, phone hotline, or online portal to begin earning rewards
How to Set Up AMEX Purchase Installment Plans
American Express offers flexible payment solutions in Hong Kong, allowing cardholders to convert eligible purchases into manageable installment plans. Whether through the Amex HK App or in-store programs, AMEX provides multiple options to spread out larger expenses.
To set up American Express purchase installment plans in Hong Kong, cardholders can use the Amex HK App to convert eligible transactions into installment loans (Access It) or utilise interest-free merchant installment programmes at participating retailers. The process typically involves selecting the purchase, choosing the repayment term, and confirming the arrangement.
There are several key ways to set up AMEX installments:
AMEX Access It (Loan on Card):
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Process: Log in to the Amex HK App or Online Services, select an eligible transaction, and choose to convert it into an installment plan
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Requirements: Purchases must meet minimum and maximum amount thresholds set by American Express
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Mechanism: The installment amount reduces your available credit limit, which restores progressively as you make payments
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Important Note: Terms and interest rates apply—review carefully before converting purchases
Merchant Interest-Free Installments:
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Process: At participating merchants, request an installment plan at the point of sale for qualifying purchases
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Approval: Complete the merchant's installment application at the time of purchase
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Benefit: Many participating merchants offer zero-interest plans, making this an attractive option for larger purchases
Digital Wallet Installments:
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Process: When using digital payment methods like Apple Pay, select a supported AMEX card and choose an available installment option if offered
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Availability: Subject to card eligibility and merchant participation
How to Redeem Your AMEX Miles?
American Express Membership Rewards points offer exceptional redemption flexibility. Here are the primary methods to maximise your points' value:
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Airline Miles Transfer: Transfer Membership Rewards points to airline frequent flyer programmes, including Cathay (Asia Miles), Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer, British Airways Executive Club, Qantas Frequent Flyer, and others. Initiate transfers through the American Express website or by calling the Membership Rewards hotline. Processing times vary by partner, typically ranging from a few days to up to two weeks. Points transfer in set increments with minimum requirements that differ by partner.
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Pay-with-Points (Statement Credits): Use points to offset eligible transactions directly through the Amex HK App or Online Account Summary. This convenient option reduces your statement balance, though the redemption value is typically lower compared to airline transfers.
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Shop with Points: Redeem points directly at checkout with participating merchants or through specialised reward stores for instant purchases at partner retailers and online platforms.
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Gift Cards & Lifestyle Vouchers: Access dining, retail, and lifestyle vouchers through the American Express Rewards portal, including popular restaurants, department stores, hotels, and entertainment venues throughout Hong Kong.
Frequently Asked Questions
American Express is widely accepted at major hotels, department stores, premium restaurants, and established merchants throughout Hong Kong. However, acceptance is lower compared to Visa and Mastercard, particularly at smaller local shops and street vendors. AMEX maintains a strong presence at premium establishments where cardholders typically spend. For everyday purchases at smaller merchants, consider carrying a backup Visa or Mastercard alongside your American Express card.
American Express operates as both a credit card issuer and a payment network, unlike Visa and Mastercard, which solely provide payment networks for banks to issue cards. Key differences:
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Network: AMEX is less widely accepted globally, but offers superior customer service and rewards
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Rewards: American Express typically provides richer rewards programmes, premium travel benefits, and luxury perks
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Fees: AMEX charges merchants higher processing fees, resulting in some merchants declining AMEX
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Customer Service: American Express consistently ranks highest for customer service, fraud protection, and dispute resolution
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Target Market: AMEX focuses on affluent consumers valuing premium experiences; Visa/Mastercard targets broader mass-market acceptance
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Activate your new AMEX credit card immediately upon receipt through three convenient methods:
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Download the Amex HK App and activate within 2 minutes
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Visit americanexpress.com.hk and log in to Online Services to activate your card, or
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Call the American Express customer service hotline printed on the sticker attached to your new card.
Activation is required before making your first purchase. We recommend registering for online services to manage your account, view statements, pay bills, and track Membership Rewards points conveniently.
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Several American Express credit cards offer annual fee waivers with qualifying spend:
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Explorer® Credit Card: Annual fee waived with HK$150,000 annual spending
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Blue Cash® Credit Card: Annual fee waived with HK$25,000 annual spending; first-year fee waiver for new cardholders
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Cathay Pacific Cards (Standard & Elite): HK$1,800 annual fee waived with HK$100,000 annual spending
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The Platinum Card®: HK$9,500 annual fee is typically non-waivable, though retention offers may be available upon renewal when contacting customer service
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American Express approval difficulty varies significantly by card tier. Entry-level cards like Blue Cash® are accessible to applicants with no minimum income requirement and limited credit history. Mid-tier cards such as Explorer® and Cathay Pacific Elite require HK$300,000 annual income and moderate credit history. Premium cards like The Platinum Card® target high-net-worth individuals with approximately HK$1,000,000 annual income requirements. American Express reviews both income and credit bureau reports, but often approves applicants with solid financial standing who meet income thresholds, even with limited credit history. Business cards require additional business documentation and established business income.