Best American Express Cards in Singapore [2025]
updated: Mar 12, 2025
American Express (Amex) credit cards in Singapore are highly regarded for their prestigious benefits and premium service. They offer various tiers of rewards that cater to luxury seekers and frequent travellers, including comprehensive travel insurance, extensive airport lounge access, and exclusive rewards programmes.
Whether you're looking for straightforward cashback or options with annual fee waivers, Amex provides a variety of cards to enhance your spending efficiency and comfort. Also known for their exceptional customer support and strong security features, American Express cards stand out as a top choice for those valuing reliability and class in their financial tools.
Best American Express credit cards
Our recommendation for: Everyday spending
American Express Platinum Credit Card
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| Installment Processing Fee | No processing Fee |
|---|---|
| Cashback Local | 0.6% |
| Airmiles Overseas | N/A |
| Annual Fee | S$ 327.00 |
| REWARDS | |
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eligible_rewards (1)
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SingSaver's Take: Full review
Our recommendation for: Frequent small business travellers
American Express Singapore Airlines Business Credit Card
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| Airmiles Overseas | 1.8 miles per dollar |
|---|---|
| Airmiles Local | N/A |
| Annual Fee | S$ 304.59 |
| Rewards Points Baseline | N/A |
| REWARDS | |
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SingSaver's Take: Full review
Our recommendation for: Unlimited cashback
American Express True Cashback Card
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| Cashback Local | 1.5% |
|---|---|
| Annual Fee | S$ 174.40 |
| Cashback Overseas | 1.5% |
| Cashback Base Rate | 1.5% |
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SingSaver's Take: Full review
Our recommendation for: Globetrotting KrisFlyer loyalist
American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card
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| Airmiles Overseas | 1.2 miles per dollar |
|---|---|
| Airmiles Local | 1.2 miles per dollar |
| Annual Fee | S$ 397.85 |
| REWARDS | |
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SingSaver's Take: Full review
Our recommendation for: Frequent travellers who value the flexibility of earning miles
American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Credit Card
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| REWARDS | |
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SingSaver's Take: Full review
The best American Express cards in Singapore
Be sure to confirm details on the issuer’s website before applying.
Consumer cards
American Express True Cashback Card
Our pick for: The best cashback card
The American Express True Cashback Card is designed for those who value straightforward rewards. Offering a robust 3% cashback on up to S$5,000 in purchases within the first six months for new members, and 1.5% on all subsequent purchases with no cap, it ensures consistent savings on your spending. This card simplifies the rewards process, crediting your cashback directly into your statement within the same month, making it both practical and rewarding for everyday use. Read our review.
Business cards
American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card
Our pick for: The best airline credit card
The American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Ascend Credit Card caters to frequent flyers who appreciate a hint of luxury. Earn two KrisFlyer miles per S$1 spent on Singapore Airlines, Scoot, and KrisShop, along with similar rewards for Grab expenses up to S$200 monthly. All other eligible purchases net you 1.2 KrisFlyer miles per S$1, making every expense an opportunity to fly higher. Ideal for those chasing miles with a touch of elegance, this card enhances every journey with additional miles and exclusive airline perks. Read our review.
Other American Express cards
American Express collaborates with various other partners to offer co-branded credit cards tailored to specific interests and needs. Explore the unique benefits of these cards through the official sources below:
The American Express® Gold Card
The American Express® Personal Card
The American Express® Singapore Airlines Solitaire PPS Credit Card
The American Express® Singapore Airlines PPS Club Credit Card
The American Express® Platinum Reserve Credit Card
What is American Express?
American Express, also known as AMEX, is a prominent global financial services corporation known for its extensive array of credit card offerings in Singapore and beyond.
Unlike traditional banks, American Express does not function as a banking institution but stands out as a dual-function entity. It serves as both a card issuer, providing a variety of credit solutions directly to consumers, and a payment processing network, facilitating seamless transactions between merchants and cardholders.
This dual capability allows American Express to offer unique services and maintain a significant presence in the financial industry worldwide.
Which places accept American Express?
American Express is accepted by a wide array of merchants globally, making it convenient for cardholders to use their cards almost anywhere.
In Singapore, you can use your American Express card at major department stores, luxury hotels, chain restaurants, and supermarkets. For instance, recognised establishments such as Din Tai Fung, Genki Sushi, and retail chains like Bata and Giordano at West Mall welcome it readily.
However, due to comparatively higher transaction fees, some smaller businesses might hesitate to accept American Express. It's always a good practice to check if smaller shops or local merchants accept AMEX before making a purchase.
What credit score do you need for an American Express card?
To qualify for an American Express card, typically a good to excellent credit score is required. Generally, a credit score of around 690 and above might be considered adequate, but the higher your score, particularly if it's above 800, the better your chances are of being approved for cards with more substantial benefits and lower interest rates.
What are the interest rates on American Express cards?
The interest rate on your American Express credit card will vary depending on the specific card tier. You can find the applicable interest rate on your cardmember agreement or by contacting American Express customer service.
What credit limit can I expect with an American Express card?
When you are approved for an American Express card, the credit limit assigned will typically be up to four times your monthly income, adhering to the Monetary Authority of Singapore regulations. This limit is distributed across all American Express cards you might hold, except those issued by local bank partners.
For those earning above S$120,000 annually, American Express offers charge cards with no pre-set spending limits, although purchases are approved based on your spending patterns and financial history. If planning a significant purchase, it's advisable to notify American Express beforehand to ensure the transaction processes smoothly.
Cardholders can also request a credit limit review or adjustment after six months of account opening through a streamlined online process for Singaporeans and PRs using Singpass, or manually for foreigners. Temporary limit increases are also possible under certain conditions, providing flexibility based on your spending needs.
What benefits come with American Express cards?
Benefits of American Express cards include:
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Versatile rewards: American Express Credit Cards offer a diverse range of rewards on your purchases, from cashback and air miles to rewards points. These can be used for everything from retail therapy and travel luxuries to unique experiences.
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Earn cashback: With the American Express® True Cashback Card, enjoy a straightforward cashback system where each eligible purchase earns you a percentage back, directly credited to your account within the same month’s statement.
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Enhanced security: Shop with confidence thanks to robust security features such as real-time account monitoring, online safety protections, and instant fraud alerts, ensuring your transactions are always secure.
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Purchase protection: Benefit from 90-day Purchase Protection, which covers your new purchases against theft or accidental damage, providing additional peace of mind.
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Air mile accumulation: For those bitten by the travel bug, American Express air mile cards let you earn KrisFlyer miles on purchases, redeemable for flights, hotel stays, and car rentals. Enjoy perks like complimentary lounge access and comprehensive travel insurance for a smoother journey.
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Global usability: Use your American Express Card worldwide with the assurance that your spend will be converted to your home currency under transparent and competitive exchange rates set daily by American Express.
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Exclusive dining benefits: Holders of American Express Platinum Series cards can savour up to 50% off at select gourmet restaurants, gain access to exclusive culinary events, and enjoy complimentary drinks at stylish bars across Singapore.
Can points from American Express cards be combined?
American Express facilitates the pooling of Membership Rewards points across your different AMEX cards, which optimises and enhances the value you receive from your spending. While these points accumulate in one central account, enhancing flexibility and redemption potential, it’s important to note that points cannot be transferred to another person or combined across different accounts.
Which American Express card has the simplest approval process?
When you apply for an American Express card, gaining approval for it typically requires good to excellent credit, generally defined as a credit score of 690 or higher. To apply for an American Express card, you can either visit their website, utilise their mobile app, or explore exclusive sign-up rewards by applying through SingSaver. Ensure the personal and financial information you provide is accurate and current for a smooth application process.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an annual fee associated with every American Express credit card?
American Express credit card annual fees in Singapore can range from under S$160 to over S$1,700, depending on the card tier and the benefits it offers.
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Basic cards like the Green Card have lower annual fees, typically around S$160. Some cards might even waive the first year's fee as a welcome offer.
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Mid-range cards like the Gold Card and Blue Cash Everyday® Card usually have annual fees in the S$200 - S$300 range.
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Premium cards like the Platinum Card have significantly higher annual fees, around S$1,700, reflecting their extensive travel and lifestyle benefits.
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The ultra-exclusive Centurion Card has an invitation-only policy, and its annual fee is not publicly disclosed.
The annual fee is usually charged on the first statement after card approval. Some cards may offer a first-year fee waiver or provide opportunities to earn rewards points or statement credits that can offset the cost of the annual fee.
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What are the typical benefits and rewards associated with American Express cards?
American Express offers a variety of rewards programs across its different card tiers, allowing cardholders to earn valuable benefits and perks based on their spending habits. Here are some of the key AMEX rewards you can enjoy:
Membership reward points:
Many American Express cards in Singapore participate in the Membership Rewards® program. This program allows you to earn points on eligible purchases, which can then be redeemed for a wide range of rewards, including:
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Travel: Redeem your points for flights, hotel stays, car rentals, and travel experiences through the Membership Rewards® portal.
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Shopping: Use your points to offset purchases at participating retailers or redeem them for gift cards and merchandise.
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Dining: Enjoy exclusive dining experiences and discounts at participating restaurants.
Krisflyer miles:
American Express offers a range of KrisFlyer co-brand credit cards in partnership with Singapore Airlines. These cards allow you to earn KrisFlyer miles on your everyday spending, which can be redeemed for flights, upgrades, and other travel benefits with Singapore Airlines and its partner airlines.
Cashback:
Some American Express cards, like the True Cashback Card, offer cashback rewards on your purchases. This means you get a percentage of your spending back as a credit on your statement, effectively saving you money on your everyday expenses.
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Are there specific challenges associated with getting approved for an American Express card?
While American Express cards often require a good credit history for approval, other factors like income and existing financial relationships also play a role in the decision-making process. In addition, unlike other card networks like Visa or Mastercard, American Express directly issues and manages its own branded cards. This means that even when some banks in Singapore offer co-branded versions, the cards will still utilise the American Express network for payment processing.
What factors influence a merchant's decision to accept or decline American Express cards?
While American Express is widely accepted, some smaller businesses may not accept it due to the card's higher transaction fees.
Is it possible to obtain an American Express credit card with a less-than-perfect credit history?
While American Express offers a variety of credit cards, they generally cater to individuals with established credit histories. If you're looking to build credit, you might consider exploring options from other issuers that offer secured cards or credit-builder programmes.