American Express credit card fees and annual charges Philippines
When evaluating a credit card, the benefits often catch attention first—rewards, lounges, cashback, or concierge services.
Yet the fees and charges are equally important, as they directly affect the real cost of ownership.
In the Philippines, American Express cards are issued exclusively by BDO Unibank, and each product carries its own schedule of annual fees, monthly charges, and service-related costs.
Understanding these fees provides clarity. It ensures that cardholders can calculate total value, weigh costs against benefits, and make informed financial decisions.
💳 Annual Fees and Monthly Charges
Different American Express cards come with different structures. Some use annual fees, while others rely on monthly billing for membership.
- Platinum Credit Card: ₱5,000 annual fee for the basic card. Supplementary cards: first five free, then ₱2,500 each.
- Explorer Credit Card: ₱4,000 annual fee for the basic card; ₱2,000 for supplementary.
- Cashback Credit Card: ₱250 monthly fee (basic); ₱125 per supplementary.
- Blue from American Express®: ₱150 monthly fee (basic); ₱75 per supplementary.
- BDO AmEx Virtual Card: No membership fee.
- American Express Gold Card (USD): US$150 annual fee (basic); US$75 for supplementary.
This variety ensures accessibility. Entry-level cards like Blue or Cashback provide affordable monthly rates, while premium cards like Platinum carry higher annual costs aligned with exclusive privileges.
📑 Additional Fees and Service Charges
Beyond annual or monthly fees, cardholders must also consider service charges and penalties.
Common charges across AmEx cards include:
- Cash advance fee: 5% of the transaction or ₱500 (US$10), whichever is higher.
- Foreign currency conversion fee: 2.5%, with 1% retained by AmEx.
- Installment processing fees: ₱200 for cash availment; ₱250 for balance convert.
- Late payment fee: around 7% of the overdue amount.
- Returned check fee: ₱1,250 (or US$35).
- Reissuance of statement of account (SOA): ₱30 (or US$1).
- Refund processing fee: 1% of the transaction or ₱100 (US$2.50), whichever is higher.
- Sales slip retrieval: ₱300 locally, ₱500 internationally.
- Lost card replacement: ₱400.
These charges highlight the importance of timely payments and responsible usage. A late fee, for example, can significantly increase the cost of maintaining the card.
🏆 Premium Card Fees
The Platinum Credit Card reflects its positioning through its fee structure.
- Annual fee: ₱5,000 for the primary card.
- Supplementary: up to five cards free for life; additional cards ₱2,500 each.
- Additional charges: late fees (7%), cash advance fees (5% or ₱500), and replacement fees.
While the annual fee is higher, benefits like lounge access, concierge services, and premium insurance often outweigh the cost for frequent travelers and professionals.
✈️ Travel-Oriented Cards
The Explorer Credit Card is designed for those who travel often.
- Annual fee: ₱4,000 (basic); ₱2,000 (supplementary).
- Comprehensive travel insurance included.
- Foreign transaction fees apply at 2.5%.
The value comes not just from rewards but also from security during travel. The balance between cost and coverage makes it attractive for mid-level professionals who prioritize travel perks.
💸 Cashback and Everyday Cards
For practical users, Cashback and Blue from American Express® provide accessible fees.
- Cashback: ₱250 monthly (basic); ₱125 (supplementary). Rewards: 1% cashback local, 2% international.
- Blue: ₱150 monthly (basic); ₱75 (supplementary). Rewards: 1 point per ₱45 spent.
These products appeal to cardholders seeking steady rewards without high upfront costs. Monthly billing also makes the expense easier to track alongside regular expenses.
🌐 Dollar-Billing Option
The American Express Gold Card (USD) introduces billing in U.S. dollars.
- Annual fee: US$150 (basic); US$75 (supplementary).
- Benefits: non-expiring points, global acceptance, travel insurance, and lifestyle discounts.
This card suits cardholders who transact frequently in dollars, such as overseas travelers or professionals dealing in international markets.
📊 Quick Fee Overview
| Card | Annual/Monthly Fee | Key Service Charges |
|---|---|---|
| Platinum Credit Card | ₱5,000 annual; ₱2,500 supplementary | Cash advance 5%/₱500; late fee 7%; replacement ₱400 |
| Explorer Credit Card | ₱4,000 annual; ₱2,000 supplementary | Standard charges apply |
| Gold Credit Card (PHP) | ₱3,000 annual; ₱1,500 supplementary | Waived if spend ₱300,000 annually |
| Cashback Credit Card | ₱250 monthly; ₱125 supplementary | Standard service fees |
| Blue from American Express | ₱150 monthly; ₱75 supplementary | Standard service fees |
| BDO AmEx Virtual Card | Free | — |
| Gold Card (USD) | US$150 annual; US$75 supplementary | Standard fees in USD |
The table demonstrates how annual fees scale with benefits—from free virtual cards to premium Platinum services.
🎯 Final Insights
American Express credit cards in the Philippines come with diverse fee structures. Some charge annually, others monthly, and each carries service fees that must be considered.
Three truths define the landscape:
- Premium costs match premium benefits. Platinum and Gold cards carry higher fees but deliver elevated perks.
- Everyday options remain accessible. Blue and Cashback cards balance affordability with rewards.
- Service charges matter. From late fees to foreign conversion costs, they affect total ownership.
By understanding these details, cardholders can maximize rewards while minimizing unnecessary expenses.
❓ FAQ – American Express Credit Card Fees and Annual Charges Philippines
Which AmEx card has the highest annual fee?
The Platinum Credit Card, at ₱5,000 for the basic card.
Are there free AmEx cards in the Philippines?
Yes, the BDO American Express Virtual Card has no membership fee.
Do all cards charge annually?
No, some like Cashback and Blue charge monthly instead of annually.
Is there an automatic waiver of annual fees?
Yes, the Gold Card offers waiver if annual spending reaches ₱300,000.
What other charges should cardholders expect?
Cash advance fees, foreign currency conversion, late fees, and replacement charges.