American Express Platinum – How to apply

By Marcos • 01/06/2025

This credit card is perfect for those who want many benefits and enjoy all related advantages.

The American Express Platinum is one of the most prestigious credit cards on the market, aimed at sophisticated consumers looking for luxurious travel and premium benefits. We offer benefits such as airport lounge access, credits for travel-related purchases and 24-hour concierge service.

Focused on luxury travel and experiences, this card is perfect for those who value comfort and exclusivity. Members earn Membership Rewards points with every purchase and can redeem them for flights, hotel stays, purchases and much more.

Although the annual fee is high, it offers valuable benefits for those who actively take advantage of the following benefits: Flight class upgrades, access to exclusive events and comprehensive travel insurance. A card that combines style and functionality to maximize your high-end experience.

How does the American Express Platinum credit card work? 

The American Express Platinum card works primarily as a credit card with an emphasis on travel-related and premium benefits.

With every purchase, cardholders earn points in the Membership Rewards Program. These points can be redeemed in a variety of ways, including flights, hotel stays and products and services.

This card gives access to the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes more than 1,400 VIP lounges around the world, providing greater comfort during travel.

In addition, cardholders receive an annual credit that can be used for certain expenses, such as baggage fees, airport meals and purchases from travel partners.

Another highlight is our 24-hour concierge service, which can help with restaurant reservations, event planning, travel planning and much more. In addition, cardholders have various insurance policies included, such as trip cancellation cover, insurance in the event of a medical emergency abroad or purchase protection.

Main benefits of American Express Platinum

• Access to VIP lounges: The card provides access to an extensive network of VIP lounges, including Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass lounges, and partner airline lounges. 

This benefit ensures a more comfortable and premium experience while traveling, offering amenities such as complimentary snacks, beverages, and workspaces to enhance the journey.

• Travel credits and discounts: Cardholders enjoy generous annual credits applicable to a variety of travel-related expenses, including airline tickets, transport apps, and hotel bookings.

These credits effectively reduce the overall cost of travel, making it a cost-efficient option for frequent travelers. The card also offers exclusive travel discounts, further enhancing the value for money.

• Membership Rewards program: The HSBC Elite card’s rewards program allows cardholders to accumulate points with every purchase. These points are highly flexible and can be redeemed for travel bookings, shopping, or unique experiences. 

Additionally, accumulated points can be transferred to an array of travel partners, including airline and hotel loyalty programs, broadening redemption opportunities.

• Luxury travel perks: Beyond rewards, the card offers exclusive travel benefits such as automatic upgrades at luxury hotels, complimentary breakfast, and late check-out options. 

Discounts on car rentals and additional privileges with select hotel and airline loyalty programs add further convenience and value to the cardholder’s travel experience.

Cons of American Express Platinum

• High annual fee: The annual fee for the American Express Platinum Card is one of the highest on the market, which can be an obstacle for consumers who don’t use the premium benefits frequently.
• Focus on luxury travel: Although the card offers several advantages, it is best suited to those who travel frequently and prefer premium experiences. For casual users, other options may be more advantageous.
• Limited acceptance: Despite being widely accepted in many countries, American Express may not be as widely accepted as other credit cards, especially in small establishments.

In addition, the accumulation of points is less attractive for those who spend mostly outside the categories related to travel and luxury. It is important to consider whether your lifestyle is compatible with the costs and advantages of the card.

APR and fees

The American Express Platinum card does not usually have a standard APR because it works as a “charge card”, where the balance must be paid in full every month. However, qualifying finance purchases can have competitive APRs, depending on the owner’s credit profile.

Annual fees are high, usually above US$695 (amounts may vary according to the market). Still, the credits and benefits offered can offset these costs for frequent users.

Other fees include international transaction fees, although many versions of the card offer exemptions. Late payments can result in heavy fines. It’s important to keep your account balance up to date to avoid additional charges.

How to apply for the American Express Platinum

You can apply for the American Express Platinum card online or by invitation. Visit the official American Express website.There, you will have to fill in a form with your personal information, including income, credit history and other financial data.

After applying, American Express will conduct a full financial profile analysis to ensure that you meet the required criteria.If approved, your card will be sent directly to the address registered. Cardholders can activate and use their card immediately after receiving it.You can benefit from initial benefits and bonus benefits such as: B. 

Additional points if minimum sales are achieved in the first few months. In addition, you can consider related services, such as mobile apps, to manage your spending and access exclusive benefits.