The RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold is designed to simplify cross-border purchases and travel, providing cardholders with the advantage of transacting directly in U.S. dollars without the hassle of currency conversion fees. Ideal for individuals who frequently spend in U.S. currency, this card combines financial ease with travel-related perks, making it a strong choice for those who want to avoid fluctuating exchange rates and maximize rewards on U.S. spending.

With extensive rewards and multiple redemption options, the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold also supports lifestyle needs, offering savings opportunities through partner retailers. Let’s explore the features, fees, and requirements to help you determine if this card is right for you.

Key information about the credit card

How does the annual fee work?

The RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold comes with a standard annual fee of $65 USD, making it accessible for individuals seeking a specialized credit card for U.S.-based transactions. Each additional cardholder is also subject to an annual fee of $30 USD.

Unlike some credit cards that offer a first-year waiver on the annual fee, the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold does not currently include an exemption for this fee, so it’s essential to consider this cost as part of your budgeting for regular card use.

How is the credit limit determined?

For the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold, the credit limit is established by assessing several factors, including the cardholder’s credit history, income, and overall creditworthiness. The bank evaluates the financial profile of applicants, which may vary depending on the applicant’s relationship with RBC and their overall credit profile. The credit limit is set individually, ensuring a tailored approach to meet the cardholder’s spending habits and financial capability.

Advantages of the credit card

• Earn Avion points on every U.S. dollar spent, allowing you to accumulate points that can be redeemed for various rewards, including travel, gift cards, and merchandise.
• Fuel savings at Petro-Canada, providing an instant discount of 3¢ per liter and a 20% increase in Avion points earned on fuel purchases.
• Be Well points at Rexall: For those who frequently shop at Rexall, this card enables you to earn additional points, contributing to store savings on eligible items.
• DoorDash savings: Enjoy a complimentary three-month DashPass subscription with $0 delivery fees on eligible DoorDash orders, adding convenience and value for food delivery.

Standout advantage

One of the standout features of the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold card is the ability to make purchases directly in U.S. currency. This feature eliminates the stress of currency conversion fees, which can add up for frequent travelers and online shoppers purchasing from U.S.-based retailers. By using this card, you can sidestep daily exchange rate fluctuations, enjoying straightforward U.S. dollar billing for your convenience and clarity in expenses.

Disadvantages

• Annual fee: The card charges a fee of $65 USD, which might not suit those looking for a no-fee option.
• Higher cash advance rate: The cash advance interest rate stands at 22.99%, which can be a high cost for those who frequently withdraw cash.
• Limited bonus categories: The card earns points on all purchases but does not offer enhanced earning rates on specific categories such as dining or groceries.

A standout disadvantage

The primary downside of the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold is its lack of currency flexibility for non-U.S. dollar purchases. Since the card is designed for U.S. currency transactions, any purchases made in Canadian dollars or other foreign currencies will be subject to conversion fees. This limitation can make the card less suitable for those who frequently make purchases outside of the U.S. currency zone.

Who can apply for this card?

To apply for the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold card, applicants must fulfill certain eligibility requirements set by the Royal Bank of Canada. The primary criterion is reaching the legal age, which depends on the applicant’s province or territory within Canada, generally 18 or 19 years.

In addition to age, RBC requires applicants to have a stable credit profile and an income level that demonstrates sufficient financial stability, although the bank does not explicitly disclose a minimum income threshold.

Meeting these financial and credit standards is essential to increase the likelihood of approval. This card may not be the best option for those who have a limited or poor credit history or who are new to credit, as the RBC U.S.

Dollar Visa Gold is intended for individuals who already possess a moderate-to-high level of creditworthiness. Thus, it appeals more to established applicants rather than to individuals seeking an entry-level credit card.

How to apply for the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold card

For the website

The online application for the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold is a straightforward process. By visiting RBC’s official website, applicants can navigate to the credit card section, select the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold, and click on “Apply Now.”

The online form requires information such as personal details, employment status, income level, and consent for a credit check. Once submitted, applicants typically receive a response within 60 seconds. The digital process ensures a secure and private application experience, providing a convenient way to apply from any location.

Through the app

Another method to apply for the RBC U.S. Dollar Visa Gold is via the RBC Mobile App, available for both Android and iOS devices. By logging into the app, existing RBC clients can find the credit card section and select the U.S. Dollar Visa Gold for application.

The app streamlines the process, with pre-filled information for RBC clients, making the experience faster and more personalized. New users can create an account to access the application portal within the app.

At the branch

For those who prefer in-person assistance, visiting an RBC branch provides a face-to-face application process. By speaking directly with an RBC representative, potential applicants can receive detailed information on eligibility and benefits and discuss any queries.

This option is particularly beneficial for applicants who may need additional assistance or who prefer personalized support throughout the application. The branch application process involves filling out the necessary forms, providing identification, and undergoing an in-branch credit assessment.