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How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

To enter the U.S., you must bring a passport issued by your country of citizenship along with your visa. Officials at your port of entry into the U.S. will also issue you a Form I-94, which electronically records your arrival and departure dates. Learn more about Form I-94 and how to apply .

Find out if you need a visa to visit the U.S.

Check to see if your country participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa.

Visitor (tourist) visa

The visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa, is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories:

• B-1 for business travel
• B-2 for tourism and medical treatment

Learn about B-1 and B-2 visas , including:

• Reasons you would need each type of visitor visa
• How to apply
• What documents you will need
• Application fees
• How to prepare for your interview at your U.S. embassy or consulate

How to renew a visitor visa

You must renew your visitor visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas within the U.S.

The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

Find the contact information for your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and contact them for visa renewal information.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Check for New Fees and Form Editions Before You File

On April 10, 2024, the  Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CIS Ombudsman )  sent out this stakeholder message:

On April 1, 2024, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) new fees and editions of certain forms went into effect. The Office of the Citizenship and Immigration Services Ombudsman (CIS Ombudsman)—which is not part of USCIS—is sending this reminder to use the correct form edition and pay the correct fee amounts to avoid USCIS rejecting your form.  

If you file your form online (if available), you could save up to $50 in filing fees.  

What to Check For 

Before you file, please ensure you know the answers to the following two questions: 

1. How much does it cost to apply? 

Go to USCIS’ Fee Schedule page to check what fee(s) you need to pay. Many fees have increased, some fees have decreased, and some have new fees. Other forms have new fee exemptions.  

A few examples of what changed on April 1 are: 

• Form N-400, Application for Naturalization ; and 
• Form I-90, Application to Replace Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) (the fees will be lower whether you must submit biometrics or not). 
• You must submit a separate payment for each fee. See the USCIS Filing Fees page for further instruction on how to pay fees. 
• If you are an employer filing a Form I-129 or Form I-140, the form fee itself may not represent your total filing costs. Check for additional fees. For example, the new Asylum Program Fee will cost an additional $600 for employers or $300 for companies with 25 or fewer full-time equivalent employees. There is no Asylum Program Fee for nonprofits. 

You can also go to USCIS’ Fee Calculator to see what fees you must pay.  

2. Do I need to use a new edition of the form?  

As of April 1, USCIS will accept only the 04/01/24 edition of the five forms listed below. There is no grace period , and USCIS will reject your form if you file an old edition of the form. 

• Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker  
• Form I-129CW, Petition for a CNMI-Only Nonimmigrant Transitional Worker  
• Form I-140, Immigrant Petition for Alien Workers  
• Form I-600A, Application for Advance Processing of an Orphan Petition (and Supplements 1, 2, and 3) 
• Form I-600, Petition to Classify Orphan as an Immediate Relative (and Supplements 1, 2, and 3) 

For most other forms, USCIS will accept both previous and new editions filed with the correct fee during a grace period from April 1 to June 3, 2024. 

Remember, USCIS uses the postmark date to determine your filing date and the applicable fee and form edition. If you are using a courier service (such as FedEx, UPS, DHL, etc.), see the CIS Ombudsman’s Treat the Date You Print Your Shipping Label as Your Postmark Date stakeholder message for more information. Please note that USCIS uses the receipt date for the purposes of any regulatory or statutory filing deadlines. 

Why This Matters 

• This is the first fee increase for many USCIS forms in over seven years.  
• Having your form rejected could impact your immigration status. In some situations, you will not be able to refile, which could affect whether you can remain or work legally in the United States. 
• If USCIS rejects your form and you have documented proof that you submitted the correct edition of the form on time with the correct fees, you can try to resolve the issue with USCIS. Go to the “Inquiries Based on Filing Location” section of USCIS’ Contact Us page for information.  
• If you still cannot resolve the issue, you may submit a case assistance request to our office to see if we can help. Make sure to include copies of the rejection notice and the submitted form with the shipping label and delivery confirmation. 

More Information 

For more information, please refer to USCIS’ January 30, 2024, news release and its Filing Fees and FAQs on the USCIS Fee Rule pages. You can also refer to USCIS’ February 22, 2024, webinar presentation .  

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U.S. Citizens Will Need to Register and Pay a Fee to Enter Europe in 2024—Here’s What to Know

E ach year, American tourists flock to Europe to glimpse the Eiffel Tower, Big Ben, the Sistine Chapel and thousands of other must-see attractions. With so many landmarks to explore in Western Europe and beyond, it's no surprise the continent is a top destination for U.S. citizens. According to the consumer research company Statista, more than 10 million Americans made the trek to France , Italy , Spain and Germany in 2019 alone. But if you want to travel there after January 2024, you'll have to register and pay a fee. It's all thanks to the newly launched European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS).

The European Union's new system will add an extra step to your travel requirements for 30 European countries. But though it sounds complicated, the process won't be difficult. And we've got everything you need to know before you book your next European vacay.

Get  Reader’s Digest ’s  Read Up newsletter for more travel, humor, cleaning, tech and fun facts all week long.

What is ETIAS?

There's no such thing as an ETIAS visa, and the system isn't a digital nomad visa either. So what is it, then? According to the official website, ETIAS is the "new travel permit for Americans and other visa-exempt non-EU citizens visiting European destinations." It's an electronic travel authorization for visa-free countries, and it has a faster application and processing time than a visa.

In other words, U.S. citizens won't need a visa to continue traveling to Europe—but they must apply for ETIAS.

If you meet the ETIAS requirements, you won't need a visa if you're traveling for up to 90 days in any 180-day period for business, short-term study or tourism. If you currently hold a passport or will soon apply for a passport from one of 59 travel-visa-free countries and are between the ages of 18 and 70, you will need the new travel authorization for European travel within the Schengen area (a travel zone made up of 27 European countries).

Why are these European requirements changing?

The European Union is changing its requirements to include ETIAS to benefit both travelers and the European Union. When traveling overseas to Europe using ETIAS, you'll benefit from a more streamlined border crossing—the new travel authorization will get you through faster.

But the launch of the electronic authorization system aims to keep the European Union safer too. Better border management means officials can keep an eye on security issues at the borders. And because ETIAS links to security databases, it'll be easier to fight terrorism and criminal activity.

When will ETIAS go into effect?

The current launch date for ETIAS in Europe is sometime in January 2024. But that comes after some delays. The European Union initially intended ETIAS to go into effect in January 2021 but later postponed the kickoff to 2023. The quiet pushback of the launch date, following a series of hiccups, has led up to its slated release in 2024, but some sources note that it may take a while for it to go into effect.

Per the ETIAS website, "after the initial launch, there may be a short period of three to six months where ETIAS may not be mandatory for travel. This is to allow the EU to work through any system issues, which may negatively impact travelers due to complications with the initial rollout." Additionally, the site notes that this is "barring any delay in implementation," so it's unclear whether the 2024 launch date is set in stone.

Still, if you're planning a romantic European vacation and want to skip the new system, you'll have to travel soon.

What countries will require authorization?

Gearing up for some European country-hopping ? These 23 European countries in the Schengen area will require ETIAS authorization from American travelers:

• Czech Republic
• Netherlands

You will also need ETIAS for four non-EU member states:

• Liechtenstein
• Switzerland

Additionally, these non-Schengen EU states will require ETIAS:

Finally, these microstates will also require the new travel authorization:

• Vatican City

What's the difference between ETIAS and EES?

The European Union is launching not only ETIAS but also a border-management strategy called the Entry/Exist System (EES). The first thing to know: ETIAS and EES are not the same thing.

For starters, ETIAS is a new entry requirement, while EES is a registration. When traveling visa free, you'll need to apply for ETIAS travel authorization, but you won't need to take any action before your trip for EES registration. Instead, this is done automatically at the external border of any of the 29 European countries using EES, and this registration will take place each time you cross an external border between countries. EES will also replace manual passport stamps.

How much does ETIAS cost?

Luckily, if you're traveling on a budget , the application fee for ETIAS won't break the bank—it's less than $10. Travelers will pay $8 for ETIAS (or €7).

How do you apply for ETIAS?

Applying for ETIAS online is a relatively simple process. You'll fill out the electronic form with personal information, such as your first and last name, nationality, place of birth, address, phone number and email. You'll also need to include your passport information , your travel plans and your history of travel, and you'll have to answer security-based questions. From there, you'll pay the fee and submit your application.

It's important to avoid scam websites pretending to be ETIAS. Make sure you apply on the official site using this application .

Overall, the application process should take about 10 minutes, while approval for your travel authorization will take 96 hours or fewer. You'll know your application has been approved when you receive an official confirmation email.

How long does an ETIAS authorization last?

Once you've received your ETIAS authorization, it will remain valid for three years from the issue date. You may use it to travel multiple times as long as your travel documents have not expired.

How often do you need to renew/reapply?

You will need to reapply for ETIAS when your previous travel permit has expired, which will happen three years after your application date. If your passport expires sooner, you will need to get a new passport and reapply for ETIAS.

• Statista : "The Most Popular Destinations for U.S. Travelers Abroad"
• European Travel Information and Authorisation System : "Europe's Travel Authorization for U.S. Citizens"
• European Travel Information and Authorisation System : "ETIAS start date set for 2024"
• European Travel Information and Authorisation System : "ETIAS Requirements"
• European Travel Information and Authorisation System : "What are the ETIAS benefits to the European Union?"
• ETIAS : "ETIAS Requirements"
• ETIAS : "Frequently Asked Questions"
• European Union : "Key differences between ETIAS and the EES"

The post U.S. Citizens Will Need to Register and Pay a Fee to Enter Europe in 2024—Here’s What to Know appeared first on Reader's Digest .

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Entertainment, visa fees for international artists to tour in the us shot up 250% in april. it could be devastating.

Maria Sherman

Associated Press

2024 Invision

Festivalgoers attend the first weekend of the Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival at the Empire Polo Club on Sunday, April 14, 2024, in Indio, Calif. (Photo by Amy Harris/Invision/AP)

NEW YORK – Performing in the U.S. for international artists just got a lot more complicated.

On April 1, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services instituted a 250% visa fee increase for global musicians hoping to tour in the U.S.

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Artists, advocacy groups and immigration lawyers are concerned it could have devastating effects on emerging talent worldwide and local music economies in the U.S.

WHAT ARE THE COSTS?

If you're a musician from outside of the United States hoping to perform stateside and you filed visa paperwork before April 1, the cost per application was $460.

After that date? $1,615 to $1,655.

Bands and ensemble groups pay per performer. A standard rock band of four members went from paying $1,840 to around $6,460. And if you can't wait a few months for approval, add $2,805 per application for expedited processing.

If the application is not accepted, that money is not refunded — on top of losses from a canceled tour and missing out on “significant, potentially career-changing opportunities,” says Jen Jacobsen, executive director at The Artist Rights Alliance .

If a musician has support staff, a backing band or other employees to bring on the tour, these individuals need visas, too.

“Even if you’re Capitol Records and you have all the money in the world to throw at it, you still can’t get rid of U.S. bureaucracy,” says immigration attorney Gabriel Castro.

All international musicians require work authorization to perform in the U.S. There are few exemptions: Those are reserved for “showcases” through the Visa Waiver Program — like what is often used at South by Southwest , where international artists perform exclusively at official showcases, without pay and for exposure.

Currently, there are few hurdles for U.S. musicians looking to enter other countries for the specific purpose of earning money through live performances. According to Castro, American performers are able to enter most countries without a visa and under an exception to tourism rules.

WHAT'S THE IMPACT ON ARTISTS?

Gareth Paisey, singer of the independent, seven-piece Welsh band Los Campesinos! , will tour in the U.S. this June. The band made sure to apply for visas before the April 1 cut off, a difference of paying $3,220 or $11,305 in fees. Next time they have to get a visa, he says they'll likely try to squeeze two tours in one year — the length of their particular visa — to make up the cost.

He says the application process requires providing an itinerary for the full year and supplemental evidence: press clippings to justify their status as “career musicians,” and testimonials from people of note — often from more famous musicians.

“Nobody gets into a band because they've got a passion for making cash flow forecasts," he says. “It's unfair to expect people who are brilliant at writing songs to also be brilliant at filling out a 20-page visa application.”

After Brexit , he says touring in Europe for U.K. acts has become more complicated, but the U.S. process is by far the most complex — both in terms of paperwork and what it represents for music moving forward.

“This idea that you need to be a career musician to get a visa, and visa fees are going up, increases the idea that music is a competition ,” says Paisey. “And part of that competition is making as much money as you can — like that’s the only valid way to participate in the music industry.”

WHY HAVE THE FEES JUMPED SO MUCH?

Two reasons: They hadn't in some time, and because immigration officials are scrutinizing the process more closely.

The last increase was in 2016, when fees grew from $325 to $460.

The U.S. government is "putting more and more burden on the application process,” says Castro of BAL Sports and Entertainment Practice, which specializes in visas for musicians, entertainers and athletes.

He says 20 years ago, applications were just two or three pages. Now, they're 15 or 20 pages.

“And those are just the forms before supporting evidence,” he says. “Now I’m submitting documents that are 200 pages, 300 pages long just to explain why this band should be traveling throughout the United States.”

Officials "might have done better to look at inefficiencies in the system to save money,” he says.

Paisey says he's heard that the increase will allow the USCIS to “get rid of the backlog ... But is that because you’re going to employ more staff or is it probably because you’re going to get less applications?" he wonders, because it's going to benefit "people who can afford to go than rather than who wants to go or has the fan base to go.”

WHY HAVE THE APPLICATIONS CHANGED OVER TIME?

Castro says some of it is to account for “abuses in the system — to make sure that individuals that are coming here for certain activities actually have those activities in place," but the increased scrutiny is a lingering effect from Trump administration's immigration policies .

“The immigration process overall became more difficult for everyone. Whether you’re coming across the border, whether you’re coming here to perform at Madison Square Garden, whatever it is," he says. “That has changed the culture of U.S. immigrations agencies .”

WHO DOES THIS HARM?

Independent and emerging talent, as well as ensembles and groups.

“ Dua Lipa , the Rolling Stones , they're going to pay these fees. It's not even a rounding error. They could misplace $1,200 in their budgets and they wouldn’t even notice,” says Castro. “It's the indie rock bands, niche acts, jazz musicians from Japan who will be affected."

“Every dime counts. They have very small margins,” he adds.

“We’ve already got a problem with not enough musical acts breaking through to the next level,” Paisey says. “And this is going to stop them from getting that chance in the States.”

Touring in the U.S. is a pipe dream for many independent acts, he says, and it is in danger of “not even being a dream.”

Jacobsen points out that there will be ripple effects as well: Musicians, drivers, tour managers and beyond who would be hired to work with international talent will lose work, venues will lose fruitful bookings, festivals that focus on international talent will reduce in size, the costs of tickets could increase and so on.

She says these fee increases could affect U.S. music culture — “the richness of the music ecosystem in terms of diversity of genres.”

If lesser known, global genre artists cannot perform in the U.S., audiences will miss out on a critical cultural exchange. “We need the marketplace to be friendly and accessible to all those different types of musicians," she says.

WHAT'S NEXT?

“You're going to see a decrease in international acts coming to the United States,” says Castro. “And maybe it’s decreased frequency more than a decrease in the absolute number. We'll see less and less emerging artists.

“The harder you make it for them to come to the United States, the less you’re going to see them here.”

Local economies, too, will feel the result: “It's not just the mid-sized venue in Cleveland that will feel it, but the parking lot down the street, the restaurants and bars people go to before and after.”

And there could be long-term consequences that have yet to be seen. “There is an absolute concern that there would be a reciprocal effect," says Jacobson.

If the U.S. is making it increasingly difficult and expensive for musicians to come here, “Why wouldn't other countries do the same to our artists?”

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed without permission.

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Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee In Canada For April 2024

Updated: Apr 10, 2024, 9:28am

Cash-back credit cards make tapping your plastic even more tempting, since they turn some of your everyday purchases into cash rewards. They do so by allowing cardholders to earn back a percentage of their eligible credit card spending, either as a deposit into their bank account or as a statement credit.

That all sounds well and good, but some of the best cash-back credit cards have a major catch: They come with an annual fee that ends up eating into your rewards. And while some of these earn enough cash back that they cancel out said fee, spending enough to cover (or even surpass) the fee can be a big commitment—especially if you’re not sure how much you’ll spend each year on the card in question.

If thinking about such a prospect gives you anxiety, there are cash-back cards that have no annual fee —meaning their rewards don’t come with a yearly cost, so it’s pure reward. These cards can be a way to earn cash back without any kind of barrier hindering your earning potential. Here are the best cash back credit cards with no annual fee in Canada.

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Best Cash Back Credit Cards With No Annual Fee in Canada for April 2024

Rogers red world elite® mastercard®, simplycash card from american express, cibc costco mastercard, triangle world elite mastercard, neo standard mastercard, tangerine money-back credit card, tangerine world mastercard, rbc cash back mastercard, simplii financial cash back visa, bmo cashback mastercard, here’s a summary of best cash back credit cards with no annual fee in canada for april 2024, methodology, what is cash back on a credit card, how to choose a no annual fee cash back credit card, how to apply for a cash back credit card with no annual fee, frequently asked questions (faqs).

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TD® Aeroplan® Visa Infinite Privilege* Card

On TD’s Website

Welcome Bonus

Up to 85,000 Aeroplan points†

Regular APR (Purchases) / Regular APR (Cash Advances)

20.99% / 22.99%

American Express Cobalt® Card

On American Express’s Secure Website

Up to 15,000 Membership Rewards points

$155.88 ($12.99 per month)

Regular APR

MBNA True Line Mastercard

On MBNA’s Website

0% interest for 12 months on balance transfers within 90 days of account opening, with a 3% transfer fee

12.99%-19.99%

Best For U.S. Dollar Purchases

Regular APR (Purchases)

Not only do you get flat-rate cash back on all purchases, a great 3% cash back rate on all purchases made in U.S. dollars, airport lounge access and five types of insurance, you get all that for no annual fee.

• No annual fee
• Earn 2% cash back on all purchases if you have one qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
• Earn 1.5% cash back if you do not have a qualifying service with Rogers, Fido or Shaw
• Earn 3% cash back on U.S. dollar purchases
• Complimentary membership to Mastercard Travel Pass provided by Dragon Pass
• Includes some travel insurance coverage
• High income requirements to qualify
• The highest cash-back rate is for U.S. purchases only
• Airport lounge visits cost $32 USD per person, per visit, on top of the complimentary lounge access membership
• 2% unlimited cash back (exclusively for eligible Rogers, Fido or Shaw customers); otherwise, earn 1.5% unlimited cash back on non-U.S. dollar purchases
• 3% unlimited cash back on U.S. dollar purchases
• 5 Roam Like Home days at no cost with an eligible Rogers mobile plan (up to $75 value)
• 50% more cash back every time you redeem for Rogers, Fido or Shaw purchases
• Annual income requirements of $80,000 personal and $150,000 household
• Complimentary membership to Mastercard Travel Pass provided by DragonPass with access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide at a cost of $32 USD per person, per visit
• Included insurance benefits: Extended Warranty and Purchase Protection, Rental Car Collision/Damage, Out-of-Province/Out-of-Country Emergency Medical, Trip Interruption and Trip Cancellation

best for groceries and gas

Up to $100 in statement credits

This card offers a 2% rate on the two areas hardest hit by inflation in Canada: groceries and gas. The icing on the cake is that it comes with no annual fee, a slightly above average 1.25% base rate and even has some other perks like a little travel insurance.

Learn more: Read our SimplyCash Card from American Express Review

• 2% cash back on groceries and gas
• Includes consumer insurance and some travel insurance
• American Express is not accepted at some retailers
• In your first 10 months as a new SimplyCash® Card from American Express Cardmember, you can earn a $10 statement credit for each monthly billing period in which you spend $300 in purchases on your Card. This could add up to $100 in statement credits in the first 10 months
• Earn accelerated earn rates on eligible gas and grocery purchases
• Earn 2% cash back on eligible gas purchases in Canada, 2% cash back on eligible grocery purchases in Canada (up to $300 cash back annually)
• Earn 1.25% cash back on all other eligible purchases
• Access events and special offers curated for Cardmembers with American Express® Experiences
• Insurance coverage and 24/7 Customer Service
• American Express is not responsible for maintaining or monitoring the accuracy of information on this website. For full details and current product information click the Apply now link. Conditions apply

best for restaurants and costco

$0 (requires a Costco membership)

If you’re a Costco member, this card racks up cash back as your stock up on winter essentials. With no annual fee (aside from your Costco membership, of course) there’s no commitment and you can reap oversized rewards at this major retailer.

Learn more: Read our CIBC Costco Mastercard Review

• Earns 3% cash back on restaurants and at Costco Gas
• Includes mobile device insurance, purchase security and an extended warranty
• No welcome bonus
• Only offers 1% cash back at Costco (the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card earns 2%, for instance)
• Earns 3% cash back at restaurants and at Costco Gas
• Earns 2% at other gas stations and on Costco.ca
• Earns 1% cash back on all other purchases (including at Costco brick and mortar stores)
• Your rewards could add up to $367.62 a year in rewards value (or $422.58 with Costco purchases), according to Forbes Advisors calculations based on average spending among Canadians
• Comes with valuable mobile device insurance
• Includes purchase security and extended warranty insurance

Best For Roadside Assistance

This card has no annual fee, yet it earns Canadian Tire Money on your spending and offers a Gold Roadside Assistance plan with up to 250 km towing distance in Canada or the U.S, as well as emergency fuel delivery, battery boosts, accident assistance, flat tire changing and lock-out service.

• High cash back rewards at Canadian Tire
• Built-in car rental insurance
• Complimentary roadside assistance
• Only grants cash-back rewards from specific store chains
• Only gives digital Canadian Tire Money as cash-back rewards
• Gives 4% back in Canadian Tire Money on qualifying pre-tax purchases at Canadian Tire, Sport Chek, Mark’s/L’Équipeur, Atmosphere, Party City, Sports Rousseau, Hockey Experts, L’Entrepôt du Hockey, and participating Sports Experts stores
• Gives 3% Canadian Tire money on groceries up to $12,000 per year (does not include Walmart or Costco)
• Gives 0.5% per litre in Canadian Tire money at gas stations and on all other purchases
• Forbes Advisor estimates $327.64 in annual rewards value based on average Canadian spending
• Car rental collision/loss damage waiver insurance
• Extended warranty protection and return protection
• Roadside assistance with up to 250 km towing distance in Canada or the U.S.
• Requires a minimum annual income of $80,000, or $150,000 in household income

best for retail shopping

Welcome bonus

Up to 15% cash back on the first purchase at a Neo retailer

This card’s earn rate and flexibility are impressive, as are its lack of any annual fee and its welcome bonus offer.

Learn more:  Read our Neo Standard Mastercard Review

• Average of 5% unlimited cash back at Neo partners
• The welcome bonus and cash back only applies to Neo partners
• Does not include travel insurance or other perks
• Welcome bonus of up to 15% cash back on your first purchase at a Neo retail partner. The exact amount depends on what the partner is willing to offer
• Average of 5% instant and unlimited cash back at over 10,000 Neo partners
• Forbes Advisor estimates $577.22 in annual cash back based on average Canadian spending

best for customizable cash back

10% cash back ($100 value)

This card is unique in that it allows you to customize where you earn the most cash back. Users can choose two of 10 spending categories that will earn 2% cash back (without limits) and get 0.5% on everything else. If you opt to deposit your cash-back rewards into a Tangerine Savings Account, you get to add a third category that earns 2% cash back as well.

That said, it is a bit sparing when it comes to other perks, but if you meet the income requirements for its high-end counterparts, the Tangerine Money-Back World Mastercard, you can get a few more frills, like travel perks, rental car collision loss/damage insurance and mobile device insurance.

Learn more:  Read our Tangerine Money-Back Card Review

• Welcome bonus of 10% cash back on up to $1,000 in purchases in your first two months ($100 value) when you apply by April 30, 2024
• Earns 2% back in two spending categories of your choosing
• Get 2% cash back in a third category when you deposit your savings into a Tangerine Savings Account
• Cash back is unlimited and paid monthly
• Includes extended warranty and purchase protection
• No additional perks, aside from extended warranty and purchase protection
• Welcome bonus of 10% cash back on up to $1,000 in purchases in your first two months ($100 value) when you apply by January 31, 2024
• 2% cash back in two spending categories of your choice, including grocery, furniture, restaurants, hotel or motel stays, gas, recurring bill payments, drug store, home improvement, entertainment, public transportation and parking
• Earn 2% cash back in a third category of your choice when you opt to deposit cash-back rewards into a Tangerine Savings Account
• 0.5% cash back on all other spending with no limit
• Forbes Advisor estimates based on average Canadian spending that you can earn $302.69 in cash back per year by using this card
• Balance transfers made in your first 30 days get a 1.95% interest rate on the transferred balance for six months

best for travel perks

The Tangerine World Mastercard is similar to the Tangerine Money-Back Credit Card in that cardholders can choose two of 10 spending categories that will earn 2% cash back (without limits) and get 0.5% on everything else. They can also add a third category if they deposit cash back into a Tangerine Savings Account. The only real difference is that the World Mastercard gets you a few more frills, like travel perks, rental car collision loss/damage insurance and mobile device insurance.

• A customizable rewards program
• No annual spending cap for any categories
• Minimum income requirements
• Mediocre rewards for most purchases
• The welcome bonus offers an extra 10% cash back on up to $1,000 in purchases made within the first two months of owning the card when you apply by April 30, 2024.
• Earn 2% cash back in two spending categories of your choice, including groceries, furniture, restaurants, hotels, gas, recurring bill payments, drug stores, home improvement, entertainment, public transportation and parking
• If you deposit your rewards into a Tangerine Bank savings account, you get a third 2% cash-back spending category
• All other spending categories earn 0.5% cash back
• The card carries an estimated annual net earnings of $302.69 per year based on average Canadian spending
• The card requires an annual minimum income of $60,000 personal, $100,000 in household income or $250,000 or more in Tangerine Bank Savings Accounts or Investment Fund Accounts
• A balance transfer rate of 1.95% for six months
• Credit card balance protection
• Rental car insurance
• Cell phone insurance
• Airport lounge access provided by DragonPass
• Checked baggage insurance

best for groceries

This low-maintenance cash back card earns 2% on groceries and 1% on everything else, with no annual fee.

• Unlimited 1% cash back
• Cash-back rewards only apply to every $100 purchase
• $6,000 cap on 2% earn rate
• 2% cash back for every $100 grocery store purchase (up to $6,000)
• 5% cash back for every $100 on qualifying purchases, up to $6,000 (1% cash back applies after)
• Forbes Advisor estimates a rewards value of $338.51 in annual earnings, based on average Canadian spending, with the annual fee factored in

best for restaurants, bars and coffee shops

Up to 20% cash back† ($100 value)

Interest Rate (Purchases) / Interest Rate (Cash Advances)

20.99% / 22.99%‡

This card gives you great cash back at bars and restaurants with no annual fee.

Learn more:  Read our  Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa Review

• 4% cash back at bars and restaurants
• $15,000 in minimum household annual income
• A low selection of insurance options
• Low base rate cash back
• Get 20% cashback in your first 3 months on eligible gas, groceries, drugstore purchases and pre-authorized payments (up to $500 spend)†
• Get a 20.99% interest rate on purchases‡
• Get a 22.99% interest rate on cash advances ‡
• Earn 4% cash back at bars, coffee shops and restaurants up to $5,000 annually, after that 0.5% unlimited†
• Earn 1.5% on eligible gas, groceries, and drugstore purchases, as well as pre-authorized payments up to $15,000 per year, after that 0.5% unlimited†
• Earn 0.5% on all other purchases†
• Purchase security and extended protection insurance are included†
• †Terms and conditions apply. Click ‘Apply Now’ for complete details. This offer is not available for residents of Quebec.”
• ‡ “Purchase” means any Transaction other than a Cash Advance, Balance Transfer or Convenience Cheque. “Cash” means a Cash Advance, Balance Transfer and Convenience Cheque. Interest rates may change from time to time.

best for balance transfers

5% cash back

A basic no-fee cash back card that offers high returns on groceries and has a competitive welcome bonus and balance transfer offer. It even offers discounts on Cirque du Soleil shows.

• Balance transfer offer of 0.99% for 9 months with a 2% transfer fee
• Flexible redemption options
• No minimum income requirement
• Low spending caps
• 0.5% base earn rate
• Welcome offers of 5% cash back on $2,500 in total purchases for three months and 0.99% interest on balance transfers with a 2% fee for nine months
• 3% cash back at eligible grocery stores (up to $500 monthly)
• 1% cash back on recurring bills (up to $500 monthly)
• 0.5% cash back on every other purchase
• Forbes Advisor estimates a rewards value of $289.24 in annual earnings based on average Canadian spending, with the annual fee factored in
• 15% off Cirque du Soleil shows in Canada and 20% off shows in Las Vegas
• Up to 25% off rentals at National Car Rental and Alamo Rent a Car participating locations

When determining a rating for individual credit cards, the Forbes Advisor Canada editorial team factors in an exhaustive list of data points. With no-annual-fee cash back, the scoring model used takes into account factors such as, but not limited to, cash-back rates and categories, fees, welcome bonuses, and other rewards and features. Keep in mind, what may be best for some people might not be right for you. Conduct informed research before deciding which cards will best help you achieve your financial goals.

It offers 3% for purchases made in American dollars.

Rewards: Earn unlimited 2% cash back (exclusively for eligible Rogers, Fido or Shaw customers) on non-U.S. dollar purchases, otherwise earn 1.5% unlimited cash back. Earn unlimited 3% cash back on U.S. dollar purchases.

Welcome Offer: N/A

Annual Fee: $0

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: With this card, you get access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide, extended warranty and purchase protection on select items, rental car collision/damage insurance, out-of-province/country emergency medical care and trip Interruption and cancellation insurance. A drawback: To qualify, your annual personal income must be over $80,000, or your household income over $150,000.

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This American Express card is the only Canadian card offering 1.25% cash back on everything—and 2% on groceries and gas, up to a limit of $300 per year.

Rewards: Get 2% cash back on gas and groceries up to $300 cash back annually, and 1.25% cash back for everything else with no limit.

Welcome Offer: In your first 10 months with the card, you can earn a $10 statement credit for each monthly billing period when you spend $300 on your card, which could add up to a total of $100.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: The card’s benefits include $100,000 travel accident insurance, automatic extended warranty on select purchases made with the card, 24/7 customer service, a fraud protection guarantee and emergency card replacement. One drawback is that American Express still isn’t as widely accepted as Visa and Mastercard .

Related: SimplyCash Card from American Express Review

This card earns you 3% cash back at restaurants and Costco gas stations, 2% at other gas stations and when you shop at Costco.ca and 1% everywhere else.

Rewards: Earn 3% cash back when you dine out at selected restaurants and fill-up at Costco gas stations on the first $5,000 net annual card purchases. You’ll earn 2% at other gas stations and Costco.ca until you hit $8,000 in purchases when it will revert back to the base rate of 1% on all other purchases.

Welcome Offer: None.

Annual Fee:  $0

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: This card offers up to $1,000 in repair or replacement coverage for your phone for up to two years, as well as purchase security and extended warranty insurance for some new items purchased with your card.

Related: CIBC Costco Mastercard Review

This card gives you 4% back in Canadian Tire (CT) Money on select items at a range of retailers beyond CT, five to seven cents  per  litre in CT Money on fuel, and 3% back in CT Money when you buy groceries.

Rewards: Earn 4% cash back in CT Money on select items at retailers including Canadian Tire, Sport Chek, Mark’s and Party City. Also, earn five to seven cents when you pump gas, 3% at grocery stores on the first $12,000 you spend per year (excluding Costco and Walmart) and 1% in CT Money everywhere else.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: With this card, you get roadside assistance , purchase security, extended warranty and rental car insurance . But the cash-back earnings are in CT Money, making this only a card for those who frequent the home improvement store.

This card earns you up to 15% cash back on the first purchase from a Neo retail partner, then an average of 5% cash back at Neo partner locations.

Rewards: Collect an average of 5% cash back when shopping at Neo partner locations and an extra 0.5% cash back when you meet a minimum spending requirement (until you reach $50 in earnings).

Welcome Offer: Earn up to 15% cash back on the first purchase from a Neo retail partner.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: With this card, you can choose one or multiple rewards packages for boosted cash back and app subscriptions, but it doesn’t come with any basic insurance or other benefits.

Related: Neo Standard Mastercard Review

This card offers unlimited 2% cash back in two or three purchase categories of your choice and 0.50% cash back on all eligible everyday purchases.

Rewards: Get unlimited 2% cash back in up to three categories of your choice (like groceries , gas and entertainment) and 0.50% cash back on all everyday purchases. Plus, get extra rewards when your earnings are deposited into your Tangerine Savings Account.

Welcome Offer: Receive an extra 10% cash back on up to $1,000 worth of everyday purchases made in the first two months of owning the card.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: While this card is unique, in that it allows you to choose your cash back categories, it does not offer any additional perks like travel insurance .

Related: Tangerine Money-Back Card Review

Like the above card, this one offers unlimited 2% cash back in two or three categories of your choice and 0.50% cash back on all everyday purchases with a few Mastercard network benefits thrown in.

Rewards: Get unlimited 2% cash back in up to three categories of your choice (like groceries, gas and entertainment) and 0.50% cash back on eligible everyday purchases. Plus, get extra rewards when your cash-back earnings are deposited into your Tangerine Savings Account.

Welcome Offer: Be rewarded with an extra 10% cash back on up to $1,000 worth of everyday purchases made in the first two months of owning the card.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Unlike Tangerine’s Money-Back Card, this one offers rewards when travelling outside Canada, access to select airport lounges for a fee and special offers for on-demand and subscription services. However, to apply, your annual personal income must be $80,000 or $150,000 per household.

Collect up to 2% cash back on groceries and unlimited 1% cash back on everything else.

Rewards: Earn 2% cash back on every $100 you spend at grocery stores, up to a maximum reward of $120 per year or $6.000 in annual spend. After that spend threshold is crossed, get 1% cash back per $100 spent on in-store grocery purchases with no spending limit. Also earn an unlimited 0.5% cash back on all purchases other than those at the grocery store, including recurring bill payments, until a maximum of $6,000 net purchases is made for a maximum reward of $30 per year., After the $6,000 limit is reached on all purchases outside of groceries, earn an unlimited 1% on all non-grocery purchases after that.

Welcome Offer: None

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Get  purchase security, extended warranty protection and special discounts and offers at Petro-Canada, Rexall and DoorDash for no annual fee. However, the low earn rates on this card and restrictive $6,000 spending limits on those rates ensure you won’t be earning a lucrative cash back return with this card.

This card earns a whopping 4% cash back at restaurants, bars and cafes—making it a great card for any foodie to have in their wallet.

Rewards: Earn 1.5% cash back on eligible gas, groceries, drugstore purchases and pre-authorized payments for an annual cash-back earnings maximum of $150.

Welcome Offer: Be rewarded with 20% cash back on eligible gas, groceries and drugstore purchases and any pre-authorized payments, during your first three months, up to a $500 spend ($100 value).

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: Get purchase security and extended protection insurance with this card, but you can only cash in cash back at the end of the year, when it’s automatically applied to your December statement.

Related: Simplii Financial Cash Back Visa Review

The BMO CashBack Mastercard is an ideal choice for individuals that spend less than $500 on groceries and recurring bills every month.

Rewards: 3% cash back on groceries, 1% on monthly bills and 0.5% on other eligible purchases.

Welcome Offer: 5% cash back for the first three months and 0.99% interest on balance transfers for the first nine months.

Other Benefits and Drawbacks: This card offers a pretty high earn rate on groceries—a major spending category. It also has a competitive balance transfer offer. That said, it has low spending caps and has little to offer in the way of other perks.

Some credit cards offer cash-back rewards, meaning cardholders can receive a small percentage of their purchases back in cash. For instance, if your card offers 4% cash back on groceries, and you spend $100 at the grocery store, you’d receive $4 in cash back. The cards act as a way to help you to “save” a little on everyday spending, while helping to pay off your credit card bill or fund your bank account (depending on how you redeem it).

Typically, cardholders can redeem their cash back earnings for a cash deposit in their bank account or a credit towards their monthly bill.In some instances, you can only redeem cash back once per year and it’s applied to your credit card statement automatically. Often, if you redeem as you go, you’ll have to earn a certain amount of cash back to redeem (like a $25 minimum) but some cash-back cards allow you to redeem smaller amounts.

Typically, cash back credit cards have a base earn rate—usually 0.5% to 1%—that applies across all eligible purchases.Often, they’ll allow you to earn more cash back—typically 1% to 4—in select purchase categories, like gas, groceries, restaurants or recurring bills. Some cards have a cap on how much of your spending is eligible. For example, you may get 2% cash back on gas transactions when you spend $500 or less filling up your tank each month, but after that, you’ll only earn the 1% base rate on gas purchases.

How Does Cash Back on a Credit Card Work?

Every time you use your cash back credit card, you earn back a percentage of your spending in cash, which accumulates in your cardholder account. You can typically see how much you’ve accumulated on your online bank account or mobile banking app. Some purchases you make will earn you a higher percentage of cash back rewards than others, depending on the card you have. It’s worth noting that your card may require you to accumulate a minimum amount of cash back before cashing in on the rewards. Once eligible to collect, you can get your rewards deposited into your bank account or credited towards your next monthly bill. You may also be able to get the cash back on a gift card.

What Does No Annual Fee on a Cash Back Credit Card Mean?

Some credit cards charge you an annual fee, which could be as low as $25 or over $500. With a no-annual-fee cash-back card, that fee doesn’t exist—but there may be other fees to consider. Foreign transaction fees, interest charges, balance transfer fees, and cash advance fees are all common with credit cards. Read your card agreement carefully to learn the details about fees so you can avoid those fees when possible.

Why Do Some Cash Back Credit Cards Have an Annual Fee?

Cash back credit cards that have an annual fee typically offer higher rewards rates, more attractive welcome bonuses , and/or other perks. Before selecting a card with an annual fee, carefully evaluate if its extra benefits justify the additional cost. If they don’t, there are many cash-back credit cards that don’t come with an annual fee that also offer fair rewards and perks.

Not every cash-back credit card with no annual fee is perfect for everyone. Since each card offers different perks based on purchasing habits, you’ll need to consider your lifestyle and find the credit card that best compliments it.

Forbes Advisor simply highlights the key facts about each credit card to make it easier for you to compare them and find the best one for you. It’s up to you to do the math and consider which one makes the most sense based on your spending history and plans. Here’s what you should consider:

• Fees: Do you often do balance transfers? Make purchases outside of Canada? You may want to consider a card with low balance transfer and FX fees .
• Annual percentage rate (APR): Will you be paying off your credit card in full every month? Credit card interest rates are often higher than other loans. The best card for you may be one with a low interest introductory APR offer.
• Earn rate: Do you drive a lot? Like to dine out? Consider yourself a frequent flyer? Choose a card that’ll give you the greatest percentage back in those areas.
• Bonus categories: If a card offers 5% on rotating categories (meaning you can swap out the categories from which you get a large percentage of cash back) but you don’t want to keep track of them, it’s probably not the card for you.
• Redemption and rewards: Is it easy to redeem your cash back? Is there a minimum or maximum redemption amount? Make sure you can get your rewards in the way that is ideal for you.
• Other perks: Does the card offer other perks you could benefit from? Some offer rental car insurance, built-in travel insurance, extended warranties and more that could help save you money.

Once you’ve read through all of the card details, found out how much you spend in different categories, and considered the bonus features that could be beneficial to you, you’re better equipped to make a well-informed decision.

Applying for a cash-back credit card with no annual fee is the same as applying for any other credit card. Once you find one that is right for you and you’re eligible for (meaning, your credit score and income requirements align), you can visit a bank to apply in-person or sign up by yourself online. No matter the option you choose, you’ll be asked to provide personal information, including your Social Insurance Number and financial details. Once finished, you could get approved instantly or you may have to wait for your application to be reviewed manually. Once approved, you’ll receive your card in a few days or weeks.

What are the benefits of a no annual fee cash back credit card?

The benefits of a no annual fee cash-back credit card depend on the card. Common benefits include:

• The ability to earn cash back with no annual fee
• Consumer protections like purchase protection and extended warranties
• Travel protections such as rental car insurance

Before choosing the right no annual fee cash back credit card for you, consider your lifestyle, spending habits and compare the offerings of all cards, including the earning rates, fees and other benefits.

How do I choose the best no annual fee cash back credit card for me?

To choose the best cash-back card with no annual fee, take a look at where you spend your money most—groceries, gas, entertainment, etc.—and find a card that offers the greatest cash back for those categories. Also take into account the extra benefits the card offers (such as rental car insurance) to discover if they could be of use for you, as well as its fees (like low FX fees) to decide if they could be an extra perk for your lifestyle.

How do I redeem my cash back rewards?

How you redeem your cash-back rewards will depend on the card you have. Each card has different rules that will dictate how you can use and manage your cash backs. For example, some cards have a minimum redemption amount, meaning you’ll have to wait until you accumulate a certain amount of points before you can retrieve your points, which again, will depend on the card. You can have the cash back deposited into your bank account and/or credited to your monthly bill. Sometimes, you can get them back on a gift card.

What are the drawbacks of a no annual fee cash back credit card?

By choosing a no-annual-fee cash-back credit card, you could miss out on larger amounts of cash back in the long run. That’s because credit cards that charge an annual fee have higher rates and more benefits. To determine if a card with an annual fee makes sense for you, estimate how much cash back you could earn—if it’s higher than the annual fee, it may be the right option.

But remember: Most cash-back cards charge high APRs—so if you don’t think you’ll pay off your card each month in full, you’ll pay a hefty sum in interest. In that case, a credit card or loan with a lower interest rate may be a better option.

How can I improve my chances of getting approved for a no annual fee cash back credit card?

If you want to improve your chances of getting approved for a no-annual-fee cash-back credit card, first check your credit score and report so you know where you stand. If you have a poor credit score, you may not get approved for the card you’re interested in. In that case, work on paying down existing debt to prove you’ll be able to pay off your card balance. You can also find out if you prequalify for a card, which means your credit score and financial profile matches its eligibility criteria.

Renée Reardin is a writer and editor with over a decade of experience in the lifestyle and wellness spaces. She's the former senior digital editor at Best Health magazine and Canadian Living magazine, where she handled content that covered everything from food and fitness to fashion and finance. She currently freelances for publications like Allure, Glossy, InStyle, The Toronto Star, and Teen Vogue.

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NVC Fee Payment FAQs

Can the Affidavit of Support (AOS) Fee or IV Application Processing Fee be paid at the U.S. Embassy/Consulate instead of submitting fees to the NVC?

Can fees be paid through a bank abroad?

Can fees be paid with personal check or credit card?

What do I do if CEAC does not allow me to pay fees online?

Affidavit of Support (AOS) Fee

Is there only one AOS fee per case or does every applicant on the case need to pay one?

Can the AOS fee bill be paid be the applicant?

Can the AOS and IV fee be paid together (on one bill)?

I paid the AOS fee for one case; do I have to pay the same fee for my other cases?

Who has to pay the AOS fee?

Who is not required to pay the AOS fee?

Is there a fee to review the Affidavit of Support at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad?

Immigrant Visa (IV) Fee

Who has to pay the Immigrant Visa (IV) Application Processing Fee?

Online Payment

Will I need a user account and password?

How will the transaction appear on my bank statement?

What payment systems are used?

Is making an online payment secure?

My internet connection failed in the middle of my transaction, what do I do?

I paid the fees but the status isn’t showing as “Paid.” Do I need to repay?

Will I get an online receipt or confirmation e-mail when I make my payment online, so that I know the payment was successfully completed?

No, fees must be paid to NVC using the online using CEAC. Do NOT attempt to make payments by mail. If you cannot pay online, please send a screenshot to NVC by using the Public Inquiry Form for assistance.

No, all payments must be made in U.S. dollars drawn on a U.S. bank.

No, NVC cannot accept personal checks or credit card payments.

Please send a screenshot to NVC by using the  Public Inquiry Form for assistance. Do NOT attempt to make payments by mail.

There is only one AOS fee charged per case.

Yes, anyone with the login information can log into CEAC and pay the AOS fee.

Yes, the AOS and IV fees can both be paid online. However, the online payment system will require you to pay them separately, so there will be two transactions from your bank account.

You must pay the Affidavit of Support fee for each case unless you are petitioning for your spouse and/or child(ren) and submit your Affidavit of Support for each case to the NVC at the same time.

The following categories of immigrants are required to pay the AOS fee:

• Immediate relatives of U.S. citizens (spouses, unmarried children under age 21, and parents of U.S. citizens age 21 and older)
• Family-based preference immigrants (unmarried sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, spouses and unmarried sons and daughters of permanent resident aliens, married sons and daughters of U.S. citizens, and brothers and sisters of U.S. citizens age 21 and older)

Whos is not required to pay the AOS fee?

If you are not required to submit an Affidavit of Support form, you do not need to pay an AOS fee. For a list of scenarios that do not need to submit an Affidavit of Support form and do not need to pay an AOS fee, please visit https://nvc.state.gov/aos . The most common exemptions are for applicants with 40 quarters of creditable employment under the SSA and for applicants who will immediately gain U.S. citizenship upon entry to the U.S. under the Child Citizenship Act of 2000.

Note: Failure to pay an AOS fee when required will delay your case.

No, when the Form I-130 petition and subsequent Affidavit of Support (AOS) form is filed outside the United States, a fee is not charged.

Each applicant intending to immigrate to the United States must pay the IV fee.

You will need the following information from the fee letter that you received from NVC:

• Case Number
• Invoice Identification Number

You will also need your bank's routing number and your checking (or savings) account number. For checking accounts this information is available at the bottom of one of your checks.

Affidavit of Support Fee payments will appear as NVC AOS FEE. Immigrant Visa Fee payments will appear as NVC IV FEE. If you are not sure what a particular payment is, contact your financial institution. They can help identify the payment history.

All online AOS and IV payments are processed by the Department of Treasury through the Immigrant Visa Invoice Payment Center.

Yes, the Department of State uses 128-bit SSL encryption to protect your transaction information while you are logged into the Immigrant Visa Invoice Payment Center. No routing or account number information is stored on the Department of State’s servers.

If the problem occurred before you entered your payment information, you can close your browser, log back in, and try again. If you submitted your payment information and then experienced a problem, contact the National Visa Center before trying again by using the Public Inquiry Form .

Once you submit your bank account information, there will be a delay while the bank processes your payment request. This typically takes two to three business days. During that time, your status will show as “In Process.” Once the bank confirms your payment, your status will change to “Paid.” You will then be able to open and complete the Form DS-260 Immigrant Visa Application.

The Department of State will not automatically send you notification that your payment was successfully completed; however, you can print or e-mail a receipt in CEAC once you make your payment.

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