How Much Does a Visa Infinite Card Cost?

Visa Infinite cards sit at the top tier of Visa’s lineup, offering premium benefits and services. But this high-end experience comes at a price – literally. Visa Infinite cards have hefty annual fees, often $400 or more. So how much does a Visa Infinite card really cost? Let’s break it down.

The Annual Fee

The annual fee is the most obvious cost of a Visa Infinite card Expect to pay anywhere from $400 to $550 just to hold the card each year Here are some example annual fees

• Chase Sapphire Reserve®: $550
• The New United ClubSM Card: $525
• U.S. Bank Altitude® Reserve Visa Infinite® Card: $400
• Citi Prestige® Card: $495

Most Visa Infinite cards cost $400 a year, as you can see. The average annual fee for all credit cards is $140, so this is a lot more than that.

Other Potential Fees

When you use a Visa Infinite card, you may have to pay more than just the annual fee:

• Foreign transaction fees: Around 1% for purchases made outside the U.S.

• Cash advance fees: Typically 5% of the amount advanced ($10 minimum).

• Late fees: Up to $39 if you miss payments.

• Balance transfer fees: Usually 3-5% of the amount transferred.

So factor in these potential fees too when calculating the cost of a Visa Infinite card.

The Total Cost

Let’s put it all together. Here are the estimated first year costs for some popular Visa Infinite cards:

• Chase Sapphire Reserve®:

  • Annual fee: $550
  • Foreign transaction fees: $0
  • Potential total first year cost: $550

• The New United ClubSM Card:

  • Annual fee: $525
  • Foreign transaction fees: $0
  • Potential total first year cost: $525

• Citi Prestige® Card

  • Annual fee: $495
  • Foreign transaction fee: $0
  • Potential total first year cost: $495

As you can see, you’re looking at $500+ in costs just for the first year alone. And that’s if you avoid all additional fees by paying on time, avoiding cash advances, etc.

Are the Costs Worth It?

Whether or not the high cost of a Visa Infinite card is “worth it” depends on your spending habits and how much you value the card’s benefits.

Frequent travelers tend to get the most value from Visa Infinite cards. Perks like airport lounge access, travel insurance, and rental car privileges can quickly offset the annual fee.

However, a Visa Infinite card might not be worth the money if you don’t travel much or use the extra benefits. It costs a lot more each year than basic rewards cards, but they may still be good for everyday spending.

Ultimately, run the numbers based on your lifestyle. Visa Infinite can be a great deal if you plan to use the special benefits. Otherwise, a lower-cost card may fit your wallet better.

Tips for Offsetting the Cost

If you want a Visa Infinite card but are concerned about the high annual fee, here are some tips to help offset the cost:

• Use the sign-up bonus: The welcome bonus on Visa Infinite cards is often worth hundreds of dollars if redeemed for travel.

• Maximize rewards: Earn points or miles on all your spending to redeem for free flights and hotel stays.

• Utilize statement credits: Take advantage of airline fee credits, Global Entry reimbursement, and other statement credits offered by the card.

• Get a retention bonus: Some issuers will offer bonus points or cash to keep the card year after year.

• Downgrade after year one: You can product change to a lower-fee card after getting the sign-up bonus.

Alternatives to Visa Infinite

If the costs still seem too high, alternatives like Visa Signature cards offer similar benefits for lower annual fees, usually around $95-175. You’ll miss out on some elite perks, but can still get strong travel coverage and rewards.

The Platinum Card® from American Express also competes with Visa Infinite in terms of luxury benefits, with some cards having similar $550 annual fees.

Ultimately, only you can decide if the exclusivity and privileges of Visa Infinite are worth the premium price tag. But understanding exactly how much a Visa Infinite card costs is the first step toward making an informed decision.