American Express Expands Footprint in the Caribbean

From Barbados to Bermuda, your Amex Card is now accepted across 22 Caribbean islands like never before.

Over the past few years, American Express has worked to expand acceptance in the region, fostering partnerships with local banks and elevating the experiences we offer Card Members.  Turks & Caicos, The Bahamas, Antigua & Barbuda, and Jamaica have the highest Amex acceptance rates, while St. Lucia and St. Kitts & Nevis follow closely behind.

“We’ve poured a lot of our energy into the Caribbean, investing in growth and expanding payment choices for those who travel, live, or work there,” said Mohammed Badi, President of Global Network Services, American Express. “Building this ecosystem across the Caribbean islands means Amex Cards are now accepted in many more places across the region, and merchants can now attract Amex customers from near and far.”

The Caribbean drew more than 34 million travelers to its islands in 2024, according to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO). It’s a top destination for Card Members, which puts the region at the top of American Express’ footprint expansion agenda.

Over the past two years, we’ve been working with bank partners, such as CIBC Caribbean Bank Limited and Royal Bank of Canda, to expand the number of merchants accepting Amex cards in the Caribbean.

Another key part of our strategy: increasing our local presence by offering The Platinum Card® through our licensed issuer, Scotiabank, and enhancing the value and experiences we provide for local consumers, businesses, and travelers.

Eligible American Express Card Members with a Priority Pass Membership coming to the Caribbean have access to a variety of lounges across the region, including Marsh Harbour International Airport (Bahamas), Barbados Grantley Adams International, and Las Americas International Airport (Dominican Republic). Certain Card Members can also access the American Express Scotiabank VIP Lounge in Las Americas Airport (Santo Domingo). In addition, Amex teamed up with the Caribbean’s largest water park, El Dorado Park, to offer eligible Card Members valuable perks like discounted admissions tickets.

The Caribbean has been a focus in the company’s overall goal to grow and maintain our thriving ecosystem of Amex-accepting businesses and Card Members around the world. American Express Cards are accepted at more than 108 million merchant locations in about 200 countries and territories, including South Korea, Vietnam, Brazil, and Sub-Saharan Africa. 

This means that more Card Members can use their Cards in the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations — like the island safaris and historic culture of St. Kitts & Nevis or the crystal-clear waters and unspoiled caves of Turks & Caicos.

Packing your bags to relax on their beaches or to see more of the world this summer? Our numerous travel guides and itineraries offer places to eat, stay, and explore in the Caribbean and beyond.