Booking.com has officially entered the U.S. credit card market with the launch of its first-ever card, the Genius Rewards Visa Signature. Designed to incentivize direct bookings on its platform, the card offers travel credits instead of traditional points or cash back, making travel more rewarding for frequent users of Booking.com.
Generous Earning Structure and Welcome Incentives
Cardholders can earn up to 6% back in travel credits on accommodations booked via the Booking.com mobile app, and 5% back on other travel categories booked through the platform, including flights, car rentals, cruises, attractions, and airport taxis.
Additionally, the card offers 3% back on dining, gas, and groceries, as well as 3% back on in-person purchases made during a stay – within 50 miles of your booked accommodation on Booking.com, up to $10,000 per year. All other purchases earn 2% back.
New cardholders receive $150 in Booking.com travel credits after spending $1,500 within the first 90 days. They also earn an additional $100 in travel credits annually for spending $15,000 in a cardholder year.
Elite Tier Upgrade and Travel Protections
As a key perk, the card grants instant Genius Level 3 status, normally earned after 15 bookings. This tier provides 10–20% discounts on eligible stays, free breakfast, room upgrades, and priority customer support.
The card also waives the annual fee, has no foreign transaction fees, and includes travel benefits such as auto rental insurance, trip cancellation, and travel accident coverage – solid incentives for frequent travelers.
What Makes This Card Stand Out
This offering is tailored for travelers deeply committed to Booking.com, particularly those staying in independent or boutique lodgings that offer Genius perks. With its elite tier benefits and strong earning rates, the card delivers immediate value – especially given the $0 annual fee.
However, its platform-restricted travel credits diminish flexibility; unlike transferable points programs, these rewards can only be used on Booking.com. Frequent users of hotel loyalty programs may find this limiting.
That said, for those who consistently use Booking.com as their primary travel booking platform, the simplicity of earning and redeeming credits, combined with automatic status upgrades, could make this a hassle-free and rewarding travel tool. It’s not aiming to compete with premium travel cards, but rather carve out its own niche for loyal users seeking convenience and direct-value travel perks.