The Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® American Express® Card is a premium travel rewards card crafted for frequent travelers who stay at Marriott properties. With automatic Platinum Elite status, an annual free night award, airport lounge access, and robust earning potential on Marriott purchases, this card delivers elite-tier hotel perks and high-value redemptions.
It does come with a hefty annual fee, but the benefits can easily outweigh the cost for loyal Marriott guests.
What Is the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant® Card?
This is the flagship Marriott co-branded credit card from American Express, offering luxury-level travel perks and deep integration with the Marriott Bonvoy® loyalty program. Ideal for users who want to maximize Marriott stays while also enjoying Amex-style premium travel benefits, like Priority Pass™ lounge access and statement credits for travel expenses.
Key Features and Benefits
Welcome Bonus
Earn 95,000 Marriott Bonvoy® bonus points after spending $6,000 on purchases within the first 6 months of card membership.
That’s potentially worth 2–5 free nights, depending on hotel category and dates.
Automatic Marriott Platinum Elite Status
Upon approval, enjoy Platinum Elite status, which includes:
- 50% more points on Marriott stays
- Room upgrades (including suites when available)
- 4 p.m. late checkout
- Welcome gifts (points, breakfast, etc.)
- Lounge access at eligible properties
This status alone is typically earned after 50 nights/year.
Up to $300 Dining Credit
Receive up to $300 annually in dining statement credits, broken into up to $25 per month at worldwide restaurants. Works automatically when using your card — no enrollment needed.
Free Night Award
Every card anniversary, receive a Free Night Award worth up to 85,000 Marriott Bonvoy points — valid at a wide range of luxury and resort properties.
Can be combined with your own points to book even higher-tier stays.
25 Elite Night Credits
Get 25 Elite Night Credits annually — enough to jumpstart or maintain higher elite status tiers, especially when combined with Marriott stays or other cards.
Priority Pass™ Select Membership
Enjoy unlimited access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide for you and up to 2 guests, courtesy of Priority Pass Select.
Global Entry/TSA PreCheck/NEXUS Credit
Get up to $100 statement credit every 4 years to cover the application fee for one of these trusted traveler programs.
No Foreign Transaction Fees
Use your card abroad without added fees — ideal for international Marriott stays.
Rewards Earning Structure
- 6X points at Marriott Bonvoy properties
- 3X points at restaurants worldwide (including takeout and delivery in the U.S.)
- 2X points on all other purchases
Fees and Requirements
- Annual Fee: $650
- Foreign Transaction Fees: None
- APR: Variable (typically 20.99%–29.99%)
- Credit Needed: Excellent (typically 720+ FICO)
How to Apply
- Visit americanexpress.com and search for Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant
- Review the latest welcome offer and full benefit terms
- Apply securely with your personal and financial information
- Receive a decision — often instantly
- Upon approval, access benefits immediately (some available digitally)
Conclusion: Is the Bonvoy Brilliant Worth It?
Yes — for travelers loyal to Marriott, the Bonvoy Brilliant® Card offers exceptional value. The automatic Platinum Elite status, free night award, and Priority Pass access alone can justify the annual fee. The monthly dining credits and elite night credits further boost long-term rewards and status.
Perfect for:
- Frequent Marriott travelers seeking luxury perks
- Users who want elite benefits without meeting hotel night thresholds
- High spenders looking to offset the fee with credits and travel experiences
For those who leverage Marriott Bonvoy® and travel often, this card turns every stay into a premium, points-rich experience.
