VIA Préférence

VIA Rail's loyalty program. Earn 1–3 points per dollar spent on train travel (rate depends on fare and status). Redeem for tickets, upgrades, travel cards, and more. Dynamic redemption rates. Three status tiers with increasing benefits.

Point Value
Varies by redemption; recent estimates ~0.6¢ per point.
Sign-up Bonus
Occasional sign-up and bonus offers.

How It Works

  • Join for free online.
  • Earn 1–3 points per dollar spent on eligible VIA Rail tickets (rate depends on fare and status).
  • Earn points on extras: additional luggage, travel cards, pet travel, unaccompanied minor, packaging, lounge passes.
  • Points are earned only for your own travel.
  • Redeem points for VIA Rail tickets, upgrades, travel cards, and select fees/products.
  • Redemption is dynamic: points required vary by route, date, fare, and demand.
  • Taxes must be paid on redemptions.

Benefits

  • Earn 1–3 points per dollar spent (rate depends on fare and status).
  • No blackout dates for award travel.
  • Exclusive offers and promotions.
  • Redeem for tickets, upgrades, travel cards, and select extras.
  • Three status tiers: Preference, Premium, Premier.
  • Premium: Priority queue, exclusive coupons.
  • Premier: Business lounge access, priority meal choice, priority online check-in, more coupons.
Program Stats
Point Expiration: Points expire after 12 months of inactivity.
Blackout Dates: No blackout dates
Categories: travel
Countries: CA
Official Website: https://www.viarail.ca/en/offers/via-preference

Program Stats

  • Overall: 6.5
  • Value: 6
  • Ease of Use: 7
  • Redemption: 7
  • Coverage: 5