American Express has announced upcoming adjustments to its Membership Rewards program, including changes to airline transfer partners and updated redemption rates. These updates are designed to maintain value and flexibility for Card Members and will take effect from 15 December 2025.
One key change is that Thai Royal Orchid Plus will be removed as a transfer partner from the effective date.
In addition, several airline partners will see updated transfer rates.
From 15 December 2025, Membership Rewards points will convert at the following rates:
| Airline | Current Rate | New Rate (Effective 15 Dec 2025) |
|---|---|---|
| British Airways | 2 Membership Rewards points = 1 Avios | 3 Membership Rewards points = 1 Avios |
| Cathay | 2 Membership Rewards points = 1 Asia Mile | 3 Membership Rewards points = 1 Asia Mile |
| Emirates | 3 Membership Rewards points = 1 Skywards Mile | 4 Membership Rewards points = 1 Skywards Mile |
| Etihad | 2 Membership Rewards points = 1 Etihad Guest Mile | 3 Membership Rewards points = 1 Etihad Guest Mile |
| Malaysia Airlines | 2 Membership Rewards points = 1 Enrich Mile | 3 Membership Rewards points = 1 Enrich Mile |
| Qatar Airways | 2 Membership Rewards points = 1 Avios | 3 Membership Rewards points = 1 Avios |
| Virgin Atlantic | 2 Membership Rewards points = 1 Virgin Point | 3 Membership Rewards points = 1 Virgin Point |
Everyday Rewards is not available for Card Members in the following Membership Rewards tiers: Business Ascent, Corporate Choices and Corporate Membership Rewards.
The redemption rate changes do not apply to Card Members enrolled in Business Ascent, Corporate Choices, Corporate Membership Rewards, Spirit and Corporate Spirit tiers.
All other Membership Rewards features—including remaining transfer partners, Pay with Points, Gift Cards, Cover Charges with Points and Points for Credit—will remain unchanged. Full details can be found at amex.com.au/membershiprewards.
American Express also confirmed that the rate at which Card Members earn Membership Rewards points will stay the same, and that points will continue to have no expiry as long as the account remains in good standing.
Not sure where to transfer your points?
It depends on where you’re travelling next — destinations, airlines, and even cabin class matter.
If you’re unsure what to do, try one of two options:
1. Already have a trip in mind?
Share your travel plan with us and we’ll help you find the best reward flights:
https://pointsadvisor.com/find-me-award-flights-now/
Then you can confidently transfer your points to the right program to secure those flights.
2. No firm travel plans yet?
Get a Points Health Check:
https://pointsadvisor.com/points-health-check/
We’ll review how you earn and use points today, show you ways to accelerate your points balance, and help you decide where to transfer points in the future – based on your travel habits, likely destinations, and airline preferences.
Partnerships/Programs With No Rate Change
- Qantas Frequent Flyer
- Velocity Frequent Flyer
- Air New Zealand Airpoints
- Hilton Honors (hotel program)
- Marriott Bonvoy / SPG
For Qantas and Velocity, while the transfer rate stays the same, the cost (i.e. number of points required for reward flights) may still rise — so “same transfer rate” does not guarantee same value.
Frequently Asked Questions About Amex Points Transfers & December 2025 Changes
Q: What changes are coming to Amex Membership Rewards airline partners in December 2025?
A: Amex is adjusting partner availability and some transfer rates, effective 15 December 2025. This may affect which airlines you can transfer points to and how many points you’ll receive after the transfer. It’s important to review these changes before moving your points.
Q: Will the December 2025 Amex changes affect how many points I need for flights?
A: Yes. After the transfer rates shift, you will need more points to secure the same award seat through a partner airline. The redemption value you receive can also change depending on your destination and preferred airline.
Q: Should I transfer my Amex points before the December changes take effect?
A: Only transfer points once you’ve confirmed award seat availability. Transferring early “just in case” can leave you locked into a program that may not fit your future travel plans.
Q: What is the best place to transfer Amex points in Australia?
A: It depends entirely on your future travel destinations and preferred airlines. For example:
- Emirates has high award availability but taxes are very high
- KrisFlyer is excellent for Singapore Airlines premium cabins
- Velocity partners with Qatar and Singapore Airlines for international flights
If you’re unsure, submit your plan here:
https://pointsadvisor.com/find-me-award-flights-now/
Q: How do I know which airline gives the best value for my Amex points?
A: The value depends on distance, cabin class, taxes, fees and award availability. Premium cabins (Business/First) usually deliver the highest cents-per-point value. Our team can calculate the best value for your trip via a Points Health Check:
https://pointsadvisor.com/points-health-check/
Q: What’s the risk of transferring Amex points without a travel plan?
A: Once Amex points are transferred to an airline or hotel program, they can’t be moved back. You also lose flexibility if partner availability changes.
Q: How long do Amex points transfers take?
A: Transfer times vary by partner — some are instant, others take hours or even a few days. This delay can sometimes cause you to miss out on available award seats if you transfer too late.
Q: Can I still get good value from Amex points after the December changes?
A: Yes, Amex points still hold value, but why let their value drop significantly if you can transfer before the changes take effect? If you’re unsure where to transfer, speak to the PointsAdvisors first to make sure you keep the maximum value from your points.
