If you use an SBI credit card to enjoy airport lounge access, an important update is coming soon.
Starting January 10, 2026, SBI Cards will introduce new rules for lounge entry.
You will still get access like before, but the process will change.
Now, your card will be swiped at the lounge counter, and a small fee will be charged.
For VISA and RuPay cards, a non-refundable fee of ₹2 will apply.
For Mastercard users, a temporary hold of ₹25 will be placed and later released.
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Why SBI Made These New Rules
Due to the rising number of passengers using “free lounge access,” many lounges have become crowded.
To manage this better without removing the benefit, SBI has divided lounge access into two categories:
Set A: For premium cards
Set B: For Prime and Platinum cards
This helps control crowding and ensures smoother service for all cardholders.
Set A: Premium Zone for High-End Cardholders
Set A lounges are reserved for premium cards like SELECT, OCTANE, Club Vistara, and similar high-tier cards.
These lounges usually have fewer people, better seating, and a more exclusive experience—almost like a VIP zone.
Set B: More Cities for PRIME and Platinum Users
Set B includes almost all lounges from Set A and also adds lounges in more cities such as Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Jaipur, and Visakhapatnam.
This expansion is especially beneficial for PRIME cardholders, giving them access to more locations across India.
New Entry Process: How It Works
Earlier, the lounge staff only checked your card for eligibility.
Now, there will be a proper digital verification system:
Your card will be swiped on a POS machine.
The system will check if you have free visits left.
A small fee will be applied:
₹2 for VISA & RuPay (non-refundable)
₹25 for Mastercard (refundable hold)
This process helps verify genuine usage and keeps lounge access smooth for everyone.
Which Cards Are Included?
The new lounge policy applies to SBI cards with an annual fee of ₹1,499 (PRIME) and ₹2,999 (SELECT).
Basic SBI cards do not include lounge benefits, so these changes will not affect them.