HDFC Bank has revised the airport lounge access benefits for its debit cards, effective from January 10, 2026.
The new rules change how customers can use complimentary airport lounges in India, focusing on rewarding active card usage rather than simply holding the card.
This update affects cardholders who previously enjoyed automatic lounge access and encourages customers to engage more with the bank’s products.
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What’s Changing With Lounge Access
Under the revised policy, simply having an eligible debit card is no longer enough to get free airport lounge entry.
Customers now need to meet specific transaction or spending criteria to qualify.
The new system links lounge access to how frequently or how much you use your card.
This means that carrying a card alone will not guarantee complimentary passes anymore.
Who Will Be Affected
Cardholders who previously received free lounge access must now check the updated terms.
While many debit cards still offer complimentary visits, eligibility depends on meeting the revised conditions, such as:
Spending a minimum amount within a set period
Completing a required number of transactions in the qualifying cycle
The exact requirements vary depending on the debit card type, but the key takeaway is that usage matters more than ownership.
How to Avail Lounge Access Now
To use airport lounges under the new rules, customers should:
Spend a minimum amount on the debit card within the specified period, or
Complete a required number of transactions in the qualifying cycle
Once these criteria are met, lounge access is available through HDFC Bank’s partner network, usually at domestic airport lounges.
Customers should review their card terms or contact customer support to understand the specific thresholds for their card.
Why HDFC Bank Made This Change
The updated policy reflects broader trends in banking and travel rewards.
By linking benefits to card usage, the bank aims to:
Encourage frequent debit card use
Reward high-engagement customers
Make benefits fairer and more value-driven
This approach is similar to global practices, where perks are increasingly tied to how actively customers use financial products.
Steps for Cardholders
If you hold an HDFC debit card, here’s what you should do before January 10:
Check the lounge access eligibility for your card
Track your planned spending or transactions
Contact HDFC customer care for clarity
Monitor your lounge credits through the bank’s app or online portal
Being proactive ensures you don’t face surprises when trying to use lounges at airports.
Final Thoughts
While some cardholders may find the new rules inconvenient, customers who use their debit cards regularly for daily transactions can still enjoy complimentary lounge access—provided they meet the updated requirements.
HDFC Bank’s change emphasizes a broader trend: benefits are increasingly linked to usage, not just possession.
For active card users, the perk continues to offer comfort and convenience at airports.