If you use an HDFC Bank debit card for airport lounge access, there is an important update for you. From January 10, HDFC Bank is changing the way lounge access works.
Earlier, customers could enter lounges by simply swiping their physical debit card. Now, the bank has introduced a digital voucher system. Along with this, the minimum spending requirement has also been increased.
New Lounge Access Process Explained
Under the new rules, lounge access will no longer be given directly by swiping the debit card. First, you must meet the required minimum spending limit. Once you become eligible, HDFC Bank will send you a link via SMS or email.
You will need to open the link and complete OTP verification. After successful verification, you will receive a voucher code or QR code. This voucher or QR code must be shown at the airport lounge to get entry.
Spending Conditions Have Become Stricter
Earlier, the quarterly spending limit was ₹5,000, but it has now been increased to ₹10,000 for most debit cards. This amount can be spent through one or multiple transactions, either online or offline.
However, this spending condition does not apply to the Infiniti Debit Card. Infiniti cardholders will continue to get lounge access without any minimum spend requirement.
Free Lounge Visits Remain the Same
The number of free lounge visits per quarter has not changed for any debit card. The limits are as follows:
Millennia: 1 visit per quarter
Platinum: 2 visits per quarter
Times Points: 1 visit per quarter
Business: 2 visits per quarter
GIGA: 1 visit per quarter
Infiniti: 4 visits per quarter
Transactions That Will Not Be Counted
The ₹10,000 quarterly spending will not include the following transactions:
ATM cash withdrawals
UPI or wallet payments using GPay, PhonePe, or Paytm
Credit card bill payments
Debit card EMIs
Only purchase transactions will be counted. New debit cardholders will also need to meet the ₹10,000 spending requirement to get lounge access.
Voucher Validity and Lounge Entry Rules
Voucher generated on November 15, 2025: Valid till March 31, 2026
Voucher generated on January 10, 2026: Valid till June 30, 2026
Lounge entry is provided on a first-come, first-served basis. Entry may be restricted due to crowding or operational reasons. In most cases, a 2 to 3-hour stay limit applies inside the lounge.
