Do you also get bored waiting for hours at the airport? Imagine, the flight is delayed and you are sitting in a luxury lounge – free food, Wi-Fi, comfortable seats. But this facility is not only for the rich! Today I will tell you about such credit cards in India that give airport lounge access, that too in an affordable way.
If you are a frequent flyer or love to travel, then these cards can prove to be a game-changer for you. Let’s understand step by step which cards are the best, what are their fees and how to apply.
Why Are Lounge Access Credit Cards Becoming Popular?
First of all, why are lounge access credit cards becoming popular in India? Because airlines and banks are jointly giving such offers that make travel easier. Through programs like Priority Pass or Dreamfolks, you can get entry to domestic and international lounges.
But it is important to choose the right card, otherwise money will be wasted in annual fees. I have compiled a list of some of the top cards that offer the most value in 2025. These cards also offer reward points, cashback and additional benefits.
Top Credit Cards with Lounge Access
Now coming to the main point. The top credit cards in India that offer lounge access are HDFC Infinia, SBI Elite, Axis Magnus, and some mid-range options like HDFC Diners Club Black and Citi Prestige.
Most of these offer unlimited domestic visits, while international ones include Priority Pass membership. But it is important to know the details, as the fees and conditions of each card are different.
| Card Name | Short Specs |
|---|---|
| HDFC Infinia | Unlimited domestic & international lounge access, ₹12,500 annual fee, 5:4 reward points on travel |
| SBI Elite | 8 complimentary domestic visits/year, 2 international, ₹4,999 fee, 5X points on dining/airlines |
| Axis Bank Magnus | Unlimited domestic, 8 international/year, ₹10,000 fee, 12 EDGE rewards on spends over ₹1.5 lakh |
| HDFC Diners Club Black | Unlimited lounge access, ₹10,000 fee, 3.33% rewards on travel, free Priority Pass |
| Citi Prestige | Unlimited Priority Pass lounges, ₹20,000 fee, 4 complimentary airport transfers/year |
These specifications are for 2025, and details are taken from the bank’s official sites. For example, cards like HDFC Infinia are perfect for high-end users, as they offer unlimited access. If you travel 10-15 times a year, the fee is covered. SBI Elite is good in the mid-range, especially if you spend more on dining and shopping.
How Do These Cards Work?
Most cards partner with Priority Pass or Dreamfolks. There are domestic lounges at 50+ airports in India, like Plaza Premium in Delhi or Travel Club in Mumbai. For international, there are 1300+ lounges available worldwide.
Check before applying: Your annual income should be at least ₹6 lakh, and credit score 750+. Applying online is easy – visit the bank’s website, upload documents (Aadhaar, PAN, salary slip), and get approval within 7-10 days.
But do note, some cards have a spending threshold. For example, Axis Magnus unlocks unlimited access only after spending ₹1.5 lakh. You also get additional benefits like free airport transfers or hotel discounts. If you are on a budget, try cards like SBI Prime or Axis Vistara, which offer limited access at a low fee.
Growing Demand in 2025
According to travel experts, the demand for cards with lounge access is going to increase in 2025 as air traffic is growing by 20%. But check your spending habits before choosing the right card – if you don’t travel much, the fee could be wasted.
Final Thoughts
If you want to know more about these cards, check out the details of Infinia on HDFC’s official site. Or use their app for SBI Elite. Overall, these cards make travel a luxury without spending too much.
FAQs
Are there credit cards with free lounge access available in India?
Yes, but not free, but included in the annual fee. For example, HDFC Infinia offers unlimited access for ₹12,500.
Which card is best for domestic lounges?
Axis Magnus or SBI Elite, as they offer unlimited domestic visits and the fee is affordable.
How to use lounge access with a credit card?
Entry into the lounge by showing the card. Some cards come with Priority Pass membership, which can be activated from the app.
Is the fee for cards with lounge access worth it?
If you travel 8-10 times a year, then yes. The rewards and discounts cover the fee.
Which card to start with for new users?
SBI Elite or HDFC Diners Club Black, as they offer good benefits at mid-range fees.
Best Credit Cards