Best Airport Lounge Access Credit Cards In India For 2024

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The luxury of having access to a lounge during the long waiting hours at an airport is truly a blessing. Forbes Advisor India thoroughly examined the features of nearly 100 credit cards that offer airport lounge access and compiled a list of the best credit cards designed to efficiently cater to the needs of travelers. In addition to lounge access, these cards offer various other luxuries, enhancing the experience of luxurious travel.

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Best Credit Cards With Airport Lounge Access in India

Best Airport Lounge Credit Card for Unlimited Access at More Than 1,000 Airports Worldwide

Infinia Credit Card

Infinia Credit Card
5.0
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Fee

INR 12,500 + 18% GST

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

Infinia Credit Card

Annual Fee

INR 12,500 + 18% GST

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

Why We Picked It

The HDFC Infinia Credit Card distinguishes itself as a top-tier selection, thanks to its extensive array of perks and advantages. It enhances the travel journey by providing boundless access to both domestic and international airport lounges. Additionally, it seamlessly merges opulence with utility, offering exclusive discounts, rewards, and insurance coverage. Prioritizing customer convenience and security, the HDFC Infinia Credit Card impeccably caters to the sophisticated requirements of individuals in pursuit of premier financial services, rendering it a remarkable choice in the realm of credit cards.

Pros & Cons
  • Unlimited access to airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to domestic airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to international lounges.
  • Annual fee is on the higher side.

Best Airport Lounge Credit Card With Unlimited Access and Additional 8 Guest Visits/year

Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card

Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card
5.0
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Fee

INR 12,500 + 18% GST

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card

Annual Fee

INR 12,500 + 18% GST

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

Why We Picked It

The Magnus Credit Card delivers a comprehensive airport experience by providing cardholders with unlimited access to both international and domestic airports. In addition to exclusive lounge privileges, cardholders can benefit from VIP assistance services, available up to eight times a year. These services include seamless navigation through airport procedures, encompassing check-ins, security checks, immigration processes, and access to porter services for enhanced comfort.

Moreover, the card is designed with hospitality in mind, offering the added benefit of nine complimentary guest visits, allowing friends and family to partake in an exceptional travel experience.

Other Benefits:

  • Choose a voucher worth INR 12,500 from Luxe gift card, The Postcard Hotels gift voucher, or Yatra gift voucher.
  • Enjoy eight complimentary end-to-end meet & assist services at the airport.
  • Access unlimited complimentary international lounge visits and extend the privilege with eight additional guest visits each year through the Priority Pass card.
  • Enjoy unlimited visits to select airport lounges in India.
  • For Burgundy Magnus Credit Cardholders, choose a voucher worth INR 5,000 from Luxe gift card, PostCard Hotels gift voucher, or Yatra gift voucher.
  • Receive up to INR 500 off on the second movie/non-movie ticket when purchasing one from BookMyShow.
  • Avail of up to a 40% discount at over 4,000 restaurants across India.
  • Explore curated global experiences for extraordinary weekends.
  • Access virtual health assistance, including tele-consultation, health coaching, home quarantine programs, personalized oncology care, and more.
  • Get expert medical opinions from a panel of world-class specialists at leading institutions.
  • Benefit from special preventive healthcare packages from SRL Diagnostics, Dr. Lal PathLab, and Metropolis.
  • Travel confidently with access to vaccination and visa requirement information, legal and medical service referrals, and emergency evacuation services.
  • Have the annual fee of INR 12,500 + Taxes waived off when spending INR 25 lakhs in the preceding year.
  • Enjoy a reduced interest rate of 3% on extended credit.
  • Receive a lowered mark-up fee of 2% on foreign transactions.
  • Pay no cash withdrawal fees.
  • 1% fuel surcharge waiver for transactions between INR 400 and INR 4,000.
  • 12 EDGE Reward points per INR 200 on spends up to INR 1.50 lakhs and 35 EDGE Reward points per INR 200 on incremental spends exceeding INR 1.50 lakhs in a calendar month.
  • 5X reward points on spends via Travel EDGE.
  • 2 partner miles for every 5 EDGE reward points across 19 travel partners.
  • Access assistance for flight bookings, table reservations, gift deliveries, and more.
Pros & Cons
  • Unlimited access to airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to domestic airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to international lounges.
  • Annual fee is on the higher side.

Best Credit Card for Airport Lounge Access With 12 Complimentary Visits/year

Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card

Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card
4.5
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Fee

INR 50,000 + 18% GST

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card

Annual Fee

INR 50,000 + 18% GST

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

Why We Picked It

The Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card redefines the travel experience, offering unlimited international lounge visits for both primary and add-on cardholders, in conjunction with Priority Pass membership. Moreover, it extends 12 complimentary visits annually for accompanying guests. The VIP assistance service is provided eight times each year, where the cardholder receives dedicated support through airport procedures, including check-ins, security clearances, immigration processes, and porter services.

While this card may carry a slightly higher cost, it can substantially reduce expenses for frequent travelers who prefer luxury accommodations. If you are a globe-trotter and enjoy staying at upscale hotels, this card can effectively curtail your bills.

Other Benefits

  • Annual fee waived off on spending INR 25 lakh in the preceding year.
  • Foreign currency markup of 1.5% on international transactions.
  • No cash withdrawal charges.
  • Fuel surcharge waiver of 1% for transactions between INR 400 to INR 4,000 (capped at INR 400 per month).
  • Reduced APR of 2.5% on extended credit.
  • 50,000 reward points on card activation and renewal.
  • 15 EDGE reward points for every INR 200 spent.
  • 2X rewards on international spends.
  • Club ITC Culinaire membership with complimentary third night stay.
  • 50% savings on published room tariff for suites on weekends, 25% green points on food and beverage spends, bouquet of 10 certificates.
  • Accorplus membership with night complimentary stay across Asia-Pacific region complimentary room upgrade and up to 50% off on dining.
  • Complimentary lunch buffet for two across Accor Hotels in India
  • Handcrafted Club Marriott Asia-Pacific membership with 20% off on food and beverage and 20% off on best available rates at participating Marriott Hotels in India and on weekend rates in Asia-Pacific.
  • Exclusive offers at Oberoi Hotels and resorts 15% savings on room only rate and room with breakfast rate or third night complimentary, 50% savings on best available rates on suites.
  • For Postcard Hotels,15% off on the best available room rate and anytime check in and check out.
  • 50 complimentary golf rounds every year across the best golf courses in India.
  • Counterfeit and lost card liability up to credit limit.
  • Purchase protection of INR 2 lakh.
  • Loss, delay in baggage and personal documents cover of $500.
  • Credit shield of INR 5 lakh.
  • Air accident cover of INR 450 lakh.
  • 1st complimentary information session and 25% savings on all health and wellness coaching plans.
  • Referral-based service for second medical opinion with world class specialists.
  • Exclusive savings on healthcare packages and pathology tests at Dr. Lal Pathlabs, Metropolis.
Pros & Cons
  • Unlimited access to airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to domestic airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to international lounges.
  • Card is available only for those with an annual income of INR 18 lakh and above.

Best Airport Lounge Credit Card With Complimentary Loungekey.

Pioneer Heritage Metal Credit Card

Pioneer Heritage Metal Credit Card
4.0
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Fee

INR 1,80,000 + 18% GST(one time)

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

Pioneer Heritage Metal Credit Card

Annual Fee

INR 1,80,000 + 18% GST(one time)

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

Why We Picked It

IndusInd Bank has introduced the Pioneer Heritage Metal Credit Card, available in two variants: one as a Mastercard and the other as a Visa credit card. The services offered by both cards are quite similar. In this context, we have opted for the Mastercard version due to its enhanced services.

This premium card not only provides unlimited lounge access but also offers chauffeured car services for seamless transportation between the airport lounge and the aircraft, ensuring a luxurious travel experience. The card entails a one-time joining fee of INR 1,80,000, as well as an alternative fee structure comprising a joining fee of INR 90,000 and an annual fee of INR 25,000.

Other Benefits

  • 2.5 reward points on every INR100 spent on international transactions.
  • 1 reward point on every INR 100 spent on domestic transactions.
  • Luxe gift card worth INR 5,000.
  • Gift voucher from Montblanc India.
  • INR 3,000 off on food bills in a year in partner restaurants.
  • Four free tickets in a quarter, the price of the free ticket is capped at INR 1,000 per ticket.
  • Gift vouchers from Oberoi Group of Hotels.
  • 20% off or discount of INR 350 (whichever is lower) for every two tickets purchased for non-movie events booking.
  • Four complimentary golf games in a month and four complimentary golf lessons in a month.
  • Four complimentary tickets each quarter, with each free ticket having a maximum value of INR 1000.
  • Additionally, when booking non-movie events, you’ll receive a discount of 20% off the ticket price or a reduction of INR  350, whichever of the two is lower, for every two tickets you purchase.
  • A 24-hour concierge service.
  • Personal air accident insurance cover of up to INR 25 lakhs.
  • 1% waived for transactions between INR 400 and INR 4,000;GST on fuel surcharge.

Mastercard variant

  • One night free at partner luxurious hotels, resorts (offer varies from one service provider to other).
  • 3 rounds of complimentary green fees in a calendar quarter
  • 1 complimentary guest green fee in a calendar quarter
  • Club ITC culinaire discounts.
  • Services for Departure: Private departure lounge, airline check-in and all security procedures carried out at the presence of the card holder, luggage checked-in and taken from the lounge, private chauffeured car to take you from the VIP suite to the aircraft, option to board the flight last or first.
  • Services for Arrival: Chauffeured car waiting as soon as the aircraft arrives, private arrival lounge with refreshments, customs and immigration clearance carried out privately in front of the cardholder.
  • Luggage delivered directly to you in your private lounge.
  • Access to medical experts who provide expert medical opinion on complex diseases and it covers the cardholder, spouse, children and parents.
  • Global data plan of 3 GB for 10 days every year, 15% discount on all subsequent flexiroam data plans purchased.
Pros & Cons
  • Unlimited access to airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to domestic airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to international lounges.
  • Annual fee is a little high.

Best Airport Lounge Credit Card for Unlimited Access at More Than 1300 Airports Globally

The American Express® Platinum Card

The American Express® Platinum Card
3.0
Our ratings take into account a product's rewards, fees, rates and other category-specific attributes. All ratings are determined solely by our editorial team.

Annual Fee

INR 60,000 + 18% GST

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

The American Express® Platinum Card
Apply Now

On Amex's secure website

Annual Fee

INR 60,000 + 18% GST

Domestic Lounge Visits

Unlimited

International Lounge Visits

Unlimited

Why We Picked It

American Express launched American Express® Platinum Card designed for their India customers. Card provides airline tickets to airport pick-ups, from car rentals to hotel reservations at a discounted rate. It has one of the biggest networks and partnerships with lounges in India and internationally.

Other Benefits

  • Welcome benefit to choose from 1,00,000 rewards points or get stay vouchers from Taj, SeleQtions and Vivanta Hotels worth INR 45,000.
  • 3X membership reward points on everything, every time you spend abroad.
  • 1 membership reward points for every INR 4,010 spent with your card.
  • Reward points never expire in American Express.
  • 5X membership reward points on every purchase through reward multiplier.
  • 50% off at partner restaurants in India with complimentary membership to EazyDiner Prime, complimentary drink, preferential reservations and a 24X7 VIP helpline.
  • Access to presale tickets seats in the house for concerts, Fashion Weeks, Grammy Awards, Wimbledon and more.
  • Platinum concierge service available 24×7 on call.
  • Coverage of INR 5 crore for death due to air accident, if your air ticket is bought on the platinum card.
  • Coverage of INR 50,000 in case of loss of checked-in baggage, passport or documents.
  • Overseas Medical Insurance for USD 50,000 for the first seven days of a trip.
  • Protection against loss, or damage of tangible goods within 90 days of purchase, caused by fire, burglary or natural calamities.
  • Fraud protection worth INR 15 lakh, single call to block all cards, emergency hotel and travel assistance up to INR 2 lakh and emergency cash in India.
Pros & Cons
  • Unlimited access to airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to domestic airport lounges.
  • Unlimited access to international lounges.
  • Airport pickups are chargeable.

Comparison of Airport Lounge Access Credit Cards


Credit Card Forbes Advisor Rating Annual Fee Domestic Lounge Visits International Lounge Visits LEARN MORE
Infinia Credit Card 5.0 5-removebg-preview INR 12,500 + 18% GST Unlimited Unlimited View More
Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card 5.0 5-removebg-preview INR 12,500 + 18% GST Unlimited Unlimited View More
Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card 4.5 4.5-removebg-preview INR 50,000 + 18% GST Unlimited Unlimited View More
Pioneer Heritage Metal Credit Card (Mastercard Version) 4.0 4-removebg-preview INR 1,80,000 + 18% GST(one time) Unlimited Unlimited View More
The American Express® Platinum Card 3.0 star-rating_3 INR 60,000 + 18% GST Unlimited Unlimited View More

Methodology of Choosing Credit Card with Airport Lounge Access

We have taken into consideration the following factors while rating the covered cards:

Number of Free International Lounge Visits: This is really important for us as it is the nucleus of the best of.

Number of Free Domestic Lounge Visits: Domestic lounges are equally important as international once hence an integral part of the best of.

Number of Partners the Provider Has: As credit cards partner with different companies to provide this particular service so more the partners more the number of lounges under the disposal of the users.

Other Services: Additional services are like garnishing and can make the service more comfortable and hence, what other services does a card offer.

Geographies: Cards catering universally have been considered.

How Does Airport Lounge Access Work?

One has to just show the credit card in an airport lounge to get admitted. In the case of a VIP lounge access the card holder is given assistance to go through airport processes, check-ins, security checks, immigration processes and porter services, and complimentary visits for accompanying guests as well.

There are cards with unlimited lounge access and others with limited lounge access. If it has unlimited lounge access then one can use the services an unlimited number of times, and ones with limited access within the limit, after that you will be charged like a normal visitor.

The process of accessing airport lounges may vary slightly depending on the lounge operator and your eligibility. Here’s how it generally works:

  • Not all Lounges are the Same: It’s important to note that not all airport lounges are the same. Premium credit cards may offer access to more luxurious lounges with additional amenities, while basic lounge access may provide fewer services. Always check the specific lounge access terms and conditions associated with your credit card or travel booking to understand what is included.
  • Find a Participating Lounge: Not all lounges at an airport participate in every lounge access program. You’ll need to check which lounges you can access based on your eligibility. You can often find this information on the website of your credit card provider or airline, or by asking at the airport information desk.
  • Check-In: When you arrive at the lounge, you’ll need to check in. This might involve showing your credit card, boarding pass, frequent flier card, or a lounge membership card, depending on your eligibility. The lounge staff will verify your credentials and grant you access.
  • Enjoy the Lounge: Once you’re inside, you can take advantage of the lounge’s amenities, which often include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, a variety of food and beverages (including alcohol in many cases), reading materials, and sometimes even showers and spa services. Lounges offer a peaceful and comfortable environment away from the crowded terminal.
  • Board Your Flight: Keep an eye on your flight’s departure time, as lounges typically announce when it’s time to board. Most lounges have flight information displays, so you can easily stay updated on your departure gate and time.
  • Departure: Head to your departure gate at the appropriate time. Some lounges are located near the departure gates, while others may require a bit of walking or using an airport shuttle.

How to Apply for a Credit Card that Offers Free Lounge Access?

To apply for a credit card that offers free lounge access, you can follow these steps:

Check Eligibility:

Review the eligibility criteria for the credit cards you are interested in. Credit card issuers typically require applicants to meet certain income and credit score requirements. Ensure that you meet these criteria before applying.

Apply Online or In Person:

Most credit card applications can be completed online through the issuer’s official website. Alternatively, you can apply in person at a local branch or over the phone. Fill out the application form with accurate personal and financial information.

Submit Required Documents:

Credit card applications may require you to submit supporting documents, such as proof of identity, address, and income. Be prepared to provide these documents to the issuer for verification.

Wait for Approval:

After submitting your application, the credit card issuer will review your information and conduct a credit check. This process may take a few days to a few weeks. You will receive a notification regarding the status of your application.

Review Card Terms and Benefits:

Once you are approved, carefully review the terms and conditions of the credit card, including the credit limit, annual fee, interest rates, and any other associated costs. Make sure you understand how the lounge access benefit works, including any associated terms and restrictions.

Activate Your Card:

Upon receiving the credit card, activate it by following the instructions provided by the issuer. You may need to call a customer service number or activate it online.

Register for Lounge Access:

To access airport lounges, you typically need to register with the lounge access program provided by your credit card. This might involve creating an account on the program’s website and linking your credit card to your lounge access membership.

Enjoy Lounge Benefits:

Once registered, you can access participating airport lounges by presenting your credit card and, in some cases, a boarding pass. Enjoy the lounge amenities, such as comfortable seating, refreshments, Wi-Fi, and other services, free of charge or at a heavily discounted rate.

Which Airport Lounge Access Credit Card is Right For You?

There are many factors to be taken into consideration, we will discuss all of them:

Number of lounge visits:

Some credit cards give just one visit in a quarter or two visits in a year, hence, low number of visits is not the best offer. We need to have an unlimited number of visits for frequent travelers. For people who are not very frequent travelers even 12 lounge visits can be of use.

Terms and conditions:

Some cards have terms and conditions for a lounge visit like one will have to spend some amount of money to get it, or will get just one visit in a quarter, these are the things which are not desirable.

International or Domestic:

One will have to see if both international and domestic lounges are available, because at times only one kind of lounge is available. Then some cards do not have an equal proportion of domestic and international lounge visits. You will have to check your requirements, if you travel abroad frequently you will need international lounges more and if you are traveling within India then one with domestic airport lounge visits (card will be comparatively cheaper) would be great.

Partners:

We also check the number of partnerships a card has done as the more the partner the better the availability in various locations, and partnering with a good lounge provider would mean comfortable services.

Benefits of Airport Lounge Access Credit Cards

Credit cards with lounge access are extremely important for people traveling. At times people while traveling have to wait for hours for their delayed flights at the airports. This can be tiring even before the real journey starts, in such cases if the person has access to an airport lounge can be of great use.

You can also purchase a day’s lounge access but it can cost up to $50. So, rather than spending this amount every time on lounge access one can get a credit card providing lounge access for the whole year at this rate.

Bottom Line

A credit card with lounge access can be a valuable choice for frequent travelers, offering a comfortable and cost-effective way to enhance the airport experience. Airport lounges provide a quiet and relaxing environment with amenities like complimentary food, beverages, Wi-Fi, and business facilities, making long layovers or delays more bearable. By actively utilizing lounge benefits and visiting lounges regularly, cardholders can enjoy significant savings on individual lounge access fees and added convenience during their travels.

Moreover, many of these cards come with additional benefits, including travel insurance, airline credits, and rewards programs that can further offset the annual fee and enhance the overall value of the card. Travelers can also extend these benefits to companions in some cases, making it an attractive option for those who often journey with family or friends. Ultimately, the decision to get a credit card with lounge access should be based on your travel habits and the value you can derive from the lounge amenities and associated perks.

Forbes Advisor adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. To the best of our knowledge, all content is accurate as of the date posted, though offers contained herein may no longer be available. The opinions expressed are the author’s alone and have not been provided, approved, or otherwise endorsed by our partners.

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Is there a credit card with no annual fee that comes with lounge access?

This is a premium facility, and usually expensive credit cards have it. But there are certain economical credit cards which provide you this facility at a very nominal fee. For more details please read our article with the name of, Best Credit Card.

Does adding an authorized user to my card hurt my credit score?

Do I use my credit card for lounge access?

How do I get free airport lounge access?

Are credit cards with lounge access worth the annual fee?

How do I check if my credit card has airport lounge access?

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