Be Alert: SBI Card, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank Revise Lounge Access, Fees, Rewards in January 2026

India has seen significant growth in air travel recently, and many of the passengers now prefer lounge access to avoid the bustling environment of the terminals. Eyeing this, leading card issuers such as SBI Card, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank have made significant changes to their debit and credit card programmes, including the way airport lounge access is provided.

The revisions also include spending limits, reward structures and fees.

SBI Card Expands Domestic Airport Lounge Access Network
The highlight of the SBI Card's revision is its domestic airport lounge access programme. Effective from January 10, 2026, cardholders gain access to a broader network of lounges across Indian airports.
The lounges have been clustered into Set A and Set B. Eligibility for access has been capped depending on the specific SBI credit card variant held by the customer. The move aims to capitalise on the passengers' tendency to enjoy the comfort and practicality of lounges amid bustling terminals and long waiting hours due to flight delays.

How Lounge Access Works for SBI Credit Card Holders
Currently, SBI Card customers can only access airport lounges once the lounge's point-of-sale machine validates their credit card. This procedure remains unchanged under the new programme.

The updated lounge access rules apply to SBI credit cards carrying annual fees of Rs. 1,499 and Rs. 2,999, where lounge access is facilitated through network partners appointed by the card issuer.

HDFC Bank Raises Spend Requirement for Debit Card Lounge Access
HDFC Bank has also revised its airport lounge access policy for debit card customers. With the new rules which came into force from January 10, 2026, the bank has intended to increase the spending requirement to get the complimentary lounge entry, as it effectively doubled the debit card spend threshold.

Under the banks' new voucher-based access system launched as part of the updated HDFC Bank Debit Cards Lounge Programme, eligible customers who meet the spending criteria would receive a voucher. Using this voucher, they can have access to the participating airport lounges. With the new system, the bank aims to simplify the process and improve the passenger's convenience.

The rules for ICICI Bank credit cards will change starting January 15, 2026
ICICI Bank has unveiled a flurry of changes to its credit card offerings, including rewards, benefits and select charges. You can check out the updated rates and conditions that will come into effect from January 15, 2026, here.

What Cardholders Should Do Now
With multiple changes being implemented across banks and different timelines in place, customers of SBI Cards, HDFC Bank, and ICICI Bank are advised to review the revised terms carefully. The updated rules may influence travel planning, spending habits and the overall value derived from debit and credit cards, particularly among frequent flyers.

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