Many people these days are chasing credit cards for lounge access and what most of them forget is that even debit cards can give them access to most domestic lounges in India. Mastercard in India is known for its generous lounge access program. Visa & Rupay also has affiliated lounges but not that popular as Mastercard for time being.
- Limited Period Offer: Get LIFETIME FREE Credit Card from IDFC First Bank with complimentary airport & Railway lounge access. Apply Now.
Debit Cards with Complimentary Airport Lounge Access in India
Most of the Mastercard debit cards issued by Private Banks like Axis bank, HDFC bank comes with minimum of 2 Lounge access per quarter. While debit cards are easy to get, it can also serve as a backup card for lounge access when your primary credit card doesn’t work, like i faced recently in Plaza Premium Lounge at Delhi Domestic Airport where there was a technical problem with Diners network.
Here are some of the popular Debit cards with complimentary lounge Access in India, as far as i know. There might be few that i have missed. Feel free to add them to the list by mentioning the card type/Bank in comments below.
Table of Contents
- 1. HDFC Jet Airways Debit Card
- 2. HDFC EasyShop Platinum Debit Card
- 3. HDFC Times Points Debit Card
- 4. Axisbank Prime Titanium Debit Card
- 5. Axis Priority Platinum Debit Card
- 6. ICICI Bank Coral Debit Card
- 7. SBI Platinum Debit Card
- 8. Paytm Rupay Debit Card
- 9. Indusind Signature Exclusive Debit Card
- 10. HDFC RuPay Premium Debit Card
1. HDFC Jet Airways Debit Card
- Variant: Mastercard
- Joining Fee: Rs.750+ST
- Limits: 2/Quarter
Do you travel domestic often? This is the hidden gem for Unlimited (changed to 2/Qtr) lounge access.
2. HDFC EasyShop Platinum Debit Card
- Variant: Mastercard
- Joining Fee: Free (for Preferred/Imperia Accounts)
- Limits: 2/Quarter
I’ve this card on Mastercard Platform with HDFC Preferred Banking and it works fairly well. Note that the regular Visa variant may-not get you the access.
3. HDFC Times Points Debit Card
- Variant: Mastercard
- Joining Fee: Free
- Limits: 1/Quarter
A very much hyped debit card. It has no big value than just name and shining looks.
4. Axisbank Prime Titanium Debit Card
- Variant: Mastercard
- Joining Fee: Rs.500+ST
- Limits: 2/Quarter
I’ve this card and it passes well. I prefer to use this whenever available because they’re charging me a Debit card fee and I want them to pay for something on my behalf. 😀
5. Axis Priority Platinum Debit Card
- Variant: Mastercard
- Joining Fee: Free for Priority Customers
- Limits: 2/Quarter
The card is free for Priority Customers. Axis cards all look almost similar, Pinkish.
6. ICICI Bank Coral Debit Card
- Variant: Mastercard (Visa variant may have issues)
- Joining Fee: Rs.599+Tax
- Limits: 2/Quarter
My friend used this coral debit card couple of times and it works pretty well.
7. SBI Platinum Debit Card
- Variant: Visa/Mastercard
- Joining Fee: Rs.300+Tax
- Limits: 2/Quarter
SBI Usually issues the Classic debit card by default, so if you want this variant, you need to place a request for the same.
8. Paytm Rupay Debit Card
- Variant: Rupay
- Joining Fee: ~Rs.120
- Limits: 2/Quarter
One of the cheapest way to access airport lounges. But, may not be accepted everywhere.
9. Indusind Signature Exclusive Debit Card
- Variant: Visa Signature
- Joining Fee: Rs.299+ST
- Limits: 2/Quarter
I’ve used this card personally and it works fine. Though Visa lounges are limited in India. Remember, this comes only with Indusind Exclusive account.
10. HDFC RuPay Premium Debit Card
- Variant: Rupay
- Joining Fee: Rs.150+ST
- Limits: 2/Quarter
A decent one. If you’ve HDFC A/c, you may ask the bank to issue Rupay card instead of their regular debit card.
Here are few more cards: ICICI Wealth Management Debit card, Citi Gold Debit card, Yes First Debit card, SBI Wealth Card.
Pro Tips:
- Always prefer Mastercard over Visa as the number of affiliated lounges in Mastercard is higher than Visa.
- You can know the free access available on your Mastercard by calling ‘MasterCard For You’ toll free helpline: 1800-102-6263 (Visa donot have such toll free no.)
I’ve visited most of the domestic departure Airport lounges affiliated with Mastercard and Visa and you can find the list below along with the reviews of each 🙂
Overall, lounge access is a great feature on debit cards, only downside is that it has access only to lounges located in India. You have to rely on credit cards for International Lounge access. Check out 15 best credit cards for complimentary lounge access.
Have you used your debit card for lounge access? Feel free to share your views in comments below.
Idfc signature debit card 2 / quarter
Have u used this card for lounge access??what is your experience? In my brochure it is written that only soft drinks are allowed,not meal/food.i hve not used till now
Hdfc Titanium Debit Card also entitles you for 2 visits per quarter. Keeping in mind that the yearly fees is just 250rs(excluding taxes), its a bang for the lounge access it offers, compared to titanium royale whose annual fees is rs500(almost double the annual fees of titanium and also offers 2 visits/quarter). HDFC regulated the number of visits per card this year. Last year, titanium card allowed its customers to avail unlimited visits per year and as i was a frequent domestic and international traveller i had used this card almost 15 times in domestic terminals as well as international terminals in indian airports.
15 Times, hah cool. Great man!
Hi Siddharth!
Thanks for your exhaustive knowledge and inputs provided by you, I always visit your site for checking various facilities provided by HDFC Bank on their Credit & Debit Cards. I hold the HDFC Regalia Credit & Platinum Debit Cards due to having a Priority Account with them. I have made extensive use of these cards and whenever I have any doubts regarding certain privileges, I look up your site for clarification because you update you site regularly.
I’m currently using ICICI Coral Debit Card which offers 2 free lounge access per quarter. I have a few queries:
1. Unlimited lounge access is available on HDFC Jet Airways DEBIT Card only or also on HDFC Jet Airways Credit Cards?
2. If it is available on HDFC Jet Airways Credit Cards also, which one would be a wise choice (among Diners/World/Platinum/Titanium) for a frequent domestic traveller?
3. I already owe 2 credit cards. Will addition of 1 or 2 more credit cards adversely affect my CIBIL score?
4. If u were asked to choose only 1 card based on lounge access facility, which one would you go for?
Lots qns, less info. Domestic or intl? Simply put Diners Black would serve all purpose except acceptance. Its all in the matter of eligibility.
Domestic.
Sir I have PNB International debit Card Master Card and PNb world Travel Master Card
Can I Use in Airport Lounge in india or abroad also
Sir,I have an IOB platinum debit card and at the bottom it says Rupay debit card ,can I access international lounge facilities ?
Yes u can
Simple….go for paytm rupay debit card. It also gives you 2 visit per quarter and charges only 125 per year.
Paytm platinum rupay debit card not have this offer from 1st January 2020
Siddharth,
Thanks for the article, I always love your assessments and these days I’m regularly watching out for ur new posts ?. By the way HDFC platinum card does it have MasterCard variant?I think it’s discontinued. Also when u contact HDFC by mail which mail Iu usually interact?
They have it for preferred & imperial customers. Am not sure about plain Platinum card.
HDFC email: talktous [at] hdfcbank [DOT] com
Am preferred customer and am.using platinum MC variant.
Srinivas,
Did you request for MC variant specifically? I think Visa card is given by default to all.
Does HDFC Imperia Visa Debit Card also comes with lounge access ?
It should be, obviously. Just ask for MasterCard Variant.
Hey Sid,
Thanks for the wonderful article.
Are above stated ICICI Debit card free? Coz on sites all of them are fee variant. Any trick to get them for free?
No Deepankar, they’re chargeable. Some Rs.500 or so.
Found this info on HDFC website…thought it worth-sharing:
Effective 15th June’16 , MasterCard is revising complimentary Lounge Access Program that allows customers to Clipper lounges at airports across India. The revised Mastercard Lounge Access Program limits are as below:
JetPrivilege Debit Card – Unlimited
Platinum Debit Card / Business Debit Card – 4 per Quarter
Titanium / Titanium Royale Debit Card – 2 per Quarter
Gold / Regular / Maestro Debit Card – No Lounge Access
The program is applicable till 31st Dec.2016.
I had bad experience with HDFC Regalia Credit card with Priority Pass. From 27th May,2017, they are charging USD 27.00 + GST per person for all access to domestic airport lounge in India. Kindly aware of this information.
We know it. U can use the card itself for free lounge access rather than using PP in domestic lounges.
Dear sir,
Can you suggest credit or debit cards against which free access to National and International lounge access allowed.
T D Bhatia
Syndicate Bank master card also acceptted
Hello Siddharth ji
Is EasyShop Imperia Platinum Chip Debit Card and EasyShop Platinum Debit card same in terms for Lounge Access program?
Thank You
Yes it is, but as i mentioned in the post, they’re actually not mentioning the visits left when checked from MC IVR. There might be some soft corner for Imperia card. So always try to get it if you’re into Imperia. 🙂
Is it cardholder plus 1?
Also is f&b covered
Everything will be covered
Suggest me a SBI one, which offers lounge access in dubai airport also pls
Not avail on SBI cards.
sbi PLATINUM CARD has lounge access.
i have use it personally
Yes SBI Platinum debit card from Mastercard has 2 complimentary visits per quarter and I have used it in Kolkata airport
Sir,
Does they charge for using the lounge
What about visa platinum and global MasterCard ?
Is 2 per quarter is still available for SBI platinum debit card?
Is the CSB platinum debit card is acceptable in airport lounges?
Hi Siddharth,
You have mentioned that all the ICICI debit cards(Coral/Rubyx/Sapphiro) have 0 joining fees. But the ICICI website shows joining and annual fees of these cards in the range of Rs 500-2000. Am I missing something ??
Thanks in advance !!
Apologies Rajesh,
I missed it somehow. Just updated the info.
No Citibank cards covered? At least the Platinum one I have works at Bangalore Premium Plaza lounge.
No idea as i don’t hold one. Thanks for the info 🙂
I have hdfc easy shop platinum international Debit card visa variant which comes free with my salary account. It gives me 1% Cashback for all online and offline spend. But no free lounge access. As u told that Mastercard variant gives lounge access, I want to ask if it also has similar 1% Cashback on all spends offer?
Yes, it has 1% cashback offer too.
My Husband have HDFC Diners Premium credit card which have airport lounge access to other countries as well. If we apply for an add on card for me, will i be getting the complimentary lounge access as well on the add on card? If yes, will we be able to avail that for both of us when traveling together?
No, its only for primary card. You can better change that card to Regalia and get Add-on Priority Pass for you to avail lounge access.
Hi Siddharth,
I have followed your blog for sometime and it is fantastic, but this is the first time I am posting.
I wouldnt advise swapping Diners for Regalia cos of the point structure, also with Regalia you have max 12 access in a year. In case Ms. Singla’s husband travels very often, it may be a disadvantage. Better option would be to upgrade if possible to DC Black and explore possibility of some other non-HDFC card (Master World or Visa Signature variant) which allows 2/Qtr access. (as HDFC doesnt give two premium cards)
Regards
I called HDFC Customer care today and they informed me that the lounge access for their debit cards are closed from Jan 1st. 🙁
That’s sad to know. I’ll get it confined as well to update the article.
Yes please. I have the HDFC Easyshop Platinum Visa variant and I called customer care to change it to Mastercard variant. They asked for the reason and I told mainly for lounge access. But they told lounge access is not available now.
But strange thing is that I used my wife’s HDFC Titanium Royale card in Plaza Premium bangalore 2 days back as well and it worked.
Could it be that they will charge the lounge access to your account at the end of the present quarter that is March/April?
Hi Siddharth,
I hold “HDFC EasyShop Titanium” debit card. I called the Mastercard helpline and got to know it has got 2 free visits. But I’m not sure if it is per quarter or yearly?
Anyway, I’m of thinking of upgrading to platinum version of this card.
Its quarterly 🙂
Hi Siddharth
Thanks for this fantastic blog, it’s really helpful.
After reading your blog, I check the HDFC site and found out that Jet DC and Easyshop Business Debit Card are providing free domestic lounge access in some cities. I then called CC and confirmed from them and they told me the same.
But i still have my doubts, as the website shows valid till 31/12/2016, although CC told me that ignore this and it will be updated with time. Also I am not sure if I can specifically ask for MC variant as i am applying through Netbanking and it doesn’t give any option to select the agency.
What are your advice mate?
I want to go for free card and Business one comes free for me whereas the JET DC charges me 500/- plus ST.
I don’t need unlimited lounge access as i already have a few cards which also provide me lounge access in domestic airport and for International lounges i have Priority Pass.
Slightly off topic, do you have any idea if Regalia Card (and Regalia First Card) provide lounge access in itself? (Not with Priority Pass)
Thanks
Amit
Amit,
Thanks for the kinds words.
1. Yes, go ahead with the free Biz card.
2. Yes, Regalia gives lounge access by itself apart from PP.
Thanks for the reply mate and sorry for late response as i was away so wasn’t able to check the blog.
By the way, I have applied for change in franchise from MC to VISA as VISA Signature Card by itself is offering 2 free Domestic Lounge Access per quarter whereas MC is offering only one.
Also I have got a Jet Privilege Card, as it is free for first year to me i will use it for that time and then hot-list it before they charge me for it and then choose an appropriate card again.
I have applied for the Business Card as well, on my current account. And am waiting to get my hands on it, hopefully I’ll get it before 14th so that i will be able to check if it works or not on 15th itself and will update here.
Thanks again
Amit
Great, keep us updated 🙂
Lounge access Limit of two per quarter is set by most of the low end credit cards. If I have two Visa cards issued by ICICI and Stan chart banks. will they restrict the limit to two visits on both the cards or it will be available two visits per card. I heard from some one Visa tries to restrict two visits per qtr on all the visa cards.
Its per card basis as far as i’ve experienced.
My citibank platinum card has unlimited lounge access.
Unlimited? Debit card? are you sure?
Yes. That’s what the customer care guy told me. I’ve asked him twice if he is sure and he said yes.
Which variant. Details please?
Mastercard variant
Hi Siddhath,
Does ICICI Bank’s Gold Visa Platinum Debit card entitle the holder for free domestic airport lounge access?
If yes,how to get it enabled as customer care executives dont not even know about it.
I don’t think it has.
Any offer on Axis Bank SIGNATURE credit card?
Which sbi debit card accept in visa access lounge?
I don’t think any of the SBI debit cards provide free lounge access
Hi,
Firstly, Siddharth I want to convey to you that I really enjoy your articles. They have given me so much information and made me realise what’ll I had been missing all this time by using the wrong cards. I thank you for that!
Do you know if HDFC Jet Airways Debit Card still have unlimited lounge access? I did not find details on the website. If so I am planning to get a new HDFC back account, use it as my salary account and ask HDFC for this card.
Also anything good about Deutsche Bank cards? I currently have my salary account there. I asked them for a debit card that gave me lounge access and they suggested me to use an AMEX card. 😀
Btw, I have an AMEX Gold Charge Card but find out equally useless. No lounge access even with a 5k+ of annual fee.
Thank you for your kind words Raj.
Yes, you get Unlimited Domestic Lounge access on HDFC Jet Airways Debit Card 🙂
Cool thanks! As you must have read about my failed over- ambitious attempt to get a free Diners Club Black card, now I am going to ask them for the Jet Airway debit card. Don’t think I will get it for free but 1000+ taxes is a reasonable amount for unlimited domestic lounge access. ?
Ah well, you can get Jet Debit card easily, you’ll win this time 😉
And yes, its a great card for domestic lounge access.
I just got to know that HDFC Easyshop Platinum debit card(Mastercard variant) offers 5 visits per quarter. I currently have a visa variant of Platinum debit card. I want to change it to mastercard variant. When i called the customer care, they said that it is not possible to change the variant. Is the variant change possible? What form of communication and to whom will enable me to get me this request processed?
Process the request via Branch. It can’t be done online or via Phone Banking.
Anuj,
Where did you get the information regarding the Lounge visits ? I have the Master Card variant. Checked with the CC and was told it does not have any Lounge access.
Did u check with the Mastercard CC for lounge visits?
Came to know via a friend and also a post in ‘HDFC rupay premium card’ topic confirmed it. But now the branch ppl are saying that mastercard variant platinum debit card does not have lounge access(they confirmed it internally). So, I myself am not sure now. Instead getting HDFC rupay premium card now for lounge visit access.
Bad news of the day. PayTM has put a 2% charge on CC loading of wallet. Just when I thought I could start gaming the system….
Regards
Hi indeed paytm is charging the fee but only on add money transactions ! If u purchase a product , may be an expensive one via credit card in paytm website and then immediately cancel it, u will be still able to reap the benefits of reward points
I just called customer service. Have a HDFC EasyShop Platinum Debit Card, they categorically told me there is no Lounge Access available on the card and will not be able to use it. I will have to upgrade for other cards in case i would like to avail the same.
Please clarify ….. thanks
Sorry forgot to mention its a Mastercard variant for above
Hey Sid,
I have put in a request for upgrade to Jet Debit card, however my RM told that the lounge access has been discontinued now.
Is it possible to validate this? (been hearing about this from a lot of sources), but I’ll take your word.
Thanks
Sat,
Its less likely to happen, though i couldn’t confirm as i don’t hold one. Everything appears to be fine as no one reported about it so far.
Sid,
Thanks for your prompt response.
I will use this and update you.
Also, HDFC has only version of Jet debit card right?
And do you know if it is totally (joining + annual) free for preferred customers.
Thanks
Updated list of Lounges is available on HDFC bank Website and I also confirmed for Easy Shop Platinum MC variant with MC CC it says it has 4 access per Quarter.
Hey Sid , An Update ICICI Bank Master Card World Debit card also Allows 2 Visit Per Quarter, I Personally used it on cochin Earth Lounge.
Regards
Varun
Nice, What’s special with this card? is it an older one?
Hi, I too was about to enquire with you about this card but looks like you’ve just learnt about it as well. I have the ICICI world debit mastercard as well, it is free for life for ICICI wealth customers. And I’m looking for a more concrete confirmation of free lounge visits on this. But maybe you can answer this for me in the meanwhile – if the bank offers two free visits per quarter, would those by default be the MasterCard affiliated lounges or the bank would decide which of the mastercard lounges it is (vs. all of them). Thanks.
Hey Card Connoisseurs, Siddharth sir
I’m looking for better card than my ICICI sapphiro credit card which offered free “priority pass” but every visit is chargeable
I’ve used “priority pass” extensively in the past for my international travel & know most of the lunges accepting across globe. However if my intent is free lounge access at least ONCE A QUARTER (international/domestic) which credit card should I go for?
Mainly for international lounge access (free entry at east once a quarter)
Also I’m not sure if ACCEPTANCE is more for priority pass or is there any better option which could be with MC variant of whatever cards you guys suggest.
HDFC Regalia (or) Regalia First will help you with international lounge access. Check the respective reviews 🙂
Hi Sid, Great to learn the various queries you respond ! Well, I want to know couple of things;
1) My HDFC Easyshop Debit card got damaged and I am going to replace my card with fresh one. Will I get the same eligibility which I used to get in my older card ? Especially, the airport lounge access ?
2) I will have some time stay at Mumbai International Airport (T2) for my flight transfer. It will be Jet Airways Domestic Arrival and domestic departure from T2. In the meantime, I’ll prefer to spend time at lounge. Do I get the access there ?
thanks,
Mandaar
1. Yes, you’ll get the same.
2. Yes, you can. Mastercard recently tied up with this lounge (T2 Domestic Departure)
Have fun! 🙂
is complimentary access transferable ? my wife can use my card to get access to the lounges? also does child( age 3) has to pay extra?
Hi Anish generally the benefits are non transferable ! The name in the card and the boarding pass should match ideally ! I was lucky to get through once but was rejected the access at Mumbai T2 once when I was using my wife’s card
Hello
I have used ICICI Sapphiro debit cards on New Delhi, and Mumbai airport lounges and 2 per quarter have no hassles.
Good to know!
Hello ,
Please also note that the Sapphiro debit card of ICICI bank as mentioned in your post is VISA card and not Mastercard.
Thanks for noting it, updated the same.
Sapphiro Visa debit card has 4 free accesses per quarter not 2. The joining fee of 2k is more than compensated by vouchers and the lounge visits (16 per year).
Hello,
I have the HDFC easy platinum debit card (MasterCard variant). Is the 4 visits per quarter still applicable? I checked on the HDFC site and it seems that this card can get access to the tied up lounges till December ’17. I plan to use this soon, but the information here has confused me.
Hi i have diners club premium credit card and get unlimited access in various domestic airport lounges.. However while traveling within India through Mumbai International Airport T2, both the longues there don’t accept diners card.. Its only accepted in the longue on international departure side and not on domestic side..
How come you havent mentioned standard chartered debit card? I have a priority SC debit card which is 4 free access per year.
Hey Siddharth , in love with your articles !! Thoroughly, superlative analysis boy!! Keep up the good work brother . Btw just wanted to inform you that I have a yes first ŵØřŁÐ debit card which I received as a bundle in my yes bank current account ! I enjoy 3 complimentary domestic lounge access per quarter at a nominal fee of rs 25 per visit ! Thanks and regards
Thanks and have a good time with Yes first World debit card!
This Rs. 25 is only for authorisation and gets reversed usually
policy has changed the program for HDFC cards is now curtailed severly…
HDFC has drastically changed the MC lounge access program. WEF from 15 june 2017, only Jet Airways DC, Platinum DC and Times Point DC are eligible for the program. And the worst part is they have cut the visits sharply. For jet airways DC they have reduced the lounge visits from unlimited to 2/quarter, for platinum, 4 to 2/quarter. Seriously planning to move to rupay dc. It is widely accepted in India and has a ridiculously low annual fee plus the same 2/quarter free visits. The only reason why I was holding a platinum DC was for its generous 4 visits/ quarter limit. If you are a transit passenger you can make use of this feature very well. Guess HDFC does not like its customers to use all of the features it provides. So they are reverting back like a coward. Cheap move HDFC… cheap move…
Typically the reason is, our aviation industry is booming and India is now 3rd largest aviation market in domestic air passenger traffic. All these leads to more passengers and with blogs like this, lounge concept is getting viral and so MasterCard/Visa is loosing a lot of money on this. Hence they put more limits to reduce the free usage 🙂
Hi Siddharth,
Thank you for such insightful info on Debit Cards with Complimentary Airport Lounge Access.
I was surprised to find out that I have few of these cards but have never used them for lounge access.
Can you let me know what do I need to do to get such access? Do I need to directly go to the Lounge (say jet airways) and flash my Axis Priority Platinum Debit Card? Are there any more formalities?
I would eagerly await your reply.
Regards,
Bhaskar Dutta
Just flash it, they’ll swipe and you’re good to go 🙂
Hello Siddharth,
I am using Axis Bank Titanium Prime credit card (Mastercard) do i have access to lounges in airport?
Siddharth,
My family members also have Axis bank Priority Debit card but it being delivered as an Instant kit ,their names are not there in the Debit card. Will it be still acceptable in the lounge or Do we have to provide any ID proof ?
Thanks,
Mouli
Should be fine. The authorization paper anyways will have the name.
Hey,
Can you please update the article with the new rules and prices(joining fee). Would be of real help, thank you.
And I read at several places that these offers have a validity (like till 31st dec 2017 for mastercard). Will they renew it after that? Can you please mention that as well in the article?
Hi Sid
Great job!! No one gives better info than you.
My parents are travelling to Australia via Singapore. My father has an HDFC Regalia CC. He doesn’t have PP. Will he +1 be allowed free access in Singapore on Regalia card, without PP?
Regards
Ved
Thanks for the kind words Ved.
Sadly not, you would need a PP for intl lounge access.
Does the IDFC debit card have easy complementary lounge access too? For domestic purposes? Does anyone have hands-on experience with IDFC debit card?
yes it has.
Hi,
Does the SBI Platinum Mastercard Debit Card have access to Domestic Lounges ? How many access per year / qtr ?
And does the HDFC Jet Privilege World Debit Card still have unlimited domestic lounge access or there is now a limit ?
Thank you.
Just an update the SBI Platinum Mastercard Debit Card has 2 visits per qtr and the HDFC Jet Privilege World Debit Card also has 2 visits per qtr.
What about the visa variant ?
Hey!
Does SBI Platinum Debit card allow domestic lounge access?
Hi Siddharth,
Really appreciate your work.
I just need one information regarding my HDFC Diners CC.
# Do I need any priority pass for Diners CC like Regalia or I just need to show the card at the lounge ?
Thanks in Advance.
Just card works!
Hi Siddharth,
Thanks a ton for your quick response.
My wife has HDFC Signature card. Does she get access with that card? If not, how much I need to pay for her & my daughter ?
One more thing, while swiping the card do I receive any notification on my mobile or email ?
Thanks in Advance.
Hi Siddharth,
Hope you are doing fine.
Does AGL lounge in b`lore allow complimentary access to the guest accompanying the Diners Club CC holder or need to pay 27$ ?
Regards,
Snehasis Dutta
Guest = Payable
on all Indian issues cards.
Thanks for the information Siddharth.
Based on the below link I got to know that the Lounges in B`lore airport operates between 5 AM – 11 PM except AGL which is located at International Terminal: East Pier (24 hrs).
If the above information is true, then can I have access in International Terminal: East Pier with a domestic flight ticket as I have a layover at night only.
Regards,
Snehasis
HDFC Signature credit card has visa lounge access. You get a message on the mobile when card is swiped on machine. You can request to allow your daughter to get in, if she is small, otherwise lounge access charge is $27.
Dear Prashant,
Thanks a lot for your valuable response.
Hi Siddharth,
Great information on your website. appreciate your work.
However some correction need on this post.
MasterCard have updated their complementary lounge access on HDFC cards post june 15th 2017.
Basically, now it’s max 2 free access per quarter on JetPrivilege, Platinum, Business and Times Point debit cards and none on others.
Updated. Thanks 🙂
Hi siddharth,
I am using HDFC Imperia Platinium visa chip debit card, just wanted to know do I have lounge access at Mumbai Airport?
Visa? Then no in T2.
HDFC has revised their lounge program for JetPrivilege World Debit Card from unlimited to 2/Quarter effective 15th June 17. Kindly update the information on the page.
The Travel Club Lounge at Mumbai (T2) weren’t accepting Visa or Mastercard on 8th July. They said they had just got information not to accept Visa or Mastercard. Don’t know if this is temporary or permanent .
i have hdfc easyshop platinum visa debit card. so does this have free access to airport lounge in india
Yes. 2/quarter
Hi Devansh,
hdfc easyshop platinum VISA variant also has the free access to airport lounge?? I know mastercard variant has it but not sure about VISA variant.
Hi Siddharth,
My father having two cards
SBI Gold international master card and SBI master card
is these are valid for lounge access?
Thanks
Just an update,
SBI Platinum Mastercard Debit Card also has lounge access. 2 visits/qtr
HDFC EasyShop Platinum Debit Card (MasterCard) is discontinuing free lounge access from Aug 15, confirmed by HDFC call centre executive.
I doubt that. They just revised it on 15th june.
That’s wrong info!
I have hdfc times platinum credit card and icici coral debit card. I mostly travel 2 times a quarter and use both the cards for my wife and me . Also with my 2 kids. Never had any problem in any airport so far. Hdfc platinum has 4 times per quarter and icici has 2
Hi Sid,
As your dad is having HDFC Times Points Debit card, Can u elaborate a little bit about its rewards value?
Thanks
Hi Siddarth, Can you confirm the info posted by Mr.Ram, ‘HDFC EasyShop Platinum Debit Card (MasterCard) is discontinuing free lounge access from Aug 15’ i was planning for an upgrade, do let me know if i should consider it.
No. that was wrong. Its only revised to 2/qtr on most cards.
Siddharth,
I had Royale Titanium debit card from 3 years and was happy with 1% cashback and lounge access. But sadly it doesnt have lounge access anymore.
I was planning to upgrade to Easy shop Platinum card. Is the lounge offer applicable on MC and Visa both or just MC?
MC only!
Hi Sidd,
Thank you for maintaining this website with most useful information.
I have HDFC EasyShop Platinum Debit Card (MasterCard) and Diners club card , do I have access any lounge at Mumbai T2 domestic terminal?
This is regarding questions about SBI Platinum Visa Debit Card: I have used it at least twice in the past for lounge access for a friend. However, this was before 2016, so I do not know the latest.
Master card world debit card from ICICI bank also has airport lounge access. I think it’s 1 per quarter and you get the Debit card free with ICICI wealth management account
Any lounge access in Mumbai International airport T2 in Domestic terminal for HDFC EasyShop Platinum Master Debit Card.
i am using hdfc easy shop platinum card , this card is not valid to visa lounge programe i have used delhi , chennai, airports but not offer found, please give me a list of valid debit card
I hold Citibank Platinum MasterCard and it has unlimited lounge access to MasterCard affiliated lounges I talked to Master Card helpline and they told me that it can be swiped any number of times to MasterCard affiliated lounges.
Though this card is only available to a few customers, not all but its worth adding to the list.
I can confirm what Pankaj said. The customer care guy told the same and I also verified it.
For cards with limited number of visits, the machine displays the number of free limits pending. Last time I swiped my citibank mastercard platinum, it showed the remaining visits as not applicable confirming that it is unlimited.
The same was the case with “HDFC Preferred Easyshop Platinum Mastercard” too. It doesnt say any limit earlier.
But now they have put the limits.
hey,
so i was denied lounge access on my HDFC easyshop Titanium Royale debit card in September 2017. i have been using this card earlier.
has it been discontinued from the program. if yes, then what do you recommend as way ahead?
Hi.. Thanks for sharing your valuable experience here.. I have DCB BANK business platinum visa debit card can I get free access to domestic airport lounges. and if you have visa card helpline number plz share.
Thanks for the informative piece Sidharth. Does anyone know the special card code for HDFC Imperia Platinum MasterCard variant? The local branch here insists such a card cannot be issued but my Imperia RM confirmed this card exists. Because he’s in a different city this branch is unwilling to cooperate
Hi Siddharth,
Your knowledge of Lounge access is very vast and valuable for all of us . Thanks for the efforts you take . I wanted to know does Citibank titanium master card allow free access to Lounge access India if yes how many times .
Hi,
Can you pls. tell the no of limits of access for below cards.
1. HDFC easyshop platinum debitcard-mastercard
2. HDFC regalia credit card-visa
3. Priority pass
4. ICICI coral visa debit card
5. Axis bank prime visa debit card
6. SBI classic mastercard debit card
7. Indusind Gold visa debit card
8. Indusind aura visa credit card
How to get a free debit card or credit card for my wife so that we both can access lounge for free when we travel together. I’ve regalia credit card & priority pass card. She has account in SBI. Should I open a account in HDFC or ICICI to get any debit cards for her.
Does Platinum Debit Card Master card variant from any bank provide free lounge access?
Hi
Anyone have an idea which lounge is there at Raipur? Also which card can be used to get access to this lounge?
Amex gold card (i think all variants – i hold the corporate c ard) allows you access to the lounge at a discounted rate of 50%. I recently used it in the Chennai domestic lounge for Rs.500.
Hello Sid,
Got a mail from ICICI bank, they have changed ICICI coral debit card visits from 2 to 1 free per quarter.
Kindly update the change !
After devaluation of HDFC world jet card, being a classic customer, which card should I apply for? I currently have titanium royale.
Just now spoke to HDFC CC. As per them only jet privilege debit card has the lounge access and ru pay card eligibility will be decided by the branch.
And I am confused.
Dear Sidharth,
Please guide me if minor children accompanying parents are allowed in the lounges in India and abroad ?
Me and my wife both have separate master cards as well as priority pass.
Hi Sid
Could you please review DBS treasures debit card? Reading a lot of mentions about it.
Will look into it Aman.
Hi Sid, nice article. Your posts are very useful and informative, thanks for sharing. I would also like to suggest to add two cards in this category which I am holding and used. 1st, ICICI bank wealth debit card and Yes First debit card (both are master card ‘world’ variant and without any yearly fee). Although I like the ICICI one more as they provide me better service.
Thanks. Just added them 🙂
Indusind also has a Mastercard equivalent for the Signature Exclusive, they call it World Exclusive. The perks so far seem the same, along with the longer lounge list from Mastercard, it seemed perfect. I was upgrading from the PLatinum exclusive to signature when I noticed this. The upgrade option was not available online though, I had to contact my Relationship manager for it.
I am not able to see airport lounge updated list from Master card for 2018. Have they extended their lounge access program for 2018 or this program is cancelled.
Anybody used their master card for free Airport lounge access in 2018.
I just recently got my hands on the HDFC Easy Shop Platinum VISA Variant.. Do I get complimentary access to lounges or is it only available to Mastercard variant..
You will not get complimentary access to lounges through HDFC Easy Shop Platinum VISA Variant. Is only available to MasterCard Variant.
Yes, used Yes Bank Mastercard (credit card) on 5th Jan 2018 for Earth lounge free access at Cochin.
Dear Sid
I recently opened Yes First savings account and got YES First Mastercard World debit card. As Yes bank has tie up with mastercard only, so no need to worry about getting issued Visa card. Box was as good as it can be.
Though I don’t own any Yes bank CC as they don’t issue CC in UP, I bet the box I recd better than even Yes First CC box, as it contained a beautiful Leather card organiser also. And the card is no less beauty with embossed details. I will share the box look with you shortly.
Regarding the benefits this YES First debit card should stay right at the top of your list considering the following benefits–
1. 3 lounge access per qtr
2. Complementary 1 pm golf course access n lessons
3. LTF
4. Fuel fee waiver. Not limited to 1%
5. Demat annual maintenance charges waived
6. High chances of approval of YES First CC
and many more.
Reward points percentage is nothing to write much. Its very less.
Only thing is that they ask for 5 lacs cheque while opening the YES First ac and you have to maintain it at minimum that level to enjoy these benefits.
I will give more details once I use it in future.
Yes, its a very good debit card. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Hello sir……. i am having a regalia forex master card….. so can i use it on domestic delhi lounges without pp.
Hi Sid,
Recently I received Rupay Platinum Debit card with PayTm Bank account.
I was charged Rs.120 for it.
As per NPCI website I am eligible for 2visits/qrt.
If yes, then it will be the cheapest and easy to get debit card.
Will use and let you know.
paytm is not participating bank with NPCI, i tried it, it does not have access. In the NPCI website “RuPay Platinum Debit Card holder/s of participating banks/s are eligible to avail of airport lounge access program.”
Paytm Card worked for me at Plaza Premium Lounge Delhi.
Sahil, I was denied access on use of my PAYTM Debit card at Plaza Premium Lounge, Bangalore on the 30th of March. Any extra steps/sms to be sent to activiate the Lounge facilities ?
Hello,
I used my PayTM Debit card at MALS Terminal 2 on 19/09/2018.
19 Sep
2:15 PM
Paid in store using debit card
Paid successfully at: DREAMFOLKS SERVICES P MUMBAI MHIN
Using: RuPay debit card
– ₹2.00
RuPay Platinum debit cards issued by HDFC bank and Bank of India worked ok for access in Bangalore, Mumbai and Pune airport lounges as of 1st week of March 2018. But Rupay debit cards from IDBI and Corporation Bank didnt work. The staff in the bank branches didnt have a clue when I requested for Rupay cards. Maybe they didnt write proper code for premium card in the application form and I got the wrong variant.
Just check if the term “PLATINUM” is mentioned on your card. Offer is valid on only on the Platinum variant. (not on Classic variant)
Issuance of Axis Bank Titanium Prime debit card has been discontinued now.
Citibank debit card also provide unlimited domestic lounge Access.
I had a short trip to Nagpur Int Airport and when returning I was checking for lounges. however, My Diners, Visa, Master and Amex do not show any list (for Nagpur) in all variant cards.
I had an office canteen food of Rs 28/ thali, thinking no luck in Nagpur tour and Seated for 2 hours outside security check-in. Surprisingly to find that only Rupay Platinum debit/credit and priority pass is only eligible for access two lounges.
I was surprised to see that even Raipur, Guwahati, Dehradun and many more lounges are partnered with Rupay Cards.
Hi Siddharth, wanted to know that is there any debit card which is offered by SBI that provides Airport Lounge Access.
Even wanted a suggestion regarding which debit card to avail for in order to get unlimited lounge access.
Looking forward to your reply.
Hello,
I am travelling to Kuala Lumpur from Mumbai and then from KL to Singapore and then from Singapore to Phuket and back to Mumbai from Phuket itself. I hold following debit/credit cards, can you please enlighten me how to use Lounge access facility available on my cards? Is there any charge for food, shower, etc things if I get access? Is it available to departure or arrival as well? Thanks in advance!
Cards I hold –
1. SBI Unnati Mastercard credit card
2. ICICI Coral Visa Debit Card
3. ICICI Platinum Visa Credit Card
4. Digibank by DBS Visa Debit Card
5. Insta Easy Visa Credit card by Axis bank
PS – This is my first international visit, so any help is appreciated.
Is there any free access to domestic airport lounge offered by kotak mahindra bank. Thnks in advance
Hi Sid,
I have Axis bank Burgundy account.Plannig a
international trip. What are all the things I by to
do for free access to international lounge.
Thanks in advance.
Dear Siddharth,
I will be traveling to Cairo, Nairobi, Dubai VIA New Delhi along with my 15 year old son. would need lounge access at New Delhi, Cairo and Nairobi. I have the following credit cards cards
VISA Platinum Axis Bank My Zone Credit card
VISA Platinum IndusInd Card
VISA Platinum BOBCARDS
Mastercard Platinum RBL Bank Super Card
which card can be used during my travel with access for both my son and me otherwise suggest what card will be suitable for the trip.
Thanks
Siddhartha Ray
Hello,
None of the cards you mentioned have lounge access facility even in India.
For international lounge access, you would need priority pass which comes with premier credit cards. Even if you have that Lounge access for your son will be chargeable
hi Siddharth.
been following your blog on recommendation from uncle.
so I just joined my first job.
they are offering hdfc times reward points debit card. no yearly charges.
I will not be traveling much (times has clippers lounge access) but I have lot of transactions on Aliexpress and other Indian e-com. plus spends on restaurants and shopping. do you think it will be worth it? or should I shift?
the guy said 1rs reward pt for every 100rs. I’m not too sure though. I couldn’t find the conversion rates.
I tried using HDFC platinum Rupay Card today at Plaza Premium Lounge Delhi(T1D) and they said they have stopped accepting Rupay cards w.e.f 16th August 2018. Can anyone confirm this? So do we have to move away from Rupay now for lounge visits.
I have a hdfc platinum MasterCard do i have to book the flight tickets from the same card to have the airport lounge access?
No!
Hi Sid,
Have you reviewed idfc visa signature debit card.. free for min savings balance of 25k.. looked like an awesome deal… Considering it’s free and we get lounge access, visa signature bms and additional cashback on bms..
Dear Siddhartha,
Thanks for the great blog, it is very informative.
I have a question about the SBI Platinum Debit Card, the Visa variant. While I know it gives domestic lounge access, as I have used it once, can you tell me (or give a link) as to where I can find out the list of airport lounges it allows. Thanks.
Hi Siddharth,
I have an ICICI Coral Visa, ICICI Jet Airways Visa, Axis World Privilege Mastercard and a Kotak Mahindra Royale Visa, all of which are credit cards. I want to make sure that I have access to the Clipper Lounge in MUMBAI CSMIA T2 International Departures or not? PLEASE UPDATE.
Is there any credit card which offers free airport lounge access for family members. Does Add on card with their names be used for availing the airport lounge access? How will we identify a primary card holder card from an add on card? How will they validate it at the airport, if the add on card holders visit the airport lounge without the primary card holder?
You can try to get HDFC regalia. It gives free airport lounge access for both primary and supplementary cards.
Does the CANARA BANK PLATINUM CARD ENTITLE ONE FOR COMPLIMENTARY LOUNGE SERVICE?
Hello sir,
Thank U very much for sharing rare knowlege useful to air travellers.
1. I m having HDFC Easy shop Platinum Preferred Debit Card. Now they are saying they will upgrade me to classic category. If i am upgraded then do I have free lounge access As in Platinum prefered or it will be deleted?
2.Easy shop Platinum prefered Vs Imperia , any difference in Lounge access?
which is better?3
3. Is Hdfc Bank issuing Rupay Platinum Debit Card now ?. Is it superior to Prefered Platinum in terms of number of Lounge access, free food in India.? In Abroad?
4. In abroad is any extra charges payable other than Rs 25/-. or Rs 2/- for food n drinks in Lounges.
How did you get the preferred platinum debit card? I am a new preferred customer, received an insta card, now in the netbanking upgrade there’s only the option to upgrade to the easyshop platinum debit card and not specifically the easyshop preferred platinum, do I select that and will automatically get the preferred variant?
Hi Tegradragon,
Yes. In the netbanking section, if you upgrade to Platinum debit card, you will automatically get preferred platinum debit card since you are an preferred customer.
I did this when I upgraded from Classic banking to Preferred banking.
I used hdfc classic platinum debit card visa variant @ahmedabad airport.
But regalia was not acceptable there
I recently accessed Lounge in T3 Delhi using my IDBI Rupay Debit Card and it worked absolutely fine without any issues.
Uco bank Rupay debit card accepeted? at Cial
Is HDFC VISA PLATINUM card acceptable at airport launches
I have a HDFC easyshop Platinum RuPay Debit card. Will it work for Lounge Access?
Yes
Yes, at domestic
I have American Express platinum travel credit card along with the priority pass..now can I use this to access the airport lounges with my family members too in domestic airports as well as internationally..!
Is Kotak Privy League Visa Platinum cards acceptable at airport lounges
Can you please tell the benefits of kotak privy account.
Any thing you find missing in the bouquet of services.
Which plan of kotak privy you have.
Appreciate your time and efforts , thanks.
Do Lounges in the international departures in India also count as a domestic lounge?
Yes. They are also counted in domestic category. That’s why priority pass charges apply too if used their.
Hi Siddarth, I’ve HDFC – Easyshop Platinum Rupay Debit card (Blue Colour)… Is this card can be used at Domestic Lounges..? What about International Airports..? Have read somewhere in your website in the past that this card also offer for international lounge acesses.. Can you please clarify this..?
sir . does the indian bank platinum debit card by mastercard have lounge access ? as the mastercard website says lounge access is there for all platinum debit cards. is there any website which says that this card is accepted and this card is not accepted for lounge access.
Sir,
I am having 1 Dbt card Master card Platinum in SB A/C. I am 2 nd holder for my Wife s SB Account , and we both have ATM Master card Platinum.
I have used 2 visits In my single holder card in month. So In my 2 nd card Can I have 2 visit?
Can I have 2 visit for my wife in her card , & 2 for me in my 2 nd card?
Thank U for Ur all guidance in site.
Hi Siddharth,
I have opened an account with IDFC First bank and they have provided a VISA signature debit card. It provides two complimentary lounge access per quarter.
Hello Sir,
I am havg 1 hdfc business Regalia Cr card, 1 easy shop prefrd platinum International card as single SB A/ c holder, 1 more easy shop prefd platinum international card. So can we 3 members go to 1 lounge on Same day & same time in Blore International Airprt lounge free access.?
thanq for all infos.
i have Indian bank Mastercard, shall i use for domestic airport lounge.. kindly advise me thanks.
Do all rupay platinum debit cards ie issued by any bank give airport lounge access
Needs to be updated. No lounge benefit on Paytm Rupay, Axis Titanium Prime cards anymore.
i Have SBI Master card. How can I utilize it for accessing Airport lounge
what stupid policy of hdfc that u can make a request for imperia debit card upgrade online and have to sign and submit a physical upgrade form
Block existing card and initiate replacement. You’ll automatically get Imperia debit card.
1.Icici wealth management world mastercard
2.icici wealth select visa infinite
Both debit card are free without and joining/annual fees and 2 lounge access every quarter, also have complimentary personal accident insurance on both card.
T&C is nowhere to found online, i will update once i receive my world mastercard in 2 weeks.
Got the Visa Platinum variant of HDFC Easyshop debit card with my corporate salary account, gives 2 lounge accesses per quarter! That’s more than my ICICI MMT Platinum CC! 😀
Paytm Rupay Debit Card no longer offers Lounge Access.
Update Dec 2020
I have SBI diamond debit card. Can I utilize it for accessing Airport lounge
Never head of such a variant of SBI debit card.
It is there, I have it and have used it for lounge access.
Hi
I have a a HDFC times point debit card. So is this valid for free access lounge on airport?
If yes.. then Which lounge in delhi airport (domestic)?
Hi my axis priority debit was due for renewal and I got Visa platinum cards which normally as per visa website doesn’t have lounge access. It’s only in signature and infinite. But in axis website it mentions 2 visits for visa or MasterCard specifically. So I assume it has access has anyone tried. Other thing is now when looking at visa website some 20 cities lounges are there earlier it used to be 5. Rupay also 21 cities. so can u verify if all lounges now accept all 3 or is there any difference.
Hi Sid, any fresh review planned for 2022 on best debit cards with/without lounge? The debit card market seems to have undergone several changes with players like IDFC, HDFC, Yesfirst, RBL, AU, Axis introducing competitive variants. Some maybe tied with privileged banking while some maybe available at a fee, but do offer great benefits.
The best debit card as of now without doubt are –
RBL Signature+
Deutsche Visa Select/Infinity variant
My Citigold World Debit card has been giving me unlimited domestic airport lounge visits for the past few years. Too bad it didn’t make your list. Maybe its because its going to be wold to Axis who may come in with the caps.
i had specifically asked SBI for the visa platinum card. They issued me a iocl co branded international visa platinum card. Does this have lounge access aswell ?
anyone who asks for visa platinum is being issued this card only these days.
There is the Rupay Platinum debit card South Indian Bank offeres. charges are 590 per year including tax, for privilege accounts there are waivers in place. Access is domestic lounge once per quarter and international lounge once per year.
HDFC Times point Debit card Discontinued, Sep 1 2022 onwards (BOM TLC)
Please update this list and remove Times card
How can I find the list of lounges accepting Sbi platinum mastercard debit card? Do less lounges accept it as compared to sbi visa platinum dc?
Few Days ago i found out my Bank of Baroda MasterCard Platinum DI Debit Card also has airport lounge access 1 per quater although i didn’t use it personally
Which Debit card will work for 080 Airport domestic lounge for Bangalore ?
Hello Sid,
Thanks for the informative blog.
Any clue as to how lounge access will be counted for joint account holders. Eg if 6 visits are allowed is it per card holder or per account holder?
i am having HDFC platinum debit card. can i get Airport loune facilities