Airport lounges have become an essential comfort for frequent travellers, offering relief from crowded terminals, flight delays, and long waiting hours. From January 10, 2026, SBI Card is rolling out a revised domestic airport lounge access programme, expanding its lounge network and restructuring access rules based on card category.
Under the new system, SBI Card has divided participating airport lounges into Set A and Set B, depending on the type of SBI credit card held by the customer. This change aims to create clearer access rules while aligning lounge benefits with card tiers.
What Is Changing in SBI Card Lounge Access from 2026
- Lounge access will now be categorised into Set A and Set B
- Eligibility depends on the specific SBI credit card variant
- Lounge entry will require card validation at the lounge POS machine
- A small authorisation charge may apply based on card network
- Complimentary visits remain limited as per card benefits
Set A Lounges for Premium SBI Credit Cards
Set A lounges are available exclusively for select premium SBI credit cards, effective from January 10, 2026.
Eligible SBI Credit Cards for Set A
- Apollo SBI Card SELECT
- BPCL SBI Card OCTANE
- Club Vistara SBI Card
- Landmark Rewards SBI Card SELECT
- Paytm SBI Card SELECT
- PhonePe SBI Card SELECT
Set A: Participating Airport Lounges
The list may be updated periodically based on lounge availability.
Set B Lounges for SBI PRIME and Platinum Credit Cards
Set B lounges apply to a wider range of SBI Card variants, including PRIME, PRIME Pro, Platinum, and multiple co-branded credit cards.
Eligible Card Categories
- SBI Card PRIME
- SBI Card PRIME Pro
- SBI Platinum Credit Cards
- Co-branded PRIME and Platinum cards issued with partner banks
Set B: Participating Airport Lounges
How to Use SBI Credit Card for Lounge Access
To enter an airport lounge using an SBI credit card:
- Present your eligible SBI credit card at the lounge reception
- The card will be validated on the lounge POS machine
- Entry will be granted based on available complimentary visits
Authorisation Charges
- Visa and RuPay cards:
A non-refundable authorisation charge of Rs 2 may apply
- Mastercard:
A temporary authorisation hold of Rs 25 may be placed and later reversed
Complimentary Visit Limits
- Complimentary lounge visits depend on the credit card variant
- Once free visits are exhausted, lounge access may:
- Be denied, or
- Be charged at the lounge’s standard walk-in rate
Additional Charges at Lounges
Certain services may attract extra charges, including:
- Alcoholic beverages
- Premium food items
- Spa, massage, or nap room services
- Extended stay beyond permitted hours
Charges vary by lounge operator and airport.
Important Things Cardholders Should Know
- Lounge access is subject to availability
- Entry is usually allowed only to the primary cardholder
- Name on the credit card must match the boarding pass
- Lounges may enforce time limits per visit
- Rules can change, so checking eligibility before travel is recommended
Final Takeaway
With effect from January 10, 2026, SBI Card’s revised domestic lounge access programme brings clearer categorisation, wider lounge coverage, and structured eligibility. While premium cardholders benefit from expanded Set A access, PRIME and Platinum users continue to enjoy broad Set B coverage across major Indian airports.
Travellers should review their card eligibility, visit limits,