HDFC Bank makes airport lounge access stricter for debit cardholders: What customers should know

HDFC Bank has updated its complimentary airport lounge access policy for debit card users. From January 10, 2026, customers will need vouchers to enter airport lounges, replacing the current card-swipe access system.

The bank has also raised the minimum spending requirement for lounge access, doubling the limit for most debit cards.

HDFC Bank’s new lounge access rules

Currently, HDFC Bank customers can swipe their debit cards at the lounge for access. However, from 2026, the access will be voucher-based, and only those who meet the spending criteria will receive the voucher.

Once the required spending criteria are met, HDFC Bank will send an SMS or email with a link for the voucher. Customers can claim it and receive a 12-18 digit voucher code or QR code, which can then be shown at the airport lounge for entry.

Minimum spends

Customers must now spend at least ₹10,000 in a quarter to access the lounge, up from ₹5,000 before.

The spends should be made online or in-store. These transactions don’t count towards spends:

• Cash withdrawals
• UPI or wallet payments
• Credit card bill payments
• Debit card EMI transactions

How many lounge visits are allowed?

HDFC Bank hasn’t changed the number of complimentary lounge visits. It depends on the card variant:

How long will the voucher be valid?

The vouchers for lounge access will be valid from the date of generation until the end of the next calendar quarter. For instance, if the voucher was generated on December 12, 2025, it will be valid until March 31, 2026.

Remember that lounge access is available on a first-come, first-served basis only.

List of eligible lounges

Here is a list of eligible lounges:

How to claim voucher

Here is a step-by-step guide to claim your voucher: