Travelling abroad for education involves long flights, layovers, and often, stressful airport experiences. Complimentary lounge access credit cards offer a solution, providing a comfortable space to relax, enjoy free Wi-Fi, and savour refreshments before boarding.
These cards can elevate the travel experience, making it more enjoyable and less exhausting. This blog explores the best complimentary lounge access credit cards, with their benefits, and how they cater to the needs of those embarking on international study journeys.
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Why Complimentary Lounge Access Matters for International Travel
Long-haul flights and extended layovers are common when travelling abroad for education. Airport lounges provide a tranquil environment with amenities like comfortable seating, complimentary food, and high-speed internet, helping travellers recharge.
A complimentary lounge access credit card ensures these benefits are accessible without additional costs, making it an essential tool for frequent flyers.
- Comfort During Layovers: Lounges offer a quiet space to study, work, or relax.
- Cost Savings: Free access eliminates the need to pay per visit, which can range from INR 1,000 to INR 5,000 for international lounges.
- Enhanced Productivity: Access to Wi-Fi and workstations supports last-minute study or travel preparations.
- Exclusive Perks: Many lounges provide showers, premium dining, and even spa services.
List of Top Credit Cards Offering Complimentary Lounge Access
Several credit cards provide complimentary lounge access, but not all are suited for those travelling abroad for education. The following are the complimentary lounge access credit cards
that stand out for their lounge benefits, affordability, and additional travel perks, making them ideal for international travellers.
| Credit Card | Lounge Access (International) | Key Benefits |
| American Express Platinum | Unlimited (Priority Pass, Centurion, Delta Sky Club) | Global hotel memberships, concierge, and luxury travel perks |
| HDFC Infinia (Metal Edition) | Unlimited for primary & add-on members | Club Marriott, 12,500 welcome points, premium insurance coverage |
| Axis Bank Reserve | Unlimited + 4 free guest visits via Priority Pass | 1.5% forex markup, 50 free golf rounds, hotel privileges |
| ICICI Emeralde | Unlimited via DreamFolks Priority Pass | Taj Epicure, unlimited golf lessons, dining discounts |
| HDFC Bank Regalia Gold | 6 visits/year via Priority Pass for primary & add-on users | 12 domestic lounge visits/year; 4 Reward Points per ₹150 spent; concierge services. |
| SBI Card ELITE | 6 visits/year (2 per quarter) via Priority Pass | Trident Red Tier, Club Vistara Silver, lounge & movie benefits |
| Axis Bank SELECT | 6 visits/year via Priority Pass | Amazon voucher, dining benefits, travel and fuel surcharge waiver |
| ICICI Sapphiro | 2 visits/year via Priority Pass + 4 domestic/quarter | Complimentary golf, wellness privileges, movie & dining offers |
| SBI PRIME Credit Card | 4 visits/year (2 per quarter) via Priority Pass | Club Vistara Silver, Trident Red Tier, milestone-based benefits |
| IDFC FIRST Wealth | 8 international lounge visits/year (on ₹20K monthly spend) | Zero forex markup, unlimited rewards, and concierge services |
| HDFC Bank Diners Club Black | Unlimited access to 1,000+ lounges worldwide | 10X reward points on select categories, golf privileges, and low forex markup. |
| Axis Bank Magnus | Unlimited visits + 4 guest visits/year via Priority Pass | ₹12,500 welcome voucher; unlimited domestic lounge access; 1.5% forex markup. |
| IDFC FIRST Mayura | 8 visits/year (2 per quarter) via DreamFolks | 4 domestic lounge visits/quarter; 0% forex markup; trip cancellation cover up to ₹50,000; travel insurance up to USD 1,200. |
| Niyo Global Debit Card | 1 visit/year via DreamFolks | 0% forex markup; real-time currency conversion; app-based lounge booking. |
Note: Lounge access is typically facilitated through programs like Priority Pass, DreamFolks, or LoungeKey. Ensure to activate the respective membership and check the specific terms and conditions associated with your card.
Also Read:
- Railway Lounge Access Credit Cards: List, Features, & Benefits
- HDFC Millennia Debit Card International Transaction Charges
Now you have an overview of various complimentary lounge access credit cards. Let’s understand them one by one in detail.
American Express Platinum
The American Express Platinum Card is a luxury charge card designed for high-net-worth individuals, offering unparalleled travel and lifestyle benefits, including extensive lounge access. It is among the best credit cards with airport lounge access, and here are the key features of this complimentary lounge access credit card:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | Unlimited complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide via Priority Pass, Centurion Lounges, and partner lounges for the cardholder and one guest. Domestic and international lounges included. |
| Annual Fee | INR 60,000 + GST (no waiver condition mentioned in most sources). |
| Other Benefits | 1 Membership Rewards point per INR 40 spent, welcome benefits worth over INR 90,000 (e.g., Taj, Accor hotel stays), 24K gold collection benefits, up to 3% forex markup, and elite status with hotel chains like Marriott Bonvoy and Hilton Honours. |
| Eligibility | Minimum income of INR 25 lakh per annum or net worth of INR 2 crore (indicative; invite-only in some cases). |
- Why It’s Great: Offers unmatched lounge access and luxury benefits, including elite hotel statuses and curated experiences, ideal for frequent international travellers.
- Best For: Affluent travellers and professionals seeking a premium lifestyle and travel perks.
HDFC Infinia (Metal Edition)
The HDFC Infinia Metal Edition is a super-premium credit card, known for its high reward rates and extensive travel benefits, including unlimited lounge access. Here are the key features:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | Unlimited domestic and international lounge visits for primary and add-on cardholders via Priority Pass. |
| Annual Fee | INR 12,500 + GST, waived on spending INR 10 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 5 reward points per INR 150 spent (10X on select partners), 1.5% forex markup, unlimited golf rounds, travel insurance, and milestone benefits (e.g., vouchers worth INR 8,000 on INR 8 lakh spend). |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 3 lakh or ITR of INR 36 lakh for self-employed (invite-only in some cases). |
- Why It’s Great: Unlimited lounge access and high reward rates make it a top choice for frequent travellers and high spenders.
Best For: Affluent individuals who travel frequently and seek premium rewards and flexibility.
Axis Bank Reserve
The Axis Bank Reserve complimentary lounge access credit card is a luxury card targeting high-net-worth individuals with exclusive travel and lifestyle benefits. Here are its key features of the Axis Bank credit card with international lounge access:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | Unlimited international lounge visits via Priority Pass for primary and add-on cardholders; 12 domestic lounge visits per quarter. |
| Annual Fee | INR 50,000 + GST, waived on spending INR 35 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 15 EDGE reward points per INR 200 spent, 2X points on international spends, 1.5% forex markup, complimentary golf rounds, and concierge services. |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 3 lakh or ITR of INR 36 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Offers extensive lounge access and premium lifestyle benefits like golf and concierge services.
- Best For: High-net-worth travellers and golfers seeking luxury perks.
ICICI Emeralde
The ICICI Emeralde Credit Card is a premium offering with strong travel and lifestyle benefits, including robust lounge access. Here are the key features of ICICI Emeralde complimentary lounge access credit card:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | Unlimited domestic and international lounge visits via Priority Pass for primary and add-on cardholders. |
| Annual Fee | INR 12,000 + GST, waived on spending INR 10 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 6 reward points per INR 100 on international spends, 2 points domestically, 1% forex markup, complimentary golf rounds, and movie ticket offers. |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 3 lakh or ITR of INR 36 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Unlimited lounge access and low forex markup make it ideal for international travellers.
- Best For: Frequent flyers and high spenders who value travel flexibility.
HDFC Bank Regalia Gold Credit Card
As provided in your example, the HDFC Bank Regalia Gold is a versatile, complimentary lounge access credit card for travellers seeking affordability and premium benefits. Here are the details:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | 12 domestic visits and 6 international visits per year via Priority Pass and Mastercard Lounge Program. |
| Annual Fee | INR 2,500 + GST, waived on spending INR 5 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 4 reward points per INR 150 spent, low forex markup (2%), travel insurance, and milestone benefits like gift vouchers. |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 1 lakh or ITR of INR 12 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Affordable annual fee with robust lounge access for both domestic and international travel.
- Best For: Travellers seeking a cost-effective card with solid travel perks.
SBI Card ELITE
The SBI Card ELITE is a premium card offering a mix of travel, dining, and entertainment benefits, with decent complimentary lounge access. Here are the details of this SBI credit Card with lounge access:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | 8 domestic lounge visits per year (max 2 per quarter) and 2 international visits via Priority Pass. |
| Annual Fee | INR 4,999 + GST, waived on spending INR 10 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 5X reward points on dining, groceries, and movies, 2 points per INR 100 on other spends, 2.5% forex markup, and milestone benefits like INR 5,000 vouchers. |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 1.5 lakh or ITR of INR 18 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Balances travel and lifestyle benefits with a reasonable annual fee.
- Best For: Frequent travellers and shoppers who value dining and entertainment rewards.
Axis Bank SELECT
The Axis Bank SELECT complimentary lounge access credit card is a mid-tier premium card with strong travel and reward benefits. Here are its benefits:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | 8 domestic lounge visits per year (max 2 per quarter) and 2 international visits via Priority Pass. |
| Annual Fee | INR 3,000 + GST, waived on spending INR 6 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 10 EDGE reward points per INR 200 spent, 2X points on dining and movies, 2% forex markup, and dining discounts via EazyDiner. |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 1 lakh or ITR of INR 12 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Affordable with decent lounge access and strong dining benefits.
- Best For: Travellers and diners seeking a mid-tier card with balanced perks.
ICICI Bank Sapphiro
The ICICI Bank Sapphiro Credit Card is a premium card with robust travel benefits, available in Visa and Mastercard variants. Here are the details of ICICI Sapphiro credit card lounge access and benefits:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | 4 complimentary domestic lounge visits per quarter (max 16 annually) and 2 international visits via Priority Pass. |
| Annual Fee | INR 6,500 + GST, waived on spending INR 8 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 2 reward points per INR 100 on domestic spends, 4 points internationally, 2% forex markup, golf benefits, and BOGO movie ticket offers. |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 1.5 lakh or ITR of INR 18 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Strong lounge access and travel benefits at a reasonable fee.
- Best For: Frequent travellers and movie enthusiasts seeking premium perks.
SBI PRIME Credit Card
The SBI PRIME Credit Card is a mid-tier option that offers complimentary lounge access along with travel and lifestyle benefits. Here are its details:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | 8 domestic lounge visits per year (max 2 per quarter) and 4 international visits via Priority Pass. |
| Annual Fee | INR 2,999 + GST, waived on spending INR 3 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 10 reward points per INR 100 on dining, groceries, and movies, 2 points on other spends, 2% forex markup, and milestone benefits like INR 3,000 vouchers. |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 75,000 or ITR of INR 9 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Affordable with decent lounge access and strong rewards for everyday spends.
- Best For: Budget-conscious travellers and shoppers seeking value-driven perks.
IDFC FIRST Wealth
The IDFC FIRST Wealth Credit Card is a premium card with no annual fee and strong travel benefits. Here are the details of its benefits:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | 8 domestic lounge visits per quarter (max 32 annually) and 4 international visits via Priority Pass. |
| Annual Fee | Nil (lifetime free). |
| Other Benefits | 10X reward points on spends above INR 30,000, 6X on online spends, 1.5% forex markup, travel insurance, and 4 complimentary golf rounds per quarter. |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 1.5 lakh or ITR of INR 18 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Lifetime free with generous lounge access and high reward rates.
- Best For: Cost-conscious travellers and high spenders seeking premium benefits.
HDFC Bank Diners Club Black
The HDFC Bank Diners Club Black is a premium card known for its high reward rates and travel benefits. Here are the lounge access benefits of the HDFC Bank Diners Club Black credit card:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | Unlimited domestic and international lounge visits via Priority Pass for primary and add-on cardholders. |
| Annual Fee | INR 10,000 + GST, waived on spending INR 8 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 5 reward points per INR 150 spent, 10X on select partners, 2% forex markup, unlimited golf rounds, and milestone benefits like INR 5,000 vouchers. |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 1.75 lakh or ITR of INR 21 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Unlimited lounge access and high rewards make it a strong competitor to Infinia.
- Best For: Frequent travellers and high spenders seeking luxury perks.
Axis Bank Magnus
The Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card is a premium card with strong travel and reward benefits, recently revised for competitiveness. Here are the complimentary lounge access benefits of this credit card:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | 8 domestic lounge visits per quarter (max 32 annually) and unlimited international visits via Priority Pass. |
| Annual Fee | INR 12,500 + GST, waived on spending INR 25 lakh annually. |
| Other Benefits | 12 EDGE reward points per INR 200 spent, 5X points on travel spends, 1.5% forex markup, and complimentary hotel memberships (e.g., Accor Plus). |
| Eligibility | Minimum monthly income of INR 2 lakh or ITR of INR 24 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Generous lounge access and high reward rates for travel enthusiasts.
- Best For: Frequent travellers and high spenders seeking premium travel perks.
IDFC FIRST Mayura
The IDFC FIRST Mayura Credit Card is a new premium offering, but limited information is available as of now. Based on IDFC’s portfolio, it likely targets high-net-worth individuals.
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | Likely unlimited domestic and international lounge visits via Priority Pass (based on IDFC’s premium offerings; exact details unavailable). |
| Annual Fee | Likely INR 10,000–20,000 + GST or lifetime free (speculative; no confirmed data). |
| Other Benefits | Expected to offer high reward points (10X or more on select categories), low forex markup (1–1.5%), and golf or hotel benefits (based on IDFC trends). |
| Eligibility | Likely minimum monthly income of INR 2–3 lakh or ITR of INR 24–36 lakh for self-employed. |
- Why It’s Great: Likely offers premium travel benefits similar to IDFC FIRST Wealth but with enhanced perks (speculative).
- Best For: Affluent travellers seeking exclusive benefits (pending confirmation).
Niyo Global Debit Card
The Niyo Global Debit Card is a travel-focused debit card, not a credit card. We have included it in the list of complimentary lounge access credit cards because this debit card is designed for international use with zero forex markup. Here are its details:
| Feature | Details |
| Lounge Access | 2 complimentary international lounge visits per quarter (max 8 annually) via Visa Signature program (no domestic lounge access). |
| Annual Fee | Nil (lifetime free). |
| Other Benefits | Zero forex markup on international transactions, free ATM withdrawals abroad, and travel insurance up to INR 5 lakh. |
| Eligibility | Requires a Niyo savings account; no specific income criteria mentioned. |
- Why It’s Great: Zero forex markup and free lounge access make it ideal for international travellers on a budget.
- Best For: Budget-conscious international travellers who prefer debit over credit.
How to Choose the Right Complimentary Lounge Access Credit Card
Selecting the best complimentary lounge access credit card depends on travel frequency, budget, and additional perks. Here are key factors to consider:
- Travel Frequency: Frequent international travellers should opt for cards with unlimited lounge access, like the HDFC Diners Club Black or Axis Magnus. Occasional travellers may prefer the HDFC Regalia Gold or ICICI Sapphiro for limited but sufficient visits.
- Annual Fees vs. Benefits: Compare fees against perks like lounge visits, reward points, and insurance. Cards like the Niyo Debit Card eliminate fees entirely.
- Guest Access: If travelling with family or friends, choose cards like the Axis Magnus, which offers complimentary guest visits.
- Eligibility: Premium cards require high incomes (e.g., INR 30 lakh ITR for HDFC Infinia), while the Niyo card is accessible to students.
- Additional Perks: Look for low forex markups, travel insurance, and reward programs to maximise value.
Pro Tip: Check the lounge network (e.g., Priority Pass, Dreamfolks) to ensure coverage at your destination airports. Some lounges may have restrictions or additional fees.
Also Read:
- Best Forex Cards With International Lounge Access for Stress-Free Travel in 2025
- ICICI Student Forex Card: Features, Charges, Application Process
Tips to Maximise Your Lounge Access Benefits
To make the most of a complimentary lounge access credit card, follow these practical tips to enhance your travel experience:
- Plan Ahead: Verify lounge availability at your destination airport, as not all terminals participate in programs like Priority Pass.
- Activate Benefits: Some cards require minimum spending (e.g., INR 5,000/quarter for ICICI Sapphiro) or activation to unlock lounge access.
- Bring Required Documents: Carry your credit card, boarding pass, and Priority Pass (if applicable) to ensure smooth entry.
- Arrive Early: Lounges can get crowded during peak hours, so arrive early to secure a spot.
- Understand Guest Policies: Check if your card allows free guest access, as some charge for additional visitors.
A complimentary lounge access credit card transforms the airport experience, offering comfort and convenience for those studying abroad. Whether you choose the premium credit cards for unlimited access, the budget-friendly ones, these cards cater to diverse needs and budgets. Evaluate your travel frequency, financial situation, and desired perks to select the right card.
FAQs on Complimentary Lounge Access Credit Cards
A complimentary lounge access credit card provides free entry to airport lounges, offering amenities like food, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating. These cards often include memberships like Priority Pass or Dreamfolks, eliminating per-visit fees.
Most lounge access cards have annual fees, but the Niyo Debit Card offers a complimentary lounge pass without an annual fee, provided you refer 5 friends and submit proof of admission for studying abroad.
To check airport lounge access on a credit card, visit the card issuer’s website or app and look for the lounge network (e.g., Priority Pass, Dreamfolks). Make sure the lounge is available at your destination airport before you travel.
Several credit cards in India offer complimentary airport lounge access. You can get benefit from credit cards like HDFC Millennia, SBI SimplyCLICK, or ICICI Coral, which offer free lounge access under select conditions. These cards provide a few complimentary domestic lounge visits yearly, helping students travel more comfortably without high fees. Always check eligibility and usage terms beforehand.
The Niyo Debit Card provides a complimentary lounge pass after referring 5 friends, requiring only a linked savings account and proof of admission, making it ideal for students.
Some cards, like the Axis Magnus, offer 8 complimentary guest visits annually. Others, like the ICICI Sapphiro, may charge guests or not allow them, so check the card’s terms.
Without a card, lounge access costs INR 1,000–INR 5,000 per visit for international lounges, depending on the airport and lounge. A complimentary lounge access credit card eliminates these fees.
Lounge access depends on the card’s network (e.g., Priority Pass, Dreamfolks). Most premium cards cover major international airports, but confirm specific lounge availability before travelling.
To check if your complimentary lounge access credit card offers free lounge visits, review the card’s terms, visit the bank’s website or app, or contact customer support. Confirm any lounge network membership (e.g., Priority Pass) and spending requirements. Verify the number of free visits and guest access policies.
To learn more about bank accounts for students, the best education loans, forex, banking experience for global students, or international money transfers, reach out to our experts at 1800572126 to help ease your experience with studying abroad.
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