Credit Cards with Priority Pass: Benefits, Fees & Limits

Travelling abroad is smoother when you have credit cards with Priority Pass. This global lounge programme gives access to 1,500+ airport lounges across 140 countries, and many Indian credit cards now offer complimentary Priority Pass membership with free international lounge visits. The challenge is choosing the right card because visit limits, joining fees and lounge rules vary widely.

This guide breaks down how Priority Pass works, which cards offer the best value in 2025, and how to activate and use your membership without hidden charges.

Table of Contents:

1. What Is Priority Pass & How Does It Work?
2. Best Credit Cards with Priority Pass Benefits in India
3. Types of Priority Pass Membership Offered by Credit Cards
4. How to Activate Priority Pass on Your Credit Card
5. Charges & Limits You Must Know Before Using Priority Pass
6. Which Credit Card with Priority Pass Should You Choose?

What Is Priority Pass & How Does It Work?

Priority Pass is the world’s largest independent airport lounge programme, covering 1,500+ lounges in 600+ cities. It works on a simple model: card issuers offer Priority Pass membership with fixed visit limits. When you visit an eligible lounge from the Priority Pass programme, your card or digital membership is swiped, and the visit count is deducted based on your plan.

Most Indian credit cards offer one of these three variants:

• Standard Membership – no free visits, paid per visit
• Standard Plus – limited complimentary visits (usually 10)
• Prestige – unlimited lounge access

The key point: Priority Pass works only for international lounges. Domestic lounges in India are usually accessed through Visa/Mastercard/Rupay lounge programmes, not Priority Pass.

Best Credit Cards with Priority Pass Benefits in India 

Here are some of the best credit cards in India that offer Priority Pass benefits:

1. HDFC Bank Infinia Credit Card (Metal)

HDFC Infinia is one of India’s most exclusive metal credit cards, known for its premium travel privileges and unlimited lounge access worldwide. It comes with a Priority Pass Prestige membership that offers unrestricted entry to 1,500+ lounges, making it ideal for frequent travellers. Add-on cardholders also enjoy the same unlimited access.

Features:

• Priority Pass Access: Gives unlimited international lounge visits for both primary and add-on users, ideal for frequent flyers.
   
• Domestic Lounge Access: Lets you access airport lounges across India any number of times via the Visa Infinite network.
   
• Rewards: Earns 5 reward points for every ₹150 spent, helping you accumulate high-value points quickly.
   
• Travel Benefits: Provides a complimentary Club Marriott membership offering discounts on dining and stays. 
   
• Insurance: Comes with ₹3 crore air accident insurance for premium travel protection.
   
• Lifestyle Benefits: Includes free golf games and concierge services for travel, reservations, and assistance.

Fees & Charges

• Joining Fee: Approx. ₹12,500
• Annual Fee: ₹12,500 (waived on spend criteria)

Want detailed info about its benefits, rewards, and charges? Check HDFC Infinia Credit Card

2. Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card

The Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card offers strong international travel privileges along with 5% universal reward points on all spends. It includes unlimited Priority Pass lounge visits and is known for being one of the best premium cards at a mid-range annual fee.

Features:

• Priority Pass Access: Unlimited international lounge access lets you relax at airports worldwide without worrying about visit limits or extra charges.
   
• Rewards: Earn 5 reward points per ₹150 on all categories, giving uniformly high rewards no matter where you spend.
   
• Lifestyle: Access premium dining, hotel and golf benefits that elevate everyday experiences and leisure travel.
   
• Insurance: Air accident cover up to ₹1 crore ensures enhanced security during flights and long-distance travel.
   
• Additional Perks: Includes a dedicated travel concierge and a low ~2% forex markup that makes international transactions more affordable.

Fees & Charges

• Joining Fee: ₹5,000
• Annual Fee: ₹5,000

3. Axis Bank Magnus Credit Card

Axis Magnus Credit Card is a high-end travel card offering exceptional lounge access, lifestyle benefits and reward accelerators. It includes unlimited international lounge visits plus 8 annual guest access through Priority Pass, along with strong domestic lounge benefits.

Features:

• Priority Pass Access: Unlimited international lounge visits plus 8 guest visits annually, allowing family members to accompany you comfortably.
   
• Domestic Lounge Access: Unlimited access at major Indian airports, making it ideal for frequent domestic travel.
   
• Welcome Benefit: Get a ₹12,500 voucher either for a Luxe gift card, the Postcard Hotels gift voucher or a Yatra gift voucher, helping offset the joining fee from day one.
   
• Dining: Up to 30% savings at 4000+ premium restaurants across India through Axis Dining Delights.
   
• Rewards: Earn 12 EDGE points per ₹200 and 5X rewards on travel, giving accelerated value on high-spend months.
   
• Insurance: Includes purchase protection, credit shield and travel-related insurance to safeguard major spending and journeys.

Fees & Charges

• Joining Fee: ₹12,500
• Annual Fee: ₹12,500 (waived off upon annual spending of 25 Lakh)

4. HDFC Bank Diners Club Black Credit Card

HDFC Diners Club Black Credit Card combines strong travel benefits with high reward points. While it offers unlimited access under the Diners lounge programme, it also includes limited Priority Pass visits for international travel, making it suitable for both domestic and overseas users.

Features:

• Priority Pass Access: 12 free lounge visits abroad per year, suitable for moderate international travel needs.
   
• Domestic Lounge Access: Unlimited domestic lounge entry through Diners Club lounges across major Indian airports.
   
• Rewards: Earn 5 reward points per ₹150, making it one of the highest reward-earning premium cards.
   
• Travel Benefits: Comes with complimentary premium hotel memberships offering discounts on room stays, dining and spa services.
   
• Lifestyle: Additional perks like golf access and concierge help you access curated luxury experiences easily.
   
• Insurance: Offers air accident cover up to ₹2 crore for added travel safety.

Fees & Charges

• Joining Fee: ₹10,000
• Annual Fee: ₹10,000 (waived off upon annual spending of 5 lakhs)

5. SBI ELITE Credit Card

SBI Elite Credit Card is a popular lifestyle and travel card offering a balanced set of benefits at an affordable annual fee. Along with Priority Pass membership, it gives moderate free international lounge visits suitable for occasional travellers.

Features:

• Priority Pass Access: 6 complimentary international lounge visits annually, suitable for light or occasional overseas travel.
   
• Domestic Lounge Access: Get 8 free domestic lounge visits per year for comfort during frequent intercity travel.
   
• Rewards: Earn 2 reward points per ₹100 spent except for fuel and 5X Reward Points on Dining, Departmental stores and Grocery Spends, offering steady value on everyday purchases.
   
• Welcome Benefit: Receive vouchers worth ₹5,000 from popular brands that effectively reduce your first-year cost.
   
• Lifestyle: Access BookMyShow privileges and curated dining offers that add value to entertainment expenses. Plus, enjoy a complimentary 1-year Club ITC Silver Tier Membership.
   
• Insurance: Includes air accident cover up to ₹50 lakh for basic travel protection.

Fees & Charges

• Joining Fee: ₹4,999
• Annual Fee: ₹4,999

6. ICICI Bank Emeralde Credit Card

ICICI Emeralde Credit Card is designed for high-spending individuals who travel frequently and prefer a seamless luxury experience. It includes a limited number of Priority Pass visits along with domestic lounge access through Visa/Mastercard networks.

Features:

• Priority Pass Access: 4–6 international lounge visits per year, allowing enough access for 2–3 overseas trips.
   
• Domestic Lounge Access: Unlimited domestic lounge visits depending on the Visa/Mastercard variant, offering freedom while travelling within India.
   
• Rewards: Up to 5 PAYBACK points per ₹100 spent, making it rewarding for high-value purchases.
   
• Lifestyle: Complimentary golf rounds, spa privileges and wellness benefits add luxury to everyday life.
   
• Insurance: Provides ₹3 crore air accident cover for superior safety during flights.
   
• Concierge: 24×7 concierge support helps with flight bookings, restaurant reservations and last-minute travel needs.

Fees & Charges

• Joining Fee: ₹12,000
• Annual Fee: ₹12,000

7. Yes Bank Marquee Credit Card

Yes Bank Marquee Credit Card offers balanced travel and lifestyle benefits at a competitive price point, including Priority Pass access with complimentary visits. It is especially known for its generous reward rate and travel perks.

Features:

• Priority Pass Access: 8 complimentary international visits each year, supporting multiple foreign trips comfortably.
   
• Domestic Lounge Access: Access to domestic lounges via the Visa Infinite network for smooth airport transits.
   
• Rewards: Earn 6 reward points per ₹200, giving attractive redemption value on high-spend categories.
   
• Lifestyle: Includes dining, hotel and golf privileges to enhance daily lifestyle and leisure activities.
   
• Insurance: Offers comprehensive travel and medical coverage for safer journeys.

Fees & Charges

• Joining Fee: ₹4,999
• Annual Fee: ₹4,999

8. IDFC FIRST Wealth Credit Card

IDFC First Wealth Credit Card is one of the most rewarding zero-fee premium cards available in India. It includes limited Priority Pass visits but is great for users wanting lounge access without paying a heavy annual fee.

Features:

• Priority Pass Access: 4 complimentary international lounge visits per year, suitable for occasional overseas flyers.
   
• Domestic Lounge Access: 4–8 free domestic lounge entries based on usage, providing essential airport comfort.
   
• Rewards: Earn 2.5%–6% rewards with no expiry, making it extremely value-driven for a lifetime-free card.
   
• Travel: Low 1.5% forex markup makes it one of the most economical cards for foreign transactions.
   
• Insurance: Includes ₹1 crore air accident cover and lost card liability for financial security.

Fees & Charges

• Joining Fee: ₹0 (Lifetime Free)
• Annual Fee: ₹0

Also exploring more options beyond Priority Pass cards? You can browse the best credit cards in India on Finology Select and compare rewards, fees, lounge access, and key benefits.

Types of Priority Pass Membership Offered by Credit Cards

Priority Pass is the world’s most recognised airport lounge access programme, and Indian credit cards typically provide one of four membership types. Understanding which type your card offers is crucial to planning travel efficiently.

1. Priority Pass Standard

• This is the basic membership level. The bank usually pays the annual membership fee for you.
• However, each lounge visit is charged separately, usually around USD 35 per visit.
• This type is rarely offered by Indian credit cards, as most banks prefer to offer mid- or premium-tier benefits.

Use Case: Standard is only ideal if you travel infrequently, as frequent lounge visits will quickly add up in cost.

2. Priority Pass Standard Plus

• Offers 10 complimentary lounge visits per year. Any visits beyond the free quota are charged at USD 27–35 per visit, depending on the bank.
• Most mid-range premium credit cards like Yes Bank Marquee or SBI Card ELITE provide this level.
• Guest visits are usually chargeable, even within the free 10 visits, unless the card specifically mentions otherwise.

Takeaway: Standard Plus is good for travellers who visit airports 1–2 times per month internationally.

3. Priority Pass Prestige

• The top-tier membership offering unlimited free lounge access, including for add-on cardholders in some cases.
• Cards like HDFC Infinia, SC Ultimate, Axis Magnus include this type, making them ideal for frequent international travellers.
• You can also bring guests depending on card policy, often with 4–8 complimentary guest visits.

Example: HDFC Infinia provides unlimited lounge access plus unlimited add-on access, ensuring hassle-free travel globally.

4. Supplementary Member Priority Pass

• Issued to add-on cardholders, often under the same terms as the primary card.
• Visit limits match the primary card unless specified otherwise.
• Not all cards provide a supplementary Priority Pass card, so check before applying.

Takeaway: If you frequently travel with family or colleagues, ensure your card provides separate PP cards for add-ons.

Overall Takeaway

• Mid-range cards mostly offer Standard Plus with limited free visits.
• Premium cards with Prestige membership are the only ones providing truly unlimited lounge access.
• Always verify guest policies and add-on card access before choosing a card, especially if you travel with companions.

How to Activate Priority Pass on Your Credit Card

To activate your credit card's Priority Pass, first check if your card is eligible with the issuer. Once confirmed, you can request activation via the bank’s app, website, or customer service. After activation, you’ll receive a physical or digital card, which can be registered on the Priority Pass app to manage visits and access lounges.

Here’s a step-by-step process:

1. Check card eligibility: Ensure the credit card you apply for includes Priority Pass membership in its benefits. Cards like HDFC Infinia, Axis Magnus, SC Ultimate automatically include it.
2. Automatic processing after approval: Most banks process your Priority Pass membership automatically after card approval. You don’t need a separate application.
3. Receive physical card: The Priority Pass card usually arrives in 2–3 weeks. For example, HDFC sends it in 15–20 days, while SBI may take up to 30 days.
4. Register digitally: Use the Priority Pass app to register your card for digital membership and track visits.
5. Use the PP card at lounges: Always show your Priority Pass card (physical or digital) at lounge entry — not your credit card.

Tip: Register the card on the app as soon as you receive it to check remaining visits, guest privileges, and lounge list before travelling.

Charges & Limits You Must Know Before Using Priority Pass

Even complimentary Priority Pass benefits come with certain conditions and limits. Knowing these can save you unexpected charges.

1. Per-visit charges beyond free limits

• Once you exhaust your free visits, lounges charge between USD 27–35 per extra visit.
• Example: If your Standard Plus card gives 10 free visits, the 11th visit will cost ~USD 30 at most international lounges.

2. Guest entry is usually chargeable

• Most banks charge guests even if the primary cardholder has free visits.
• Charges typically range from USD 27–35 per guest per visit.
• Only a few premium cards like Axis Magnus or HDFC Infinia offer additional complimentary guest visits.

3. Unused free visits do not carry forward

• Free visits are reset every calendar year or card membership year depending on the bank.
• Unused visits at year-end expire, so plan travel to maximise benefits.

4. Lounge staff may deny entry during peak hours

• Some lounges, especially in Middle Eastern airports or busy hubs like Dubai, may limit access if full.
•  
• Tip: Arrive early or check the lounge app for occupancy to avoid denial.

5. Domestic lounges in India do NOT accept Priority Pass

• In India, Priority Pass is only valid internationally. Domestic access is via Visa Infinite / Mastercard Lounge / RuPay Lounge programs.

Overall Takeaway

• Always track remaining free visits in the Priority Pass app.
• Be aware of guest charges, per-visit limits, and expiry to make the most of your card.
• For families or frequent travellers, cards with Prestige membership and additional guest entries offer the best value.

Which Credit Card with Priority Pass Should You Choose?

Here’s a comparison of credit cards with Priority Pass to help you choose based on your travel frequency and free lounge visits.

Card	Priority Pass Access	Domestic Lounge	Fee & Best Use
HDFC Infinia	Unlimited (primary + add-on)	Unlimited via Visa Infinite	₹12,500 / ₹12,500 – Frequent intl travellers
SC Ultimate	Unlimited	Unlimited via Visa Infinite	₹5,000 / ₹5,000 – Premium travellers
Axis Magnus	Unlimited + 8 guests	Unlimited in India	₹12,500 / ₹12,500 – Luxury travellers with guests
Diners Club Black	12 visits/year	Unlimited via Diners Club	₹10,000 / ₹10,000 – Domestic + occasional intl
SBI ELITE	6 visits/year	8/year	₹4,999 / ₹4,999 – Moderate travellers
ICICI Emeralde	4–6 visits/year	Unlimited (network-based)	₹12,000 / ₹12,000 – Luxury occasional travellers
Yes Bank Marquee	8 visits/year	Via Visa Infinite	₹4,999 / ₹4,999 – Balanced mid-premium
IDFC FIRST Wealth	4 visits/year	4–8/year	₹0 / ₹0 – Occasional travellers, zero fee

Conclusion

Credit cards with Priority Pass benefits make international travel far more comfortable by offering premium lounges, complimentary refreshments, and quiet workspaces. However, choosing the right card depends on how often you fly and whether you need unlimited or limited visits. Understanding membership types, activation steps, visit charges and guest rules ensures you use Priority Pass efficiently without surprises. With the right credit card, your global travel experience becomes significantly smoother and more rewarding.

Curious which card gives the best value for international trips? Check the Best Credit Card for International Travel to compare lounge access, forex fees, and travel perks.

FAQs

1. What are the benefits of credit cards with Priority Pass?
They offer Priority Pass lounge access, complimentary visits, global lounge coverage, and comfortable airport experiences. Benefits vary by card type and membership level.

2. Which is the best credit card for Priority Pass lounge access in India?
For unlimited access, HDFC Infinia and Standard Chartered Ultimate are the strongest. For mid-range pricing, Axis Magnus and SBI Elite offer 4–8 visits annually.

3. How many free visits are included with Priority Pass lounge access credit cards?
Depending on the card, you get between 4 to unlimited visits per year. Mid-range cards offer 4–8, while premium cards offer unlimited access.

4. Does Priority Pass work in domestic lounges in India?
No — Priority Pass is valid only for international lounges. Domestic access is provided via Visa, Mastercard or Rupay lounge programmes.

5. What are the Priority Pass membership benefits included with credit cards?
Membership benefits include lounge entry, Wi-Fi, food, beverages, and sometimes shower facilities. Premium cards may offer unlimited or guest access depending on the plan.