RBL Bank Credit Card Lounge Access Changes

RBL Bank is set to implement significant changes to its complimentary domestic airport lounge access program for several credit cards, effective 1 July 2025. The new policy introduces a minimum spending requirement, fundamentally altering how many cardholders will qualify for this travel perk.

This detailed article breaks down the upcoming revisions, which specific cards are impacted, the new eligibility criteria, how to avail the benefit, and what these changes mean for RBL Bank credit card users.

Table of Contents

1. Understanding the Devaluation: Key Changes to Lounge Access
2. Affected RBL Bank Credit Cards
3. The New Spending Requirement Explained
4. Impact on New and Add-on Cardholders
5. Why are these Changes Being Implemented?

RBL Bank Credit Card Devaluation: Key Changes to Lounge Access

Starting on 1 July 2025, RBL Bank will implement a new policy regarding complimentary access to airport lounges within India for its select credit card holders. Under this updated approach, holders of certain credit cards will need to meet a specified spending threshold to qualify for this benefit. This marks a noteworthy shift from the previous system, where access to airport lounges might have been granted with fewer conditions. The introduction of this spending requirement emphasises the bank's strategy to encourage greater card usage while simultaneously ensuring that lounge access is reserved for those who actively utilise their cards for transactions.

Affected RBL Bank Credit Cards

The primary cards impacted by this revision include:

• RBL Platinum Maxima Credit Card
• RBL Platinum Maxima Plus Credit Card
• RBL World Safari Credit Card
• RBL Icon Credit Card

Explore the RBL Bank page range to learn more about the features, fees, and rewards of the other RBL Bank Credit Cards here.

The New Spending Requirement Explained

From 1 July 2025 onwards, holders of the aforementioned cards will need to have spent ₹35,000 or more in the preceding calendar quarter to avail of complimentary domestic airport lounge access. If this spending requirement is met, the cardholder will be eligible for lounge access in the subsequent quarter.

Impact on New and Add-on Cardholders

It's important to note that new cardholders will not be eligible for complimentary lounge access during the quarter in which their card is issued. They will need to meet the spending criteria in that initial quarter to gain access in the following one.

Furthermore, while add-on cardholders' spending will contribute towards meeting the primary cardholder's minimum spending requirement of ₹35,000, the add-on cardholders themselves will not have complimentary access to airport lounges under this revised policy.

Why are these Changes Being Implemented?

The provided information suggests that these changes by RBL Bank are a devaluation of the benefits offered on these credit cards. The introduction of a spending threshold for a previously more accessible perk indicates a strategic shift, possibly aimed at encouraging higher card usage or managing the costs associated with lounge access programs. The perceived value of these cards might be affected, especially if other benefits like reward rates or lifestyle perks are not considered strong. If premium travel experiences matter to you, discover the best travel credit cards in India.

Note: Axis Bank has also devalued some of its card perks. Check out the updated details of the Axis Bank credit card devaluation.

Also, HDFC recently revised its lounge access terms. Check out the revised rules in our coverage- HDFC Credit Card new rules.

Conclusion

The upcoming changes to RBL Bank's credit card lounge access policy necessitate a review by cardholders, particularly those who frequently utilise this benefit. Understanding the new spending requirements and how they apply to primary and add-on cards is crucial for planning travel and maximising card benefits post-July 1, 2025. Cardholders will need to ensure they meet the quarterly spending target to continue enjoying complimentary domestic lounge visits.

Looking for cards with strong lounge access benefits? Explore the top credit cards with lounge access, here to find the best fit after a policy change.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: When do the new RBL Bank airport lounge access rules come into effect?
A: The new rules, including the spending requirement, will be effective from 1 July 2025.

Q2: Which RBL Bank credit cards are affected by these changes?
A: The changes apply to the Platinum Maxima, Platinum Maxima Plus, World Safari, and Icon Credit Cards.

Q3: What is the new spending requirement for complimentary lounge access?
A: Cardholders need to spend ₹35,000 or more in the previous calendar quarter to be eligible for lounge access in the next quarter.

Q4: Will new cardholders get lounge access immediately?
A: No, new cardholders will not be eligible for lounge access in the quarter in which their card is issued. They need to meet the spending criteria in that quarter to access lounges in the following quarter.

Q5: Do add-on cardholders get complimentary lounge access under the new rules?
A: No, add-on cardholders will not have complimentary lounge access, although their spending contributes to the primary cardholder's spending requirement.

Reference- RBL Bank