SBI Priority Pass: Lounge Access & Benefits Explained

Flying is one of the fastest ways to travel, but let's be honest—airports can be a nightmare. The long lines, overpriced food, overcrowded gates, elusive charging spots, and uncomfortable chairs that seem to be designed for maximum discomfort can all make a 2-hour layover feel like a lifetime. It's hardly a relaxing start to a trip.

But what if your airport experience could feel less like a hassle and more like a first-class getaway? That's where Priority Pass comes in. Instead of wandering around the airport in search of a comfortable seat, you could be sipping on a free cappuccino, stretching out in a comfy lounge, and enjoying Wi-Fi that actually works.

With access to 1,700+ lounges worldwide, Priority Pass transforms airport chaos into relaxation. The best part? You don't even need a business-class ticket to enjoy it—you can access it with your SBI credit card.

Want to know how? Keep reading!

Table of Contents

• Understanding the Priority Pass Feature in SBI Credit Cards
• Benefits of SBI Card Priority Pass
• How to Access Lounges Worldwide with the Priority Pass Lounge SBI Card
• SBI Credit Cards with Priority Pass 
  • SBI Card ELITE
  • Air India SBI Signature Card
  • SBI Card PRIME

Understanding the Priority Pass Feature in SBI Credit Cards

Want to skip all the unpleasantness at the airport and chill in a VIP lounge? That's exactly what Priority Pass offers—a way to turn the airport experience from 'ugh' to 'ahh'.

Priority Pass was launched in 1992 with the simple idea of giving every traveller, not just those flying business class, access to premium airport lounges. Over the years, it has grown into the largest independent lounge network in the world, with 1,700+ lounges across 145+ countries.

Priority Pass offers 3 membership plans catering to different types of travellers:

1. Standard 

• Cost: $99 (~₹8,613) per year
• Lounge access: Pay-as-you-go model
• Guest fee: $35 (~₹3,045) per visit

Best for those who travel occasionally and want lounge access without a high upfront cost.

2. Standard Plus

• Cost: $329 (~₹28,623) per year
• Lounge access: 10 free visits per year
• Extra visits and guest fee: $35 (~₹3,045) per visit

Ideal for those who fly often but don't need unlimited access.

3. Prestige

• Cost: $469 (~₹40,803)  per year

• Lounge access: Unlimited free visits
• Guest fee: $35 (~₹3,045) per visit

Perfect for frequent flyers who want unlimited VIP treatment at airports worldwide.

Now, here's the good news: you can get Priority Pass perks for free. Many SBI credit cards offer complimentary memberships.
Want to know the privileges that come with an SBI card Priority Pass? 👇

Benefits of SBI Card Priority Pass

You get more than just entry to an airport lounge with an SBI credit card priority pass. Here's why you'll love it.

1. Worldwide access: No matter where you're flying, with access to over 1,700 lounges across 145 countries, you can escape the noisy airport and relax before your flight.

2. Complimentary food and drinks: Airport food is expensive, and it's rarely worth the price. With Priority Pass, you can enjoy complimentary meals, snacks, and even beverages without paying extra. 
3. Free Wi-Fi: Airports are notorious for having slow or paid Wi-Fi, and finding a charging point can feel like a treasure hunt. Lounges offer free, high-speed Wi-Fi and plenty of charging ports, so you can browse, work, or stream your favourite show without any interruptions.
4. Peace: Lounges provide comfortable seating, air-conditioned spaces, and a quiet atmosphere where you can unwind, read, or even take a quick nap before your flight.
5. Pre-booking: Some airports can get really busy, and lounges might be full when you arrive. To avoid this, Priority Pass lets you pre-book your lounge access, so you never have to worry about missing out on the comfort.
6. Additional perks: Priority Pass also offers a range of extra services to make your travel more enjoyable:
7. Spa services: Massages, facials, and other treatments at select airports.
   1. Gaming zones: Enjoy your time before the flight with access to gaming lounges.
   2. Airport takeaway: Skip the overpriced food courts and get discounts at partner restaurants.
   3. Meet and assist services: Fast-track through immigration and security for a hassle-free experience.
   4. Airport transfers: Book private airport transfers at over 1,100 airports worldwide.
   5. Car rentals: Get discounts on car rentals at 50,000+ locations globally.
   6. On-demand workspaces: Need a quiet place to work? Book private offices in 80+ countries.

SBI credit card's Priority Pass makes your airport experience as comfortable as possible.

How to Access Lounges Worldwide with the Priority Pass Lounge SBI Card

Accessing airport lounges with your Priority Pass lounge SBI card is quick and hassle-free. Just show your boarding pass and Priority Pass membership card at the lounge reception and walk in. If your SBI credit card offers a Priority Pass, you might not even need a separate card to access the lounge.

No need to worry if you forget your physical card. Simply use the Priority Pass app to show your digital membership card. A same-day flight ticket is required for entry, and most lounges are inside the security area, so access is only possible before departure.

Priority Pass works with any airline and any ticket class, so even if you're flying economy, you can still enjoy lounge access.

SBI Credit Cards with Priority Pass

Not every SBI credit card comes with a Priority Pass, but the ones that do make your airport experience way more comfortable. Wondering which cards offer this perk? Here are 3 cards that do:

1. SBI Card ELITE

Some things in life are just better with a little extra—extra comfort, extra privileges, and extra rewards. The SBI card Elite is designed for those who like to live life a little extra. From Priority Pass membership to free movie tickets, travel vouchers, and luxury concierge services, this card ensures that every journey feels first-class. 

Fees and charges:

• Joining fees: ₹4,999 + taxes (one-time)
• Renewal fees: ₹4,999 + taxes per year 

Priority Pass benefits:

• Complimentary Priority Pass membership worth $99
• 6 free international lounge visits per year (maximum 2 per quarter)
• Access to 1,000+ lounges worldwide
• Additional lounge visits at $35 + taxes
• Available only for primary cardholders, valid for 2 years

Additional privileges:

• 2 complimentary domestic lounge visits per quarter across India
• Lowest forex markup of 1.99% on international spends
• ₹5,000 welcome gift voucher from brands like Yatra, Pantaloons, and more
• ₹6,000 worth of free movie tickets every year
• Up to 50,000 bonus reward points (worth ₹12,500) on achieving spending milestones
• 5X reward points on dining, grocery, and departmental store spending

The SBI card Elite is great for those who travel often and want to enjoy extra comforts along the way.

2. Air India SBI Signature Card

If you frequently fly with Air India, the Air India SBI Signature Card makes a lot of sense. You earn Air India miles on every spend, get bonus points for hitting spending milestones, and can access airport lounges both in India and abroad. Plus, with perks like fuel surcharge waivers and anniversary reward points, it packs plenty of value for travellers.

Fees and charges:

• Joining fees: ₹4,999 + taxes (one-time)
• Renewal fees: ₹4,999 + taxes per year

Priority Pass benefits:

• Complimentary Priority Pass membership worth $99
• Access to 600+ international lounges (usage fee of up to $35 per visit)
• 8 free domestic lounge visits per year (maximum 2 per quarter) under the Visa Lounge Access Program
• Available only for primary cardholders

Additional privileges:

• 20,000 reward points as a welcome gift
• Earn up to 30 reward points per ₹100 spent on Air India tickets booked via airindia.com or the Air India app
• 1 reward point = 1 Air India Air Mile
• Up to 1,00,000 bonus reward points annually based on spending milestones
• Anniversary bonus of 5,000 reward points every year
• 1% fuel surcharge waiver (up to ₹250 per month)

This card is a good fit if Air India is your go-to airline and you want extra benefits every time you travel.

3. SBI Card PRIME

A little indulgence never hurts, especially when your credit card gives you perks that go beyond just spending. SBI card Prime is for those who love to travel, dine out, and enjoy exclusive privileges. 

Fees and charges:

• Joining fees: ₹2,999 + taxes (one-time)
• Renewal fees: ₹2,999 + taxes per year

Priority Pass benefits:

• Complimentary Priority Pass membership worth $99
• 4 free international lounge visits per year (maximum 2 per quarter)
• 8 free domestic lounge visits per year (maximum 2 per quarter)
• Available only for primary cardholders

Additional privileges:

• ₹3,000 welcome gift vouchers from brands like Yatra, Pantaloons, Bata, and more
• ₹7,000 e-gift voucher on annual spending of ₹5 lakh
• ₹1,000 Pizza Hut voucher every quarter on spending ₹50,000
• Waiver of renewal fee on spending ₹3 lakh annually
• 20 reward points per ₹100 spent on your birthday
• 10 reward points per ₹100 spent on dining, groceries, departmental stores, and movies
• 1% fuel surcharge waiver (up to ₹250 per month)

With SBI card Prime, everyday spending comes with big rewards, making every swipe a little more special.

Conclusion

Airports can be exhausting—long lines, expensive food, and nowhere comfortable to sit. But with the right credit card, you can skip the hassle and enjoy a lounge with free food, Wi-Fi, and a quiet place to relax. However, when picking a credit card for a Priority Pass membership, you must remember that these cards only offer the standard version.

Additionally, not all SBI credit cards come with Priority Pass, and picking the right one can be confusing. That's where Finology Select comes in. It lets you compare 90+ credit cards in one place so you can find the perfect match—whether you want free lounge access, travel rewards, or cash back.

Instead of spending hours researching, just check out Finology Select, compare features, and apply for the best credit card in minutes. 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. When can I apply for the Priority Pass membership, and how long is it valid?

You can apply for Priority Pass membership anytime during the validity of your SBI Priority Pass credit card. The membership, worth ₹99, is complimentary and valid for 24 months from the date of issuance. If your SBI credit card with Priority Pass is renewed, upgraded, or downgraded, you will need to apply for a fresh membership.

2. How do I apply for the Priority Pass membership, and when will I receive it?

To get your Priority Pass SBI credit card membership, call the SBI card customer helpline at 1860 180 1290. Once requested, the Priority Pass will be delivered to your registered billing address within 10 days.

3. What are the charges for using Priority Pass lounges?

The Priority Pass membership SBI card offers is free, but lounge visits may have additional charges. Complimentary visits are only available for international lounges outside India. Domestic lounge access within India is not covered under this program.

4. Can I access the lounge without my Priority Pass?

No, you must present your Priority Pass lounge SBI card at the lounge entrance. Your SBI credit card Priority Pass alone will not be accepted for lounge entry. You also need a valid flight ticket for the same-day departure from the airport where the lounge is located.

5. What happens if I lose or damage my Priority Pass?

If your Priority Pass SBI credit card membership card is lost, stolen, or damaged, you can request a replacement by calling the SBI card customer helpline. However, the replacement card will have the same validity as your original membership.

6. What happens to my Priority Pass if I cancel or don't renew my SBI credit card?

If your SBI Priority Pass credit card is cancelled or not renewed, your Priority Pass membership will be deactivated. If you later get a new SBI credit card with Priority Pass, you will have to apply for a new membership.

7. Where can I find a list of lounges under the Priority Pass program SBI offers?

For the complete list of Priority Pass membership benefits SBI offers, including available lounges worldwide, visit www.prioritypass.com.