SBI Card, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank card user alert: Lounge access, fees, rewards and other key updates in January 2026

Leading debit and credit card providers such as SBI Card, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank have updated their debit card and credit card benefits and spend limit-related rules as travel demand continues to rise and more people now want airport lounge access.

HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank and SBI Card have all announced updates to their debit and credit card programmes, impacting everything from spend thresholds and reward structures to the way lounge access is granted.

With the new rules taking effect from different dates in January, SBI Card, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank card holders need to know about the changes that the card providers have introduced as these changes may impact their journey by an aeroplane.

ICICI Bank Credit Card rules set to changes from January 15, 2026

ICICI Bank has also announced a fresh set of credit card changes, impacting rewards, benefits and certain fees. The revisions mainly affect select credit cards, while the bank has also introduced new charges for specific types of transactions.

ICICI Bank credit cardholders should take note of how these updates could impact their reward earnings, entertainment benefits, foreign currency spends and everyday payment habits going forward. The revised rates are effective from January 15, 2026.

SBI Card offers vast network of domestic airports in its lounge access programme

Airport lounges are more than just luxury for regular travellers. Such lounges provide much-needed respite from congested terminals, delayed flights, and demanding workdays. With effect from January 10, 2026, SBI Card's domestic airport lounge access programme is set to offer a vast network of airport lounges (categorised Set A and Set B), depending on the type of the SBI credit card a customer holds.

How lounge access works for SBI credit card holders

At present, their lounge access through a SBI credit card is allowed only after validating the card on the lounge POS machine.

What are the lounge access charges for SBI credit card holders?

The changes mentioned are applicable to all cards with an annual fee of Rs 1,499 and Rs 2,999, respectively, where the airport lounge access programme is being managed by network partners.

Read more- SBI Card revises domestic airport lounge access programme: Full list of lounges and how to use credit card to get access

HDFC Bank doubles debit card spend limit for airport lounge access

HDFC Bank has announced a change in spend criteria for its debit card customers who want to access the complimentary airport lounge facility. These changes came into effect from January 10, 2026. As a part of HDFC Bank Debit Cards Lounge Programme, the updated process has introduced a voucher-based system, aiming to streamline access and enhance convenience for debit card holders.

Read more-HDFC Bank doubles debit card spend limit for airport lounge access; introduces voucher system from Jan 10, 2026