Priority Pass vs DreamFolks: Domestic and International Lounge Access Policies in India
Priority Pass, a globally recognized lounge access program, is offered by many Indian banks with their credit and debit cards. However, most banks now follow specific policies that restrict complimentary Priority Pass access to international lounges outside India while providing domestic lounge access through DreamFolks partnerships or other arrangements.
1. Priority Pass Access: Domestic vs. International Lounges
International Lounge Access:
- Complimentary for Most Cards: Priority Pass is primarily valid for international lounges outside India.
- Methods to Use:
- Physical Priority Pass Card: Swipe the card at the lounge reception to gain access.
- Digital QR Code: Generate a QR code from the Priority Pass app and scan it for entry.
Domestic Lounge Access:
- DreamFolks Partnerships:
- Most Indian banks now provide domestic lounge access via DreamFolks, a separate lounge access network.
- Access is granted by swiping the credit or debit card or generating a QR code through the DreamFolks app/portal.
- Charges for Priority Pass Usage at Domestic Lounges:
- Domestic Priority Pass usage in India is not complimentary for most banks. Banks typically charge US$27 + GST per visit per person for domestic lounge access unless explicitly waived.
2. Key Differences Between HDFC Infinia, AXIS Magnus, and Other Banks
| Feature | HDFC Infinia | AXIS Magnus (Post-Devaluation) | Other Banks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Domestic Lounge Access | Complimentary via Priority Pass | Available via DreamFolks (not Priority Pass) | Available via DreamFolks (not Priority Pass) |
| International Lounge Access | Complimentary via Priority Pass | Complimentary via Priority Pass | Complimentary via Priority Pass |
| Guest Access | Complimentary for eligible guests | Charges apply for guests in most cases | Charges apply for guests |
| Charges for Domestic Priority Pass Use | No charges | US$27 + GST per person | US$27 + GST per person |
HDFC Infinia Credit Card:
- Exception to the Rule:
- Offers complimentary Priority Pass access at both domestic and international lounges.
- Allows cardholders and eligible guests to use Priority Pass without incurring additional charges.
AXIS Magnus Credit Card:
- Policy Shift Post-Devaluation:
- Previously allowed complimentary Priority Pass access for both domestic and international lounges.
- Now, domestic lounges are available only via DreamFolks. Priority Pass is restricted to international lounges.
Other Banks Cards (ICICI, SBI, IDFC, BOB, AXIS, IndusInd, HDFC Regalia, etc.):
- Follow the same policy:
- Domestic lounge access is provided via DreamFolks.
- Priority Pass is valid only for international lounges outside India.
3. How Priority Pass and DreamFolks Work
Priority Pass for International Lounges:
- Usage Methods:
- Physical Card: Swipe at the lounge reception.
- Digital QR Code: Generate a QR code using the Priority Pass app and scan for entry.
- Charges After Complimentary Visits: US$27 + GST per visit per person.
DreamFolks for Domestic Lounges:
- Access is provided through:
- Swiping the Credit/Debit Card.
- Generating a QR Code via the DreamFolks app or website.
4. Why Priority Pass is Chargeable at Domestic Lounges in India
- Domestic Lounge Costs: Lounges in India charge banks for access, and banks often pass these costs to customers unless explicitly waived.
- DreamFolks Partnerships: To simplify domestic access, most banks now rely on DreamFolks for lounge tie-ups, moving away from Priority Pass for domestic lounges.
5. Summary of Current Policies
- Domestic Lounge Access:
- Provided via DreamFolks for most banks (Priority Pass is not complimentary).
- Charges apply for Priority Pass usage at domestic lounges (US$27 + GST per visit).
- International Lounge Access:
- Complimentary via Priority Pass for cardholders, with access granted through a physical card or digital QR code.
- Exceptions:
- HDFC Infinia Credit Card remains an exception, offering complimentary Priority Pass access for both domestic and international lounges.
