Best Credit Cards with Priority Pass

Best Credit Cards with Priority Pass in 2025: A Comprehensive Guide

Written By
Divya Meena
Last Updated
Jan 31, 2025
Read
13 min

Travelling has become an integral part of modern life, and for frequent flyers, access to airport lounges can really make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. Usually, this is where Priority Pass comes in. If you are a ‘new’ traveller, you might ask what a Priority Pass is. A Priority Pass is a globally recognised airport lounge membership program that provides travellers access to over 1,700+ airport experiences in over 600 cities and 145 countries. It provides access to amenities such as comfortable seating, complimentary food and beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, business facilities, and even spa services in select locations. While Priority Pass can be purchased separately, some of the credit cards offer complimentary membership as a premium travel perk.

Whether you're a business traveller or a luxury seeker, having a credit card will elevate your overall travel experience. However, with multiple options available, choosing the right credit card that aligns with your spending habits and travel needs can be challenging. 

In this blog, we have listed the best credit cards with Priority Pass in 2025, including their fees and key features to help you choose the right match. 

Here’s a quick list of the 7 best credit cards with Priority Pass available: 

  1. American Express Platinum Card

  2. Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card

  3. HSBC Premier Credit Card

  4. HDFC Infinia Credit Card

  5. Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card

  6. SBI ELITE Credit Card

  7. RESERV Credit Card by YES Bank

Planning a foreign trip? Besides a credit card, make sure to apply for your destination visa in advance to ensure everything is in order for your trip. 

Now, let us understand the key features of these 7 cards in a simplified manner. 

1. American Express Platinum Card

American Express Platinum Card
American Express Platinum Card

First on our list is the American Express Platinum Card, which is world-renowned for its superior travel perks, particularly its comprehensive airport lounge access, allowing access to over 1,300 airport lounges worldwide. Cardholders can access the Centurion Lounge, Delta Sky Club Lounges when flying with Delta Airlines, Escape Lounges, and various partner lounges across different countries. 

Apart from lounge access, the American Express Platinum Card provides exclusive discounts and privileges on many of the world’s most prestigious airlines, including Air India, Etihad, Qatar Airways, Virgin Atlantic, Air France, KLM, Lufthansa, and United Airlines. For those who prefer staying at luxury hotels, the card offers access to over 2,600 handpicked properties that meet high hospitality standards. The card also provides an annual $200 airline fee credit, applicable towards incidental fees such as baggage charges, in-flight refreshments, or seat upgrades. Cardholders earn 5X Membership Rewards points on flights booked directly with airlines or through American Express Travel and on prepaid hotels booked via AmexTravel.com. For all other purchases, earn 1X points per dollar spent (terms and conditions apply). Moreover, the card also offers VIP access to curated experiences, including red-carpet access to Fashion Weeks, the Grammy Awards, Wimbledon, Formula 1 Races, and world-class concerts. 

Whether it’s securing some of the best seats in the house for a sold-out event or gaining entry to private dining experiences at top-tier restaurants, the card ensures that members can indulge in unparalleled luxury and entertainment.

Note: For exact benefits and privileges, please check the official American Express website, as these vary by country. For example, U.S. cardholders receive $200 Uber Cash annually, while Indian members enjoy a complimentary EazyDiner Prime Membership with exclusive dining discounts. 

2. Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card
Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card

The Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card is another popular credit card with a complimentary Priority Pass Select membership and allows access to over 1,300 airport lounges globally. These lounges provide comfortable seating, high-speed WiFi, complimentary food and drinks, and private workspaces, ensuring a relaxing pre-flight experience.  The membership allows the primary cardholder and up to two guests per visit at no additional charge. In addition to Priority Pass, Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders have exclusive access to Sapphire Lounge by The Club, featuring locally inspired menus, curated beverages, and an upscale ambience.

Beyond lounge access, the card offers a $300 annual travel credit, which automatically applies to eligible travel expenses such as flights, hotels, car rentals, and parking. This credit significantly offsets the card’s annual fee, making it an essential benefit for frequent travellers. Through the Chase Sapphire Reserve rewards program, cardholders earn 10X points on hotels and car rentals booked through Chase Travel, 5X points on flights, and 3X points on general travel and dining. These points never expire as long as the account is open. Moreover, cardholders have access to the 24/7 Visa Infinite Concierge Service, which offers assistance with restaurant reservations, event tickets, and special experiences. Whether booking a sought-after dinner reservation or securing seats to a major concert, the concierge service ensures a hassle-free luxury experience.

Did you know? You can earn 60,000 bonus points just by using your Chase Sapphire Reserve! Simply spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening, and those points are yours.

3. HSBC Premier Credit Card

  • Annual Fee: Varies by region; often waived for HSBC Premier clients

  • Authorised User Fee: Typically none

  • Official Website: http://www.hsbc.com/

HSBC Premier Credit Card
HSBC Premier Credit Card

The HSBC Premier Credit Card provides a generous rewards program, exclusive privileges, and world-class perks that make it a top-tier choice for frequent travellers and high-spending individuals worldwide. Cardholders enjoy complimentary access to over 1,400 airport lounges worldwide.

One of the key benefits of the HSBC Premier Credit Card is its high-value rewards program, which allows cardholders to earn points on every purchase. Customers earn 3X points on gas and groceries, 2X points on travel purchases (including flights, hotels, and car rentals) and 1X points on all other spending. Additionally, new cardholders can take advantage of a welcome bonus offer, earning up to 50,000 points after meeting the minimum spending requirement in the first three months. These points can be redeemed for airline miles, travel bookings, Apple products, shopping vouchers, and luxury experiences. Beyond travel, HSBC Premier Credit Cardholders enjoy discounts on dining at premium restaurants and exclusive access to VIP entertainment experiences. Moreover, to provide security and peace of mind, the card offers comprehensive fraud protection, lost card liability coverage, and advanced identity theft protection services. Furthermore, Purchase Assurance covers damage or theft of eligible purchases within 90 days, adding another layer of security to every transaction.

With luxury rewards, global travel privileges, premium dining discounts, and top-tier security features, the HSBC Premier Credit Card qualifies to be one of the best credit cards with a Priority Pass. 

4. HDFC Infinia Credit Card

HDFC Infinia Credit Card
HDFC Infinia Credit Card

The HDFC Infinia Credit Card is another premium card offering a complimentary Priority Pass membership, providing access to over 1,300 airport lounges globally. These lounges provide an oasis of comfort away from crowded terminals, offering plush seating, complimentary gourmet meals, high-speed Wi-Fi, business facilities, and, in select locations, even shower and nap areas! A key advantage of the HDFC Infinia Credit Card is that the Priority Pass lounge access is not limited to the primary cardholder alone. Add-on cardholders also enjoy the same unlimited lounge access, making it an excellent choice for families or business travellers who frequently journey together. 

In addition to the extensive lounge benefits, the HDFC Infinia Credit Card offers 24/7 Global Personal Concierge Services. This service ensures that cardholders receive personalised assistance in making travel arrangements, booking lounges, securing priority reservations at fine dining restaurants, planning itineraries, and even arranging airport VIP meet-and-greet services. Furthermore, the card comes with additional protections such as an accidental air death cover of ₹3 crores and an emergency overseas hospitalisation cover of up to ₹50 lakhs to ensure peace of mind while travelling. Cardholders also receive a complimentary Club Marriott membership for the first year, offering up to 20% discounts on dining and stays across the Asia-Pacific region. Exclusive hotel and dining benefits include a book of 3 nights, a pay-for-two offer at participating ITC hotels, and a 1+1 complimentary buffet at select locations. For golf enthusiasts, the card provides unlimited complimentary golf games at leading courses across India and select global locations.

5. Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card

Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card
Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card

The Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card provides access to over 1,300 airport lounges in 600 cities across 148 countries. This ensures that no matter where you travel, a comfortable and well-equipped lounge is available for relaxation, refreshments, and work. Apart from lounge access, Priority Pass members enjoy exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and spa services at airports, making each journey more rewarding. 

Another notable feature is Minute Suite Access, where members can use private suites at select airports free of charge for the first hour, with a nominal fee applied thereafter. Cardholders get 24/7 customer support, ensuring that members receive assistance whenever needed. In addition to unlimited lounge access, the Axis Bank Reserve Credit Card extends elite hospitality privileges through its partnerships with some of the world’s most luxurious hotel chains. Cardholders receive an ITC Culinaire membership, which includes a free third-night stay, 50% savings at All Day Dining, and 25% Green Points on food and beverage spending. Similarly, the Accor Plus membership provides a one-night free stay at Accor hotels across the Asia Pacific region; Club Marriott Asia Pacific membership offers a 20% discount on food and beverage and 20% off the best available room rates at select Marriott hotels in India, and exclusive offers at International and Domestic Oberoi and Trident Hotels. 

6. SBI ELITE Credit Card

SBI ELITE Credit Card
SBI ELITE Credit Card

Another cost-effective credit card offering complimentary Priority Pass membership is the SBI ELITE Credit Card, which provides access to over 1,000 airport lounges worldwide. The Priority Pass program with the SBI ELITE Credit Card offers six complimentary international airport lounge visits per calendar year, with a maximum of two visits per quarter. For domestic travellers, the card also offers a Domestic Lounge Program, providing two complimentary domestic airport lounge visits every quarter in India. 

In addition to the lounge access benefits, the SBI ELITE Credit Card offers an exclusive concierge service, ensuring that cardholders receive dedicated assistance whenever needed. This premium service includes flower and gift delivery, allowing users to send thoughtful surprises to loved ones with ease. Additionally, the concierge can facilitate online doctor consultations, offering medical guidance remotely, making it a valuable feature for those who travel frequently and require quick access to professional advice. Moreover, the card also offers a highly rewarding experience for everyday spending. Cardholders earn 5X Reward Points on dining, departmental store, and grocery spending, and 2 Reward Points per ₹100 spent on all other transactions except fuel. The card also offers 15,000 bonus Reward Points on achieving annual spending of ₹5 lahks and ₹8 lahks, while those who reach ₹10 lakhs in annual spending benefit from a spend-based reversal of the annual fee, making it highly rewarding and cost-effective.

7. RESERV Credit Card by YES Bank

  • Annual Fee: ₹2,499 + Applicable taxes

  • Authorised User Fee: Typically zero

  • Official Website: https://www.yesbank.in/

RESERV Credit Card by YES Bank
RESERV Credit Card by YES Bank

Last on our recommendation list is the RESERV Credit Card by YES Bank. Whether travelling internationally or domestically, cardholders can enjoy premium comfort with complimentary lounge access. The card provides six complimentary airport lounge visits per calendar year outside India and three complimentary lounge visits per quarter within India

Beyond travel benefits, the RESERV Credit Card offers purchase protection of up to ₹50,000 against accidental damage for six months on mobiles and electronic items purchased online. For golf enthusiasts, the card offers a complimentary golf program, where cardholders can avail themselves of four green fee waivers per year at select golf courses across India and one complimentary golf lesson per year. Shopping with the RESERV Credit Card during your international travels is also highly rewarding. For online shopping for select categories, cardholders earn 24 YES Rewardz Points for every INR 200 spent. For offline shopping, the card offers 12 YES Rewardz Points per INR 200 spent, ensuring that everyday expenses contribute to substantial rewards. Additionally, on select categories, cardholders can earn 6 YES Rewardz Points for every INR 200 spent, maximising the benefits of using the card across various spending needs. These features make YES Bank’s RESERV Credit Card one of the most cost-effective credit cards with a Priority Pass, offering exclusive benefits across airport lounges, dining, and shopping at a minimal annual fee. 

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing a Credit Card with Priority Pass

Since you now have a list of the best credit cards with a Priority Pass, here is a quick guide for you to help choose the best amongst these per your travel needs:

  1. Annual Fee and Cost vs. Benefits: Most premium travel credit cards with Priority Pass come with an annual fee, which can range from $95 to over $700. While these fees might seem high, they often include valuable perks such as lounge access, travel credits, and concierge services. If you are a frequent traveller, the benefits can easily outweigh the cost. However, if you travel occasionally, consider opting for a card with a lower annual fee or one that waives the fee under specific spending conditions. 

  2. Lounge Access Limits and Guest Privileges: Not all Priority Pass memberships offered by credit cards are the same. Some provide unlimited access to numerous lounges worldwide, while others have restrictions on the number of complimentary visits per year. Additionally, some cards extend free guest privileges, allowing you to bring family members or travel companions at no extra charge, whereas others charge a guest entry fee. If you frequently travel with companions, choosing a card with complimentary guest access can provide significant value.

  3. Rewards Program and Earning Potential: Credit cards with Priority Pass often come with a rewards program where you earn points or miles on purchases. It’s important to check how easily you can redeem these rewards, whether for flights, hotel stays, statement credits, or direct transfers to airline and hotel loyalty programs. A flexible rewards program can significantly enhance the overall value of the card.

  4. Foreign Transaction Fees: If you frequently travel internationally, choosing a card with zero foreign transaction fees is essential. Cards like American Express Platinum and Chase Sapphire Reserve charge zero foreign transaction fees. Some credit cards charge up to 3% on international purchases, which can add up quickly. So, go for a card that charges zero or nominal foreign transaction fees. 

  5. Insurance and Concierge Services: Beyond lounge access, many premium credit cards offer travel insurance benefits such as trip cancellation coverage, lost baggage protection, rental car insurance, and emergency medical assistance, which can be extremely valuable for frequent travellers. Choosing a card with strong travel protections also ensures peace of mind while on the go. Additionally, opt for a card that comes with concierge services that assist with booking reservations at exclusive restaurants, securing last-minute tickets for concerts or sporting events, and making travel arrangements. 

Conclusion

It is true that choosing the right credit card with Priority Pass can transform your airport experience, providing access to exclusive lounges, premium dining, and a host of luxury travel benefits. 

Whether you're a frequent flyer, a business traveller, or simply someone who enjoys stress-free journeys, selecting a credit card that offers the right balance of lounge access, rewards, and travel perks is crucial. While premium cards come with higher fees, they often offer extensive benefits, such as airline credits, hotel privileges, and travel insurance, making them well worth the investment for avid travellers. On the other hand, if you are looking for a budget-friendly option, there are also cost-effective cards that still provide valuable lounge access and travel rewards. Therefore, no matter your travel style or budget, there is a credit card that perfectly suits your needs.

Which credit card offers the best Priority Pass benefits?

The American Express Platinum Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve Credit Card are among the best options, offering extensive lounge access along with additional perks such as airline credits, hotel memberships, and premium concierge services. 

How do I activate my Priority Pass membership through my credit card?

Activation varies depending on the credit card issuer. Most banks provide a dedicated link or mobile app to register for Priority Pass. Once activated, you will receive a digital or physical Priority Pass card, which you can use to access airport lounges. Some credit cards also allow lounge access by presenting your card, but this varies by issuer. It’s best to follow the activation instructions provided by your bank.

Do all Priority Pass memberships come with unlimited lounge visits?

No, not all memberships offer unlimited access. Some credit cards provide unlimited visits for the primary cardholder and guests, while others limit the number of complimentary visits per year. It’s important to check the specific terms of your credit card’s Priority Pass membership.

Can I bring guests with me to a Priority Pass lounge?

Guest access depends on the specific credit card’s Priority Pass policy. Some credit cards allow free guest access, while others charge a fee per guest. Cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve allow up to two complimentary guests per visit, whereas others may charge around $27-32 per additional guest.

Do all airport lounges accept Priority Pass?

No, Priority Pass is accepted at most but not all lounges worldwide. Some major airline lounges, such as Delta Sky Club, may not accept Priority Pass unless you have specific airline status or membership. It’s always best to check the Priority Pass app or website before your trip to confirm lounge availability at your departure airport.

Do Priority Pass memberships expire?

Yes, Priority Pass memberships typically expire after a year and need renewal. However, if your Priority Pass is linked to a credit card, it remains active as long as your credit card account is open and in good standing.

Can I use a Priority Pass at restaurants or other airport services?

Yes, in addition to lounges, Priority Pass offers discounts and credits at select airport restaurants, bars, and spa services. Availability varies by airport, so it’s advisable to check in advance.

Can I get a Priority Pass membership without a credit card?

Yes, you can purchase a standalone Priority Pass membership directly from their website. Membership plans range from Standard (pay-per-visit access) to Standard Plus (limited free visits) and Prestige (unlimited visits). However, many premium travel credit cards offer a complimentary membership, making it a more cost-effective option.