- New Guidelines: NPCI’s updated RuPay lounge access policy will come into effect from January 2025.
- Tier-Based System: Complimentary lounge visits will be based on cardholder spending tiers.
- Four Spending Tiers: RuPay cardholders will be grouped into four tiers, with complimentary visits ranging from 2 to unlimited per quarter, depending on spending.
- Mandatory System: Access will be processed through the RuPay Benefit Management System (RBMS), with issuers required to submit cardholder details quarterly.
- Technical Changes: Issuers must comply with the updated DE 102 data element length for RuPay transactions, increasing it from 19 to 30 digits.
Source: NPCI
The National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) has introduced new guidelines for RuPay cardholders seeking complimentary access to airport lounges. The updated policy, which will come into effect on January 1, 2025, applies to the RuPay Exclusive Lounge located at Terminal 3, Departure Pier 11 (T3D) of Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, Delhi, near Boarding Gate 41.
This exclusive lounge offers premium services to RuPay cardholders, including a variety of food, drinks, and entertainment, distinguishing itself from other lounges at IGI Airport’s departure terminal.
Tier-Based Complimentary Access System
Only select RuPay Credit Cardholders (Select, Platinum, and higher variants) will be eligible for complimentary access to the RuPay Exclusive Lounge, based on their spending patterns. The program will be managed through the RuPay Benefit Management System (RBMS), with banks and card issuers required to share details of eligible cardholders every quarter.
Below is the tier-based system for RuPay Credit Cardholders (Select, Platinum & Higher Variants), applicable based on spends in the previous calendar quarter:
| Tier | Spend Limit (₹) | Complimentary Visits per Quarter |
|---|---|---|
| Tier 1 | ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 | 2 visits |
| Tier 2 | ₹50,001 to ₹1,00,000 | 4 visits |
| Tier 3 | ₹1,00,001 to ₹5,00,000 | 8 visits |
| Tier 4 | ₹5,00,001 and above | Unlimited visits |
Key Policy Highlights:
- Program Start Date: The policy will take effect on January 1, 2025, with the flexibility for NPCI to modify or revoke the program without prior notice.
- Mandatory Use of RBMS: Lounge access will only be granted through the RuPay Benefit Management System (RBMS), as endorsed by the RuPay SCM on May 28, 2024. Issuers must onboard themselves to the Standard Benefit Delivery, as outlined in Circular no NPCI/2023-24/RuPay/032.
- Spending Calculation: Complimentary visits reset at the end of each calendar quarter, based on spending in the previous quarter. For instance:
- Scenario 1: Spending ₹5,000 provides 0 visits in the next quarter.
- Scenario 2: Spending ₹11,000 provides 2 visits.
- Scenario 3: Spending ₹60,000 provides 4 visits.
- Scenario 4: Spending ₹1,20,000 provides 8 visits.
- Scenario 5: Spending ₹5,10,000 provides unlimited visits.
| Scenario | Total Spends in Previous Quarter (₹) | Complimentary Visits in Next Quarter |
|---|---|---|
| Scenario 1 | ₹5,000 | 0 visits |
| Scenario 2 | ₹11,000 | 2 visits |
| Scenario 3 | ₹60,000 | 4 visits |
| Scenario 4 | ₹1,20,000 | 8 visits |
| Scenario 5 | ₹2,00,500 | 8 visits |
| Scenario 6 | ₹5,10,000 | Unlimited visits |
Impact on Cardholder:
The new lounge access system will offer a more personalized experience for RuPay credit cardholders, particularly benefiting frequent travellers. Complimentary access to the lounge will provide a more comfortable and peaceful environment away from the busy terminals, with amenities such as refreshments, Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating. The tier-based system is expected to enhance customer satisfaction and promote loyalty among RuPay cardholders.
