HDFC Bank is set to roll out key changes to its Regalia Gold and Diners Privilege credit cards, signalling a shift towards spend-based benefits and revised reward structures.
The updates will be implemented in phases, starting May 15 and July 1, impacting reward points, fees, and lounge access policies.
From May 15, the bank will revise the base reward structure for Regalia Gold cardholders. Customers will now earn 5 reward points for every ₹200 spent, compared to 4 points per ₹150 earlier. While the points appear higher, the effective reward rate per rupee spent will reduce. Accelerated rewards on select categories will remain unchanged.
The Dynamic Currency Conversion (DCC) fee will also increase to 1.75% for international transactions billed in Indian rupees. Additionally, a ₹199 fee will be introduced for card reissuance in cases of loss, theft, or damage.
From July 1, complimentary domestic airport lounge access will become conditional. For Regalia Gold users, the existing benefit of 3 lounge visits per calendar quarter will now require a spend of ₹60,000 in the previous quarter. Access will continue via direct card swipe without vouchers. International lounge access—6 visits annually through Priority Pass—will remain unchanged and without spending conditions.
Diners Privilege cardholders will also need to meet a ₹60,000 quarterly spend threshold. On meeting this, users will receive 3 lounge access vouchers—2 for domestic lounges and 1 for international use. These vouchers must be generated via the SmartBuy platform and presented as QR codes. If the threshold is not met, no vouchers will be issued.
The bank is also introducing the Travel Edge Program for Regalia Gold users. This feature allows customers to avail any 2 complimentary benefits per quarter by uploading their boarding pass.
Benefits include spa sessions, buffet meals at partner hotels, airport transfers via Uber (up to ₹750 per ride), and room upgrades at select hotels. These perks are limited to the destination city mentioned on the boarding pass and require voucher validation.
The changes indicate a clear move towards linking rewards and benefits with spending behaviour. While new travel perks add value, the revisions may reduce overall benefits for low-spending users, making higher engagement essential.
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