Recommendation: verify if your card can transfer points to the program now to gain entry immediately through the updated network.
More than 60 partner spaces have returned to the program, widening options for those who value prestige and efficiency during trips.
Transferring points from mastercard or Citi remains the simplest route; information from the program indicates a waiver on first transfer and a favorable rate for combined redemptions, with many transfers posted within minutes.
Those who carry transferred points can see the value rise if they align transfers with a 1:1 rate, then use points to cover admissions, short stays, or other privileges–this is the kind of information that helps you optimize a transaction.
The program also benefits from a free transfer window for transfers that originate from major networks, giving guests flexibility and speed in building a combined balance that adds more value.
For many, this change enhances the program’s prestige; those who transferred balances can review their information, see exact transaction timestamps, and redeem points for short stays or other perks without friction.
If you hold Citi or mastercard accounts, start the transfer now and monitor the rate changes–this is a short, decisive move with immediate impact.
Over 60 Plaza Premium Lounges Rejoin Priority Pass: Expansion for Travelers
Recommendation: cardholders should activate the benefit immediately to access the expanded network through Citi and Mastercard partners.
The program offers a fantastic range of lounge privileges, with points transfer, guest options, and favorable rate structures that improve value for frequent travelers. This collaboration gives cardholders greater flexibility and faster entry, making airport downtime more comfortable rather than routine.
Many supported cards from Citi and Mastercard unlock combined benefits, including free visits, extended access windows, and streamlined transfer of points into lounge usage. Details cover transfer blocks, eligibility checks, and how to maximize points across programs to secure more visits with fewer fees.
From a currency perspective, this move supports smoother check-ins and currency-friendly payments, reducing friction during layovers. Also, never miss updates on guest allowances, partner changes, and new lounge additions as the network grows, delivering more comfort during travel without sacrificing convenience for cardholders.
Timeline, airports, and access implications
Immediately map the rejoining lounge network across the main airports and align Mastercard and Citi programs to maximize free lounge entry for prestige cardholders.
Announced this year that the rejoining of the network will involve more than sixty spaces at major gateways, with a phased rollout through the coming year.
Airports: LHR, DXB, SIN, HKG, TPE, CDG, FRA, HND, NRT are among the first wave sites, spanning Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific corridors.
Entry implications for cardholders: those with prestige status and those enrolled in partner programs will see more free entries; pooling across Mastercard and Citi programs will shorten lines and increase capacity during peak periods; this will also benefit those who travel frequently.
Details on rate and mile implications: the rate for some transactions may vary by issuer; dont assume identical terms at every site; the program will provide a dedicated portal to verify eligibility, required registrations, and any temporary restrictions.
Recommendations for travelers this year: track the calendar, plan trips through the listed airports, and coordinate with Mastercard, Citi, and program partners; if you hold prestige cards, reallocate miles to maximize free visits; also watch for future rejoining updates that could unlock more free entries.
June 6, 2023: First wave of rejoining lounges and what changes for members
Immediately transfer citi points to transfer partners to lock in airport lounge access during the first wave. This year’s adjustment creates a combined path that expands options at key hubs, giving cardholders a great chance to leverage earned currency for entry. dont rely on a single route; pool points across many partners to maximize availability and flexibility.
announced on June 6, 2023, the first wave reopened access to participating programs, with a straightforward transaction flow and a waiver on select transfers. The requirement to link accounts remains, and transfers will post to partner accounts within a short window. Travelers can use pooling across programs to reach airports with better availability and more efficient use of earned points.
How to maximize value: start by listing transfer partners and mapping them to the airports you frequent, then move points to the programs that grant lounge access on the routes you fly most. The rate varies by partner, so small adjustments can push total value higher. dont forget to leverage pooling across accounts if your setup allows, and verify which programs allow entry without extra steps or fees.
Strategic tips: combine currency from multiple programs to unlock flexible redemptions, which gives you more coverage across many destinations. Stay alert for updated waivers or promotions, as these can improve transfer efficiency and shorten the time from transaction to posting. The approach will improve your experience at airports, especially when travel schedules are tight and you need fast access to a quiet space.
Takeaway: immediate action matters in this first wave. If you want quick gains, move now and monitor postings, because this year’s changes lay a foundation for broader access as more airports and partners come online, supported by Citi tools and a widening network of collaborators.
June 20, 2023: Expanded coverage and updated lounge options
Recommendation: Pool points from cards into Citi ThankYou and other Mastercard-linked programs and transfer to partner networks before you depart to gain entry at airport spaces with the latest options.
- Expanded coverage: the network now covers more than 60 airport spaces worldwide, strengthening presence in Europe, North America, and Asia-Pacific.
- New partners and transfer routes: deeper ties with Citi, Mastercard-backed programs, and additional partners allow more flexible pooling and conversion to miles or credits in companion networks.
- Pooling and requirement: pooling from multiple cards is supported; meeting the transfer threshold remains a requirement to initiate a move.
- Timing and rate: some transfers are immediate; others may take 24–72 hours; monitor the rate and currency conversion if your points travel through a different currency path.
- Cost and waiver: a temporary waiver lowers fees for certain transfers this year; read the fine print to confirm eligibility.
- Practical steps:
- link your Citi and Mastercard-enabled cards to the program
- pool points from all eligible cards
- initiate transfer to a partner network and note the transfer reference
- check status and confirm transfer, then use the entry rights at applicable airports
Airports with Plaza Premium lounges rejoining Priority Pass
Recommendation: If your itinerary passes through hubs where this partnership is active, use an eligible card to access a lounge area immediately and enjoy free refreshments, workspaces, and a quiet place between flights.
The announced expansion covers more than 60 spaces worldwide, spanning key gateways in Asia-Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and the Americas. Those with the right cards from major partners can enjoy entry thanks to a waived fee in many cases, and the program often supports currency earned on card spend that can be used toward future visits. The coordination with the plaza network means you can transfer or pool points to unlock additional visits across several airports, and those who accumulate mile rewards will find this especially advantageous, like a significant upgrade for frequent travelers.
Dont assume the benefit applies to every card; check the requirement in your issuer’s terms for access at the door. Some waivers apply for a set block of visits per year, while others require a specific tier. This can be fantastic for frequent travelers who carry a Mastercard or Citi-issued card, giving you more lounge time at many airports and the peace of mind that you won’t pay extra for entry. The rate of value can vary by region and card, so review details before traveling.
For those planning long trips, align a card portfolio with partners to maximize gains; this makes it simpler to access a lounge after a long flight, and you can even plan for red-eye legs via the combined benefit across hubs. Those who frequently transfer points or pool miles will appreciate the flexibility of this approach, especially when traveling through busy terminals and using a great value option.
Those also seeking a broad reach can bank on the network’s reach to include a range of major airports, from large international hubs to regional gateways, making it easier to maintain a calm place during layovers and never miss an opportunity to rest. The information will be refreshed as new locations join and terms shift.
Source: official site
Singapore: Best cards for free airport lounge access
For those seeking immediate lounge entry at airports, Citi PremierMiles Card stands out as a fantastic baseline option, offering two complimentary lounge visits per year and miles earned with every transaction. From immediately after activation, cardholders can leverage those visits while accumulating mile rewards that transfer to major airline partners.
The KrisFlyer Infinite and AmEx-linked options sit in the premium tier, delivering great value for frequent travelers. Those cards will also pair with a global lounge network, expanding access beyond Singapore to airports around the region and beyond.
In a market that has rejoined stronger lounge networks, those cards announced expanded coverage this year, with pooling features that let family accounts share access credits. If you want to maximize value, combine a Citi product with a second card that provides unlimited entry through a dedicated lounge network and favorable transfer terms. The combined approach gives you more flexibility, faster earning, and fewer transaction blocks on high-traffic travel days.
Key considerations: look for cards that have low annual fees relative to the lounge value, credible earning rates on flights and travel, and clear transfer routes to KrisFlyer, AsiaMiles, and other partners. Always verify guest policies, as some networks permit one guest or unlimited guests for certain tiers, which can markedly increase value on trips with family or colleagues.
Card | Annual fee (SGD) | Lounge entry policy | Earn rate | Transfer partners | Pooling / family options |
Citi PremierMiles Card | 195 | Two complimentary lounge visits per year for the cardholder | 1.0–2.0 miles per SGD, higher on flights booked via Citi | KrisFlyer, AsiaMiles, other partners | Yes, ThankYou Points can be pooled or shared with family accounts |
KrisFlyer Infinite (AmEx-linked option) | High (premium tier) | Unlimited entry for cardholder via AmEx Global Lounge Collection; guest rules vary | 2.0x miles on flights, 1.0x on other spend | KrisFlyer partners and AmEx network | Yes, family or household sharing limited by program rules |
DBS Altitude Card | Mid-range | Two lounge visits per year (partner network) | 1.0–2.0 miles per SGD on select categories | Multiple airline and lounge network partners | Yes, flexible usage within household |
UOB PRVI Miles Card | Mid-range | Two lounge visits per year (network partners) | ~1.2–1.8 miles per SGD | Several airline and lounge programs | Yes, can be combined with family accounts under policy |
Maximizing value: tips on timings, guest rules, and planning visits
Plan plaza visits early in the year to lock in the best rate and guaranteed admission. Aim for morning windows at airports to minimize crowding and secure quieter lounge spaces.
Check guest rules for each card program: many allow a guest with you, often one companion, and some require a minimum cardholder status. Pooling points among cardholders can unlock a combined admission benefit.
Use citi or mastercard cards for potential waivers and better rate terms; this details how currency varies by plaza location and how combined benefits from different cards can stack for lounge access. Cardholders can leverage mile to unlock benefits, and one mile can count toward admission. This approach gives you predictable value across trips.
Plan with a simple checklist: block time in your calendar for each plaza stop, map routes through airports to minimize backtracking, and carry the currency you need; those steps help you squeeze more value this year. Dont miss waiver opportunities when you travel, and suitesmile will guide you to the details that matter. Those insights will improve your plan, and you can immediately see the impact when the right card is ready.