Amex Tightens Centurion Lounge Access Rules for Guests and Layovers

Updated: January 30, 2026, 5:48am CST

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New Guest and Layover Access Rules Take Effect This July
Final Thoughts

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American Express is making a couple of changes to how cardmembers access its popular Centurion Lounges — and it’s a bit of a heads-up that more restrictions are on the way. While the goal is to keep the lounge experience comfortable and avoid overcrowding, these latest updates tighten guest rules and set clearer limits on when you can visit during a layover.

Here’s what you need to know.

New Guest and Layover Access Rules Take Effect This July

Starting on July 8, 2026, American Express will update entry policies at Centurion Lounges in the U.S., London Heathrow (LHR), Tokyo Haneda (HND), Hong Kong (HKG), Sydney (SYD), and Melbourne (MEL). These changes affect several premium credit cards that allow for lounge access but focus on guest eligibility and the timing of lounge visits. At this time, lounges in other locations aren’t affected.

Amex Centurion Lounge SLC Outdoor Terrace — Amex is introducing stricter guest and timing rules for Centurion Lounge access. Image Credit: Stella Shon

First, guests must now be traveling on the same flight as the eligible cardmember to enter a Centurion Lounge. This means you won’t be able to bring in a guest who’s flying on a separate reservation or different itinerary that day. In short, you can only bring in guests who are traveling with you.

Second, cardmembers will be able to access Centurion Lounges during a layover up to 5 hours before their departing flight. In simple terms, there’s now a clear limit on how early you can enter the lounge during a connection.

These policy updates apply to the following cardmembers:

Platinum Card^® from American Express
The Business Platinum Card^® from American Express
Corporate Platinum Card^® by American Express
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve American Express Card
Delta SkyMiles^® Reserve Business American Express Card

American Express says the Centurion Lounge remains one of the most valued cardmember benefits, and that these changes are designed to help maintain a more comfortable, consistent experience as lounge demand continues to grow.

Hot Tip:

If you travel often with the same person, consider adding them as an authorized user on your eligible Amex card. That way, they can have their own lounge access instead of relying on guest entry rules.

Final Thoughts

Centurion Lounges have become increasingly busy in recent years, and policy tweaks like these are part of Amex’s broader effort to reduce overcrowding. While most travelers won’t see a major shift in how they use the lounges, those who often meet friends or family flying separately — or who like to settle in very early during long connections — may need to adjust their airport routine starting in July.