Status match tracker: every airline, hotel, rental car, cruise & casino match
By Bryce Casson, Founder · Cardocrat · Updated October 2026 · Terms last checked Oct 25, 2026
The short answer: A status match gives you elite status because you already hold it somewhere else. The trick is starting from status a credit card gets you, so every entry below shows the card that feeds it, what the status is worth, and the normal way to earn it.
§ Start with your goal
What are you after?
Partner status from a foreign program is the lounge play, because U.S. airlines restrict lounge access for their own elites on domestic trips but not for partner elites.
Before matching anything, know what the tier is worth and whether a credit card already gets you there. A match is only worth your one shot when it beats the easy route.
Kind of status
Examples
What it gets you
Easiest route without a match
Airline, lower tier
Silver, Ruby, A-List, Mosaic 1
Free checked bag, priority check-in and boarding, better seats, low-priority upgrades on your home airline.
Co-brand cards give a free bag for your whole party for $95 to $150 a year.
Airline, upper tier
Gold, Sapphire, Star Gold, Elite Plus
Lounges when flying the alliance (domestic too, if the status is from a foreign program), 2 or more bags, priority everything.
Qatar Infinite card for oneworld Sapphire; $75,000 on the Aeroplan card for Star Gold.
Hotel, mid tier
Hilton Gold, Marriott Gold, Hyatt Explorist
Late checkout, room upgrades, bonus points; Hilton Gold adds a breakfast or food credit.
Suite upgrades, lounges, breakfast, 4 p.m. checkout.
Hilton Aspire for Diamond, Marriott Brilliant for Platinum; Hyatt via the Aeroplan challenge.
Rental car
National Executive, Hertz President's Circle
Pick your own car from the upgraded aisle, skip the counter.
Amex Platinum (Hertz, Avis, National) and Venture X (Hertz).
Cruise and casino
Royal Caribbean Diamond, Caesars Diamond, MGM Gold
Onboard lounges and drinks; casino priority lines, parking, and room offers.
Caesars and MGM cards give entry tiers; matches move you between sister brands.
§ Credit cards
Which card status can unlock more status?
Credit cards hand out a lot of elite status. Most airline matches will not accept it, but a handful of partnerships will. This is the Cardocrat angle: start from a card you can actually get, then see where its status leads.
Blocked Caesars has rejected card-earned Wyndham status since Feb 2025
§ How it works
How to run a status match without wasting it
Check that your status counts. Most programs only take status you earned by flying or staying. Promotional, matched, lifetime, and card-granted status is often rejected, and the program will ask for screenshots showing your name, tier, and activity.
Time the clock. Challenge windows usually start the day the status is granted, not when you first travel. Apply right before a stretch of trips you were already planning.
Count the lifetime limits. Alaska and Hilton allow one match ever, United reportedly one every five years, American one every two years, JetBlue one every 24 months. Do not burn one on a quiet quarter.
Put the number on the booking. Partnership status like Qatar Gold only works if that program’s number is on the reservation and the boarding pass.
Stack, do not chase. The best matches lead somewhere you already go. A match into an airline you rarely fly is just a temporary badge.
§ The tracker
Every status match, by category 34 programs
Open Running now with no announced end date.Limited time Running now, inside a dated window.Check terms Reported active, but we could not confirm the terms on an official page.Ending Being wound down. Act before the deadline or skip it.No match This program does not match outside status.
Nothing matches that search. Try a program name like “Hilton” or a tier like “Sapphire”.
§ 1
Airlines 11 live · 11 listed
Airline matches want status you qualified for. Status earned through card spending counts (AAdvantage Loyalty Points, Atmos status points, Delta MQDs); status a card simply hands you usually does not.
American AAdvantage
Match + challenge (Instant Status Pass)Card gets you inOpen
Earned elite status with Delta, United, JetBlue, or Southwest.
You get
The equivalent AAdvantage tier (Gold up to Executive Platinum) for 4 months.
What the status gets you
Gold (oneworld Ruby): 1 free checked bag, complimentary upgrades from 24 hours out, Preferred seats at booking and Main Cabin Extra at check-in, priority check-in, security, and boarding, 40% bonus miles. Platinum (Sapphire): 2 free bags, upgrades from 48 hours, Main Cabin Extra at booking, 60% bonus. Status-based Admirals Club access only applies on international trips.
To keep it
Earn a Loyalty Point goal in each 4-month phase: 13,000 for Gold, 25,000 for Platinum, 42,000 for Platinum Pro, 67,000 for Executive Platinum. Hit all three phases and you keep status for the rest of the membership year. Card spending counts as Loyalty Points.
How long it lasts
4 months, renewed phase by phase.
The normal way to earn it
40,000 Loyalty Points for Gold, 75,000 for Platinum, 125,000 for Platinum Pro, 200,000 for Executive Platinum. Citi AAdvantage card spending earns Loyalty Points, so you can qualify without flying.
Fine print
Not available if you joined the Instant Status Pass in the last 2 years. Matched, transferred, lifetime, and promotional status is rejected. Allow 4 weeks for review.
Worth it?The first goal for Gold (13,000 Loyalty Points in 4 months) is about a third of the normal 40,000. Worth it if you will fly American or put real spending on an AAdvantage card in that window.
Status with Atmos (Alaska/Hawaiian), American, British Airways, Delta, Frontier, or Southwest.
You get
Mosaic 1 or Mosaic 2 for 3 months.
What the status gets you
Mosaic 1: priority boarding and security, Mosaic check-in, free same-day switches, a free checked bag for you and eligible companions, EvenMore seat upgrades 36 hours out (plus 2 companions), a free drink. Mosaic 2 adds a second free bag and EvenMore at booking.
To keep it
Earn tiles inside the 3 months: 10 to keep Mosaic 1, 25 to keep Mosaic 2, 40 to reach Mosaic 3. Tiles come from JetBlue travel (1 per $100), JetBlue card spending (1 per $1,000), and purchased tiles, which count.
How long it lasts
Through the end of the next calendar year if completed.
The normal way to earn it
50 tiles a year for Mosaic 1: 1 tile per $100 of JetBlue travel or per $1,000 of JetBlue card spending. The JetBlue Premier card adds 25 tiles every year.
Fine print
Reported wait of 24 months between matches. Allow up to 4 weeks for processing.
Worth it?Ten tiles in 3 months (about $1,000 of JetBlue flights, or purchased tiles) keeps Mosaic 1 through next year, a fifth of the normal requirement. One of the easiest challenges here.
Card strategyIt accepts hotel status, and cards hand that out: the Amex Platinum gives Marriott Gold and Hilton Gold, the Hilton Surpass gives Hilton Gold. That could buy SkyTeam Elite Plus for $299, if card-granted hotel status passes review.
You need
Airline elite status, Accor ALL Gold or higher, or Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt, or IHG elite status.
You get
Up to Platinum Elite Plus. The Gold and Platinum tiers carry SkyTeam Elite Plus.
What the status gets you
Gold and Platinum carry SkyTeam Elite Plus: lounges on international SkyTeam trips, an extra bag, SkyPriority lanes.
To keep it
Nothing. It is a straight purchase.
How long it lasts
12 months.
The normal way to earn it
Flying Kenya Airways and SkyTeam partners, or the Air France KLM card route described under SAS.
Fine print
One match per person. Residents of Argentina, China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan are excluded. Hotel elites top out at Gold.
Worth it?Same idea as SAS. Interesting because it accepts hotel status, so a hotel tier from a card might buy SkyTeam Elite Plus for $299.
Card strategyAn eligible premium travel card qualifies on its own for Titanium (SkyTeam Elite). Hotel status from cards such as the Amex Platinum can reach Gold.
You need
Airline elite status (Atmos priced separately), hotel elite status, or an eligible premium travel card.
You get
Titanium, Gold, or Platinum. Hotel status cannot reach Platinum; a card gets Titanium.
What the status gets you
Titanium carries SkyTeam Elite (priority check-in, an extra bag). Gold and Platinum carry SkyTeam Elite Plus, adding lounges on international SkyTeam trips.
To keep it
Nothing. It is a straight purchase.
How long it lasts
12 months for airline matches.
The normal way to earn it
Flying Vietnam Airlines and SkyTeam partners.
Fine print
One match per person. Country eligibility applies.
Worth it?The only match here that openly accepts premium travel cards, though a card only reaches Titanium (SkyTeam Elite).
Card strategyFeed it with AAdvantage status qualified through Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select, Globe or Executive Loyalty Points (40,000 for Gold), or Atmos status from Atmos Summit spending. The challenge itself has to be cleared with Delta flights.
You need
Earned elite status with almost any airline outside the Delta partner family. Silver, Gold, and Platinum are the ceiling (no Diamond).
You get
Silver, Gold, or Platinum Medallion for 90 days.
What the status gets you
Medallion status brings complimentary upgrades for you and a companion, waived bag fees, priority boarding, and Preferred seats. Gold and up add SkyTeam Elite Plus (Sky Priority lanes and an extra bag on partners) and better upgrade odds. Status alone does not open Sky Clubs on domestic trips.
To keep it
Earn Medallion Qualification Dollars on Delta flights inside the 90 days: $1,250 for Silver, $2,500 for Gold, $3,750 for Platinum.
How long it lasts
Finish the challenge on a 2026 enrollment and status runs through January 31, 2028.
The normal way to earn it
5,000 MQDs for Silver, 10,000 for Gold, 15,000 for Platinum, 28,000 for Diamond, mostly from Delta ticket spending. The Delta Reserve and Platinum Amex cards add a $2,500 MQD head start every year, plus MQDs from card spending.
Fine print
Not available if you matched, enrolled, or held promotional or complimentary Medallion status in 2023 through 2026. You must have been a SkyMiles member for 30 days and flown a Delta fare above Main Basic in the past 3 years. Your 90 days start within 24 hours of approval.
Worth it?The challenge asks for a quarter of the normal bar ($1,250 instead of $5,000 for Silver). Worth it if you already have about $1,250 or more of Delta flights coming in the next 90 days.
Elite status with roughly 30 airlines, including American, Delta, Alaska, Southwest, British Airways, and Qantas.
You get
Premier Silver, Gold, Platinum, or 1K. The 120-day trial starts after an activating United flight, which must happen within 90 days of approval.
What the status gets you
Premier Silver (Star Silver): day-of-travel upgrades, Economy Plus at check-in, a free checked bag. Premier Gold (Star Gold): Economy Plus at booking for you and a companion, 2 free bags, Group 1 boarding, and Star Alliance lounges on international trips. United's own elites do not get United Clubs on domestic flights.
To keep it
Inside the trial: 5 flights and 1,700 PQP for Silver, 10 and 3,400 for Gold, 15 and 5,000 for Platinum, 20 and 7,500 for 1K.
How long it lasts
Match by December 31, 2026 and complete it, and status runs through January 2028.
The normal way to earn it
Premier Gold takes 12,000 PQP (or 10,000 PQP plus 30 flights) and at least 4 United flights. United cards earn PQP on spending (the Quest earns 1 PQP per $20, up to a cap). From 2027 only PQP count.
Fine print
Reported limit of one United match every five years. The reduced 90-day version for Delta and American elites closed in October 2026.
Worth it?The challenge needs roughly a quarter of the normal PQP. Worth it if you have several United trips in the 120 days after your first flight.
Card strategyFeed it with Delta Medallion from the Delta Reserve head start, JetBlue Mosaic from JetBlue Premier tiles, or A-List from Southwest card tier points (AAdvantage no longer qualifies). Skip the match entirely with the Atmos Summit: about $60,000 of spending earns Atmos Gold outright.
You need
Earned status with Aeromexico, Air Canada, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, or United. American AAdvantage stopped qualifying on March 31, 2025.
You get
Atmos Silver, Gold, or Platinum (oneworld Ruby, Sapphire, or Emerald) for 90 days. Titanium cannot be matched.
What the status gets you
Silver (oneworld Ruby): complimentary upgrades on Alaska and American, a free checked bag, preferred seats. Gold (Sapphire): 2 free bags, higher upgrade priority, oneworld lounges when flying internationally. Platinum (Emerald): oneworld first-class lounges on international trips.
To keep it
Fly 5,000, 10,000, or 20,000 base points on Alaska and Hawaiian inside the 90 days.
How long it lasts
A match started July through December 2026 runs through December 31, 2027 if completed.
The normal way to earn it
20,000 status points for Silver, 40,000 for Gold, 80,000 for Platinum, 135,000 for Titanium. The Atmos Summit card earns 1 status point per $2 plus 10,000 each anniversary (about $60,000 of spending for Gold); the Ascent earns 1 per $3.
Fine print
Once per lifetime. U.S. and Canada residents only. Sources disagree on whether the 2026 window is still open.
Worth it?It is one shot per lifetime, so only use it when you have 5,000 to 20,000 base points of Alaska flying booked inside the 90 days.
Card strategyFeed it with AAdvantage, Delta, Atmos, or JetBlue status qualified through those airlines' cards (see above). Spending on Southwest cards such as the Rapid Rewards Priority earns tier points toward normal A-List.
You need
Status with American, Delta, United, Alaska, or JetBlue (others at Southwest's discretion).
You get
A-List or A-List Preferred for 120 days.
What the status gets you
A-List: Group 1 boarding, 1 free checked bag, 25% bonus points, same-day standby. A-List Preferred: boarding before Group 1, 2 free checked bags, 100% bonus points, up to two free premium drinks on flights over 250 miles.
To keep it
Within 120 days: 3 round trips or 11,500 tier points for A-List, 6 round trips or 23,000 for A-List Preferred.
How long it lasts
12 months if completed.
The normal way to earn it
20 one-way flights or 35,000 tier points for A-List, 40 flights or 70,000 for A-List Preferred, in a calendar year. Spending on Southwest Chase cards counts toward tier points.
Fine print
Register by December 30, 2026. Not more than once in 12 months. Confirm the status shows before you book.
Worth it?Three round trips in 120 days instead of 20 one-way flights a year. Worth it if you fly Southwest anyway, now that free bags come with status or a card.
Card strategyAir Canada status is on the accepted list, and the Chase Aeroplan Card gives 25K automatically, but Virgin has not said whether complimentary status passes review.
You need
Elite status with one of 11 programs, including Air Canada, British Airways, United, and Lufthansa.
You get
Flying Club Silver with any future booking, or Gold with a Premium or Upper Class booking. It activates about 72 hours before the flight.
What the status gets you
Silver: priority check-in and bonus miles. Gold: SkyTeam Elite Plus, Virgin Clubhouse and SkyTeam lounge access, priority everything.
To keep it
Earn 400 Tier Points for Silver or 1,000 for Gold to extend.
How long it lasts
12 months.
The normal way to earn it
400 tier points for Silver and 1,000 for Gold, from Virgin Atlantic and partner flights.
Fine print
No repeat match within 5 years.
Worth it?Only if you fly Virgin Atlantic or SkyTeam across the Atlantic. Gold needs a Premium or Upper Class booking to activate.
Card strategyAny qualified airline status can feed it, including AAdvantage status earned with Citi AAdvantage Platinum Select, Globe or Executive Loyalty Points. The cheaper card route to SkyTeam status is the Air France KLM card (100 XP welcome bonus = Flying Blue Silver).
You need
Elite status with any of 84 airline programs. SkyTeam, Singapore, TAP, and Etihad elites are excluded.
You get
Silver, Gold, or Diamond. Gold and Diamond carry SkyTeam Elite Plus, which means lounges when you fly SkyTeam internationally.
What the status gets you
Gold and Diamond carry SkyTeam Elite Plus: lounges when you fly SkyTeam internationally, an extra checked bag, and SkyPriority lanes.
To keep it
Nothing. It is a straight purchase.
How long it lasts
The rest of your EuroBonus qualification period plus 12 months.
The normal way to earn it
Flying SAS and SkyTeam partners. The cheap U.S. card route is the $89 Air France KLM card, whose welcome bonus includes the 100 XP for Flying Blue Silver (SkyTeam Elite); about $25,000 of spending plus one trip gets Gold (Elite Plus).
Fine print
Worldwide offer reopened October 14, 2026. Fees vary by country. Confirm your country is eligible before paying.
Worth it?A paid shortcut to Elite Plus for international SkyTeam trips. On Delta, partner Elite Plus does not open Sky Clubs on domestic flights.
Cost: €89 / €199 / €349Card-earned status: unclearNo public application page; request through the program.
Frontier Miles
MatchNo card linkCheck terms
Card strategyNo useful card link; Frontier's own card earns toward Frontier status directly.
You need
Elite status with another airline.
You get
Frontier elite status.
What the status gets you
Frontier elite perks such as free seat selection and bag allowances that grow with each tier.
To keep it
Varies by offer.
How long it lasts
Varies by offer.
The normal way to earn it
Frontier status is earned with Frontier flights and Frontier card spending.
Fine print
New Frontier customers only. Frontier runs this on and off, and the last widely reported round (Elite Gold for $69) ended September 2025.
Worth it?Only if you fly Frontier often enough for the perks to offset its fees.
Cost: VariesCard-earned status: unclearNo public application page; request through the program.
§ 2
Airline & hotel partnerships 5 live · 6 listed
Status that flows between an airline and a hotel chain, usually by linking accounts.
Aeroplan → World of Hyatt
Challenge (new July 2026)Card gets you inLimited time
Card strategyThe Chase Aeroplan Card ($195) gives Aeroplan 25K the day you are approved, which is all you need to register.
You need
Any Aeroplan Elite status, including the 25K status the Chase Aeroplan card gives every cardholder, or an eligible premium Aeroplan card.
You get
A 90-day Hyatt challenge. 4 nights for Discoverist, 10 for Explorist, 20 for Globalist.
What the status gets you
Globalist, Hyatt's top tier: daily breakfast, club lounge access, room upgrades including standard suites, 4 p.m. late checkout, and waived resort fees. Explorist and Discoverist get smaller versions (upgrades short of suites, late checkout).
To keep it
The nights themselves. Card elite-night credits and promotional night credits do not count.
How long it lasts
Globalist earned on a 2026 registration lasts through February 2028.
The normal way to earn it
60 qualifying nights a year for Globalist, 30 for Explorist, 10 for Discoverist. The World of Hyatt cards give Discoverist and add night credits for spending.
Fine print
Register by December 31, 2026. The clock starts at registration, not at your first stay. Challenge status does not earn Hyatt milestone rewards. Hyatt-to-Aeroplan challenges were promised for later in 2026.
Worth it?20 nights in 90 days instead of 60 in a year, and the only ticket in is the Aeroplan card's $195 fee. Worth it if you have a heavy stretch of hotel stays coming.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: acceptedNo public application page; request through the program.
Accor ALL ↔ Qatar Privilege Club
Reciprocal match (quota-limited)Card gets you inLimited time
Card strategyFrom the Qatar side, the Qatar Signature and Qatar Infinite give Qatar Silver or Gold, which match across to Accor. From the Accor side, Bilt has run promotions that turned points into Accor Platinum, the tier that matches into Qatar Gold.
You need
Accor ALL Silver, Gold, Platinum, or Diamond, or Qatar Silver or Gold. Accounts must be linked before you fly.
You get
Accor Platinum or Diamond: Qatar Gold (oneworld Sapphire). Silver and Gold match across at the same level, in both directions.
What the status gets you
Qatar Gold is oneworld Sapphire. Because it is not AAdvantage status, it opens Admirals Clubs and Flagship lounges on domestic American flights, plus Alaska Lounges, with one guest. It also gets 2 free bags and priority boarding on American.
To keep it
To activate Qatar Gold, take one paid flight marketed and operated by Qatar Airways (no award tickets, no codeshares).
How long it lasts
12 months from the upgrade.
The normal way to earn it
Keeping Qatar Gold normally takes 270 Qpoints in 12 months with Qatar flights in the mix. The card route is the $499 Qatar Infinite, which gives Gold for the first card year only.
Fine print
Capped at 3,100 Gold matches for 2026, with no public counter. Matches into Qatar Platinum ended for 2026, and reports say 2026 is the final year of the match. One use per person.
Worth it?Probably the best lounge deal on this page if you fly American. The cost is one paid Qatar flight, and the status lasts 12 months.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: acceptedNo public application page; request through the program.
Marriott Bonvoy → Singapore KrisFlyer
Reciprocal challengeCard gets you inCheck terms
Card strategyThe Marriott Brilliant gives Platinum, which leads to KrisFlyer Elite Gold (Star Alliance Gold) after 4 Singapore Airlines flights in 6 months. The Bevy and Amex Platinum give Gold, which leads to Elite Silver after 2 flights. Whether card-granted Marriott status is accepted is not confirmed.
You need
Marriott Gold, Platinum, Titanium, or Ambassador.
You get
KrisFlyer Elite Silver, then Elite Gold (Star Alliance Gold) for Platinum and up.
What the status gets you
KrisFlyer Elite Gold is Star Alliance Gold. Because it is not United status, it opens United Clubs on domestic flights, plus an extra bag and priority lanes.
To keep it
Platinum and up: 4 Singapore Airlines flights in 6 months for Elite Gold. Gold: 2 flights for Elite Silver.
How long it lasts
Elite Gold for at least 12 months.
The normal way to earn it
Flying Singapore Airlines, or $75,000 of Chase Aeroplan card spending in a calendar year for Air Canada 35K (also Star Gold).
Fine print
Existing PPS Club or Elite Gold members are excluded.
Worth it?Only realistic if you will fly Singapore Airlines four times in six months.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: unclearNo public application page; request through the program.
Marriott Bonvoy ↔ Japan Airlines
Reciprocal status (new July 2026)Card helpsOpen
Card strategyCard-granted Marriott tiers (Gold from the Amex Platinum, Platinum from the Brilliant) earn some JAL points each year, but only Titanium and Ambassador earn enough for a JAL tier, and no card reaches those.
You need
Marriott Bonvoy status, or JAL Mileage Bank elite status. Link accounts.
You get
Marriott members earn JAL FLY ON points every year, from 2,000 up to 40,000 for Ambassador. Titanium and Ambassador earn enough for JAL Crystal (oneworld Ruby). JAL elites get Bonvoy status.
What the status gets you
JAL Crystal is oneworld Ruby: priority check-in, preferred seats, and a free checked bag on American.
To keep it
Keep the qualifying status.
How long it lasts
Annual.
The normal way to earn it
JAL status points from flying JAL and partners.
Fine print
It awards JAL status points, not a direct tier, so lower Marriott tiers do not reach a JAL tier on their own.
Worth it?Free if you are already Titanium or Ambassador. Link the accounts.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: unclearNo public application page; request through the program.
Marriott Bonvoy ↔ United (RewardsPlus)
Reciprocal statusNo card linkOpen
Card strategyNo card connection: no Marriott card reaches Titanium, and no United card grants Premier status.
You need
Marriott Titanium or Ambassador, or United Premier Gold or higher. Link accounts and register.
You get
Marriott Titanium and up: United Premier Silver. United Premier Gold and up: Marriott Gold Elite.
What the status gets you
United Premier Silver: day-of upgrades, Economy Plus at check-in, a free checked bag. Marriott Gold: 2 p.m. late checkout, room upgrades, 25% bonus points.
To keep it
Keep the qualifying status.
How long it lasts
Premier Silver lasts for the rest of the calendar year it is granted.
The normal way to earn it
Marriott Titanium takes 75 nights a year, and no card gets you there (the Brilliant gives Platinum). Marriott Gold comes free with several cards, including the Bevy, Bountiful, and Amex Platinum.
Fine print
Trial status from a United status challenge does not qualify for Bonvoy Gold. No Marriott card reaches Titanium, so this is for people who stay a lot.
Worth it?A nice add-on if you are already Titanium. Not a reason to chase Titanium.
Card strategyNo card connection. Listed only so you know it is ending.
You need
Linked AAdvantage and Hyatt accounts.
You get
Earning across programs, and occasional targeted Hyatt challenges for AAdvantage elites.
How long it lasts
Winding down into early 2027.
Fine print
November 15, 2026 is the last day to link accounts. Linked AAdvantage members can earn Hyatt rewards through Loyalty Point Rewards until February 28, 2027, and Hyatt status already chosen as a 2026-27 reward lasts through February 29, 2028.
Worth it?Link before November 15, 2026 if you want the last rewards. Otherwise skip it.
Cost: FreeNo public application page; request through the program.
§ 3
Hotels 7 live · 8 listed
For most chains a card already gets you the status, so check the card strategy before burning a one-time match.
Hilton Honors
Match + challengeCard gets you inCheck terms
Card strategyYou probably do not need the match: the Hilton Surpass and Amex Platinum give Gold, and the Hilton Aspire gives Diamond. The match is for Diamond without the Aspire, using hotel status you already hold.
You need
Elite status with Marriott, IHG, Hyatt, Accor, Radisson, Wyndham, Choice, Best Western, or another listed chain, plus proof of a recent stay.
You get
Hilton Gold for a 90-day trial.
What the status gets you
Gold: a daily food and beverage credit in the U.S. (breakfast elsewhere), room upgrades, 80% bonus points. Diamond: executive lounge access, better upgrades, 100% bonus points.
To keep it
Paid nights inside the 90 days to keep Gold or reach Diamond. Recent rounds asked for roughly 6 to 8 nights for Gold and 12 to 14 for Diamond; Hilton lowered the counts in 2026.
How long it lasts
Reported through March 2028 for Gold.
The normal way to earn it
Roughly 40 nights a year for Gold and 60 for Diamond. Much easier: the Hilton Surpass card gives Gold and the Aspire gives Diamond outright.
Fine print
One Hilton challenge per lifetime. Award stays do not count.
Worth it?Skip it if you would rather hold the Surpass or Aspire. Use it for Diamond without the premium card, if you have the nights.
Card strategyThe Wyndham Earner Plus gives Diamond for the first year (then Platinum), and the Earner Business and Premier give Diamond, so a card beats the challenge.
You need
Membership in a major hotel program. Higher Wyndham tiers need matching status (for example Choice Platinum to Wyndham Platinum).
You get
Wyndham Gold, Platinum, or Diamond for a 90-day trial.
What the status gets you
Gold and Platinum: late checkout and preferred rooms. Diamond: suite upgrades and a welcome amenity.
To keep it
Stays inside the 90 days: about 4 for Platinum and 10 for Diamond.
How long it lasts
Through December 31 of the following year if completed.
The normal way to earn it
15 nights for Platinum and 40 for Diamond. The Wyndham Earner Plus gives Diamond for the first year (then Platinum), and the Earner Business and Premier give Diamond.
Fine print
One match per calendar year.
Worth it?For most people the card is easier. Note that Caesars will not accept matched Wyndham status.
Card strategyThe Choice Privileges Select gives Platinum. The match adds a path to Diamond with one Cambria stay, and card-granted status from another chain may be enough to apply.
You need
Current hotel elite status.
You get
Gold or Platinum. Diamond if you add one stay at a Cambria hotel (send the folio).
What the status gets you
Platinum and Diamond: room upgrades, late checkout, and bonus points.
To keep it
Nothing beyond the Cambria stay for Diamond.
How long it lasts
Matches from January to June last through that year; matches from June to December last through the next year.
The normal way to earn it
Earned with Choice stays. The Choice Privileges Select card gives Platinum.
Fine print
The Diamond match cannot be repeated in back-to-back years. Expect a reply in 3 to 5 business days.
Worth it?Free and nearly string-free. Do it if you stay at Choice hotels.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: unclearNo public application page; request through the program.
Platinum: room upgrades, late checkout, bonus points, and a welcome amenity.
To keep it
Most recent round: 2 nights for Gold, 5 for Platinum.
How long it lasts
Varies.
The normal way to earn it
Earned with IHG nights. The IHG Premier cards and Chase Sapphire Reserve give Platinum outright.
Fine print
IHG runs these on and off, so there is often nothing to apply for. The Premier cards already give Platinum, and Chase Sapphire Reserve includes Platinum through 2027.
Worth it?Rarely needed, since the card route is easier.
Cost: FreeNo public application page; request through the program.
Nothing publicly. The live route is the Aeroplan challenge in the partnerships section, plus occasional corporate or targeted offers.
What the status gets you
See the Aeroplan entry for what Globalist gets you.
The normal way to earn it
60 nights a year for Globalist. The Hyatt cards give Discoverist.
Fine print
The Hyatt cards give Discoverist automatically.
Worth it?Use the Aeroplan challenge instead.
No public application page; request through the program.
Sonesta Travel Pass
MatchCard helpsCheck terms
Card strategyCard-granted hotel status (for example Hilton or Marriott Gold from the Amex Platinum) is the likely way in, if Sonesta accepts it.
You need
Current status with another hotel chain.
You get
Sonesta Preferred or Elite.
What the status gets you
Upgrades and bonus points at Sonesta hotels.
To keep it
Nothing reported.
How long it lasts
Not stated.
Fine print
Join Travel Pass, then email proof of status.
Worth it?Free. Only worth it if you stay at Sonesta.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: unclearNo public application page; request through the program.
§ 4
Rental cars 5 live · 5 listed
The Venture X and Amex Platinum give Hertz President's Circle, and the rental programs match each other, so one card can carry top status across National, Avis, Enterprise, and Sixt.
National Emerald Club
MatchCard gets you inOpen
Card strategyThe Amex Platinum gives Executive outright. Without it, Hertz President's Circle from the Venture X is the status to bring to this match.
You need
Elite status from a list of 40-plus programs, including rival rental companies and many airline and hotel programs.
You get
The matching Emerald Club tier, up to Executive.
What the status gets you
Executive: take any car from the Executive section, a step above the regular Emerald Aisle, with a guaranteed upgrade.
To keep it
Nothing.
How long it lasts
A 2026 approval lasts through February 28, 2028.
The normal way to earn it
About 12 rentals or 40 rental days a year. The Amex Platinum gives Executive for free.
Fine print
Submit your Emerald Club number and proof of status.
Worth it?Excellent: free, no challenge, and valid for more than a year. Do it.
Card strategyBring Hertz President's Circle from the Venture X or Amex Platinum, which reportedly reaches Sixt Platinum. Hotel status from cards is also accepted.
You need
Rental, airline, or hotel elite status.
You get
Sixt Gold or Platinum depending on what you hold (Hertz President's Circle and Avis President's Club reportedly reach Platinum).
What the status gets you
Gold and Platinum: upgrades and discounts on rentals.
To keep it
Nothing.
How long it lasts
Through the end of the following calendar year.
Fine print
Published tier mappings conflict between sources.
Worth it?Most useful in Europe, where Sixt is strongest.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: unclearNo public application page; request through the program.
§ 5
Cruises 1 live · 1 listed
Only MSC takes status a card can give you (hotel status). Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Norwegian, Virgin Voyages, and Carnival only match their own sister brands or other cruise lines, so they are left off.
MSC Voyagers Club
MatchCard gets you inOpen
Card strategyMSC takes hotel status, which cards hand out: Hilton and Marriott Gold from the Amex Platinum, Hilton Diamond from the Hilton Aspire. Members report Hilton working.
You need
Status with another cruise line or a hotel program. Members report Hilton and Hyatt working; major U.S. airline status reportedly does not.
You get
A Voyagers Club tier MSC picks case by case. Blue Diamond is off limits.
What the status gets you
Voyagers Club tiers add discounts and onboard perks that grow by tier.
To keep it
Nothing.
How long it lasts
Not stated.
The normal way to earn it
Points from MSC sailings.
Fine print
One-time. Ended in Europe but still offered in the U.S. and Canada.
Worth it?A free one-time boost before your first MSC cruise.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: unclearNo public application page; request through the program.
§ 6
Casinos 2 live · 2 listed
Only the casino matches a card can feed are listed. The MGM and Caesars cards give entry tiers, and MGM links straight into Marriott.
MGM Rewards status. The MGM Rewards Mastercards give Pearl automatically.
You get
Pearl to Bonvoy Silver, Gold to Bonvoy Gold, Platinum to Bonvoy Gold, Noir to Bonvoy Ambassador.
What the status gets you
Bonvoy Silver is minor (bonus points, priority late checkout). MGM Gold or Platinum gets Bonvoy Gold: 2 p.m. checkout and room upgrades.
To keep it
Keep the MGM tier.
How long it lasts
Annual.
The normal way to earn it
MGM tiers come from play and spending at MGM resorts. The MGM Rewards Mastercards give Pearl automatically.
Fine print
One way only: Bonvoy status does not match into MGM. Mappings were set in March 2025 and not re-announced for 2026.
Worth it?Free. Link the accounts.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: acceptedNo public application page; request through the program.
Caesars Rewards
In-person matchCard helpsLimited time
Card strategyBorgata in Atlantic City runs on MGM Rewards, and the MGM Rewards Mastercard gives Pearl automatically; whether Pearl is a high enough card for the Diamond match is not confirmed. The sure card route is the Caesars Rewards Prestige Visa: $50,000 of spending in a calendar year earns Diamond.
You need
A qualifying players card from an Atlantic City competitor (Ocean, Hard Rock, Borgata, Bally's, Resorts, Golden Nugget) plus photo ID.
You get
Caesars Diamond.
What the status gets you
Diamond: Diamond lounges, priority lines at hotel check-in and restaurants, an annual celebration offer, and better room offers.
To keep it
Nothing.
How long it lasts
Through the 2026 program; the match itself runs January 1 to December 31, 2026.
The normal way to earn it
15,000 tier credits a year from play and spending at Caesars properties. The Caesars Rewards Prestige Visa reaches Diamond with $50,000 of spending in a calendar year.
Fine print
In person at the Rewards desk in Caesars, Harrah's Resort, or Tropicana in Atlantic City. Not available if you matched in 2025. The Caesars Rewards Prestige Visa reaches Diamond with $50,000 of spending in a calendar year.
Worth it?Free Diamond if you will be in Atlantic City anyway.
Cost: FreeCard-earned status: not acceptedNo public application page; request through the program.
§ 7
Everything else 1 live · 1 listed
Smaller programs that will match your travel status.
Club Avolta (airport duty-free)
MatchCard gets you inCheck terms
Card strategyAny airline or hotel status counts, so the Hilton and Marriott Gold from the Amex Platinum is enough to get Platinum Elite.
You need
Airline or hotel elite status.
You get
Club Avolta Platinum Elite, which carries discounts at airport duty-free shops.
What the status gets you
Discounts at Avolta's airport duty-free and retail shops.
To keep it
Nothing.
How long it lasts
Not stated.
Fine print
Request through the match portal.
Worth it?Free. Worth a minute if you shop duty-free.
Oct 25, 2026Tracker launched, with the card that feeds every match.
Oct 14, 2026SAS reopened its worldwide paid status match.
Oct 2026United closed its reduced 90-day challenge for Delta and American elites; the standard challenge is still open.
Sep 2026American and Hyatt announced the end of their partnership; the last day to link accounts is November 15, 2026.
Jul 15, 2026Aeroplan and World of Hyatt launched the Globalist challenge for Aeroplan elites, including Chase Aeroplan cardholders.
Jul 14, 2026Marriott Bonvoy and Japan Airlines launched reciprocal status.
2026Qatar stopped matching Accor elites into Qatar Platinum and capped Gold matches at 3,100.
Mar 31, 2025Alaska stopped accepting American AAdvantage status for its match.
Feb 2025Caesars stopped accepting Wyndham status earned through a Wyndham card or another match.
§ Dead ends
Tricks that no longer work
Older guides still recommend these. Skip them.
Wyndham credit card to Caesars Diamond Closed by Caesars for the February 2025 program year.
American AAdvantage status to Alaska Alaska stopped accepting AAdvantage on March 31, 2025.
Accor to Qatar Platinum (oneworld Emerald) Qatar stopped granting Platinum through the Accor match for 2026. Gold still works.
American and Hyatt reciprocal perks The partnership is winding down; last day to link accounts is November 15, 2026.
United's reduced 90-day match for Delta and American elites Closed in October 2026. The standard 120-day challenge is still open.
§ Questions
Frequently asked questions
What is a status match?
A status match gives you elite status in one loyalty program because you already hold elite status in a competitor. Programs use matches to win customers from rivals. Most are free and only ask for a screenshot of your current status.
What is the difference between a status match and a status challenge?
A pure match hands you the tier with nothing else to do. A challenge gives you the tier on a trial, usually 90 to 120 days, and you keep it only if you fly or stay a reduced amount during the trial. Most big U.S. airline offers are really challenges.
Can I status match with status I got from a credit card?
It depends on how the card got you the status. Status you qualified for through card spending, like AAdvantage status from Citi card Loyalty Points or Atmos status from the Summit card, is earned under the program's own rules, so airline matches should accept it. Status a card simply hands you, like the Aeroplan 25K from the Chase Aeroplan Card, is complimentary, and American and Delta both reject complimentary status. Partnerships are more relaxed: the Aeroplan card's 25K qualifies for the World of Hyatt challenge.
How often can I do a status match?
It depends on the program. Alaska and Hilton allow one per lifetime, United reportedly one every five years, American one every two years, JetBlue one every 24 months, and Wyndham one per calendar year. Treat each match as a one-shot opportunity and time it for when you will actually travel.
When should I start a status challenge?
Right before a stretch of travel you were going to do anyway. The trial clock usually starts when the status is granted, not when you first fly or stay, so applying early can waste weeks of your window.
Do status matches cost money?
The major U.S. airline, hotel, rental car, and cruise matches are free. Some foreign airlines sell matches for a fee, such as SAS EuroBonus, Kenya Airways, and Vietnam Airlines, which can be a cheap way to SkyTeam Elite Plus lounge access if you fly SkyTeam internationally.
Which status match is the best right now?
For lounge access, Accor Platinum to Qatar Gold, because Qatar Gold opens American's Admirals Clubs and Flagship lounges on domestic flights. For hotels, the Aeroplan-to-Hyatt Globalist challenge, which any Chase Aeroplan cardholder can use until December 31, 2026.
How we keep this honest: Every entry was checked on Oct 25, 2026, on the program’s own page where it would load and against at least two independent trackers where it would not. Entries marked Check terms are reported live but could not be confirmed on an official page. Programs change and end these offers without notice, so read the official terms before you apply or book travel around a challenge. Cardocrat is not paid by any program listed here.
