Last call: IHG One Rewards offering instant Platinum status, fast track to Diamond

IHG recently launched its revamped loyalty programme called IHG One Rewards. It’s certainly more impressive than the previous iteration, with complimentary breakfast and lounge access now offered to elites. 

IHG One Rewards is now running a very generous (some might argue too generous) status match and challenge, which basically gives instant Platinum Elite status, as well as a fast-track to Diamond Elite.

IHG One Rewards status challenge

IHG One Rewards Status Match

From now till 31 July 2022, IHG One Rewards members can register for a status challenge promotion. Upon registration, they will receive Platinum Elite status instantly, valid for 120 days.

• By staying 5 nights in this 120-day period, they can retain Platinum Elite status till December 2023
• By staying 15 nights in this 120-day period, they can earn Diamond Elite status till December 2023

All nights must be booked directly with IHG, and have a rate that exceeds US$30 per night.

You need to be a member of a competing programme to participate, but you don’t need to have status. That’s right: an entry-level Hilton or Hyatt or Marriott Bonvoy member would still be eligible for instant Platinum Elite status.

IHG lists the following programmes as eligible for a match:

• Accor
• Best Western Rewards
• Choice Privileges
• Hilton Honors
• Marriott Bonvoy
• Radisson Rewards
• World of Hyatt
• Wyndham Rewards

Again, since they’re accepting even entry-level members, it really doesn’t matter which programme you’re matching from. IHG reserves the right to validate membership information, so obviously don’t go and click the Lifetime Hilton Diamond registration button if you’re not actually one. 

Registration is available up till 31 July 2022, but you’ll want to time it based on when you plan to stay, in order to maximise the 120-day period. Do note that you may need to return to the landing page and click “register now” to complete the registration, even if you clicked “join and register” first. 

Platinum Elite status might not include free breakfast or lounge access, but it’s certainly going to add a lot more names to the upgrade list. I can imagine some existing Platinums being unhappy that IHG is just giving this status away, though it should be said that most of the benefits come with Milestone Rewards, and aren’t given upfront. 

The status match is open to members globally, except those in Greater China. 

IHG One Rewards benefits

IHG One Rewards

Here’s a quick recap of the new tiers, qualification and bonus structure within IHG One Rewards.

The following new benefits have also gone into effect.

The key perk for Platinums is really a shot at a room upgrade, and presumably higher priority for late check-out (though that doesn’t really work if everyone’s a Platinum). Diamond members get free breakfast, but will need to earn Milestone Rewards in order to get lounge access.

Conclusion

IHG One Rewards is offering instant Platinum status for 120 days to literally anyone who registers, with the option to keep it by staying at least five nights during that period. Stay 15 nights, and you’ll be looking at Diamond status, which could be a great opportunity for anyone who frequents IHG properties. 

Existing Platinum members may feel aggrieved that IHG’s basically opened the floodgates, and I really wonder whether Platinums can expect a shot at a decent upgrade over the next few months. Either way, you lose out by not registering, so take some time to get it done now.